For Job Seekers

Questions To Ask in an Informational Interview

WAI Staff
Two women coworkers meeting at a small conference table by an office window

Have you ever found yourself wondering how to break into a new industry or where you can gain insights into a particular career path? Informational interviews can allow you to ask questions about a company, career or field before you formally apply. These meetings can unlock valuable knowledge, expand your professional network and accelerate your career growth. 

Here’s everything you need to know about what informational interviews are, why you should request one, how to ask for an informational interview and questions to ask during an informational interview. Let’s get one step closer to conducting these invaluable conversations.

What Is the Purpose of an Informational Interview?

Before we can get to the questions to ask in an informational interview, it’s helpful to understand their purpose. An informational interview is a one-on-one conversation between you and someone working in an industry, role or organization you’re interested in. The purpose of this informal meeting is to gather information, advice and insights from someone with firsthand experience. Informational interviews are not job interviews, so you won’t be asking questions about specific job openings or asking for a job directly. Instead, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the industry and career that you are interested in, learn about potential career paths and build relationships that could lead to future opportunities. The questions to ask in an informational interview should be relevant to your own goals.

So, what is the purpose of an informational interview? Here are a few of the great benefits of requesting an informational interview:

Expand Your Network

Establishing connections with professionals in your desired field can open doors to potential job opportunities, mentorships or referrals. Just practicing how to ask for an informational interview builds valuable networking skills.

Gain Insider Information

Informational interviews offer an opportunity to ask key questions and learn about the ins and outs of a particular role or industry from someone who’s “been there, done that.”

Improve Your Interview Skills

These conversations and understanding the questions to ask during an informational interview can help you practice communicating effectively and confidently as a job seeker, which will prove useful during actual job interviews.

How To Set Up an Informational Interview

Now that we’ve covered what the purpose of an informational interview is, you should start thinking about how to ask for an informational interview. Reaching out to professionals to ask for an informational interview can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. 

Think of it this way — a growth-oriented company is always looking for new talent and wants job seekers to show interest. If you find someone who loves what they do, they will probably also love talking about it and relish the chance to answer your questions. 

LinkedIn, for example, is a career-focused networking space where questions to ask in an informational interview about a person’s role or industry are incredibly common. Many professionals who are active on LinkedIn already understand what the purpose of an informational interview is, and are happy to add to their network.

Here are some tips on how to ask for an informational interview.

Research

Start by identifying professionals in your desired field, role or organization. LinkedIn is an excellent resource for this — you can search for people by job title, industry or company, and even filter by location or shared connections. Pro tip: consider the questions to ask during an informational interview and research roles that are most likely to have the answers you seek.

Connect

Once you’ve found potential informational interviewees, send them a connection request or message with your question. Be sure to personalize your request by mentioning shared connections or interests and explaining why you’re reaching out so they know what the purpose of the informational interview is.

Be Specific

Clearly state that you’re looking to conduct an informational interview and provide context about your career goals or interests. Let them know you value their time and are only seeking 20–30 minutes of their expertise. In this initial outreach, you can pose one question from your list to ask in an informational interview, but keep it brief and respectful.

Be Flexible

The best method of how to ask for an informational interview is to be flexible. Offer a range of dates and times when you request an informational interview, and be willing to accommodate the interviewee’s schedule. Be open to conducting the interview in person, over the phone or via video call.

Hi Samantha!

I’m a communications student at Georgetown. I’m interested in event management after I graduate, and I’d love to hear more about your experience working with DC Event Planners. Do you have 20 minutes for a quick meet-up or phone call? 

Some people will respectfully decline, but you may be surprised by how many people say yes.

Questions To Ask in an Informational Interview

Now that you’ve successfully secured an informational interview, it’s time to prepare a list of thoughtful questions to ask during an informational interview. How to ask for an informational interview is only half the battle. Here are some suggestions to get you started that capture what the purpose of an informational interview is. 

Questions to ask to better understand the role:

  • Can you describe a typical day in your role?
  • What do you enjoy most about your job, and what are the biggest challenges?
  • What skills or qualifications are most important for success in this role or industry?
  • Can you recommend any resources (books, websites, professional associations) for someone looking to learn more about this field?

