Adams & Garth Blog

• In December 2011, Yale University football coach Tom Williams resigned amid inquiry about whether he lied about being a Rhodes Scholarship candidate.
• In 2006, Radio Shack’s CEO, David Edmonson resigned after it came to light that much of his resume was fabricated, including claims of earning two college degrees.
• In 2002, Sandra Baldwin, the first woman to become president and chairman of the United States Olympic Committee, resigned after she acknowledged that she lied about her academic credentials on her resume.

And the list goes on.

So how can this have happened at such respected institutions and companies?

The reality of the situation is that it’s estimated that half of all job applicants falsify their educational credentials. As one of the top employment agencies in Lynchburg, we know that companies have therefore become stricter about hiring policies – digging deeper into a candidate’s background in order to verify the information provided and avoid any embarrassing situations.

Here’s how to ensure you can prove your background to an employer, so it doesn’t interfere with a potential job offer:

Be honest.

All it takes is one phone call to a college registrar’s office in order to verify your degree. So if you went there for three years, but never graduated, don’t lie about it.

Have proof.

Keep your college diploma and any verification letters and certificates from schools and continuing education institutions on hand. With computer software and diploma mills, it’s easy for people to fake these documents, so keep the originals.

Check yourself.

Perform a background check on yourself to make sure you’re providing the most accurate information possible for your employer. For instance, if an employer asks for a college GPA, and you don’t remember, then call your alma mater to find out. Don’t just offer your best estimate.

Make sure your online profile is accurate.

Even if you don’t fabricate your resume, but you have false information on your LinkedIn or Facebook profile, a potential employer may be able to view and check that information.

And if you’d like some help creating a resume that’s effective and stands out from the crowd, give us a call. As one of the top employment agencies in Lynchburg, we can not only help you craft a strong resume, but we can also help you prepare for interviews and find jobs in Lynchburg that are a great fit for your skills and personality. Get started now.

For most, getting a promotion to a new job in Lynchburg is a pretty happy occasion. You’ve worked hard and feel validated that your boss has noticed and rewarded you accordingly.

However, for some, getting a promotion just conjures up images of longer hours, more responsibility, and increased stress. And if the new position doesn’t align well with your career goals, then you could be in a tricky situation.

What should you do?

Well, you have two choices: 1) accept the promotion or 2) turn it down. Both bring with them a host of risks and benefits you should weigh carefully before making your decision. Let’s take a look:

Accept the Promotion

Risk: Should you accept the promotion to a new job in Lynchburg, you will likely be taking on more responsibility. As result, you may have to work longer hours and manage a team of employees, which comes with a variety of new challenges if you don’t have much management experience.

Reward: You can earn more money and learn new skills all at the same time, making yourself more marketable. You can also use what you learn as a steppingstone for a better position with your current employer – or a new one.

Turn It Down

Risk: Obviously, if you’ve been paying the slightest attention to the news lately, you know our economy isn’t exactly humming along. And when your boss offers you a new position in the form of a promotion, they may know something you don’t – that your Lynchburg job will be cut soon. Or, perhaps turning down the promotion is akin to committing career suicide at your company. Your boss may now view you as difficult and not a team player.

Reward: You get to stay in a position that you like and in which you feel most productive.

If, after careful consideration, you’ve decided that the promotion just isn’t for you, how can you go about turning it down tactfully? Here are some tips:

• Thank your boss for the opportunity. Make it clear that you are flattered by the offer.
• Explain to your boss why you should stay in your current position. Discuss the benefits to the company and to your boss personally of you staying put.
• Offer your boss a solution if they need someone to fill the new position fast. Tell your boss you’ll take on more responsibility or some of the critical tasks until the company is able to hire someone. Presenting a short-term solution like this will not only go a long way in mending any hurt feelings your boss may have for turning down the promotion, but it will also show you’re still committed to the company.

Turning down a promotion is certainly a big risk. But if you know you will be miserable in the position being offered, then it just might be a risk worth taking.

However, if you’re ready for more responsibility – just with a different employer, Adams & Garth can help. We work with some of the leading companies in the area and can offer you access to a full range of rewarding jobs in Lynchburg and throughout Central Virginia.

