Published on: 23 June 2021
Last Updated on: 03 January 2025
Making the decision to switch careers is a big one! It’s not a decision you should take lightly, which means you have probably spent a lot of time thinking it through and deciding where you want to work. But, once you have decided you want to make the switch, what comes next?
No matter what career you have decided to take on, it’s a good idea to improve your business and leadership skills. It’s a great way to build more confidence before you take on a brand-new role, and it shows prospective employers that you’re serious about making the switch and sticking with it.
A few ways you can work on your business and leadership skills include:
Sign up to see an expert speak on a topic you’re passionate about
Take a class online or in-person
Get a new certification or endorsement
Take on a new project at your existing job
Work on your communication skills
Practice your leadership skills outside of work
Volunteer
Just because you think you know what new field you want to get into doesn’t mean you’ll actually like it when you get there. As you’re working on your leadership skills, you should also look for ways to put your new skills into practice in your chosen field. The best way to do that is to volunteer.
Volunteering may not pay you any money, but it’s a great way for you to experience a new field. Not only can you learn more about the specific position you’re interested in, but you may also discover other positions within the same field that you never considered. Not to mention, it’s a great way to meet people who work in the field you’re interested in. They make great references, and you never know—one of them may be able to refer you to your dream job!
Create a Timeline
Just because you have decided you want to make a career change and you know what career you want doesn’t mean you know how to make it happen. It’s especially important to get realistic about exactly how much time it’s going to take to meet your goals.
It can take a long time to find a job, and it can take even longer if you’re switching careers. Create a timeline so you can break down the switch into manageable steps. You’ll want to include any classes, degrees, or endorsements you need to get first, set aside time to create a new resume, consider how many job applications you want to fill out every week, and more.
Although you may want to make the switch sooner rather than later, it is much better to create a timeline and go slowly. Make sure you save plenty of money throughout the process so you have funds to fall back on if things don’t go according to plan.
Focus on Your Boundaries
Making the switch to a new career isn’t something you can do overnight. While you wait it out at your existing job, it’s a good idea to focus on your professional boundaries.
Just because you think you will like your new career better doesn’t mean it’s better for your overall quality of life. Think about the kinds of boundaries you want to set to ensure the transition is successful, and give them a try at your existing job. Don’t reply to emails after a certain time every night, insist on taking all of your vacations, and work on communicating your needs more clearly, just to name a few.
Manage Professional Relationships
Just because you have one foot out the door at your current job doesn’t mean you should burn bridges there before you leave. You should work on maintaining your existing professional relationships while you build new relationships with people in your new field.
For example, you’ll want to tell your boss in person when you resign rather than doing it over email. Give your job 100 percent through your very last day, and make sure those you worked with know you’re thankful for the opportunity you had to learn and grow. You never know when those old connections could come in handy!
There’s a lot more work to be done when you decide you’re ready for a new career. Follow these tips and the switch will be as painless as possible.
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Got called for an interview for that dream job you have wanted for a long time?
Well, congratulations for starters! Secondly, are you ready with the top interview skills? Ensuring that you are putting your best foot forward!
Do not worry, this doesn’t automatically mean you are underprepared. Your confidence to ace the interview will get half of the job done!
However, to improve your interview game, you should know what the experts say about a guaranteed interview win.
Especially the skills that can help you achieve that goal!
Top Interview Skills – Preparing For A Win
A good interview is more than just an opportunity to show off your resume or learn about a new company.
It’s about having key interview skills to help you shine above the competition. From communication skills to problem-solving abilities, here are the skills you need to start polishing.
Got an interview for your dream job? Great!
The tricky part is getting the job.
But don’t worry, I’m here to help with your interview prep. Let's begin with the following:
The 5 Cs Of A Job Interview
Here’s a job interview preparation framework: the 5Cs. Five qualities you should try to convey at your interview to be successful.
1. Confidence Is The Key!
Confidence is indeed the key. Employers want to hire people who can perform well under pressure and believe in their abilities.
You can come with many skills, but how would they know if you cannot showcase them?
However, keep in mind that confidence doesn't have to be loud and on someone's face.
There’s a fine line between confidence and arrogance. Be assertive but also respectful and open to learning.
How do you express confidence?
Start with eye contact, a firm handshake, and positive body language. Know your strengths, but also be ready to discuss your weaknesses and how you’ve worked to improve them.
