Tag: career advice

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Methods of improving team’s efficiency at work

“Work is a process, and any process needs to be controlled. To make work productive, therefore, requires building the appropriate controls into the process of work.”

– Peter F. Drucker.

Team efficiency is essential because it directly influences the team’s productivity. What can managers do to improve it?

1. Set and track attainable goals

When assigned to a project, managers should first consider the key goals and team members’ capacity. This is to make sure that managers leverage each team member’s strengths to maximize team productivity.

2. Clarify roles and tasks

Especially when working on a large project, managers should break it into smaller tasks and allocate each task to the most suitable person so that the whole team will not be overwhelmed.

3. Prioritise works based on key results

Each day, managers may be given several tasks and deciding which one to start with is always a problem. Keeping the organization or department goals in mind helps managers prioritize and keep all the team members on the same page.

4. Communicate effectively

Productivity can be enhanced by communicating effectively. Building an environment based on truth and trust or using the right technology will help form a healthy and effective communication environment.

How about you, do you have any other methods to improve the team’s efficiency? Let’s share with us by commenting below!

Source: Asana, HR Cloud

 

𝗢𝗽𝘂𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲

CRICOS 03878K | RTO 45644

————————

 Phone: (+61) 261 018 650

 Email: enquiry.act@opc.edu.au

 Website: https://opc.edu.au

 Canberra campus: Mezzanine Level, 15 Moore Street, Canberra ACT 2601

 Melbourne campus: Suite 802, Level 8, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000

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Where to find the right job ads in Australia?

If you are a job seeker, it would be very helpful if you know where to find job advertisements, so that you will not miss any opportunities. Here are some of the most common job search websites you could use in Australia:

– 𝗦𝗘𝗘𝗞: https://www.seek.com.au
– 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗸𝗲𝗱𝗜𝗻: https://au.linkedin.com
– 𝗘𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗝𝗼𝗯𝘀: https://www.ethicaljobs.com.au/
– 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: https://au.gradconnection.com/
– 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗔𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗮: https://gradaustralia.com.au/
– 𝗚𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗷𝗼𝗯 𝗵𝘂𝗯𝘀

Note that some opportunities may only be available/open to certain connections, networks and the company’s career site. In addition, your friends are also a good source of references, so remember to let them know if you are searching for a job so that they can keep an eye on any job vacancy.

Source: Opulence College

 

𝗢𝗽𝘂𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲

CRICOS 03878K | RTO 45644

————————

 Phone: (+61) 261 018 650

 Email: enquiry.act@opc.edu.au

 Website: https://opc.edu.au

 Canberra campus: Mezzanine Level, 15 Moore Street, Canberra ACT 2601

 Melbourne campus: Suite 802, Level 8, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000

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How to write a winning cover letter

Here are some tips for writing your cover letter that may help you stand out from the crowd!

1. Address the letter directly to the relevant person
Usually, the addressee’s name and title are given in the job ad. If not, however, do a bit of research to find out – check out their website for employee profiles, search on LinkedIn, or even give them a call to find out.

2. Share what you love about the company
Why do you want to work in the company in the first place? What makes them stand out from all other companies? Is it their projects, values, and principles? Be genuine and concise.

3. Show of your skills and experiences that are mentioned in the job description
How can these enable you to make valuable contributions to the organisation? How do these make you unique from other candidates?

4. Avoid using empty phrases or flattery
Be specific and cut to the chase. Don’t use empty phrases like “I believe I am a great candidate and meet all the requirements of this position” and flattery like “It would be a great honor to…” or “Your esteemed organisation…”.

5. Keep it to one page
This is why you would want to delete empty phrases and save space for more meaningful content!

6. Avoid using the same template
Your cover letter should be unique for every company. Does it take too much effort? With effort comes results, it’s not fair to expect results with no effort.

How do you make your cover letter stand out?

Source: GradAustralia

 

𝗢𝗽𝘂𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲

CRICOS 03878K | RTO 45644

————————

 Phone: (+61) 261 018 650

 Email: enquiry.act@opc.edu.au

 Website: https://opc.edu.au

 Canberra campus: Mezzanine Level, 15 Moore Street, Canberra ACT 2601

 Melbourne campus: Suite 802, Level 8, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000

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Maintaining Mental Health During Job Search

Rejection, increased competition and uncertainty, and lack of control over results during a job search may easily lead to stress, anxiety, and overwhelming feelings. Here are some tips that may help you maintain your mental health during your job search.

