Grateful in 2011

Over the past few years, the staffing industry has certainly changed. Though we’ve faced our share of challenges due to the economy, we’ve also fared better than many other industries.

Consider the facts.

According to the American Staffing Association, U.S. staffing agencies created more new jobs in the economy than any other industry. Additionally, 91% of the total non-farm jobs (that’s nearly half a million workers) created were done so through the temporary staffing industry, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. So while there’s still plenty of uncertainty out there (just read our post about the Houston private sector weakening), we’re grateful for the fact that our industry is doing well.

We’re also grateful for our clients.

We know how stressful running a business can be, especially these days. And the fact that you turn to us to play a critical role in your company speaks volumes to us. As you know, your people are your most important asset, and Murray Resources takes finding the top-notch ones for your Houston jobs very seriously.

In addition to our clients, we are also thankful to our candidates.

We know that a job search can be an overwhelming process and we’re so happy that you’ve chosen us to help with it. Whether you’re looking for temp jobs in Houston or full-time work, we’re always committed to helping you find just the right opening in which you can feel valued and productive.

So regardless of what unfolds in 2012 and in the future, right now we just wanted to say “thanks.”

Thanks for putting your trust in Murray Resources to help you find the people you need or the jobs you want. It’s something that we love doing and we’re thrilled that we’re able to do it for you.

Happy Thanksgiving!

How to Build Better Relationship on the Job – And Reap the Rewards

There are many factors important to success in your Houston job. These include things like competency, knowledge, and hard work.

But what’s really the #1 factor that can help you achieve career success?

The answer is probably less complicated then you think. It’s about building strong relationships with your co-workers.

Think about it. When you’re in a bind at work, you probably don’t turn to your boss for help. You ask a co-worker. Likewise, if you have a question about how to get something done, or want to bounce a new idea for a process or product off someone, whom do you ask? Again, it’s not likely you’re going to schedule a meeting with the company CEO to discuss an undeveloped idea. You’re going to seek feedback from a co-worker.

However if you don’t have strong relationships with your co-workers, then you won’t reap the many rewards that come along with them. To help you get there, here are some ideas to keep in mind:

Be respectful.

This should go without saying, but some people still need it said. Be kind and respectful to everyone you work with. That doesn’t mean you have to be an easy target or a big softie. It just means that you should think before you speak.

Share information.

If a co-worker comes to you with a question, don’t hoard your knowledge. Share what you know with them. If you ever need fast answers or a quick solution, your co-workers will be much more likely to help you when you’ve been generous with knowledge in the past.

Don’t point fingers.

When things go wrong, it can be tempting to point the finger of blame at someone else. But you’ll simply alienate your co-workers. So when errors happen, accept responsibility and work to determine how you can fix the mistake.

Share credit.

When things go right, don’t take all the credit, even if your boss thinks you did it all yourself. Tell him or her that you couldn’t have done it without help from the team. This is probably one of the best ways to strengthen relationships with your co-workers.

Socialize with co-workers.

You may not want to go to lunch or happy hour with co-workers, but make the effort. You’ll get to know your co-workers better in a more casual environment and learn what makes them tick. You’ll therefore be able to develop more productive relationships with them at work.

If you want to build better relationships on the job – just not in your current job – Murray Resources can help. As one of the top employment agencies in Houston, Texas, we can work with you to find a new job that’s a great match for your skills and personality.

Start your job search now.

Is Turning Down a Promotion Career Suicide?

Most people would be thrilled to get offered promotions to new Houston jobs. But for some, the thought of a heftier paycheck isn’t worth the price of added responsibility and longer hours – especially if the job promotion doesn’t align with future career goals.

So if you’re in the latter category, is turning down a promotion akin to committing career suicide? Maybe.

In a struggling economy, it could be unwise to turn down a promotion. For instance, your boss might know something you don’t: that your current position is on the chopping block in the near future. Or your boss might simply feel confident in your abilities and trust you to do a good job in the new role. Whatever the case may be, look at the bigger picture before making the decision to decline a promotion. Perhaps the promotion could be a steppingstone to better Houston jobs in the future.

