Colin is a recent college graduate who is taking a year to work before attending Law School.
Colin is from a military family, so he has lived around the world, including nine years at Ramstein Air Force Base, Germany. He is a member of the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society.
Outside of work, Colin enjoys outdoor activities, maintaining his car, and spending time with his three-legged cat.
Megan is a graduate of Chippewa Valley Technical College with a degree in Digital Marketing.
Megan is from Wisconsin and now lives in Alexandria. She is a volunteer on the Board of Directors for Wisconsin Leadership Seminars. She is passionate about giving back to her community and hopes to inspire and empower others to do the same.
Outside of work, Megan enjoys reading, crafting, and spending time with her dogs.
How To Write a Job Description That Attracts the Most-Qualified Candidates
Are you dreading writing a job description for a recently vacated or newly created position in your organization? You’ll need to know how to write a job description that will end up attracting the most qualified candidates as effectively as possible.
When writing a good job description, blend the basic requirements of the position with some new and proven strategies for conveying that information to awaiting candidates.
In this article, we will help you streamline the job description writing process.
When you write a job description, begin with the key points that you want your job posting to accomplish, regardless of the nature of the position:
While attracting the right candidates begins with writing a good job description, these four tips will increase your chances of getting that description done right the first time.
In this step, you will gather the most vital information about the position. Set up a meeting with the department manager, requesting that he or she provide as much overarching information about the job as possible, as well as five or six day-to-day functions of the role.
Here, you have the chance to paint a vivid portrait of the position for prospective candidates.
To write an effective job description, how and where you place your requirements in the description is important. The candidates should know the requirements for a position early in the description, so they can either move on to the next posting or settle in to learn more about your organization and the job.
List necessary qualifications like the level of education completed, previous experience in the field, required certifications obtained and maintained, computer languages, data entry proficiency, writing and editing, and anything else crucial to performing the position and adding value to your business.
When writing a good job description, expand on the overview of daily functions you provided in the summary. You don’t want to end up attracting candidates who have no clear idea of what they’ll be doing.
For example, let candidates know whether their job is more teamwork-focused or if they will regularly work independently. Additionally, let job seekers know how their position works within the larger framework of their department and the organization. This context informs prospects of the value that your organization places on their responsibilities.
Finally, to write a good job description, consider how the structure informs readability. Just like you end up reviewing multiple resumes and applications, your potential candidates spend countless hours reading through job boards, social media posts and employment forums.
Putting the same volume of information into a tidy list is easier on the eyes for you and the candidates. Also, make sure to use keywords germane to the position and the prospective candidates’ possible qualifications.
For example, if you are a recruiter with an accounting firm and need a new accounting professional, season your job description with keywords such as “CPA”, “financial professional”, “certified public accountant” and “auditor”.
Need more tips and strategies on how to write a job description? Or would you like help with a particularly tricky job description in your queue? No matter what you need, we are experts at attracting candidates.
Writing a good job description shouldn’t be hard. Our recruiting team at Whitman Associates features nearly five decades of collective recruiting success to help streamline your process and connect you with well-suited candidates.
Take the next step by calling (202) 659-2111 or filling out our staffing request form.
When possible, yes. A range prevents confusion, sets expectations early and reduces the number of unqualified applications.
List the recurring tasks that shape most of the week. Candidates mainly want to understand how their time will be used.
A brief note is useful. It gives applicants a sense of where the role is heading without overwhelming them with future plans.
A temporary assignment can be a doorway to long-term career growth. Working as a temp for an agency means more than just filling a short-term role. Rather, it’s a chance to showcase your professionalism and value to future employers.
Here at Whitman Associates, Inc., we’ve seen many candidates in the D.C. metropolitan area turn temporary work into fulfilling, permanent careers.
The right mindset and a few professional tips for the workplace can make all the difference.
As the saying goes, you never get a second chance to make a first impression. When working as a temp for an agency, it’s best to treat the assignment as a continuous interview. Arrive on time, dress appropriately, and treat every task with care. Supervisors remember temp employees who know how to communicate and deliver quality work.
You don’t need to worry about being perfect. However, you should be dependable. Follow instructions, meet deadlines and maintain a well-organized workspace.
