| December 2008 1996 Economy “I have some good news and some not-so-good news. Let's get the not-so-good news out of the way first. Times are tough, really hard. The National economy is sputtering and Orange County has not seen times this tough in years. But on to the good news! Out of these tough times come truly outstanding opportunities. One such opportunity is the chance to avail yourself of top flight executive talent." It's amazing that just 12 years ago we were in the same situation as now. I remember graduating from college in 1992 (Ok that is more like 16 years and now I can't believe I've been working here for that long). All of my peers took jobs working for minimum wage. I ended up working for Dave (my Dad) because I figured earning a commission was better than working for minimum wage (I was right!) . So, looking back at 1996 and our company history, I now know even with our current “sputtering economy” we will pull through and be okay. To quote the old man (that's my Dad) , “Just keep your nose to the grindstone and stay focused on our client's needs.” Maybe we all need to take a look back and realize that the economy cycles and this is all part of its cycle – this too shall pass. And on a really happy note – Merry Christmas and may you all have a prosperous New Year! Welcome 2009!!! -H November 2008 What Happened to Thanksgiving?
September/ October 2008
March/ April 2008 From the Bull Pen With the slowing market these days, there is much talk and fear about possible layoffs. When you see department “consolidations” and “reorganizing” going on all around you, chances are you or some of your coworkers might be let go. Here are some ways to survive if you suffer a layoff.
December 2007 From the Bull Pen December Around the World Hanukkah: Hanukkah is a Jewish celebration commemorating the military victory of the Maccabees over the Syrians. Hanukkah also commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in 164 BCE. In 2007, Hanukkah began at sundown on December 4th.
October 2007 From the Bull Pen
A discussion in the lunch room this week sparked everyone’s interest: adapting to our changing environment. TAG has enjoyed a successful year and we remain busy but with the newspapers shouting about the sky falling on the industry and recession being imminent, it makes you wonder. The key is to adapt. The dictionary says adapting means to make fit by modifying – to adjust or reconcile. We must all adjust to the slowing housing trend and reconcile that it is time to modify expectations. The successful companies have adapted without comprising their integrity. Positions will be harder to find and won’t pay the high salaries or perks of recent years. With the industry cool down, companies are able to tighten up on requirements and expect stellar performance as a norm.
August 2007 From the Bull Pen No fudging I keep reading that resume fraud has become a big problem and now several national surveys demonstrate that this is true. Growing up back in New Jersey, my Mom used to talk about “fudging” things, that is changing and/or expanding on information. The general consensus in her generation was everyone does it a little – and that was ok. Nowadays it seems everyone does it a lot—and it is absolutely not ok. I wonder if this isn’t a failure of the checks and balances that should be in place when you are reading a resume and anticipating a hire? HR and /or hiring authorities should be doing thorough background checks. They should also check references, previous jobs and schools to make sure that the candidate did indeed achieve all he/she says. No “fudging” allowed!
May 2006 From the Bull Pen Team Building with Clients Sure to come up in meetings is the familiar topic: communication. Whether it's missing, or there is way too much of it, it will push everyone's buttons. Why do we have such a hard time communicating with each other? Over the course of the last few months a long time client with whom we felt we had a great relationship, just stopped talking with us. Immediately the thought was, what did we do? Turns out, when things were finally sorted out, the client's perception was totally different from ours. Since we had such a long-term business relationship and the client was going through a very busy time, he thought our calls were just “We're here if you need us.”, and he did not respond. Maybe that is the key, what we perceive or believe we are hearing isn't always what the sender believes he is communicating. In resolving communication issues, it is always best to “take the high road”. Be ethical and true to your value system. Watch what you say and how you say it; keep anger out of your voice; and importantly, don't assume that people understand what you are trying to communicate. Ask them to paraphrase what you've communicated. Often you are in for a big surprise. Return calls or e-mails even if it is just “I'm really busy – let's talk later.” This leaves the door open.