However, if you’ve thought about it and feel adamant about refusing the offer, don’t just decline and leave it at that. Otherwise, your boss might feel like you’re leaving him or her in the lurch. Instead, sell your boss on the idea of why you should remain in your current position. And don’t just talk about how staying put benefits you; talk about how it benefits your boss and the company. Tell your boss about how you can offer more value from where you are positioned now.

After you explain why you should remain where you are, you should also offer your boss a solution. For instance, say you’ll take on more responsibility, if needed, until someone else is hired for the position. Providing a short-term solution not only helps soften the blow, but it also demonstrates that you’re still committed to the company’s success.

The bottom line is that declining a job promotion can be a risk. It might pay off in the future and it might not. So before making any hasty decisions, be sure to analyze all the pros and cons carefully. Your boss likely won’t mind if you take some time to think about it.

But if part of the reason for turning down the promotion is because you’re ready for a new opportunity with a new employer, Murray Resources can help. As Houston’s premier employment firm, we work with some of the top companies in and around the city and can give you access to a variety of rewarding and exciting jobs in Houston.

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Can My Boss Really Monitor My Internet Use?

If you’re like most employees, chances are you’ve gone on to Facebook to post a status update; logged on to YouTube to view a funny video; or done some quick online research for vacation hot spots – all while you’re still on the clock at your Houston job.

But in a day and age of social networking and online access to just about anything, many employers are starting to monitor their employees’ Internet usage, from the web pages they read to the comments they post on blogs and in forums.

So is it legal? The short answer is yes.

Federal law gives employers the right to monitor all computer activity. Since the employer owns the computer system, employees have no reasonable expectations of privacy when using that system. Employers can even monitor your personal email accounts as long as you’re logged onto the company network or using company-owned equipment.

And if your company monitors Internet usage, they’re certainly not alone.

In fact, according to a survey by the American Management Association and The ePolicy Institute, two-thirds of employers monitor workers’ Internet use. More specifically, almost half of employers said they track content, keystrokes and time spent at the keyboard.

Generally speaking, there are three reasons why employers want to monitor Internet usage at work:

1. Productivity. In a tough economy, employers want to make sure that employees are being as productive as possible, not wasting time online.

2. Convenience. With advances in technology, it’s both easy and cost efficient to install software that helps employers monitor Internet usage.

3. Reduced liability. With most disputes today being settled in the courtroom, rather than the boardroom, it makes sense for businesses to protect themselves with monitoring software. Through it, they can ensure employees aren’t blabbing about trade secrets online, sending out nasty emails about their boss, sexually harassing a co-worker, or posting discriminatory comments on a blog.

Furthermore, your employer does not have to tell you they’re monitoring your Internet usage. So the fact of the matter is you may never know. That’s why it’s so important to be careful about your Internet use while on the clock at your Houston job. If you do have personal tasks you need to conduct on your computer or phone at work, keep them to a minimum. Otherwise, you could end up in hot water with your boss.

Help! My Boss is a Micromanager…and It’s Driving Me Crazy!

Having a micromanager for a boss at your Houston job can be a frustrating experience, from the incessant hovering to the frequent disruptions. Unfortunately, since micromanaging is more of a personality trait than a management style, it’s unlikely that your boss will change anytime soon. But there are some steps you can take to cope with the situation:

First, examine your performance.

There may be a reason your boss is micromanaging you – he or she doesn’t have confidence in your performance. So look around you. Are your co-workers being micromanaged, or are you the only one? If it’s the latter, then you might need to accept the fact that you’re under-performing and determine what you need to do to improve.

Second, don’t get passive aggressive.

When confronted with a micromanager, many people tend to begin to withdraw or get passive aggressive as a way to assert control over the situation. But since this is the person who signs your paycheck, you don’t want to make your boss angry. If your boss micromanages everyone, then understand that it’s not personal. Many times, micromanagers are perfectionists with incredibly high expectations.