2. Can You Provide Clarity?
Be clear and concise with your words.
Stuttering, pausing, or slipping in thoughts will make you appear unconfident. This doesn't mean you cannot pause between your answers. Whenever you feel like you need to take a break, always do so with confidence.
It will also give the impression that you didn't memorize the answers but rather know how to have a proper conversation.
Take it slow, and do not chew on your words. It makes the interviewer aware of nervousness! Plus, learn how to answer basic interview questions using clear & succinct lines. Don't be absolutely clueless there and take your time thinking.
The more focused your answers are, the better you can convey what you think.
3. Curiosity Won’t Kill The Cat Here
Be curious about everything and always be ready to learn. Curiosity keeps the mind engaged and open to new ideas and possibilities, making you a better problem-solver and decision-maker. Plus, your curious questions can also hold the conversation better.
Show genuine interest in the role and company. It is not a surprise that employers love a candidate who is inquisitive and shows they are keen to learn/grow. Ask questions about the company culture, future goals, challenges, etc. Here are some of the unique interview questions to ask employers.
4. Try To Be Calm!
Staying calm is most important in any kind of interview situation. Being mindful, calm, and present are some of the top interview skills out there!
I know it is not easy, and you are totally panicking if it is a dream job, and you do not want to mess up!
But trust me, thinking and losing your sleep over it will not bring you any positive results. The employer wants to see if the person can think clearly and answer thoughtfully, even if you are nervous.
So, take a deep breath, smile, and if you need a few seconds before answering, that’s alright!
5. Are You Competent For The Job
Again, it could be a dream job, but do not apply for a role (especially in a higher position) if you are not sure!
This is one of the reasons why understanding your competency for the job is crucial. It is not about putting yourself down but knowing your strengths & weaknesses well.
If needed, you can also ask the recruiter beforehand to explain the job role in detail.
Your experience will show your Competence, skills, and how much you know about the job you are being interviewed for. Read the job description properly and respond in a targeted way, describing how your experience fits the role.
Dos & Don’ts Of An Interview
Knowing what to do and not do in an interview can make all the difference. Here are some important dos and don'ts to help you present yourself as a true professional.
Here is what you should do during your job interview:
Do Some Company Research
Before you even get to the interview, make sure you know what you’re getting into. You’ll be able to answer and ask questions more effectively if you’ve taken the time to learn about the company’s history, culture, and goals.
Do Dress Appropriately
First impressions are everything. Dressing appropriately will show that you take the interview seriously and understand the company’s culture. When in doubt, dress business casual unless the culture of the company says otherwise.
Do Listen Attentively
An interview is a conversation, not an interrogation. Listen to what your interviewer is saying and respond accordingly.
Being a good listener is also one of the crucial interview skills. This will demonstrate that you can work well with others in the workplace.
Now, here is what you shouldn’t do.
Don’t Over-talk Or Interrupt
While it’s important to provide thorough answers, you don’t want to monopolize the conversation. Answer the question and then stop talking. Let the interviewer guide the discussion, and don’t talk over them.
Don’t Say Anything Bad About A Former Employer
Don’t badmouth your former employer Even if you didn’t have a great experience at your last job.
Potential employers are looking for candidates who can remain professional and positive in difficult situations.
Which Skills Do I Need In An Interview?
Interviewing is all about presenting your best self, and that starts with showcasing your skills. You don’t just want to show that you’re qualified on paper.
Yes, you also want to demonstrate that you can effectively and comfortably communicate your qualifications in person.
So, here are the top six skills employers look for when they interview candidates!
1. Clear Communication
Clear and effective communication is key for any successful interview. You need to articulate your thoughts, respond to questions, and share your views in an easy-to-understand manner.
Practice speaking clearly and using professional language without unnecessary jargon.
2. Critical Thinking
You may be a natural problem solver and excel in critical thinking or need to work on it. If the latter is the case, it is time for you to polish your critical and quick-thinking skills. A good way to do so is by joining a workshop on interview skills.
Many employers will want to know how you have dealt with difficult situations in the past. Here is your opportunity to let them see your problem-solving skills.
Think of examples when you devised creative solutions to hard problems.
3. Adaptability
In today’s ever-changing job market, flexibility is the name of the game. You cannot be afraid of change and think you will fixate on the same skills and the same means for years on end.
