RECRUITMENT GUIDE November 2023
Supplement to the
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November 2023
Keys to successfully applying for jobs: And what to expect next
A job application presents a great opportunity to make a strong first impression with a prospective employer. Job applications have changed as the utilization of technology has increased. Today the majority of employers advertise jobs online and conduct much of the initial search process through digital channels. According to Indeed, companies typically direct applicants to fill out a digital application through a specific website. Unlike a résumé, the job application is a legally defendable document. The information contained on it should be as thorough and accurate as possible. Some additional strategies can help applicants successfully apply for jobs. · Read over the application carefully. Understand what is expected of you as an applicant. Carefully read the instructions
November 2023 Journal Courier on the application and any other supporting documents or information the employer may be requesting. Applicants should not miss out on a job opportunity due to a failure to follow directions. · Recognize the use of ATS. Many employers utilize an applicant tracking system (ATS) to help whittle down the applicant pool to the best qualified. ATS may use keywords that coordinate with skills desired in applicants. Be sure to mirror keywords used in the job listing on your application to further your chances of the application being flagged for consideration. · Have your résumé at the ready. An application likely will ask you to fill out fields regarding your work history. Refer to your résumé to fill out this portion.
a professional front by using an email address that is clear and to the point, rather than something clever or controversial. Avoid email addresses like KissyFace123@email.com or ManCave456@email.com, opting instead for FirstName.LastName@ email.com. Do not give employers any reason to reject you based on perceptions from something as silly as a lighthearted email address. Some applications also have an optional tool that will auto-fill job information from an uploaded résumé. Therefore, it is handy to have an updated and proofread file available. · Use a professional email address. Employers are judging everything about you. Present
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a third-party application for you to upload a statement or answer predetermined questions. Make sure all technology is working for these next steps, and consult the hiring manager with any issues. Always dress and speak professionally when doing interviews of any type.
· Proofread everything. Be sure to look over your application and make sure that everything is spelled correctly and that your grammar is perfect.
If you are offered the job, the hiring manager may send further digital correspondence that will link to their onboarding system. This system will collect more information - possibly conducting a criminal background check - and ask that you fill out tax and payroll forms.
If the application makes it through, the employer may ask you to participate in either an in-person interview or an online interview. Some companies rely on
The job application process has changed in recent years due to an increased reliance on technology. Applicants should know what to expect to land their dream jobs.
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November 2023
Benefits to attract job candidates
Not unlike the sellers’ and buyers’ markets that set the tone in real estate, industry has its periods when the advantage shifts from employer to job seeker and vice versa. From quiet quitting to the great resignation, a number of phenomena permeated various industries in recent years. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that the job market grew by 107,756 jobs in
November 2023 Journal Courier recent years. That was a positive sign after years of uncertainty stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. There are plenty of optimists who believe this level of job growth can sustain throughout 2023. That’s good news as long as there are workers to fill the positions. Employers might discover that applicants are not so easy to find, as more openings means job seekers can be more selective about which jobs they apply to and ultimately accept. That means recruiters may need to focus directly on those things job seekers want most.
hybrid remote work with nary a blip on the operational radar. Advancements in technology have made it possible for workers from all over the globe to seamlessly function with one another without having to share the same physical space. While some corporations have been hold-outs, preferring to maintain a physical staff, others have learned that embracing remote work enables them to reduce overhead costs and attract applicants from all over - not just the immediate vicinity. Highlighting remote working opportunities can attract a greater number of applicants. ALTERNATE WORK SCHEDULE
REMOTE WORK The global pandemic helped seal the deal on how companies could pivot to full-time or
Flexibility in scheduling also can be a perk employers may want to highlight in their job listings.
According to LinkedIn, many companies are now focusing on adopting a more flexible work schedule that goes beyond the traditional 9 to 5. Allowing workers the freedom to choose their hours as long as the work is getting done can be a major draw for applicants. OPEN COMMUNICATION Employers who stand behind mottos to be open to employees’ needs and willing to communicate and negotiate could attract and retain quality staff. “Quiet quitting” emerged when workers took work-life balance into their own hands rather than going to employers with issues - perhaps fearing retaliation or less-thansupportive outcomes. According to Forbes, progressive employers can emphasize workplace
communication and help employees set healthy boundaries. CONTINUED EDUCATION Experts note that there is a growing shortage of professionals available, particularly in the trades. College education and white-collar work was once touted as the preferential next steps after high school. Technical and trade employers can put together benefits packages that include paying for a portion of the classes or certifications needed for key jobs in the trades opening up possibilities to a new demographic. Attracting qualified candidates in this employee-advantaged job market means catering to what applicants desire most in a job.