Third, communicate on your boss’s terms.

You have to bear in mind that your boss is under a lot of pressure to produce good results, and that may be why he or she asks for frequent updates. If their constant requests are disrupting your ability to get your work done, ask your boss the best way for you to provide these updates.

For instance, should you send them via email or in person? Once a day, or three times a day? When your boss assigns you a task, repeat what they told you in an email to ensure you’re both on the same page – i.e. “This is my understanding of the assignment. Is that correct?”

If you get into a regular habit of communicating – and even over-communicating – on your boss’s terms, then your boss can get the information he or she needs and you can get your work done without regular disruptions.

Fourth, follow the rules.

Micromanagers like to catch people breaking the rules, as if to say “See, this is why I need to manage you so closely.” Don’t give them the satisfaction. Follow the rules, don’t be late, and do your job well.

If you continue to communicate frequently and deliver excellent work, then it’s possible that your micromanaging boss might let up a bit and allow you to do your work without constant hovering. But if your boss’s micromanaging has gotten so out of control that you’re ready to explore new jobs in Houston, Murray Resources can help. We work with some of the city’s leading employers and can give you access to top jobs as a result!

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Don’t Let an Employment Gap Sabotage Your Houston Job Search

In today’s economy, with unemployment stuck at above 9%, a gap in employment is not uncommon. However, these gaps can still be a big red flag for a potential employer. What’s worse is that for some hiring managers, there’s a misperception that good employees don’t get laid off. So while you’re certainly facing an obstacle when it comes to finding a new job in Houston, Texas, you can overcome it by spinning the negative into a positive. Here’s how.

1. Explain the gap in your cover letter.

That said, don’t start off your letter by talking about it. Instead, focus on why you’re a good fit for the job and what you can do for the employer. Then include a line or two about the gap in employment. Don’t go into detail about the bad economy and a frustrating job search; simply state that you were out of the workforce for a short period and are eager to return. If the gap in employment occurred many years ago, don’t mention it at all.

2. Don’t draw too much attention to the gap on your resume.

If most of your past positions span many years, then don’t include a month and year. Just include the year.

So for instance:

Account Executive
2007 – 2011

Rather than:

Account Executive
January 2007 – February 2011

Also, don’t use bold fonts for dates on your resume. That said, hiring managers aren’t dumb and will certainly be aware that there is a gap. But by underplaying it and focusing on your positive attributes, you could get your foot in the door.

3. Fill the gap.

While you’re searching for Houston jobs, try to do some consulting or freelance work in order to fill the gap. There is no requirement that you have to be paid for the work on your resume, so volunteer work counts here, as well. But if you can, don’t call it “volunteer work.” Include a job title, like you would for a paid job.

4. Make yourself more marketable.

Take a class to sharpen an old skill or get certified in a new one. Include this experience at the top of your resume and in your cover letter and explain how this skill will help you perform the job.

5. Be honest.

Today, many employers verify employment. So even a little white lie can take you out of the running for a position.

If you’d like some professional help with your Houston, Texas job search, please contact Murray Resources. We work with many of Houston’s top employers, including leaders in the energy industry, Fortune 500 firms, financial services firms, legal and medical practices, as well as dozens of other small to mid-sized employers. As a result, we can help match you with a job in Houston that’s a terrific fit for you!

How to Deal With a Difficult Co-Worker at Your Houston Job

When it comes to difficult co-workers, we’ve all been there at one time or another, whether it’s the diva personality, the two-faced liar, or the know-it-all. While dealing with a difficult co-worker at your Houston job can be challenging, it’s a situation you must face. Otherwise, it will simply get worse and you, not the difficult co-worker, will suffer as a result. Here are some suggestions to keep in mind:

Take a step back from your Houston job.

Sometimes when we’re embroiled in a tense situation it can be easy to lose perspective. So take a step back and ask yourself if you’re over-reacting, or if there’s really a problem. You need to be honest with yourself, especially if you’ve experienced issues with other co-workers in the past. Examine the situation as objectively as you can to ensure the problem doesn’t stem, at least partly, from you or your actions.