The whole corporate scene is getting dynamic, which means there is a new change at every corner. Therefore, demonstrate that you can adapt to change and be open to new ideas and challenges.
You can also give examples of when you were forced to be fluid and how you thrived in a new environment.
4. The Ability To Lead
Leadership skills are essential Even if you’re not applying for a management position. After all, you would want to give the impression that one day you will be capable enough to lead a team.
Especially if someone asks you about your five-year plan, this shows that you can take initiative, guide others, and make decisions when needed.
Share examples where you demonstrated leadership qualities, even in small tasks or team collaborations.
5. Technical Skills
The digital trends are growing at an unsteady pace, and you will need to adapt quickly!
For many positions, you’ll also need specific technical skills, whether it’s the ability to use certain software, machines, or tools or expertise in a particular methodology.
Familiarize yourself with the technical skills needed for the position and mention them in your response.
What's The Best Answer To "Tell Me About Yourself"?
Ah, the dreaded “Tell me about yourself” interview question! No amount of interview skills can prepare you for that!
This one is tough because it’s so open-ended. Yes, you don’t want to give too much away and tell your life story, but you also need to give a well-rounded answer. Here’s how to nail it.
First, give a quick background of your career thus far, including only things that are pertinent to this job application. Briefly mention a few big achievements that might pique their interest (make them want to keep reading!).
Then, please talk about your skills and how they relate specifically to this role. Finish your statement by explaining why you’re excited about this opportunity and how you’ll help the company as a result.
Here Is A Good Example Of This Question:
“I’ve spent the past five years working as a digital marketing specialist, where I helped companies grow their online presence and customer engagement. I got to work on some cool campaigns, like a social media campaign that increased our client’s online sales by 30%.
Not only did I learn the ins and outs of SEO, content strategy, and data analytics in my role, but this is also what you’re looking for! I’m super excited to bring my skills to your team and help drive your digital marketing efforts!”
You should also read 10 interview questions, for better preparation!
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Many employees feel guilty when they want to take a leave (even when sick). This happens more often for work-from-home employees.
Generally, there can be certain reasons to call out of work. Once you take time off respectfully, it will be good for your physical and mental health and the organization.
In this article, you will learn about legitimate reasons to call out of work. Also, this article will give you tips that you can call out of work. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article.
Are You Looking For Reasons To Call Out Of Work?
There are many reasons why you can call out of work. However, these are not “bulletproof excuses to get out of work.” Understand that these are genuine reasons and not excuses. Your employer will understand and approve your request once you have a genuine reason to call out of work.
For instance, employers accept medical conditions, emergencies, and personal matters as valid reasons for such cases. However, you must be aware of your employer’s off-time policies.
As long as you are not misusing company policies to your advantage, you can reframe calling out of work as a form of self-care.
When you are calling out, use the method that your employer prefers. Also, keep your reason brief. Additionally, you can also suggest solutions for missing work.
Meanwhile, you must prepare for a return to work soon. This way, you can minimize work disruption. Moreover, try to show commitment to catch up to your projects.
Hence, read the next section to learn how to call out of work for personal reasons and emergencies.
Here Are 9 Major Reasons To Call Out Of Work
You can offer plenty of reasons if you want to miss work or stay at home. However, you must make sure that you are not taking the wrong advantage of your employer’s policies. Thereby, you can reframe your staying out of work as a form of self-care.
Basically, when you take enough time to rest and recover your energy, you will feel more productive and focused. Also, you will be able to use your conceptual skills better. This will be beneficial for both you and your employer. Moreover, calling out of work makes more sense if you are sick.
When you are not fully fit, despite doing the work, you are not fully present. This will impact on your productivity and efficiency. Hence, it is a better step to call out of work.
The following are the top reasons to call out of work:
1. Loss Of Someone Close
When a family member, relative, or someone close passes away, you must call out of work. Apart from processing your grief, you must also deal with financial and logistical arrangements for the funeral.
In fact, some employers even offer a bereavement leave policy if you have a death in the family. Hence, consider checking your employee handbook or the HR portal to see how to apply for bereavement leave.
Also, you can consult with the HR department or your manager directly about the situation and what next steps you must take.
Everyone relates to a personal loss, and your manager must understand that you need time to recover and make a comeback.