The more you can incorporate these professional tips for the workplace into your daily routine, the more likely your supervisors will see that you’re ready for greater responsibility.
When you’re working as a temp for an agency, communication is one of the most important elements to get right. If instructions are unclear, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Check in regularly with your supervisor to make sure you’re meeting expectations and that your work is in line with company goals.
For every project you receive, confirm the details either in person or via email. This shows you have initiative and prevents you from ever having to go through the dreaded “there must have been a miscommunication” talk.
With every communication opportunity, remember to be professional. Avoid using slang or discussing personal topics. The greater you are at exercising a high level of professionalism, the better your superiors will view your reliability and commitment to the organization.
Supervisors notice employees who contribute beyond their job description. While you’re working as a temp for an agency, keep an eye out for moments to offer help or suggest small improvements.
Offer to assist your colleague in organizing a filing system or volunteer for an extra task outside your regular to-do list. Taking initiative is one of the main qualities of a good employee.
Having a positive attitude about your work can open doors to future opportunities. One of the biggest benefits of working for a temp agency is that you get exposure to different workplaces. The more you make a lasting impression at these jobs, the more likely you’ll be considered when a permanent role becomes available.
With every placement comes a chance to learn new skills and meet new professionals. Staying adaptable when working as a temp for an agency can help you develop experience in numerous industries, such as marketing, admin or customer service.
This goes back to the tip above regarding approaching tasks with curiosity. Ask about different processes, observe workflows and take mental notes as you shadow employees.
Remember that one of the greatest benefits of working for a temp agency is variety. You can explore different work environments until you find one that you feel best fits your strengths and goals.
The professional relationships you build as a temp will ultimately influence your career for years. It’s one of the major benefits of temporary work.
One of the greatest pieces of advice we can give to an individual working as a temp for an agency is to be helpful, approachable and respectful with everyone. It shouldn’t matter if you’re talking to a department head or the staff at the front desk.
This isn’t a time to be passing out your business card. It’s a time to show that you’re a genuine person who is easy to work with.
The more you practice these professional tips for the workplace, the better the lasting impression you’ll leave beyond your current assignment.
Temp roles can vary. Some can last for months at a time, while others are just a few days. When working as a temp for an agency, stay positive during transitional periods. Doing so shows flexibility and emotional intelligence.
Switching from one role to the next can feel like a lot of pressure, though approaching it with a calm attitude shows you can handle it. No matter how brief your project is, never view it like a placeholder. Treat it as an opportunity to refine your skills and demonstrate how adaptable you can be.
Your mindset has a major influence on your reputation. The more you focus on growth and keep your energy up, the easier it’ll be for you to reap the benefits of working for a temp agency in the long run.
Many professionals begin working as temps for agencies before they ever receive full-time offers. Companies value employees who prove they know how to handle challenges, follow directions and fit in with their culture.
If you’ve approached your temp work with professionalism and shown initiative throughout the process, your next opportunity could be right in front of you.
Our team at Whitman Associates can help you find success as a temp employee and transition into a permanent position, just like we’ve helped countless others.
Whether you’re new to the workforce or looking for a change in your career, working as a temp for an agency can offer flexibility and growth in your professional development.
Here at Whitman Associates, we help temps gain the confidence, skills and experience they need to land permanent roles at respected organizations across D.C., Maryland and Virginia.
When you’re ready to take on a new temp role, email your resume to resumes@whitmanjobs.com or get in contact with us.
Most modern offices have relatively relaxed rules about how to dress for success. Even so, the term “business casual” can be confusing, especially for new hires or temps getting started in an unfamiliar workplace setting.
So, what is a business casual dress code, and how can you present yourself with a unique style and confidence without overstepping boundaries?
Most companies will have their own definition of what they believe to be a “business casual” look. In most of the offices throughout D.C., Maryland and Virginia with whom we work, it means professional attire that’s less formal than a suit but still neat, coordinated and upscale.
A good rule of thumb is that if you wouldn’t wear it to a client meeting, it’s probably too casual. Washington D.C. business casual, for example, would include well-fitted dress pants, collared shirts, blouses, knee-length skirts and close-toed shoes.