Start your search now.

Changing jobs in Lynchburg is scary enough; but changing careers entirely can be downright terrifying. Not only will you likely have to start at the bottom, even if your midway through your current career, but you might not even be sure if the career you’re interested in is definitely right for you.

What can you do?

The answer is simpler than you might think: conduct informational interviews.

Informational interviews are interviews that you conduct with people who work in the field you’re interested in. Unlike regular interviews, where your goal is to land a job in Lynchburg, the purpose of informational interviews is to garner enough information from someone with first-hand knowledge and experience so you can decide whether the career/industry is right for you and also get some tips on breaking into this new field.

So how can you find the right professionals to interview?

With today’s technology, it’s easier than ever. Reach out to your network via social networking sites. Ask friends, family, and neighbors if they know someone in your field of interest.

If you can’t find anyone through that route, then do some research online to try and find someone in Lynchburg, or beyond, who has your dream job. You can also contact your alumni association as well as associations within the industry you’d like to work in.

Once you have a list of people you’d like to contact, then either give them a call, or send an email or letter, whatever you’re most comfortable with. Don’t be too nervous about contacting professionals for an informational interview. Not only do most people like talking about themselves, but they will also be flattered to have made it onto your list of contacts.

While the purpose of an informational interview is different from an actual job interview, your approach to it should not be.

In other words, to get the most out of an informational interview, make sure you prepare. Do some research on the occupation, the company, and the person you will be interviewing ahead of time. Develop a list of questions to ask based on your research, such as:

• What’s a typical day like for you?
• How did you get into this field?
• Do you have any tips for breaking into it?
• What do you know now that you wish you knew when you were first started out in the field?

Finally, be sure to send a “thank you” note after the interview. By doing so, you’ll make a positive impression with an industry contact, which could serve you well in your future career. Good luck!

Just when it seemed like the economy was starting to show signs of life, we’ve been hit with record gas prices, high unemployment numbers, and a national debt crisis. Many employers are therefore hunkering down and waiting too see what’s to come before hiring again.

As a result, it can seem harder than ever to find a job. In fact, according to a recent Wall Street Journal article, 30% of the unemployed nationally, or 4.4 million job seekers, have been out of work for more than a year.

If you’re one of those millions, you may think your situation is hopeless. To assist you, we’ve put together 6 fresh ideas to bolster your job search and help you find a new opportunity:

1. Announce your job search in your profile status on LinkedIn.

Let your connections know what kind of a position you’re looking for and what you can bring to the table. For instance:

“Looking for a new sales opportunity in the pharma industry. A proven track record and employee of the year two years in a row. Let me know if you have any leads!”

If you belong to any industry groups on LinkedIn, post a query there, as well.

2. Start a Twitter campaign.

Twitter can be a good resource for connecting with like-minded professionals in Lynchburg and around the world, sharing your knowledge, and following companies you’d love to work for. It can also enhance your visibility while searching for job opportunities. You can even search for a new job on Twitter using TwitterJobSearch.com.

3. Join a job search support group.

Find one that suits you online. You can network with other professionals in the same situation, obtain new job search leads, and gain support.

4. Create your own business cards.

Think of your business card like a mini billboard that can advertise your brand. If you’re design savvy, create your own. If not, work with a professional designer or use an online template. Carry them with you wherever you go and don’t be shy about handing them out.

5. Start a business.

If you have a skill that you can sell, then why not start your own business? Waiting around for that perfect opportunity to come along could be just as risky, or even more risky, than creating your own job.

6. Propose a job.

You may have a good idea that could help a Lynchburg company solve a problem. Tell them about it. Write a letter proposing a solution and how you can help them implement it. The worst thing that can happen is they say “no.”

If you’d like some extra help from Lynchburg’s job search experts, please contact Adams & Garth. We can offer you a variety of services to help you find a new job and advance your career.