Questions to ask in an informational interview about potential opportunities:

  • How did you get started in this industry, and what steps did you take to reach your current position? 
  • What career advice do you have for someone looking to break into this industry or transition into a similar role? 
  • Are there any upcoming networking events or industry conferences you’d recommend attending? 
  • Can you suggest other professionals I should speak with to gain further insights into this field?

Following Up and Thanking the Interviewer

Once you’ve completed your call or meeting and asked all the questions you wanted to ask during the informational interview, it’s time to follow up. The follow-up is a crucial step in the informational interview process, as it helps solidify the relationship you’ve built with the interviewee and demonstrates your gratitude for their time and insights. They may even set you up with someone else to connect with, making the process of how to ask for an informational interview easier in the future and ensuring you benefit from what the purpose of an informational interview is.

Send a Thank-You Note

Within 24 hours of the interview, send a personalized thank-you email or handwritten note to the interviewee. Express your appreciation for their time answering the list of questions you asked in the informational interview, reiterate what you found most valuable from the conversation and mention any next steps you plan to take based on their advice.

Connect on LinkedIn

If you haven’t already, add your informational interviewee on LinkedIn with a personalized connection request. This will help you stay in touch and keep up to date with their professional journey.

Share Updates

As you make progress in your career journey, don’t hesitate to share updates with the interviewee. They’ll likely be interested in hearing about how their advice has helped you, and it’s a great way to maintain the relationship.

Pay It Forward

You won’t be the only one with a collection of questions you want to ask in an informational interview. As your career progresses, be open to conducting informational interviews for others who may want to ask questions about your career path. Sharing your knowledge and experience can make a significant impact on someone else’s career journey.

Accelerate Your Success With Whitman Associates

Knowing how to ask for an informational interview and to ask your connection key questions can provide valuable insights into your desired career path, as well as expand your professional network and hone your communication skills. Understanding what is the purpose of an informational interview is a powerful networking tool. By being proactive in requesting these interviews and asking the right questions in the informational interview, you’ll be well on your way to unlocking new career opportunities and achieving your professional goals. 

When you’re ready to further your career search, remember that Whitman Associates can help — saving you precious time and money on your journey. As a trusted partner in professional staffing since 1972, our knowledgeable and friendly team is dedicated to matching your unique skills and aspirations with the perfect opportunities. Send your resume to resumes@whitmanjobs.com to get started.

LinkedIn Profile Best Practices

WAI Staff

LinkedIn has become a necessity in today’s job market. It’s one of the first places employers will look to evaluate a candidate, and it remains one of the most powerful tools for job hunting, recruitment and networking. LinkedIn offers a wealth of opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals, build your personal brand and even find your dream job — but you have to know how to use it.

Your LinkedIn profile is your personal brand, your online resume and your virtual business card. This is where potential employers will come to learn more about you, so it’s important to put your best foot forward. Here are nine best practices that every job seeker should know.

A tablet showing the LinkedIn app in the App Store

1. Treat LinkedIn messaging like a professional email.

LinkedIn is not a platform for casual conversations or small talk. When you’re using your LinkedIn profile to communicate with potential employers or recruiters, it is best practice to treat your messaging as a professional email. Use proper grammar, punctuation and capitalization, and always be respectful and courteous. 

If you message a recruiter, address them by their first name. In online culture, Mr. and Ms. sound overly formal. Instead, write a clear, concise message with a friendly tone.

2. If you are open to work, say so! 

One of the most important features to use on LinkedIn when finding a job is the “Open to Work” setting. This lets recruiters know that you’re actively looking for a job. This is different from the #OpenToWork banner that many people overlay on their profile pictures. The setting is private and will only show your preference to recruiters, allowing you to make new connections without worrying about your current employer seeing your status.

3. List all locations you are open to work. 

If you’re using LinkedIn to find a job in the D.C. area, one of the most important details you need to include is your location. However, you shouldn’t just list your current location, especially if you’re open to relocating for a job. It is best practice to add all the cities or regions where you would be willing to work to your LinkedIn profile. This will make it easier for employers to find you when they’re searching for candidates based on location.