Talk to a colleague.

Is there a colleague at work that you know and trust? Then ask them their opinion. Explain the situation and ask for some insight. A fresh perspective can be helpful in emotional situations.

Confront the difficult co-worker privately.

Email your co-worker and ask if you can speak with them privately. Though it can be tempting to go on the offensive, try to be calm and diplomatic when you meet. Cite specific examples of the person’s behavior and how it offended you. In many cases, people don’t even realize they’re upsetting others with their behavior and will apologize immediately. That said, there are those few who will get defensive or deny any wrongdoing.

Speak with your manager.

If you are unable to resolve the conflict on your own, then it’s time to bring in your boss. Set up and time to meet with him or her privately and explain the situation. Again, be as diplomatic as possible. Your boss doesn’t want to get involved in petty fights or office politics. But if there’s a real problem, then it’s your boss’s responsibility to help rectify it, particularly if it’s having a negative impact on company productivity.

Find a new job in Houston.

If your boss isn’t willing to intervene and you’re still having problems with the co-worker, then your best bet may be to find another Houston job that offers a healthier work environment.

If that’s the case and you’re ready to make the leap, please contact Murray Resources. As a leading employment agency, we work with many of Houston’s top employers, including leaders in the energy industry, Fortune 500 firms, financial services firms, legal and medical practices, as well as dozens of other small to mid-sized employers. Contact us today. We can help!

How to Exit Your Houston Job Gracefully

Whether you’re looking for a new job in Houston or you’ve already landed one, it’s important that you leave your old position gracefully. You never know who you will cross paths with again during the course of your career and you don’t want to burn any bridges. With that said, here are some tips for a smooth exit:

Think of a brief explanation.

People will want to know why you’re leaving, so you’ll want to think of a brief, yet positive, explanation. For instance, you got a new job in Houston that’s a great opportunity to advance your career or learn something new. The trick is to be honest, without being brutal.

Write a resignation letter.

In your letter, thank your employer for the opportunities you’ve had during your tenure there. Also, be clear about the fact that you are leaving and give the date of your final day at work.

Give at least 2 weeks notice.

Two weeks is the standard amount; however, your company may require additional time, so you’ll want to consult with your employee handbook first.

Complete your work.

Just because you’re leaving doesn’t mean you get to slack off in your last days on the job. To ensure a smooth transition for your boss and co-workers, make sure you finish up outstanding projects and leave detailed instructions about any tasks you handle.

Help with the hiring process.

Nobody knows your position better than you do. So offer to help your boss find a replacement and train that person once he or she is hired.

Leave a positive trail.

You know the saying “If you don’t have anything nice to say…”? This is especially true when it comes to your career. Whether there is a co-worker you don’t get along with or a boss you’ve butted heads with, keep your mouth shut. Otherwise, your words could come back to haunt you.

Keep in touch.

It’s a small world and you never know who could play a role in your career in the future. So be sure to give your new contact information to key relationships at your company before you leave. You may even want to send a note or email to those you developed a good relationship with, telling them how much you enjoyed working with them. Even after you’ve left, try to maintain a positive and professional relationship.

And if you’d like to exit your Houston job, but first need help finding a new one, please contact Murray Resources. As an experienced employment agency, we work with many of Houston’s top employers and can place you in a position that’s a great match for your skills and personality.

5 Things to Avoid Saying at Your Office Holiday Party

Your office holiday party is a great opportunity to let loose (a little!), get to know your co-workers on a more personal level, and network with company leaders. But, it can also provide an opportunity to say and do some pretty dumb stuff. Trust us, as a Houston employment agency, we’ve heard it all. And unfortunately, making a serious blunder at a work party can have significant consequences – it could harm your credibility, upset your boss, and, worst-case scenario, you could be out of a job. So here are some things to avoid saying at your office holiday party:

1. Talking about bonuses.

Avoid any talk about year-end bonuses. First of all, you don’t know if the guy you’re talking to got a bonus and if he didn’t, you’ll look like a jerk. Secondly, you can get into rough waters when you start talking about bonus amounts with a co-worker, particularly of you received significantly more or less than that person. So avoid any talk of monetary compensation.