Applying for a job in Lynchburg that’s outside your current career field? It’s critically important that you highlight your transferable skills in your cover letter. Transferable skills are those skills you’ve developed in one position or situation (such as volunteering) that can be transferred to another position or situation. Besides being important if you’re trying to change careers, highlighting transferable skills is also useful if you’re an entry-level worker, re-entering the workforce, or facing a layoff.

So how can you identify your transferable skills? And once you do, how do you sell them in a cover letter to a prospective employer?

Your first step should be to dissect your past positions. In other words, think about each position you’ve held in the past and what those positions entailed. Don’t limit yourself by your job titles. Oftentimes, responsibilities fall well outside the realm of a certain job title. That’s why it’s important to dissect each position and determine what it is you really did.

Here are some examples of transferable skills to get you started:

• Demonstrated strong communication skills
• Managed staff
• Organized events
• Multi-tasked
• Solved problems
• Delivered presentations
• Handled complaints or customer concerns
• Conducted research
• Managed finances
• Served as a mentor or trained others
• Evaluated the work of others
• Worked well on team projects
• Demonstrated leadership skills

Now that you know what your transferable skills are, you have to convince prospective employers of their value. You can’t simply present your job titles on your resume and in your cover letter and expect employers to see the connection. You need to break down specifically how your skills from past positions will transfer and complement the position to which you’re applying. Here’s an example for a customer service representative applying for a marketing account executive position:

“In my work as a customer service representative, I communicated with a variety of people and, in many cases, handled concerns customers were having or explained a new product we were offering. As a result, I was able to refine my communication skills to the point where I’m confident in my ability to present information in a persuasive manner, solve problems, and deliver the kind of service and results your clients are looking for.”

Keep in mind that at the end of the day, the employer is essentially trying to solve problems and make customers happy, regardless of the field or industry they are in. So if you’re able to sell them on your ability to do one or both, then you should be well on your way to securing an interview.

And if you need some help finding a job in Lynchburg, please contact Adams & Garth. We work with some of the top employers in the area and can help you find a position that’s a great match for you.

As you probably know, it’s important to be prepared for every Lynchburg job interview you have. That means developing a list of questions to ask the interviewer. With that said, there are some questions that are better left unasked. Here are a few:

What does your company do?

At this point in the game, you should know what the company does. Before you even step foot into the interviewer’s office, you should have thoroughly researched the company online. That means finding out who they are, what they do, and who they serve. Based on the information you find, you may have some specific questions about details or processes. But such a general question will make you sound ill-informed and unprepared.

How long does it take to get a raise?

You haven’t even gotten the Lynchburg job yet and you’re already asking for a raise? Instead, ask the interviewer whether the company conducts annual performance and salary reviews.

Will I be able to transfer to a different position?

This question is a major red flag for interviewers and if you ask this, you can pretty much kiss that Lynchburg job offer good-bye. You’re basically letting the employer know that the opportunity is not right for you, but you’ll take it anyway. If it’s a company that you really want to work for, but you realize during the interview that the position is not right for you, be honest with the interviewer. If you’ve made a good impression and there’s another position opening up within the company that’s a better fit, the interviewer may tell you about it or keep you in mind for future opportunities.

I have a medical issue. Is it covered under your insurance policy?

Translation: “I don’t really care about the job. I’m only interested in this position so I can get health insurance.” Even if that’s not what you intended, that’s probably what the interviewer is thinking. Instead, if the position is offered to you, ask to learn more about the company’s benefits, including their health insurance plan, before accepting the Lynchburg job.

Do you drug test? Do you require background checks?

Nothing says “guilty” quite like these questions. If you aren’t guilty, but just trying to learn more about the selection process, then ask that question directly, i.e. “What does your selection process entail?” Otherwise, you’ll look like you have something to hide.

So now that you know which questions you should never ask during a job interview, what are some questions you should always ask? Here are a few:

• What’s a typical day like in this position?
• What are the day-to-day expectations and responsibilities of the job?
• Why is the position open?
• What’s the company’s management style like?
• What’s the company’s culture like?
• Does the company support ongoing training or continuing education opportunities so employees can stay up-to-date?

