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The Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Doesn't Have to Be The Boogeyman

As the leaves change and the job market heats up post-summer, it's been a bustling period since our last update. At The Talent Co-op, LLC, we've been navigating the uptick with a keen eye on how technology impacts your job search—specifically, the much-misunderstood Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Far from the menacing figure some make it out to be, the ATS is a navigable aspect of job hunting, if you know the ropes. It's a tool designed to manage the flood of applications, not to arbitrarily discard them. Let's debunk the myths and offer you a lantern to guide you through this digital maze with ease. Tips and Tricks to Make the ATS Work for You: Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job application. Use keywords from the job description and mirror the language they use. Qualifications Are Key: Apply only if you meet the essential criteria. Stretching too far might just stretch your application thin. Keep It Simple: Use standard fonts and formatting to en...
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7 Warning Indicators Your Company Might Be Facing Challenges

In the current climate of regular layoffs and persistent fears of a recession, maintaining job security is on everyone's mind. Proactively gauging the health of your present employer can be crucial amidst such uncertainties. However, identifying signs of a company's financial instability might not be an easy task.

This could be particularly complex if you're not part of the financial decision-making team in your organization. You may not have insight into whether bills are getting paid promptly or whether the company is large enough to have publicly tracked stocks. Nonetheless, there exist other signs that can hint at potential issues. Here are seven key indicators your company might be in turmoil. If you find these signs at your workplace, it may be time to consider seeking other job opportunities.

Denied Salary Increment

Have you been in the same position for more than a year without a salary raise, and your recent increment request has been turned down? This could be a red flag indicating your company's financial distress. While it's wise to follow up with your manager about a future raise, an inability to provide a timeline or an admission of inadequate funds can hint at financial difficulties.

Change at the Helm

A frequent red flag of a struggling business is a recent change in the leadership team. Companies facing financial troubles often bring in new leaders to institute strategic changes. If the CEO or president has recently been replaced, this warrants some investigation. Utilize your professional network or conduct online research to understand the reasons behind the change.

High Employee Turnover

An increased rate of employee turnover can also suggest that your company might be in trouble. This could result from low wages, or it could signal deeper issues like a lack of effective leadership or a poor work environment. If new employees rarely stick around, it's worth talking to trusted colleagues to understand the problem.

Consolidation of Roles and Departments

When roles and departments are merged in lieu of recruiting new staff, it's often a sign of financial constraints. If you've been asked to take on tasks that traditionally belong to another department or job, this could indicate that the company cannot afford necessary hires for smooth operations.

Delayed Projects

Are your projects on hold or new software approval requests pending? If the company only wants you to stick to the basics of your job without fostering innovation, it's another indication of potential financial struggles.

Limited Transparency

Increased secret meetings and lack of clarity about company goals could point towards issues being dealt with behind closed doors. While it doesn't always mean the company is in trouble, it indicates that there are matters the management is not openly discussing.

Low Morale

A decrease in morale is always a concerning sign. If there are rumors of layoffs or if morale is low due to any of the aforementioned signs, the sustainability of such a work environment is questionable in the long run.

If these warning signs are apparent in your company, it might be prudent to start updating your resume and portfolio. Activate your professional network and start exploring for opportunities that might not be publicly advertised. These proactive steps will ensure you are well-prepared for any possible job shifts and allow you to navigate a smooth career transition, if needed.

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As the leaves change and the job market heats up post-summer, it's been a bustling period since our last update. At The Talent Co-op, LLC, we've been navigating the uptick with a keen eye on how technology impacts your job search—specifically, the much-misunderstood Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Far from the menacing figure some make it out to be, the ATS is a navigable aspect of job hunting, if you know the ropes. It's a tool designed to manage the flood of applications, not to arbitrarily discard them. Let's debunk the myths and offer you a lantern to guide you through this digital maze with ease. Tips and Tricks to Make the ATS Work for You: Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job application. Use keywords from the job description and mirror the language they use. Qualifications Are Key: Apply only if you meet the essential criteria. Stretching too far might just stretch your application thin. Keep It Simple: Use standard fonts and formatting to en...
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