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2013's Top 6 emerging workplace trends for your employment-seeking readers

New format and content for “reference list” is a game changer for job seekers

DETROIT (Jan. 8, 2013) -As the 2013 begins, many individuals have kicked off the year with the resolution to change or improve their employment status. It's not surprising; according to polls, one of the top 10 most popular New Year's resolutions is job-related.

As an employment writer, you know that job seekers are constantly searching for tips and guidance on the best ways to stand out in a competitive job market. The traditional methods used in job-hunting are changing, and the principals at Allison & Taylor have recently identified 6 new trends through discussions with over 1500 employers that your readers should know about.

1. References have become more valuable.

Though many people treat their reference list as an afterthought, it is of the utmost importance. A resume will get an interview, but it's the report former references provide that will win the job in a close race with another qualified candidate.

Although the job market is poised to grow, hiring managers generally have a surplus of eligible candidates and will take the time to carefully examine candidate's credentials. It has become critically important that a reference list is well thought out, with full contact information, and presented as a matching and professional addendum to a resume.

Read about the very important information that should be included for all contacts here.

2. The format of references have changed.

Whereas the standard approach was to offer a simple list of references and their contact information, savvy job seekers are now modernizing their reference lists to make a powerful statement of their qualifications for the new position.

An effective reference list will identify those attributes the references can attest to, an approach that offers several benefits to the job seeker. It allows them to further showcase their abilities and achievements with former employers, and to tie those qualifications in with the key job elements sought by prospective new employers. When offered to a potential employer - e.g., at the close of an interview - a well-crafted reference document will make a powerful and proactive statement on the job seeker's behalf.

See examples for several different reference lists here.

3. Employers will use peers & subordinates as references.

Many job seeks assume that an employer will only check with Human Resources or a former supervisor for reference purposes. It's a potentially disastrous assumption; especially in this challenging economy, employers feel they have the luxury of checking less-traditional references such as peers/co-workers.

This can work to a candidate's advantage if they strive for successful work relationships. Associates like a supportive second-level supervisor or a matrix manager(s) can be key advocates on a job seeker's behalf, and might be more supportive than traditional references like immediate supervisors. (Note: A prospective employer does not require permission to check any reference.)

Find out what information is critical that a reference to be able to provide about a candidate by clicking here.

4. Workplace bullying will continue to be an issue.

Despite negative press about bad bosses (or coworkers), bullies still abound and can adversely affect a job seeker's current or future employment. Workplace bullying tactics can range from the covert (behind-the-back sniping) to the blatant (public humiliation or physical abuse), but they are unquestionably harmful in all forms. Luckily, there is recourse if an employee is experiencing this issue at work.

Find out what to do about workplace bullying here.

5. Employers are using more social media and technology to evaluate candidates.

Many employers are utilizing electronic reference systems, which rank an employee's performance on a scale. While it is comprehensive and factual, it has the downside of limiting the opportunity employers have to favorably assess a candidate. Your readers need to know- a smart job seeker will have negotiated the terms of their reference upon departure from any company. They also need to review social media sites (Linked In, etc.) to ensure a prospective employer is not viewing any inappropriate or private commentary about them.

Read some tips about managing references in the social media age.

6. Accomplishments and real case scenarios will become fundamental interview tools.

For each job, candidates should keep a list of accomplishments and instances where their efforts helped avert a crisis or problem situation. These “real life scenarios” are commonly used in employment interviews and the ability to respond to them comprehensively and knowledgably is a critical tool that will help a job seeker excel in the interview process and snag the position.

A good employer tries to find the candidate who is best suited for any given position, and ideally the workplace should be a positive and productive one. Once hired, however, that's not always the case, and job seekers may encounter some unacceptable employment situations.

Find out what constitutes some unacceptable employment scenarios and what to do if they occur.

Your readers stand a better chance of improving their employment situation if they keep abreast of the latest workplace trends. To find out more about employment trends and their impact on the job market, please contact Allison & Taylor at 800- 890-5645 to schedule an appointment for an informative one-on-one interview.

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About AllisonTaylor:

AllisonTaylor and its principals have been in the business of checking references for corporations and individuals since 1984. AllisonTaylor is headquartered in Rochester, Mich. For further details on services and procedures please visit http://www.allisontaylor.com/.

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Media Contact:
Jeff Shane
Jeff@AllisonTaylor.com
800- 890-5645 toll-free USA/Canada
+1-248-672-4200 direct-dial
AllisonTaylor.com

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