Each office may have slightly different expectations, so when you start a new job or assignment, check in with HR before day one.
Even before you determine what a business casual dress code is defined by your new place of work, it’s always a good idea to start with timeless basics that can be used out throughout the year. These are your capsule wardrobe essentials, but for the office.
For both men and women, here are a few things we suggest having in your arsenal:
It’s best to go with neutral colors, and always make sure your outfit is wrinkle-free. As for accessories, such as belts, watches and jewelry, keep it minimal, particularly when starting a new role.
While the answer depends on how formal the company is, there are a few reliable standards we’d recommend having in your closet as a man.
A pair of tailored chinos or slacks in navy, gray or khaki can work pretty well in any environment. As for shirts, go with button-downs or polos with solid, neutral colors or patterns. During the winter, you can add a comfortable, lightweight sweater or blazer.
For footwear, you can’t go wrong with a pair of leather shoes, loafers or dressy boots. Athletic sneakers and sandals rarely align with the business casual dress code for men, so keep those for the gym and the beach.
The vast majority of today’s office outfits for women are just as stylish as they are professional. Some appropriate options might include dresses or pencil skirts, tailored slacks or structured blouses. For tops, have a couple simple cardigans, blazers or sweaters that you can swap between.
To complete the look, it’s a good idea to have a few choices of closed-toe shoes, including modest heels and flats.
Whenever people ask us, “What is a business casual dress code?” we often say that a good approach is to get clothing that fits well and avoids extremes.
Stay away from loud patterns or revealing items. That doesn’t mean you need to feel confined to black, white and beige. Just make sure that if you choose to get creative with your wardrobe, keep your prints tasteful and your colors soft. Be yourself, but a more elevated version!
As a professional agency that works with many companies in the D.C. area, we know Washington D.C. business casual better than most. What you may not realize is how much of an impact regional weather can have.
In summer, you’ll see both men and women wearing linen and cotton fabrics. Though when our seasons start to change, you see the shift to wool and knits.
The industrial spread also has a significant influence on dress code etiquette. Washington D.C. is a blend of government, nonprofit and corporate workplaces. That means your place of work may be flexible, but there’s a good chance it’s more traditional. It never hurts to ask your HR person or recruiter for some guidance before you start, especially if you’re heading out for a temp-to-hire role.
No matter what industry you’re working in, the safest approach to a business casual dress code is to dress just a bit more formal than the most casually dressed person in the office.
As an ever-evolving term, especially with the lax culture of many startup firms, it’s easy to misinterpret what business casual is for men and women. To make sure you never show up in the wrong attire again, here are a few things that rarely meet business casual dress code standards:
When in doubt, look to management and follow their lead.
We get it. What one person might define as Washington D.C. business casual for a government office job will likely be vastly different from the San Diego business casual dress code for an entertainment app startup.
Even so, basic rules apply. Make smart decisions based on what you now know and use those who manage the company you work for as a reference.
Of course, a first impression goes well beyond dressing business casual. If you are looking for open temp roles across the D.C. metropolitan area, get in touch with us here at Whitman Associates, and let us help you make a first impression that lasts.
Why employers should use a staffing agency and the advantages it offers
It’s normal for any employer to wonder why they should use a staffing agency as part of a broader strategy for sourcing candidates. Hiring is an important responsibility for any organization, and the way you handle it as an employer shapes productivity and success in your business
Partnering with a staffing agency is not about replacing what internal teams do. It is about strengthening the process with added support, substantial resources and more accurate matches.
Here, we will explore why a company would hire using a staffing agency and also show how such a partnership increases efficiency and long-term success.
Why do companies hire through staffing agencies? The clearest reason as to why you should use a staffing agency is the ability to move quickly without cutting corners.
Staffing agencies keep active networks of candidates, and they are constantly receiving new applications. This robust pool of candidates is what allows staffing agencies to connect employers with qualified professionals almost immediately. Working with a staffing agency is attractive even for employers with strong HR teams.
Instead of beginning a search from scratch, managers receive resumes that have already been reviewed and that align with the role’s requirements. It saves time, but more importantly, it maintains continuity in operations.
