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Let’s face it: Adulting is hard. You have responsibilities, bills to pay, and people who depend on you. And meeting those obligations means one thing: You need a J-O-B. But a job should be about more than just making those monthly ends meet. It should also be about finding work that works for you. Above all, work should not just be about your livelihood. It should be about your life, the kind of life you deserve, the kind of life worth living.

Determine your goals and priorities

Work-life balance is a great concept, but the truth is it’s going to mean different things to different people. For some people, an ideal work-life balance is one where you get 8 hours in 5 days a week and then get to forget about work completely on nights and weekends.
For others, a work-life balance might not be determined by the clock at all. It might mean finding a career you love, one that inspires and excites you so much you don’t mind busting that 40-hour-per-week threshold, but at the same time allows you to pursue other interests and to enjoy downtime when you need and want it. After all, even the most dedicated professionals need regular mental health breaks, not to mention the opportunity to enjoy the things they love outside of the realm of work.
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So, the first thing you need to do is sit down and make a list of your goals and your priorities. Ask yourself what the ideal work/home balance means for you. Once you have a clearer vision of what your best and happiest tomorrow should look like, you can set about building the kind of career that will make that vision a reality.

Workin’ hard or hardly workin’?

As we’ve seen, your ideal job is going to very much depend on what your life goals and priorities are. But no matter how, exactly, you define work-life balance, some industries are celebrated both for the rewarding nature of the work and for the quality of life (and balance) their workers enjoy.
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The healthcare industry is an obvious choice. These jobs are always in demand and they pay well, meaning you’re not going to have to work around the clock just to earn enough to keep the lights on and a roof over your family’s head. Best of all, you get to earn a living making a real difference in people’s lives. Plus, there’s so much variety in the healthcare industry, you’re sure to find something that suits your particular interests and skills. That variety also means you get to choose how much time, money, and energy you want to invest in training and preparation, from an 18-month medical assisting program to a four-year nursing degree to postgraduate medical degrees.

Independence Day?

The healthcare industry is far from your only option if you’re looking for a great job and a fulfilling personal life outside of work. In fact, one of the best ways to find the balance you’re looking for may well be to strike out on your own.
Freelancing, independent contracting, and even starting your own small business can be the perfect way for creating the work-life you’re looking for. For example, the tech industry is terrific if you’re into computers and attracted by the thought of being your own boss because so many tech jobs, from software development to cybersecurity, are outsourced to independent contractors. And the work can be done from almost anywhere, whether in the comfort of your own home office or in-house with your clients.
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It’s not just tech, though, that can be an entrepreneur’s dream. The creative industries are also ideal for building a business that enables you to find harmony between your personal and professional life. Enjoy home decorating? Consider freelancing as an interior design consultant. Have a way with words? Why not contract as a content writer and editor?
Whether you’re based in tech or a creative field, it’s important to remember that starting your own business takes a significant amount of time and effort during the initial stages. A work-life balance will be hard to attain at first, especially if you start a small business like a brick-and-mortar store that requires staff other than yourself. However, once the business is on its feet and has correctly-trained staff and boundaries set in place, you’ll be able to delegate tasks accordingly, allowing you to back off slightly and focus on other aspects of the business which will ultimately help you reach the work-life balance you’re trying to attain.
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Making it happen

Your work isn’t done, though, once you’ve figured out what you need to live your best and most harmonious life. It’s just beginning because now you will need to start taking proactive steps to make that dream a reality. The first step will be to identify any training you may need or any gaps in your skillset that you’ll need to fill, whether through formal degree programs or online certification courses.
Next, you need to make your resume irresistible, and that means, above all, figuring out how your specific skill set aligns with the job you’re seeking. Now is not the time to hide your light. Instead, unabashedly sing your own praises. Show your prospective employer why they need you and be as precise and specific as possible. Let them see the value that only you can bring, not just in terms of previous work experience, but all outstanding career achievements.
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And remember that you need to do this even if you are freelancing or contracting. Presenting a top-of-the-line resume, along with a portfolio and a website highlighting your best work, is the perfect way to start building your client base.
Finally, once that’s done and you’re embarked on the career of your dreams, be careful not to lose sight of the vision that brought you to this place. Whether you’re an employee or an entrepreneur, don’t forget to prioritize your mental health. As you build your new career, don’t fall prey to the temptation to compromise the work-life balance you’ve fought so hard to achieve.

The takeaway

Achieving the ideal work-life balance can sometimes feel impossible in these chaotic times. But the benefits far outweigh the effort. The key is to figure out what you want, make a plan, and then put it into action.
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The post Choosing a job that will help you achieve balance appeared first on POST A RESUME HR Consultancy.

If you’ve discovered that you have a chronic illness, then you have many decisions to make. Not only do you have to think about your health and family, but you also need to figure out what you want to do with your job. The first question is, do you want to tell your employer about your condition?

While there are factors that can influence your decision, it ultimately comes down to you. There are pros and cons to consider, as well as a certain approach that will help you get the best results that suit both you and your employer. Consider these factors and tips before you make the big decision.