March 2006 Be kind unto others……. Scott has worked here now for over five years finally we got him to write a column …………….. It was a typical Saturday Morning, my soon to be 3 year old son and I were at the local bagel store picking up breakfast. I started to place our order and at the same time I reached for my wallet and realized that it was not there. I did the normal pat down of all of my other pockets. I had my keys and my Palm Treo (at least I was ready to work) but no wallet. I told the lady at the counter that I would be right back as I forgot my wallet. Just then, “John” in line next to me flipped over a $20 bill and said, “It's on me.” I thanked him and explained to him that I lived real close and could come right back to get our breakfast and that it was not necessary. He said that this has happened to him more times than he cared to admit and hated that drive back home each time. He insisted that he pay for breakfast and would not take “no” for an answer. He then sat down and ate his breakfast with his wife and told me that “We'll see each other around sometime.” In this day and age, who is that nice? Sure, we might stop and let some in line in front of us in traffic on the freeway or let them get in line in front of us at the store. John was not trying to ‘flash his cash' to make himself look good, he was genuine in his offer. By this time, you are probably asking what's the point here Scott? The point is, John wanted to do something nice for someone and it made a difference. John's kind gesture set the tone for a great weekend and so far a great week after. I have tried to be as courteous and kind as John this whole week and it has made a difference. Kindness and courtesy does not have to be in the form of gifts of money, just be genuine to the people you meet and work with on a daily basis. If everyone out there just did one good deed that was from the heart, our world would be a much better place. As for John, if you happen to be reading this, thank you again for proving to me that there are great people out there who still do good things. — Scott McLeod
December 2005 All those years making resolutions at the New Year. All those well intentioned promises. Did you ever keep your resolution? Well we typically didn’t! So instead of stressing out we decided that things may not change—my diet may not start, my organization skills may not improve and becoming the better communicator—well as Dave said ba humbug! So in the spirit of making a resolution —— We all resolved to stop making resolutions we never keep anyway! Happy New Year! November 2005 Thanksgiving Trivia Thanksgiving holiday is descended from Puritan day of fasting and festive rejoicing. The 1621 "First Thanksgiving" idea was invented in Victorian times. According to several web sites, we found the actual first Thanksgiving occurred in 1623, and most likely at the end of July with a church service but no feast. In 1921, The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) undertook “Americanizing” new immigrants and published a guide “DAR Manual for Citizenship". This book of “needs to know” included The Pilgrims and the Thanksgiving story which helped to cement the Thanksgiving celebration of today. To date, more than 10 million manuals have been distributed.
August 2005 Travel Tips We caved in. After swearing not to buy a DVD player for the car, we did just that! We needed a way to get to Northern CA with minimal complaints from our two year old. His addiction to Dora the Explorer sparked our purchase. So, in researching DVD players and travel with kids, I stumbled upon a few tips for travel:
-H. Feburary 2005
May 2002 - This Day in Age Times have changed. I remember when we use to have a lot of people waiting in our reception area to interview with a recruiter. Everyone arrived in “business clothes” with resumes in hand. Now most interviews are over the phone or by e-mail as the pace of life has speeded up. Face-to-face meetings allowed evaluation not only of core skills but ability to think on your feet and a candidate’s capacity for interacting with people. For instance, if you are rude to our receptionist it means you’ll probably be rude to the people in a new work environment. We are now a technological world so the big questions are asked via telephone or e-mail. This kind of interaction becomes equally important because this is the way the world works today. Consequently, we must also use other means to evaluate such as psychological testing, extensive reference and background checks for each and all making the “cut”. There are few companies who don’t use these tools. However, we like to think we are set apart because TAG’s policy still is to meet our client firms at their offices and bring candidates into our offices to get to know them the old fashioned way. March 2002 - Networking Networking has been described as gossiping, business style. Maybe that’s harsh but networking is about exchanging information that ultimately benefits both parties. Whether you are looking for new clients, a new job, or a contractor to add a room, networking can be your best tool to that end. Networking can be as basic as a phone call or as complicated as a large “connectivity” event. First and foremost, prepare. Hone your people skills, the," How are you?”, and “What do you do”? questions. If you are not good at small talk in big groups, develop one or two stories before attending. These should be anecdotal topics about sports, a newspaper article or the last near miss on the freeway—trivial small talk to help put you and your contact at ease. If you are attending a convention or even just a small schmoozing event, learn about the people you are going to meet before you get there. Introduce yourself first and ask the other person what they do. Arrive on time, bring your business cards, remember names, return promised calls and never, ever sell. These gatherings are about building social relationships to mutual benefit. So, bring your best manners, relax and enjoy. Good Luck! January 2002 - The counter offer In these times, a counter offer sounds like a pipe dream. But those with “in demand” skills may receive just that when announcing a move to another employer. First, look at your initial reasons for wanting to make a change. They probably won’t change even if you take the counter. The money may improve but other issues will remain. If you do decide to stay, you may be viewed as disloyal and the company could pass you over for promotions. Further, they may begin a search for your replacement and terminate your employment at their convenience. Lastly, while we see it done, never accept an offer then rescind to take a counter. It is unethical - plain and simple. October 2002 - Ethics Anyone? Many of you have visited TAG during the lunch hour and found us gathered around our kitchen table. Our “family” gatherings always produce lively conversations about important stuff like baseball, last night’s TV show and weekend plans. Amazingly we also resolve business issues and brainstorm our way through recruiting challenges. Frequently the drift turns to ethical issues. We hear terms like ethics implosion, moral vacuum and lack of values on a regular basis. One article stated that cheating in the 90s was so rampant it became the norm. In fact, some CEOs saw it as clever because the result was that the company met its numbers. Results become most important and achieving them – whatever the method – is what is rewarded. We have an ethical code and follow it. Producing the numbers – for us that means finding the people our client wants – will never be put before ethical business and personal practices. You have our promise and commitment. Recommended site: Makkula Center for Applied Ethics at Santa Clara University www.scu.edu/ethics. AUGUST 2002- 15 Minutes of Fame! We all like to be recognized for good work. Recognizing good work and complimenting that success is a good way to insure that it will be repeated. Best yet is to compliment or recognize the achievement in front of others, fellow employees and execs alike. Criticism may help to correct a mistake but recognition of accomplishment will go further to having a success repeated. So give your employees, spouse, kids or friends their 15 minutes of fame and recognition. Tell them when you like their work and make sure you do it in front of everyone. JULY 2002- Habitat for Humanity Fundraiser! The Ankenbrandt Group (TAG) would like to extend its thanks to Habitat for Humanity and Thomas P. Cox Architects, Inc. for asking us to participate in this years Habitat for Humanity Golf Tournament in Dove Canyon. TAG was represented by our Real Estate Recruiting Team, Shannon Leonard and I who had the daunting task of spending a beautiful Monday morning on the Dove Canyon golf course. We had hoped that someone would have won TAG's $10,000 cash shoot-out but unfortunately we'll have to try it again next year. So, all you chip shot specialists need to keep on practicing from 30' and 50' out! Our firm is proud to be a part of such a great event and would like to thank all those who participated in raising over $40,000 for Habitat! Ok, now get back to work. APRIL 2002- Hiring 101, How We Hire
FEBRUARY 2002- Behind the Scenes Scoop We wanted to give you an idea of our day. The recruiting business is not just a few phone calls and the occasional “power lunch” with the quick slam dunk of a deal and a large payout. (Wow that sounds good! Where do I sign up?) Recruiting is hundreds of calls or sometimes a few, very targeted, calls found through research, networking, understanding the industry you’re in and being personable enough on the phone to get people to call back. It’s integrity, tenacity and the sure will of recruiting the people our clients want that makes us successful. The firm’s day begins around 7:30 a.m. when the “early birds” show up and finishes around 6:30 p.m. after watching the sunset out the back of the building. It’s pretty amazing most nights! Our research team helps us target potential clients, growing industries, find new candidates and helps us keep our eye on the ball. The recruiters match the people to the jobs; much like making a marriage. Matching the people to the jobs is an art form. People are not just credentials and degrees. They have all sorts of other stuff that makes them tick. Most job offers are turned down for gut feelings, a spouse, or just location – home and office. It’s all about instinct and getting to know what makes people tick. NOVEMBER 2001- Successfully working with us:
July 2001- Problem solving
From an article by Scott O’Grady, U.S. Air Force FEBRUARY 2001- HIRING DO'S Do make the job requirements reasonable. Hire for ability -- People can learn. Why let all the work pile up? Do allow the hiring manager to be the front line of communication. The recruiter and the candidate should talk to the hiring manager right off the bat. Do give your recruiter feedback immediately. You’d want important information given to you quickly, right? Do disclose important information about the job. Inform them about their staff, product lines, different divisions, the company’s future etc. Help the candidate understand the bones of the job. Do value the candidate. Even if you don’t like a candidate treat him with respect – you don’t know who he knows. Represent your company well. Do consider the market. Don’t ask for "Tiffany" candidates when you’re paying "Kmart" salaries. OCTOBER 2000- Who's interviewing who? Many of our clients are confused about who is interviewing who. Guess what? In this market the candidates are interviewing you. Some of our clients are shocked when they want a candidate and the candidate doesn't want them. They are surprised to realize that THEY (the client) fumbled in the interview. So, the message is - it is a two way street. Companies know they are interviewing candidates but you need to realize candidates are interviewing YOU too. Sell your opportunity and remember that everything you do and say represents the job opportunity and your company. Trivia – In the Spirit of the "Haunted" Holiday Halloween spread throughout Europe in the 17th Century. It began with "All Hallows Eve." Trick or Treat originated in Britain where it was known as Mischief Night. The tradition of witches riding their brooms originated from the broomstick as the symbol of the magical powers of women since it was employed in the cleansing of ritual places. A pumpkin is really a squash – a member of the Cucurbita family. The Irish and English brought the tradition of carving turnips and potatoes with them to America – however they discovered that pumpkins were easier to carve. FEBRUARY 2000 The TAG team’s favorite love songs Love Me Tender – Elvis Valentines Day may have derived from the ancient Roman feast Lupercalia which was celebrated on February 15th. The festival was in honor of Lupercus, the god who kept the fierce wolves away from the city of Rome. As part of the festival, young women put their name in a jar and the names were drawn by the young men. The men chose his sweet heart for the year during the celebration. Legends say that the holiday became Valentine’s Day after the priest Valentine was beheaded by Claudius II on February 14th for disobeying his order and marrying Roman soldiers to young women. Valentine was named a saint and the spring holiday was moved from the Roman date of the 15th to the 14th. Thus we have what we know as Valentine’s Day.