And if you need help landing some job interviews in Lynchburg, please contact Adams & Garth. We can give you access to a variety of rewarding job opportunities with some of Lynchburg’s leading employers. Contact us today. We can help.

There’s no room for error in today’s tight job market. Unfortunately, even the most careful candidate can make major mistakes during the job search process – mistakes that can ultimately cost them the job offer. So what are they and how can you avoid them? Here are six:

Mistake #1. Errors in your cover letter and resume.

This may seem like a no-brainer, but as a Lynchburg employment agency, we still see plenty of mistakes in cover letters and resumes. These kinds of errors will turn off employers because they use letters and resumes as a way to screen out candidates. After all, why would they want to hire someone who can’t follow directions or check their work? So it’s important to proofread everything you submit to a prospective employer. Better yet, ask a friend or family member to proofread both your cover letter and resume for you. Their fresh eyes will be able to pick up on mistakes you may have overlooked.

Mistake #2. Being late.

The old adage “Better late than never” doesn’t ring true when it comes to a job interview. In fact, walking into an interview 15 minutes late is a major no-no and a great way to lose out on a Lynchburg job offer. Plus, your interview could get cut short if the employer is interviewing numerous candidates on a tight schedule. To avoid being tardy, plan for any unexpected delays. Give yourself an extra 30-45 minutes to arrive at the interview destination.

Mistake #3. Being unprepared.

If you are unprepared for a job interview, you are showing a total lack of interest in the position. So why would the employer want to hire you? It’s critically important that you spend time preparing for each interview. Research the company and prepare your answers for some commonly asked interview questions. Also, create a list of your own questions that you would like answered about the company and the position.

Mistake #4. Talking too much during the interview.

Another common mistake during a job interview is talking too much. Many times, candidates are uncertain of how much information to offer and just keep talking, and talking, and talking. So keep your answers as concise and direct as possible.

Mistake #5. Talking too little during the interview.

On the flip side, don’t give one or two word answers to interview questions. Also, don’t be reluctant to tout your accomplishments. Clearly state your achievements and your talents.

Mistake #6. Looking unprofessional.

A sloppy or overly flashy appearance is another great way to miss out on a job offer. So dress to impress for every interview. Wear a well-tailored suit in a neutral color and make sure your overall appearance is well-groomed and polished.

And if you need help landing a job offer in Lynchburg, please contact Adams & Garth. We have relationships with some of the leading employers in the area and can help you find a job opportunity that’s a great match for you.

It used to be that you applied for a job in Lynchburg and the employer called you to set up an in-person interview. Nowadays, though, with so many job candidates on the market, employers are finding it more efficient to screen candidates by conducting phone interviews first, and then bringing candidates into the office for an interview.

So what can you do to nail your phone interview and move on to the next step in the hiring process? Here are some tips:

Create talking points.

One benefit of a phone interview is that the person interviewing you can’t see you. Take advantage of this by writing down some points that you want to get across during the interview, such as your qualifications, why you would be a good hire, and what your strengths are.

Prepare ahead of time.

Go online to the company’s website to learn more about who they are and what they do. Also, practice your answers to some commonly asked interview questions. The more prepared you are, the smoother the interview will go.

Use your land line.

With a land line you don’t have to worry about a dropped call or getting disconnected.

Turn off your call waiting.

The beep of an incoming call can be distracting, especially if it happens repeatedly, and can cause you to lose focus.

Have a glass of water handy.

The interview may be quick, or you may be on the phone for a long period of time. So have a glass of water on hand if your mouth gets dry or you get a tickle in your throat.

Remove distractions.

Don’t expect your two-year-old to play quietly while you’re on the phone. If you have a phone interview scheduled, you need to have a babysitter.

Stay focused.

It’s a lot easier to lose focus during a phone interview than an in-person one. To help you remain focused, take notes during the interview.

Smile.

This may sound weird since the interviewer can’t see you, but if you think positive and smile during your interview, this will come across over the phone – and you’ll make a better impression.

If you need additional help preparing for an interview, or if you need help finding a job in Lynchburg, contact Adams & Garth. As a leading employment agency in Lynchburg, we can help you polish your resume, prepare for job interviews, and land a rewarding position that’s a great fit for you.