1. Focus on what you can control
Instead of worrying about things you can’t control (like application outcomes), focus on what you can control. This can include asking your friend to proofread your resume and cover letter and sending a friendly follow-up email.

2. Set milestones
Hold yourself accountable for certain things over certain periods by planning, budgeting time for plans and taking action. Celebrate little victories along the way to your bigger goal.

3. Set aspiration goals and realistic expectations
Set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-based) to structure and guide your career trajectory.

4. Balance job search with leisure
Make sure you have enough time to socialize and take a break from a job search. Work-life balance applies to even aspects outside of work.

5. Use Plan B to get plan A
Be prepared for times when you need to take a Plan B job to ultimately get your Plan A. Your first job won’t determine your entire career.

Source: Indeed Career Guide

 

𝗢𝗽𝘂𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲

CRICOS 03878K | RTO 45644

————————

 Phone: (+61) 261 018 650

 Email: enquiry.act@opc.edu.au

 Website: https://opc.edu.au

 Canberra campus: Mezzanine Level, 15 Moore Street, Canberra ACT 2601

 Melbourne campus: Suite 802, Level 8, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000

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How to research a company before applying for a job

Good company research is essential to deciding who you want to work for when you are ready to apply, and acing your interview when your knowledge of the company is put to the test. Here are some steps you could take to research a company:

1. Make a list of companies that share your values
Read employee reviews about the company’s culture, salary, job advancement and work/life balance and make a list of companies that share your values.

2. Research the company’s employee benefits
Do they offer healthcare benefits, stock options, flexible work schedules, or onsite facilities like the gym and cafeteria? Read the job description, the company’s website, and employee reviews to find out.

3. Learn about the company’s business operations
Refer to the company’s website, their annual reports, and public financial documents to learn how the company makes money, what industry the company is in, who the target customers are, how long they’ve been in business and how good/bad the company’s reputation is.

4. Research the company’s leadership
Read the About Us page and employee bios on the company’s website to see what the executives and directors are like.

5. Research news and recent events
Refer to news and specific industry publications, customer forums and product reviews, to find out recent updates about the company and its competitors as well as the company’s reputation.

6. Seek opinions from others
Seek opinions from trusted and reliable friends and associates. If you lack the network, consider reaching out to relevant people for a quick coffee chat.

Source: Indeed Career Guide

 

𝗢𝗽𝘂𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲

CRICOS 03878K | RTO 45644

————————

 Phone: (+61) 261 018 650

 Email: enquiry.act@opc.edu.au

 Website: https://opc.edu.au

 Canberra campus: Mezzanine Level, 15 Moore Street, Canberra ACT 2601

 Melbourne campus: Suite 802, Level 8, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000

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How to manage conflict in the workplace

As we work with people from various cultures and backgrounds and with different working styles and personalities, conflict in the workplace seems inevitable. Instead of resisting or avoiding it, knowing how to handle heated situations could be helpful for you to effectively manage conflict:

1. Calm down
This may help you choose a neutral location and stop other people’s anger and aggressiveness. Then you can have a heated-down environment that allows constructive conversations.

2. Listen comprehensively
The reason for conflict is usually more complex than we think. So, listen carefully when the other party is stating their perspectives. Don’t simply jump to conclusions and mind your words when sharing your interests.

3. Solution-oriented
Hastily found resolutions won’t last long! Instead, think about the interests of all the parties involved to reach a new balance.

How else do you manage conflict? Comment below!

Source: SHRM, Project Manager

 

𝗢𝗽𝘂𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲

CRICOS 03878K | RTO 45644

————————

 Phone: (+61) 261 018 650

 Email: enquiry.act@opc.edu.au

 Website: https://opc.edu.au

 Canberra campus: Mezzanine Level, 15 Moore Street, Canberra ACT 2601

 Melbourne campus: Suite 802, Level 8, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000

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What are Career Gaps? Do you need one?

Career gaps are common and aren’t necessarily a bad thing, so it’s better to be honest about them in your job application instead of trying to cover them up.

There are many reasons why people have career gaps:

  • You might have lost your job or couldn’t find work
  • You might have suffered from long-term physical and/or mental illness
  • You might have had caring responsibilities
  • You might have spent time travelling
  • Or sometimes, you might purely feel the need to redefine your career path!