2. Sickness And Medical Problems
You might suffer from a seasonal allergy, common cold, minor headache, etc. Although you might still be able to work partly, it is essential to call out of work.
This is because your illness is keeping you from efficiency and high productivity. Also, if you over-stress yourself, you might get sicker and must be called out of work for more days.
Moreover, if you must go to the office in person, contagious diseases like coughing and cold can be one of the reasons for calling out of work. However, in such cases, your employer might ask you to show a doctor’s note if you inform them that you are seriously ill.
3. Sickness Of A Dependent Or Someone Close
Although you are not sick, a family member might be ill at home. Here, if you are the only person to take care of them, you have a good reason to call them out of work. In this case, you might also need to take them to a doctor’s clinic, give them medication, or pick up a prescription.
When there is a family need, there is no way you can stall it for work responsibilities. Hence, you must take a step to take a leave. For instance, you can use your sick time or leave to ensure your family’s well-being.
4. Family Emergency
Family comes first, and you must prioritize your family over your job. Hence, when you face a family emergency, you have strong reasons to call out of work. In such cases, your employer will understand, and this is a good reason to look after your family,
Generally, during family emergencies, the stakes are high. Your family needs you in such situations, and your boss will understand that. For example, if someone needs urgent surgery, or if someone is injured, or someone has seriously fallen ill, you must call out of work.
5. Doctor’s Appointment
If you need to make a medical appointment, you can notify your employer in advance. In such situations, taking a day off is most suitable. However, in rare cases, you might need to call out or take a sick day off.
For example, if you are waiting to meet a busy doctor with limited access, you might need to take the day off. In such cases, if you do not take the chance, you might have to wait months to see your doctor. In these situations, it is reasonable for you to miss work for the appointment. However, make sure to communicate properly with your manager.
6. Childcare
As a parent, you cannot afford to take a chance on your child’s health. In such cases, you need ultimate workplace flexibility. This is because you need time to raise children in addition to contributing to your job.
Moreover, even if you work from home, it does not mean you can care for your child. In fact, if you work from home, you cannot take care of your child properly, nor can you work with good productivity.
It is okay if you need some time to work on childcare arrangements. If you talk and explain the situation to your employer, they will understand and grant you leave.
7. Pet Care
Your pet is also a part of your home and your extended family. If your pet is in an emergency situation, you have a good reason to call out of work.
For example, if your dog/cat gets into the trash and eats something poisonous, it is important to take your dog to a vet. In other cases, your pet might be sick. Sometimes, you must take your pet to a vet appointment.
Basically, when there is a pet at your home, taking care of the animal is your responsibility. Hence, when you are about to call out of work, notify the reasons for your leave.
8. Illness Due To Food Poisoning
You might feel sick due to food poisoning. This is a problem that wrecks your body and compels you to stay up all night. It happens after you eat something bad, and it causes sickness in your body.
In such a case, you might need extra sleep or time to recover from your sickness. Moreover, if the problem is bigger, you might even need medications. Hence, there are enough reasons to call out of work.
In these situations, you can inform your manager of your sickness. They will surely understand your problem and allow you to take leave.
9. Personal Day
Mental health is something that many people neglect. Sometimes, you must take a break when you have too much. On the other hand, you might be facing physical strain. In such situations, taking a day off is good for your health. In fact, you will feel much better the next day.
However, you must not use your day to search for another job. This is straight-out dishonest, and you will put your coworkers in a difficult position. For instance, your coworkers must deal with extra work if you leave at the last minute without a good reason.
To attend interviews, you can use your traditional paid time off. Moreover, you must plan in such situations.
Call Out Of Work Now
The above reasons for calling out of work are good enough to maintain a good image in your organization and get your time off simultaneously. Also, you must inform your manager when you are calling out of work.
Do you have more suggestions or reasons to offer on how to call out of work? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below.
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The success of the firm depends on the employees and the ones to whom they are accountable, i.e., Managers and Supervisors. These are the two most important positions in an organization, but there are some differences between the two roles (Supervisor Vs Manager) and this we will discuss in this article.
One of the most important tools that a leader can use is leadership communication and these leaders can add some layers to your company’s structure.
Besides, when writing a job description, confusion arises about whether to hire a manager or a supervisor. So, now let’s proceed to know the key differences and similarities between them.