Another reason why you should use a staffing agency is that their hiring team specializes in just that: hiring. They review resumes, meet candidates, and conduct testing full-time, as their business depends on it. They have the resources, experience and time to fully vet candidates. These vetting processes can include references, software testing and even background checks, if required.
On top of that, agencies offer the ability to temp a candidate or utilize temp-to-perm placements which add layers of assurance, trust and confidence that the candidate you hire will be the best fit for your organization.
Another reason as to why you would use a staffing agency is that it provides exclusive access to fully vetted talent. Many candidates in a staffing agency’s talent pool are not actively applying but would consider a new role if the right one came along. Staffing agencies have skilled candidates just waiting to start. This is why many companies do their hiring through staffing agencies.
A staffing agencies’ reach extends beyond traditional listings and they maintain these connections. For you as an employer, you get access to more choices, which often leads you to phenomenal employees that would have never been found otherwise.
For many organizations, having a broader reach in hiring is also a long-term strategy, which is why they use a staffing agency. Having a way to ensure that their candidate pool reflects both immediate availability and future potential helps them to avoid scrambling for employees and rushing hiring decisions.
While we are still talking about long-term strategies, we should mention that a positive hiring experience can help you attract the best talent in the market, which in turn helps your company grow while remaining competitive. Here is why.
Today, there are many popular review sites, like Trustpilot and Glassdoor. Just like employees post observations and share their experiences at their workplace, applicants can also visit these sites and share their experiences with a company, good or bad.
Staffing agencies help ensure that candidates have reasonable expectations and a positive experience. The recruiters keep in constant communication with the candidates, from giving them guidance to updates on their applications. This relationship makes applicants feel respected and supported. They are more likely to accept offers, start with enthusiasm and have a positive hiring experience with your company.
That means better talent, a better reputation and better employee retention in the future.
Businesses need to maintain smooth operations, whether their employees are able to be in the office or not. Teams often face issues like illness, an employee who goes on maternity leave, a sudden emergency or a seasonal spike in workload. Staffing agencies can quickly step in to bring highly qualified temporary staff to assist in these situations and keep your team working seamlessly, with no disruptions to workflow.
When your employees come back from leave or vacation, or when a surge in workloads subsides and temp assignments come to an end, there are a fair number of time-consuming loose ends to tie up. This is another reason why companies use a staffing agency. The staffing agency handles the final pay, paperwork and compliance for the temporary employees who were brought on, so your team doesn’t have to. Your team can stay focused on your business’ goals instead of worrying about offboarding.
Whitman Associates has been providing expert staffing services to organizations in Washington D.C., suburban Maryland and Northern Virginia since 1972. As a women-owned business with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, a nearly 5.0 rating on Google, with more than 230 reviews and recognition as one of the Three Best Rated staffing agencies since 2020, we are confident in our ability to offer talented candidates that fit your business’ needs.
We’ve achieved our success by first and foremost listening to our clients’ needs and understanding the demands of the industries in our region. If you’re in D.C., Maryland or Virginia and need a staffing partner with local knowledge and a trusted reputation, submit a Staffing Request Form today.
Chris Bilko is a communications professional who graduated with a journalism degree from the University of South Carolina. He has 14 years experience in writing, editing graphic design with a background in the hospitality industry.
In his free time, Chris enjoys playing golf, catching a game at Nats Park, collecting baseball cards, trying new restaurants and enduring Gamecock sports.
Chris is a native of Alpharetta, GA and currently resides in Alexandria.
Erin Gallalee is a non-profit professional with over twenty years of experience in membership growth and recruitment, professional development, chapter relations, financial and database integrity, and committee management.
She attended the University of Maryland, Global Campus, where she pursued degrees in English and History.
When not in the office, Erin enjoys traveling near and far, visiting museums and national parks, and performing with numerous companies within the regional theatre community. A DC-area native, she resides in northern VA.
Kennedy Johnson is a results-driven professional with a strong background in psychology and administrative management. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Bridgeport and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Industrial-Organizational Psychology at The Chicago School.
She is skilled in data analysis, interpersonal communication, and event coordination, and has a strong foundation in leadership from her time as President of her chapter through Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
When not working, Kennedy enjoys going on walks, reading, and spending time with her family and friends.