Considerations of whether or not to tell

You need to take some time to consider certain factors that will influence your decision to tell your employer about your illness. The first is the possible public perception that you will be subjected to in both scenarios. If you don’t tell and your illness affects your job so that you cannot complete your responsibilities or you appear lethargic, then it is possible that your management could consider you to be lazy or unmotivated. On the other hand, even if you do disclose your illness only to your boss or HR, there is the chance that the information may leak, and your coworkers may still see you in a different way, and they may feel pity for you or your situation.
With that said, if your illness is affecting your work ethic and you recognize it will be pronounced, then you should consider telling your employers. The biggest reason for this is because if you don’t tell them and you perform poorly, they can terminate your employment. If you had told them and they still let you go only for that reason, you could pursue legal action for unlawful termination. However, if you don’t disclose the illness and the employer couldn’t have known, then you may not have a case.
Keep in mind that if you do disclose your illness and you are met with prejudice from your employer or bullying from employees, you cannot just stand by. If this does happen, take your case to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. They can offer information about what employer actions are legal or illegal, and they can start an investigation into the charges.
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How to disclose your illness

If you have weighed the pros and cons and you are ready to disclose your illness, then you will want to do so properly. You don’t have to tell them every aspect of your health issues, but you should mention how it may impact your job and be honest about the facts. You may have to request particular accommodations. So, if your job has you standing all day, you might have to request a chair. Or, if you work as a machine worker, ask if there is an office position instead.
Also, think about your schedule. Are you able to continue on full-time or will you need to switch to part-time to retain the proper energy to do the job? If you know that you are going to come in late at the same time every week for chemotherapy treatments or something of that nature, then ask for that to be a part of your schedule moving forward.
Continue to follow up with your employer as time goes on. If you are notified of a last-minute medical appointment, call or email right away so management can adjust accordingly. Let them know if your condition changes and you are not able to complete even the modified tasks that you were provided. Although you do have your rights, your employer may still be making big changes to accommodate your needs, so show that same respect to them.
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Coping with a chronic illness while at work

If you decide to stay at work with a chronic illness, then you will want to take care of yourself so you don’t overdo it, get sicker, and completely eliminate your chances of working. Start by prioritizing your mental health by taking a break when you are feeling overworked and being honest with your employer if you don’t have it in you that day. You should also eat healthily, especially with foods that affect your mood in a positive way with Omega-3s and vitamin D. Avoid processed and fast food, which can negatively affect your mood.
It is also important that you know your boundaries. If you feel fine at first, but over time, you feel that you cannot complete certain work, then you need to speak up. In the end, your health is the most important thing so you need the energy to not only get through the day but to have a work-life balance so you can spend quality time at home. Know your limits and get enough sleep at night so you are rested enough during the day. Doctors recommend seven to nine hours a night or more.
If it gets to be too much, and you need a rest, then you may have to consider using the benefits of the Family Medical Leave Act. With FMLA, if you meet the requirements and work for a qualifying employer, you can take unpaid medical leave or even a personal day for a serious condition without the chance of losing your job for doing so. It is an option to consider when you just need a break so you can come back and do your job to the best of your ability.
Ultimately, the choice to discuss your chronic illness with your employer is up to you. However, if you are up-front right away, work can be an easier place to be without all the secrecy.

The post Chronic illness and work: should you discuss your condition with your employer? appeared first on POST A RESUME HR Consultancy.

Like any job interview, it is essential to think ahead when planning what you will say. While there’s no way to know exactly what the interviewer will ask you, it’s a good idea to get to know the priorities of the company and brainstorm questions that you might be asked. Make some notes on what your responses should be and how you can put your best foot forward.

Learn the remote meeting platform of choice for the interviewer

If you are given the choice to do the interview on either Skype or Zoom, for example, choose the one you are the most comfortable with. Most positions require a good sense of tech-savvy these days. You need to appear confident to handle the equipment and technology. So do a practice session or ‘mock interview’ with a friend if you can, before the actual event.
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Eliminate distractions

Be careful to keep your work area free of distractions the day of your scheduled interview. This includes both in your background that the camera picks up if you are doing a video interview.
There’s nothing worse than barking dogs, intrusive roommates, or crying babies when you are trying to convince someone on the other side of the camera that you can manage and handle your work environment at home. So check out your work area at least a day before the interview and make it look attractive, friendly, and free of distractions.