4. Select whether you are willing to work remotely. 

Remote work has become increasingly popular in recent years, and many job seekers are looking for opportunities that allow them to work from anywhere in the world. If you’re only interested in remote work, it is a good idea to select that setting on your LinkedIn profile. Keep in mind that, post-pandemic, many companies have adopted hybrid models of working or are back in the office full time. For instance, some companies may require one day per week in the office, or some companies may allow 100% remote work but require that you keep business hours in a certain time zone. If you’re open to hybrid options, our best job search advice is to list geographical locations and your preference to work remotely.

A woman in glasses working on her laptop.

5. Use keywords.

Make sure you’re using keywords in your profile that are relevant to the job openings you’re applying for. For example, if your goal is to become a communications assistant, look at relevant job descriptions from several different companies. If you notice they all mention marketing, creativity and communication, your LinkedIn headline could read, “Creative Marketer with Communications Experience.” Recruiters often use LinkedIn’s search function to find candidates, so using relevant keywords in your profile can help you appear in their search results. If you’re using LinkedIn to find a job, this can increase your chances of being noticed by recruiters who are looking for someone with your specific skills and experience.

6. Keep your LinkedIn profile up to date.

Your LinkedIn profile is not a “set it and forget it” kind of thing. One of the most important LinkedIn best practices is to keep your profile up to date with your latest job experience, skills and achievements. Make sure your headline is clear and concise, and your summary accurately reflects who you are and what you can offer. Update your profile picture regularly, and make sure it’s a professional-looking photo. 

7. Use an appropriate photo (no selfies!).

Speaking of photos, your LinkedIn profile picture is an essential part of your personal brand. It’s the first thing that potential employers will see when they come across your profile, so it’s important to make a good impression. It is best practice to ensure that your LinkedIn profile picture is a professional-looking headshot that accurately reflects who you are. If you have a portfolio website or other professional social media accounts, use the same profile picture on all of them. This will help any prospective employer connect the dots between your different online profilespresences.

8. Be selective. 

Be selective about the job postings you apply to. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of job categories and job postings on LinkedIn, but applying to every job you see isn’t the best approach. Instead, focus on the jobs that are the best fit for your skills and experience, and take the time to tailor your application materials to each position.

9. Be patient!

Finally, be patient. Even with all of these LinkedIn profile best practices in place, finding a job can take time, and it’s important to stay positive and persistent in your job search. 

If you’re using LinkedIn to find a job in the D.C. area, don’t forget that it is also a networking platform. Don’t just use it to search for jobs; be sure to also connect with other professionals in your field. Join groups, engage in discussions and share articles or insights that showcase your expertise. Networking is a powerful tool that can help you get your foot in the door, and it’s essential to building your personal brand on LinkedIn. So keep networking, keep applying to jobs and keep your LinkedIn profile up to date. With time and effort, you’ll find the right job for you!

A LinkedIn profile is an incredibly powerful tool for job seekers — by following these best practices, you can increase your chances of being noticed by recruiters and finding your dream job.

Find Your Next Role with Whitman Associates

If you’re looking for additional support and guidance in your job search, we can help. Whitman Associates is a professional staffing agency serving the Washington D.C. area — we’ve been helping candidates find and secure their dream jobs since 1972! 

Get started by emailing your resume to resumes@whitmanjobs.com. Our team of staffing experts will take the time to review your resume and connect you with job opportunities that match your skills and experience. We look forward to helping you take the next step forward in your career search.

Office Etiquette Do’s And Don’ts: How To Prepare For A Return In Office

WAI Staff

Office work is ubiquitous in the D.C. metropolitan area. However, many people may be returning to work after some time away, working remotely or joining the workforce for the first time, and may be rusty with office etiquette. Whatever your situation, it is important to be aware of office behavior guidelines and best practices.

Most employers provide written policies that make it clear how employees are expected to behave when representing the company. Nonetheless, it is important for job seekers to educate themselves on the do’s and don’ts of office etiquette. That is true whether you are preparing for an interview, starting your first day on a new job, or learning how to prepare for a return to the office.