Production of Springfield Plastics tile and fittings is handled at the Auburn location. New and expanded areas that will be part of this growth plan include production, raw materials, management, quality control and assurance, and warehousing. Springfield Plastics, Inc. Expansion to Bring 65 New Jobs to Auburn After breaking ground in April 2023, Springfield Plastics’ 63,000-sq.-ft. building expansion in Auburn, Illinois, should be completed in early 2024. Along with the expansion, Springfield Plastics will be hiring for as many as 65 new full-time positions. “We are excited to begin this new era at Springfield Plastics,”said Steve Baker, President of Springfield Plastics.“Our board, executive team, and staff have been working tirelessly to put this plan in place and bring a disciplined approach to our growth plans.”
“Having the expanded manufacturing capabilities along with implementing even newer technologies will allow for significant growth in our production capacity,”said Doug Baker, Engineering Manager at Springfield Plastics.“Our new facilities and staff additions to operate them will fold seamlessly into our continued commitment to provide more product on time to our loyal and new customers.”
A history of success Springfield Plastics is celebrating 45 years in business in 2023 and has become a leading Midwest manufacturer of corrugated plastic drainage pipe. In 2000, the company became the only U.S. Tremendous growth in the agricultural industry, specifically within manufacturer certified as using only 100% virgin material. the tile drainage industry, has led to this new construction. “This company began with a few simple thoughts,”said Steve Baker.“A commitment to manufacturing the best product on the Over the past several years, Springfield Plastics has expanded market, delivering a high level of service to our customers, and to deliver its 100%-virgin-resin made product to a nine-state a steadfast dedication to our employees and the communities in area and added a second location in Humboldt, Iowa, to service customers farther to the north and west. The staff additions to ac- which we operate. Forty-five years later I can say with confidence commodate growth plans are expected to occur in sales, shipping, that these are still our guiding principles.” accounting, engineering, and manufacturing.
“Our customers have come to expect a high level of service from our committed front-line and support staff,”said Jennifer Furkin, Vice President of Springfield Plastics.“By adding depth to nearly every department, we will be able to provide that same service to more customers across a larger geographic area.”
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NOW HIRING Springfield Plastics is currently looking to fill several full-time positions. To learn more, see job openings, or apply for a job, visit spipipe.com/careers.
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November 2023 Journal Courier
Launch Your Career at Jacksonville Memorial Hospital After years of study and hard work, you’ve graduated from nursing school. Now what? “No matter how well prepared you are, the transition from classroom to bedside can be a little daunting,” said Carrie Carls, interim vice president and chief nursing officer at Jacksonville Memorial Hospital (JMH). “We’re proud to support new nurses with our Nurse Residency Program, which helps ease that transition and ensure they feel confident caring for patients.” The Nurse Residency Program is a yearlong learning and mentorship experience for all newly licensed registered nurses hired at Memorial Health locations, including Jacksonville Memorial Hospital. This evidence-based program helps nurses develop professional skills while honing specialty-specific clinical skills through the use of simulation and hands-on learning. All nurse residents are also connected with a mentor who can provide support, guidance and expertise throughout the first year and beyond. “Our nursing team at JMH is a close-knit community,” Carls said. “All of us are ready to help new nurses adjust to the hospital environment and work on the skills that will make them successful in their careers.” The JMH nursing team has been honored with Magnet® Designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center four successive timesan achievement met by only 2 percent of hospitals nationwide. “Our nursing team is one of our greatest strengths at JMH,” said Trevor Huffman, JMH president and CEO. “They’re dedicated to meeting the needs of our region while also maintaining a high standard of excellence in professional practice. This is something the community can be very proud of.” Jacksonville Memorial Hospital is currently hiring in a number of areas, including nursing, pharmacy, laboratory, imaging, therapy, support services and many more. Check out the full listing of jobs in the Jacksonville area at jobs.memorial.health. Educational assistance is available for multiple areas as well. Huffman—who began his own health care career as a physical therapist and athletic trainer at JMH—encourages anyone interested in working in health care to check out what’s available. “We have an array of open positions for people with a wide range of education and experience,” he said. “The best qualification you can bring is a passion for helping others and supporting the community.”