When you first started your Lynchburg job, you were inspired and motivated. But now, a few years later, you’re just not as happy as you once were. Workdays seemed to drag on, while weekends fly by. Sound familiar? If the answer is “yes,” there are some steps you can take to improve job satisfaction:

Step #1: Figure out what the problem is.

Why aren’t you happy at work? What’s eating you? Are you having a problem with a co-worker or your boss? Does the work you’re doing not interest you anymore? Do you think you should be paid more? Once you figure out specifically what’s bothering you, you’ll have a better idea about how to solve the problem.

Step #2: Put yourself out there.

If there’s an easy fix for what’s bothering you, then you need to put yourself out there and ask for it. Whether it’s a raise, or more challenging projects, your boss isn’t a mind reader and won’t know what you want unless you ask for it.

Step #3: Be positive.

While being positive won’t change your situation overnight, it can certainly go a long way in developing a more optimistic perspective. Being negative, on the other hand, will simply drain your energy, stress you out, and make you feel less productive. So think of the glass as half full.

Step #4: Re-balance your life.

It’s no wonder you’re miserable if all you’re doing is working. When you don’t have any down time, your stress level increases and as a result, you’re unhappier. So, take a look at your life overall and determine which areas are being neglected. Family? Exercise? Hobbies? Next create a list of priorities that you want to make time for – and take action to create a lifestyle that’s more balanced.

Tip #5: Re-assess your career goals.

If it’s been a while since you’ve last thought about your career goals, now may be the time. Things have likely changed in your life, and your goals may have changed with them. To assess your career goals, ask yourself these questions:

• Are you happy in your field?
• If not, what would you rather be doing?
• What do you want to achieve in your career in the next 5, 10, 20 years?

Your answers should give you a good idea of what you want out of your career. And if you want to make a big change, there’s no time like the present.

Hopefully, the steps above will help you find more satisfaction at work. However, if your goals or priorities have changed and your job is no longer a fit for you, we can help. As a leading Lynchburg employment agency, we can give you access to a variety of job opportunities in Lynchburg and throughout Central Virginia. To learn more, visit our website or contact us today.

As a leading Lynchburg employment agency, we know that writing the dreaded cover letter is one job search requirement most people can’t stand. After all, who wants to condense their wealth of knowledge, skills, and experience into a few simple sentences? What makes it even more frustrating is that a cover letter can be the determining factor in whether or not you land an interview – no matter how qualified you think you are.

So how can you craft a cover letter that not only gets attention, but also gets results?

Here are some tips:

Tip #1: Keep in mind that the goal of a cover letter is to introduce yourself, then sell yourself to the Lynchburg employer. It’s not to regurgitate all of the facts and information already listed on your resume.

Tip #2: Keep it short. No matter how tempting it can be to include a lengthy explanation of your last position, be as concise as possible – preferably less than half a page.

Tip #3: Employers will undoubtedly be asking themselves “What can this candidate do for me?” when reviewing your cover letter and resume. So, after a brief, introductory opening, explain why you think you’d be an asset to the potential employer. For example:

In my last position as office manager for The Lynchburg Employment Agency, I was able to secure new vendor contracts that saved the company approximately $25,000 in overhead costs.

Tip #4: State why you want to work for the employer. It shows them that you’ve done some research on the company. Here’s an example:

Since your company is the largest medical supply firm in Central Virginia, I want to position myself with a leader in the industry.

Tip #5: At the end of your letter, include a specific date that you will call the employer to follow up and inquire about securing an interview.

Tip #6: Have someone proofread both your cover letter and resume before sending it out to a potential Lynchburg employer. This is a no-brainer, but we have to mention it since too often we’ve seen cover letters and resumes with typos and other glaring grammatical errors.

Tip #7: If you’re still having problems landing interviews, contact a Lynchburg employment agency, like Adams & Garth. As employment experts, we can help you craft a terrific cover letter and resume – one that gets positive results. We can also give you access to a variety of rewarding job opportunities in Lynchburg and throughout Central Virginia.