Supervisors And Their Job Responsibilities - All You Need To Know
A Supervisor is a leader who makes the decisions after it is approved or confirmed by the manager. In a company, if any issue or problem arises related to the employees or customers, then supervisors are the initial point of contact for the same.
If the issue is serious and deserves high attention, then the supervisor presents it to the manager. Besides, the primary duty of a supervisor is to have a constant eye on the employees and analyze their performance & productivity in the workplace. The job responsibilities of a supervisor are described below. Have a look!
Train new employees
Analyze the productivity and performance of the employees
Collecting and submitting performance reports to the department manager
Maintaining and keeping track of personnel records and employee’s schedule
Addressing inquiries and complaints from customers
Training employees by giving them regular feedbacks
Assisting employees in knowing their job responsibilities
Creating deadlines and goals that match with the company’s plan.
Managers And Their Job Responsibilities - All You Need To Know
A manager is an individual in a high-level administrative who manages the resources of the organization and makes all the important decisions that affect all areas of business operations. They plan the desired amount that should be spent on resources, and they allocate the same to each department to reach their business objectives.
Managers have the decision-making capabilities, and they manage the department as a whole. Some of the primary responsibilities of a manager are described below. Have a look!
Communicating department information to employees through team meetings or one-on-one.
Provides work schedules to employees
Assigning tasks to employees and gives feedback to the employees constantly
Evaluating employee performance and set goals for employees
Organizing training and professional development opportunities for all employees
Collaborating with the human resources department
Organizing the firm’s management structure to streamline performance, communication, and workflow.
Supervisor Vs Manager - Differences Between Them
The key differences between managers and supervisors are their level of authority, salary, responsibilities, and objectives. Generally, managers are higher-level and higher-level leaders in an organization. They are responsible for team management, goal setting, and strategic planning.
On the other hand, supervisors are closer to the day-to-day tasks of their teams, and they ensure that the manager’s goal (or company’s objectives) are achieved. Now, let’s get to know in detail.
1. Salary
Those individuals who are in the managerial post have a higher salary than the supervisor. Keep in mind; managers have more duties or burdens than supervisors (If you compare Supervisor Vs Manager) because they manage the company as a whole, which is why their salary is high.
2. Objectives
If you compare Supervisor Vs Manager, they both have different goals to meet. Supervisors coordinate with employees (have internal focus) and make sure that their work has been completed on time or not. Whereas managers have an external focus, they manage and represent the company as a whole. They make powerful plans and make sure it gives a good ROI.
3. Responsibilities
Supervisors enhance the productivity of the employees and position their departments for success. They understand the duties of the employees in detail, and they report the same to the managers about their performance and productivity. Whereas managers meet with supervisors to understand the structure of the employees and their responsibilities. Managers oversee the budget and attend meetings for the same.
4. Level Of Authority
There is no doubt that managers are the higher-ranking employees within the organization. A company can have many supervisors, and managers can promote the employee to become a supervisor. On the other hand, the level of authority of a supervisor is generally low as compared to managers.
Supervisor Vs Manager - Similarities Between Them
The job role of a manager and a supervisor can differ, but the responsibilities that they carry out are almost the same. It is because the main objective of both (supervisor and manager) is to meet the company’s objectives.
Manager Vs Supervisor - With Comparison Chart
If you compare Manager Vs Supervisor or Supervisor Vs Manager, there are some key similarities and differences between the two. So, to make your efforts easy, we have discussed this in a comparison chart below.
Closing Thoughts
The above information represents Supervisor Vs Manager job responsibilities in detail, and you must be aware of the same if you are willing to hire any for your own company. Besides, you can also describe your doubts, if you have any, in the comment section below.
FAQ( Frequently Asked Questions)
How Are Supervisors and managers are similar?
Both the positions are supervisor and manager resemble the managerial position in the organization. Both are the sole embodiment of the strategic role in a company.
What is the difference between manager and supervisor?
Supervisory experience is internally focused while managerial experience is externally focussed.
What is the difference between Supervisor and an assistant manager?
The assistant manager does the hiring process and keeps you informed about it for the overall development in the organization. Work out the plans that can work well for you.
More Resources:
3 Steps to Hire the Perfect Employee
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5 Major Tips to Increase Employee Engagement in a Call Centre Industry