Whatever the reason, as long as you explain how you spent your time productively and faced challenges with resilience and strength, career gaps can actually work in your favour!
Source: Seek

 

𝗢𝗽𝘂𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲

CRICOS 03878K | RTO 45644

————————

 Phone: (+61) 261 018 650

 Email: enquiry.act@opc.edu.au

 Website: https://opc.edu.au

 Canberra campus: Mezzanine Level, 15 Moore Street, Canberra ACT 2601

 Melbourne campus: Suite 802, Level 8, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000

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What are transferrable skills?

Each job has their own skill set, which is specific for that position, and only people in that area can perform the job sufficiently. For example, a Website Developer need to know about coding languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, while a Operation Surgeon needs to have excellent knowledge about human anatomy. Meanwhile, regardless which position you are responsible for, having transferrable skills are the skills you can use in every job position, which is helpful for you during job’s transition. Some examples of transferable skills are:

1. Communication Skills
Communication not only involves written and verbal communication but also includes using and reading body language and talking to people in different contexts.

2. Dependability
Dependability is what makes you a trusted employee. It could include punctuality, organization, and responsibility.

3. Teamwork
Effective teamwork requires qualities such as empathy, active listening, and strong communication.

4. Organization
Organized employees typically meet deadlines, communicate with others in a timely manner and follow instructions well.

5. Adaptability
Adaptability means being flexible when encountering change. There are an increasing number of employers look for adaptable candidates, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic.

6. Leadership
Leaders are people who can organize and inspire teams to reach shared goals.

7. Technology literacy
Technology literacy refers to comfort with and ability in navigating new technology.

Review the job description carefully and identify which of your transferrable skills are most relevant to the job!

 

𝗢𝗽𝘂𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲

CRICOS 03878K | RTO 45644

————————

 Phone: (+61) 261 018 650

 Email: enquiry.act@opc.edu.au

 Website: https://opc.edu.au

 Canberra campus: Mezzanine Level, 15 Moore Street, Canberra ACT 2601

 Melbourne campus: Suite 802, Level 8, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000

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3 helpful career websites

Are you still unsure about your career path?

Are you looking to upskill?

Are you looking to change your career?

If you are in any of these positions, these 3 Australian Government career websites may be helpful for your journey.

1. Job Outlook

Job Outlook is an initiative of the Australian Government National Skills Commission. Job Outlook provides information about Australia’s careers, labour market trends and employment projections.

2. MySkills

MySkills website is an Australian Government initiative to ensure training consumers have access to current, straightforward, independent, and trustworthy information to help them make choices about their training options.

3. Your Career

Your Career website is a platform of the National Careers Institute. The role of the Your Career website is to: help people find clear career information and advice; create a single trusted source of career information; curate and publish transparent employment and education data and strengthen career information and research through collaboration.

Follow us to get more helpful information about leadership, management, career and workplace tips.

 

𝗢𝗽𝘂𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲

CRICOS 03878K | RTO 45644

————————

 Phone: (+61) 261 018 650

 Email: enquiry.act@opc.edu.au

 Website: https://opc.edu.au

 Canberra campus: Mezzanine Level, 15 Moore Street, Canberra ACT 2601

 Melbourne campus: Suite 802, Level 8, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000

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How to tackle the graduate employment market?

Gaining success in the competitive graduate employment market always seems impossible for most new graduates. Here are three steps you can take to help you tackle this process.

1. Think out of the box about where you might add value

Your career trajectory may not always be limited to the professions that only relate to your major in the university. For instance, an Acquisition Specialist at a Big Four firm points out that, science graduates are also strong candidates for management consulting roles for their great logical mindset.

2. Careful preparation for every interview

Remember to conduct a thorough research about the company and the industry before coming to the interview, which is especially crucial when you receive an initial call from the recruiter. When it comes to a face-to-face interview, try to articulate the value you could offer the company instead of simply listing your significant achievements, which might be unattractive sometimes.

3. Anticipate problems and demonstrate that you are proactive

The graduate recruitment process can be long, and, normally, an interview may clash with your schedule. You can consider emailing the recruiter to request a reschedule of the interview. This action could be highly appreciated by the recruiters, as you demonstrate your ability to anticipate problems and how you would manage them.

Source: myfuture

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𝗢𝗽𝘂𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲

CRICOS 03878K | RTO 45644

————————

Phone: (+61) 261 018 650

Email: enquiry.act@opc.edu.au

Website: https://opc.edu.au

Canberra campus: Mezzanine Level, 15 Moore Street, Canberra ACT 2601

Melbourne campus: Suite 802, Level 8, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000