2. Announcing that you’re going to get wasted.

An open bar is not an invitation to get completely drunk. In a work/social situation, you should limit yourself to one or two drinks, or avoid drinking altogether. Most serious office party blunders are booze fueled and the results can be disastrous to your career. So if you’re at your office party and you’re starting to feel a bit tipsy, then it’s time to excuse yourself. You’ll thank us in the morning.

3. Complaining about the venue, the food, or the party in general.

Even if you’re thinking about all the things you could be getting done instead of attending the office party, don’t vocalize your thoughts. Likewise, if you don’t like the venue or the food or some other aspect of the party, keep your thoughts to yourself. You don’t want to be known as the office whiner and, worse yet, you don’t want your comments getting back to your boss.

4. Gossiping about your boss or co-workers.

It’s true – most people can’t get enough juicy office gossip. But don’t go there, especially at a work function. At parties, you typically have to speak louder to be heard and you never know who could be standing right behind you – listening.

5. Commenting about a person’s appearance.

If you’ve reached the point where you’re discussing a co-worker’s appearance and weighing in on whether you think they’re good-looking or not, it’s time to leave the party. Likewise, if you feel compelled to tell a co-worker you find them attractive, then it’s time to run, not walk, to the nearest exit.

The bottom line is that you should view the office holiday party as an extension of your workday. If you wouldn’t do something at a company staff meeting, then don’t do it at your holiday party!

What about you? What are some of the biggest blunders you’ve seen people make at office holiday parties in the past?

5 Things to Avoid Saying at Your Office Holiday Party

Your office holiday party is a great opportunity to let loose (a little!), get to know your co-workers on a more personal level, and network with company leaders. But, it can also provide an opportunity to say and do some pretty dumb stuff. Trust us, as a Houston employment agency, we’ve heard it all. And unfortunately, making a serious blunder at a work party can have significant consequences – it could harm your credibility, upset your boss, and, worst-case scenario, you could be out of a job. So here are some things to avoid saying at your office holiday party:

1. Talking about bonuses.

Avoid any talk about year-end bonuses. First of all, you don’t know if the guy you’re talking to got a bonus and if he didn’t, you’ll look like a jerk. Secondly, you can get into rough waters when you start talking about bonus amounts with a co-worker, particularly of you received significantly more or less than that person. So avoid any talk of monetary compensation.

2. Announcing that you’re going to get wasted.

An open bar is not an invitation to get completely drunk. In a work/social situation, you should limit yourself to one or two drinks, or avoid drinking altogether. Most serious office party blunders are booze fueled and the results can be disastrous to your career. So if you’re at your office party and you’re starting to feel a bit tipsy, then it’s time to excuse yourself. You’ll thank us in the morning.

3. Complaining about the venue, the food, or the party in general.

Even if you’re thinking about all the things you could be getting done instead of attending the office party, don’t vocalize your thoughts. Likewise, if you don’t like the venue or the food or some other aspect of the party, keep your thoughts to yourself. You don’t want to be known as the office whiner and, worse yet, you don’t want your comments getting back to your boss.

4. Gossiping about your boss or co-workers.

It’s true – most people can’t get enough juicy office gossip. But don’t go there, especially at a work function. At parties, you typically have to speak louder to be heard and you never know who could be standing right behind you – listening.

5. Commenting about a person’s appearance.

If you’ve reached the point where you’re discussing a co-worker’s appearance and weighing in on whether you think they’re good-looking or not, it’s time to leave the party. Likewise, if you feel compelled to tell a co-worker you find them attractive, then it’s time to run, not walk, to the nearest exit.

The bottom line is that you should view the office holiday party as an extension of your workday. If you wouldn’t do something at a company staff meeting, then don’t do it at your holiday party!

What about you? What are some of the biggest blunders you’ve seen people make at office holiday parties in the past?