New Opportunities for Experienced Nurses All nurses hired at Memorial Health hospitals—whether they are new graduates or have years of experience—complete Nursing Team Onboarding, which provides the resources and information needed to start caring for patients. “We are always excited to bring experienced nurses onboard at Jacksonville Memorial Hospital,” Carls said. “There is a special perspective that comes from having years of expertise to draw on, whether you’ve worked in a hospital setting, a clinic, extended care facilities or elsewhere.” Memorial Health offers educational assistance and opportunities to nurses looking to further their careers with an additional degree, advanced training or certification. Some of this assistance is available to nurses from their first day of employment with Memorial. “Our nursing culture at JMH and Memorial emphasizes lifelong learning,” Carls said. “We’re pleased to be able to offer these opportunities to nurses at any stage of their careers.”
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November 2023
How to navigate salary inquiries during the interview process
Navigating a job search can be exciting. As professionals look to take the next, or even the first, step in their careers, they may encounter numerous opportunities that will allow them to make the most of their talents and fulfill their potential. The excitement of a job search is sometimes accompanied by nerves. Nervousness often fluctuates during the hiring process, and salary is one area that can cause some anxiety. As candidates progress through the interview process, salary can seem like the elephant in the room. No matter how great an opportunity may be, professionals still want to ensure their salaries are commensurate with their experience and reflective of their talent. In an ideal situation, hiring managers will discuss salary early
in the process. In fact, many job postings list salary range in the job description. However, that information may not be as readily available when professionals earn interviews through networking. That’s a significant distinction, as surveys have indicated that networking is how many experienced professionals find new jobs. In fact, a 2012 analysis of data from sources such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Glassdoor conducted by Interview Success Formula concluded that as many as 80 percent of job openings are never advertised. So it’s often not as simple as scouring a job listing to determine salary range.
Candidates should not interpret a failure to broach the topic of salary as a firm having something to hide. A lack of salary information in a job posting might be related to potential legal concerns. In an effort to
combat pay discrimination, a growing number of state and local governments now forbid employers from asking about candidates’ salary histories. The human resources experts at HR Dive note that 21 states in the United States have state-wide bans that prohibit employers from asking about salary histories. Those bans are not in place in Canada, but in 2019 Ontario became the first province to pass pay transparency legislation that mandated all publicly advertised job postings include a salary range. Various firms in the United States insist they are committed to transparency and will list salary ranges in job listings. But even those that do not list salary range in a listing may reference it during an initial interview. Candidates in the early stages of the hiring process can therefore benefit from being patient. If salary still hasn’t been brought
up after an initial interview or a second interview, candidates can request a range. An initial interview is not the appropriate time to do that, as it can make candidates appear overeager about salary. However, requesting a range after a first or second interview indicates to a firm that candidates are still interested in the position. And though it can spark some nervousness on the part of candidates, it’s entirely reasonable to request a salary range before committing any additional time to the interview process, especially since that process may require travel and time off from work. Salary can be the elephant in the room during a job interview. A patient and delicate approach to salary discussions can reflect positively on candidates and ensure they get the information they need to make the most informed career decision.
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Young workers and retirement savings
Young adults newly introduced to the professional arena may not immediately be thinking of the future when their careers will come to a close. Retirement may seem like a distant goal when it’s 50 years or more away. However, pushing off retirement savings because it is not viewed as a necessity could turn out to be a significant mistake.
rely on Social Security benefits to finance their retirements in the United States. Rather, young workers need to be proactive and take control of their own retirement savings.
· Experts advise following the general rule of saving 10 percent to 12 percent of your salary when you are in your 20s, including factoring in any employer match.
According to Mass Mutual, the economic disruption caused by the global pandemic pushed retirement to the bottom of many workers’ lists of financial priorities. That was especially so among young professionals. A 2019 survey found roughly half of millennial and Generation Z professionals believe they are not saving enough for retirement. Student loan burdens are another reason why certain people may delay saving for retirement until they are older.
the facts about retirement. For example, The U.S. Social Security Administration says that Social Security taxes that people now pay into the Social Security Trust funds that used to pay benefits to current beneficiaries, not future ones. The Board of Trustees estimates that, in 2041, and based on current law, the Trust Funds will be depleted since people are living longer and the birth rate is low. The taxes being paid now will not be enough to pay the full benefit amounts scheduled for future retirees.
