Millennials in the workplace

Articles about millennials always peak my interest (mostly because I am one). I recently read this on Ragan.com and wanted to share this with you.

Most of the articles about my age group say that we are ungrateful, not loyal, quick to demand and quick to leave if our wishes aren't heard. This article doesn't attack, but points out the pros and cons of working with the younger generation. You can view it here.

My favorite part of the article? Where the author, Dave Fleet,  says that "Millennials should also be aware that there are two types of meetings to which they’ll be invited. In one type of meeting, they will be expected to remain quiet and learn. In the other, they will be expected to take an active part in the discussion. New employees should make sure that they know which type of meeting they are attending."

This struck me the most as I couldn't have said it better myself. Over the past 4 years in the professional workplace, I have learned to bit my tongue in certain situations and voice my opinions in others.

What hit home with you?

WKLH's Miracle Marathon Benefiting Children's Hospital

Hi Friends!

I'd like to take a minute to talk to you about a cause that's important to me- Dave & Carole's Miracle Marathon. The fundraiser benefits Children's Hospital and this is the 13th year that WKLH's Dave and Carole have held this event. To make a donation or to learn more about this cause, please visit the WKLH Miracle Marathon page here!

Listen to 96.5 WKLH on May 26-28 to hear stories from families who have had experiences at Children's Hospital. Call in to donate on May 27th-- I'll be answering the phone banks from 6-9:30am with some fellow QPS'ers. :)

58% of workers laid off in past year found new positions

According to a survey by CareerBuilder, 51% of full-time workers who were laid off in the past 12 months have found a new full-time position. Additionally, 7% found part-time work.

They survey also found that of those who found new jobs, 61% were able to get a comparable or higher salary than their previous job.

What has your experience been? If you were laid off in the past year, have you found a new job?

Let the Smoke-Free Countdown Begin!

If you live in Wisconsin, your workplace could soon be experiencing a major change.

Beginning July 5th, a new non-smoking law prohibits patrons from lighting up in bars, restaurants, private clubs or other workplaces.

Not all employees will enjoy a smoke-free atmosphere. Smoking will still be permitted on outdoor patios, private residences, tobacco retailers, tobacco bars and certain residence rooms in assisted living facilities.

Is your workplace soon going smoke-free? How do you feel about it?

What we can learn from this week's Glee episode

I am a huge fan of Fox’s Glee. On this week’s episode, a video of the scariest cheerleading coach around was put on YouTube by the Glee Club. Sue Sylvester had taped herself doing a musical rendition of Olivia Newton-John’s “Physical.” When the video reached a fever on the Internet, Sue was humiliated, and even acknowledged her feelings of embarrassment.

By now, you might be asking yourself what my love of song and dance has to do with this blog. Well readers, here is my point.

Social media makes it easier than ever to share our private lives with everyone (literally). While showing pictures of the new baby to your great aunt in Tallahassee or the watching the YouTube wedding video dance that captured America’s interest with friends is fun, always think before you post.

Employers often do Google searches on potential candidates and might be surprised to see what comes up when they type in your name. Once something is out on the Internet, there is no taking it back.

Be smart when it comes to your online presence. Not all of us will be lucky to have Olivia Newton-John come to the rescue like Sue Sylvester did.

To Ink or Not to Ink?

I have a confession to make.

Those who know me in a professional setting might be surprised to learn that I've always wanted to get a tattoo on my wrist.

You might be asking your me in your head, "So why not? You're an adult and you can do what you want." Well friends, three reasons.

1. I have a low pain tolerance.
2. I am fickle and ink is forever (maybe not for Johnny Depp's Winona Forever tat, but for me).
3. I am worried how people in the workplace would view me.

I know I am not alone in my ink interest. A recent Pew Research Center survey reported that 36% of  those 18-25 and 40% of 26-40 have at least one tattoo.

My advice: make sure you know your employer's policy on body art. Some employers are okay with it, others require that they be covered up. Check with your HR department before making any decisions.

As for me, I'll just have to keep watching episodes of LA Ink to get my fix.