Know the company’s goals

Why is it important to understand the company that you are considering working for? Quite simply, it shows that you know what the company wants and that you are a great candidate to fit the requirements. Without a knowledge of the company’s goals or at least a basic understanding of its primary philosophy, it’s a waste of your time and theirs.
To resolve this, spend some time on their website. What is their primary service or product line? Try to get in the mind of the company CEO and consider what you can add to what they are already doing.  Knowing how to succeed your interview provides a great deal to get that job you want.
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Dress appropriately

One misnomer that many remote interviewees make is that there are entirely different standards between real-world interviews and online interviews. This is not the case. The standard of what to wear to a job interview rules are still the same. Just as you would in a face-to-face situation, you need to know what to wear for an online job interview. For most roles, you still need to look professional when working from your home office. Here are some remote interview attire tips:

• Don’t overdress. Sitting at home in a suit and tie is understandably not the norm right now. Consider a more work casual look.
• Don’t dress oddly. Your clothes, jewelry and other embellishments should exude professionalism. The interviewer should get a sense that despite being stuck at home, you know how to be office appropriate.
• Avoid looking or acting too casual. Even though you’re home, where on the job you’ll be wearing a t-shirt most of the time, you still want to present yourself appropriately. Make a good first impression and show that you take your work seriously.

Once you have an idea of what you will say and your workspace is free of distractions, and you are comfortable with the technology you’ll be sure to land that next great gig. These tips should make a big difference and increase your chances of finding your dream remote job!

The post 5 tips for a successful remote interview appeared first on POST A RESUME HR Consultancy.

A recent survey found that the remote workforce trend shows no signs of slowing down. The majority of respondents (62%) work remotely at least occasionally. They willingly choose to work from home and would like to do so more often —  83% replied that the ability to work remotely would make them happier.

If you agree with the majority of the respondents, you recognize that there are plenty of upsides to working from home. But there are also drawbacks. Maintaining a work-life balance may be the most challenging one. The current shelter in place restrictions due to the COVID-19 may make working from home the only alternative at this time, potentially taking away some of the joys of staying home since it’s now practically mandatory. Take a closer look at three of the biggest obstacles to maintaining a healthy work-life balance when you work from home and how you can tackle the issues.
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The blurred lines between home and work

Many employees and freelancers see working from home as a great opportunity to have more free time for yourself and your family. But the opposite is usually the case. Your employer still expects you to deliver your work at the same pace as you would at the office. But your family may not understand why you’re home and “always working”.
Kids especially may require more of your attention simply because you’re not giving them any. How will you manage to get several hours’ worth of work done while managing your household and attending to your kid’s needs? When the lines blur between your work and home life, neither get your undivided attention.
The solution is to set clear boundaries in every sense of the word. Set up a home office where you can close the door to avoid interruptions and work. Or work from a coffee shop or coworking space. If your kids are home, arrange for childcare during your working hours.
You may need to discipline yourself to avoid the temptation of taking a TV break or doing some laundry or you’ll never get your work done. Set a work schedule with specific hours, just as you would in the office, and stick to it. Otherwise, you may find yourself working in spurts over longer hours at home, feeling like you’re always working, just as your kids said.

Lack of boundaries with the office

Another issue you may face comes from your company’s managerial expectations. Your supervisors or team may text, call, or email you at all hours because “you’re working at home”. The problem with this incorrect assumption is that you can be reached anytime.
Just because you’re working remotely doesn’t mean you’re on standby to work whenever someone calls or messages. And being responsive only encourages the behavior to reach out with problems while you’re making dinner, walking your dog, working on other projects, etc.
Smartphones and technology are a wonderful tool, but they make it all too easy for others to expect we’re “on” at all hours of the day and night. To prevent this situation, you’ll need to clearly designate your working hours and off-hours — and communicate this to your network. Once you set when you are working and available and when you’re not, you’ll need to reinforce it. Set an email autoresponder that replies that you will respond the next business day during work hours. Or set your phone to “do not disturb” during after-hours with a voice mail message explaining you are away from your desk and to please try again from nine a.m. and six p.m. Mondays to Friday, for example.
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Handling bookkeeping and other tasks when you’re autonomous

It’s all too easy to let your bookkeeping, invoicing, or project hours tracking slide when no one is there to remind you. It’s one of the first errors new remote workers make when they start working from home — and it’s an expensive one. Failure to properly keep records or track your time can lead to you missing billable work hours, or forgetting to file your self-employment taxes, which can cost you fines and late fees.
Most people perceive that the remote worker has it made — they get to work from home in their pajamas or at a fancy beach resort while they’re vacationing. Nothing could be further from the truth. Work is work wherever you do it from. And quite often, the remote worker’s workload is bigger than it would be when working in an office environment with support staff.
Remote workers can save time on the ongoing administrative tasks by automating them. Use accounting software that handles your billing and taxes for you. Make your invoicing process more efficient by taking advantage of templates for invoicing. Install productivity and time tracking software to keep on top of the work hours you put into your projects so you can bill accordingly. Insurance is complicated when you’re a remote worker — work with an insurance broker experienced with remote and freelance workers who can handle your business and health insurance needs.
The flexibility of working remotely can definitely be more satisfying, but you’ll need to set up a system that defines and separates your work hours from your personal life hours. The sooner you set clear boundaries and discipline yourself to follow them, the more likely you’ll benefit from working away from the office. As for the current shelter in place conditions due to the coronavirus, remember to take some time for yourself and your loved ones during these challenging and uncertain times.

The post How to maintain your work-life balance when you work from home appeared first on POST A RESUME HR Consultancy.