CHRISTMAS 1998 ALL ABOUT CHRISTMAS
NOVEMBER 1998 Caveat Emptor! – 1999 Interview Etiquette
AUGUST 1998 What’s in a handshake? A wet noodle or an iron grip? Is there a happy medium for a good handshake; YES! When shaking hands, you are portraying your self-confidence, friendship, power, status and self-worth. Your handshake says a lot about you. Make it firm, but, don’t squeeze the life out the hand you’re shaking. A good handshake bridges the gap between you and the other person. It should be a warm greeting, not a power play or an intimidation factor. Next time you shake someone’s hand, take note of these things:
Remember, shaking hands is a salutation. Treat it as such. MAY 1998 Courtesy. It rarely costs a cent, but can help you make thousands. W.H. Butterfield is an author of hundreds of articles and books and a conductor of more than 1,500 seminars on how to build business and good public relations. I recently read an article where he was talking about various ways common courtesy can be used to build business. Take a look at this simple acronym: Courtesy. It rarely costs a cent, but can help you make thousands. W.H. Butterfield is an author of hundreds of articles and books and a conductor of more than 1,500 seminars on how to build business and good public relations. I recently read an article where he was talking about various ways common courtesy can be used to build business. Take a look at this simple acronym:
Remember, it only takes a second to say thank you, please, or give someone a smile. Take the time and you’ll find rewards. CHRISTMAS 1997 Season’s Greetings from around the world Brazilian - Boas Festas e Feliz Ano Novo Danish - Gladedelig Jul Filipino - Maligayang Pasko At Manigong Bagong Taon French - Joyeux Noel Hawaiian - Mele Kalikimaka Hebrew - Mo’adim Lesimkha Chena tova Icelandic - Gledileg Jol Navajo - Merry Keshmish Rumanian - Sarbatori vesele Scots Gaelic - Nollaig chridheil huibh Turkish - Noeliniz Ve Yeni Yiliniz Kutlu Olsun Welsh - nadolig Llawen Holiday Trivia - Did you know?
JULY 1997 Move it! The recession is over, unemployment is at a low, and candidates are being hired quickly. They’re getting 10-20% increases in salary and multiple offers to choose from! TAG recently had a client lose an outstanding candidate due to their lack of movement. In this market your M.O. should be to work very closely with your recruiter, interview within the first week of your search, and make a decision ASAP. Don’t skimp on salary. Don’t try to woo them over with the fantastic benefits package. Just make a good solid offer at market value and consider the value they bring to you. Today most candidates will get a second job offer. If yours is too low or comes too late you’re out of luck. It’s now a candidate market - not a company market. So… Move It! How to make a job offer that’s accepted. Be detailed and sell the positives - what’s in it for them. Offer:
Be open to negotiating salary. Don’t make the offer so low that they have to say no. Commitment to TAG
Summer refresher course For the interviewer:
APRIL 1997 Interview Etiquette For the interviewee:
For the interviewer:
Success = quality/excellent service (follow through and follow up), loyalty to the people who have done a good job for you. CHRISTMAS 1996 New Year’s Resolutions: A great idea but do you make them? Do you follow them? There was an interesting article is this week’s O.C. Register that got us thinking. What resolutions should we make? Our management came up with these:
Let us know what your company resolutions are. Have you followed them in the past? Which was the most successful? We’ll publish the best in the next Tid Bits. Christmas Trivia Did you know our Christmas customs have less to do with religion than with the midwinter pagan celebrations of centuries ago? The winter solstice (about the time of month of our Christmas) was celebrated with parties that included decorating homes with greenery and gift giving. Life was harsh in those times and the festivals held in the depth of winter were reminders of the rebirth to come in the Spring. Even in those hard times, presents and food were given to children and the impoverished |