Young workers need to get
Young people can no longer
· Working for companies that offer defined-contribution plans like a 401(k) or 403(b) can make it easier for young professionals to begin saving for retirement. · Setting aside a portion of your income early on in retirement savings ensures more years of savings and investments will benefit from decades of compounding. · Those who contribute to a retirement plan may receive an immediate tax break because the contributions come out of paychecks before taxes are withheld. Many of these plans also offer the advantage of tax-deferred growth. This translates to not being required to pay taxes each year on capital gains, dividends
or other yield distributions if the money is not withdrawn before age 591/2 . Speak with a financial advisor to learn more about taxadvantaged accounts.
· T. Rowe Price says there are certain benchmarks that can help people save enough money for retirement. By age 30, you should have .5 times the amount of your salary. At age 35, that amount should increase to 1.5 times your salary. These numbers are based on an assumed retirement age of 65 and with a household income growth of 5 percent until age 45 and 3 percent thereafter. · According to research from Qualtrics, young workers don’t plan on working until they can receive full benefits from Social Security. Twenty-four percent plan to retire early, and 41 percent want to do so by the time they turn 50. That could spark more ambition among younger generations to save for retirement and to save more aggressively. Even if retirement is many years in the future, young workers need to start saving for retirement early on to be able to retire comfortably.
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November 2023
Tips to make a résumé more ATS-friendly Job searches are often described as akin to looking for a needle in a haystack. That could be even more so in the digital age, an era when online job boards feature hundreds, if not thousands, of listings. Sifting through those listings can be timeconsuming and force job seekers to wonder if their résumé will even be seen. Conventional wisdom regarding résumés may no longer apply. A résumé can still be a useful asset, but job seekers must recognize the game has changed, specifically in regard to how résumé submissions are received and reviewed. Many companies now use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to sift through résumé submissions before they ever land in the inbox or on the desk of an actual human being. Because ATS is so popular, job seekers would be wise to embrace strategies to make their résumé more ATS-friendly to increase the chances the document
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finds its way to a hiring manager. · The right keywords can help get a résumé seen. Though a résumé was once viewed as a tool that allowed job seekers to illustrate how they were unique from other applicants, uniqueness on a résumé may now be a detriment. ATS serve as virtual gatekeepers that scan documents submitted for job openings. If those documents don’t feature certain keywords, they’re likely to be relegated to the virtual scrap heap. Professionals should research which keywords are likely to get their résumé past the first stage of the hiring process and include them in the body of the document. · There’s more to it than
keywords. Though the right keywords can ensure a résumé gets past the virtual gatekeepers, they’re not the only features of a good résumé. ATS are programmed to read résumés that are formatted in certain ways. The experts at Jobscan note that the most ATS-friendly résumé is one that is chronological. That’s something most job seekers are already familiar with, as professionals have long listed their professional experience in reverse chronological order. That approach still works, and Jobscan recommends including company name and location, job title, start and end dates, and achievements and responsibilities for each job listed in the work experience
· Avoid unique formats. Résumé data included in graphs, tables and columns might seem invaluable, but ATS software might make a mess of it. In addition, maintain a uniform font throughout the document. Sans serif fonts like Calibri and Helvetica won’t be difficult for ATS programs to read, increasing the likelihood that the document will ultimately be seen by a hiring manager. · Make the résumé mobilefriendly. A résumé that is easily opened and read on a mobile phone is likely to be just as easily read in an ATS program. Professionals can design their résumés and then open the documents on their phones. Documents that open quickly and easily are probably formatted in an ATS-friendly way, while those that don’t may need to be simplified and reformatted. In the age of digital jobseeking, professionals can take steps to make their résumés ATSfriendly to ensure the documents are ultimately seen.
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November 2023 Journal Courier 11
JACKSONVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT #117 CERTIFIED STAFF VACANCIES:
Pre-K Teacher at Early Years/Pre-K Center Elementary Special Education Teacher (3 positions)
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Special Education Teacher at Jacksonville Middle School (3 positions)
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Special Education Teacher at Jacksonville High School (4 positions)
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Teachers: $125 per day for first 19 days – then $150 per day LPN Paraprofessionals: $20 per hour Custodians: $15.50 per hour Secretaries: $14.00 per hour Nurses: $25.00 per hour
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100% paid employee medical insurance (medical/vision/$40k in life insurance) dental insurance available sick/personal/vacation time for 12 month staff sick/personal time for less than 12 month staff IMRF/TRS retirement Apply online at: www.applitrack.com/jsd117/onlineapp/