Office team environment

Office work is inherently team-based. Workplace etiquette requirements are more than a series of boxes that need to be checked. Instead, they are best practices that allow you to support your team members and maximize your integration into a new team environment. The do’s and don’ts of office etiquette are meant to provide a framework for effective collaboration.

Review basic office behavior guidelines

DO your best to make a good impression each day

New and returning office workers need to ensure they are punctual and dressed appropriately for their roles. Maintaining appropriate work attire and an accurate calendar may be a good place to start if you have been absent and are wondering how to prepare for a return to the office. 

DON’T police your teammates

As you’re reviewing office etiquette do’s and don’ts, you may be tempted to call out team members who are not following best practices. However, it’s probably not within the scope of your role to supervise your coworkers. If you feel there is a serious issue with one of your colleagues, follow the proper channels for reporting employee behavior so that their supervisor can remind them of the office behavior guidelines.

DO learn how to properly make requests like taking time off

As a new hire, you may be in a probational situation with specific requirements regarding requests for time off. Familiarize yourself with best practices, and find out about your company’s guidelines as early as you can.

DON’T conduct a job search while at the office

This is especially relevant for temporary hires. While in your current role, you will likely be searching for a permanent placement of some kind. Do not search for other jobs or work on your resume while you are at the office.

Familiarize yourself with your company’s HR policies

DO read your company’s office behavior guidelines and learn where to ask questions

Basic office etiquette do’s and don’ts are common to most industries and organizations, but your employer may have a unique approach. New hires are usually provided with an employee handbook or basic behavioral guidelines as part of their onboarding. Be sure to read these, and learn which personnel you can bring your questions to.

DON’T assume that any team member can answer your questions

Human resource departments exist for a reason. Companies employ specialists to coordinate behavioral policy and ensure a positive work environment. If you have questions, ask the appropriate person – not every team member will be familiar with your organization’s official policies which may vary depending on your specific position.

Follow COVID best practices

DO some research into the COVID requirements in your industry 

The do’s and don’ts of office etiquette have seen dramatic changes in the past few years. This includes basic logistical concerns around hybrid and remote work as well as new expectations for office interactions. Most organizations now have written guidelines that cover COVID-related issues such as masks, personal distance and cleaning policies. Make sure you know what your organization’s policies are, as the health of your coworkers may depend on it. It’s important to be respectful of your colleagues and following company guidelines regarding COVID is a great way to do that.

If you are working remotely, be sure to behave professionally in your online interactions. Likewise, be patient and courteous with colleagues who are navigating unorthodox work arrangements.

DON’T assume everyone is comfortable with a handshake

Recent events have made it clear that everyone needs to respect the personal space of others. One consequence of this is a reduction in the number of handshakes during an office workday. There is no widely agreed-upon substitute for handshakes at this time.

Two people tapping elbows

Ask your colleagues before going in for a handshake. If you are uncomfortable with others in your personal space, you may express this, but be sure to do so tactfully.

Return to the office with Whitman Associates

Finding a position that matches your experience and career goals simplifies a lot of questions around office etiquette. 

Whitman Associates, Inc. has been connecting people in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia with the region’s top employers since 1972. We are happy to provide office etiquette do’s and don’ts specific to your new position. Call (202) 659-2111 in the DMV area or email us your resume.

Job Search Advice For The Washington D.C. Job Market

Julie Lindgren, President, Whitman Associates, Inc.

Make the most of your Washington, D.C. area job search with Whitman Associates.

Aerial photograph of Washington Monument

Whether you want to find a new job or have recently moved to the Washington, D.C. area, any job search should start with updating your resume and reviewing interview tips. Be sure to brush up on best practices for remote interviews, as remote or partially remote interviewing is still typical in many industries. When preparing to send out your first application, there are some questions worth considering prior to hitting “submit.”

What is the job market like?

Statistics from the National Conference of State Legislatures show an overall trend of decreased unemployment across the United States. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area’s unemployment rate is notably lower than the national average. The same report goes on to highlight a number of growing industries in the D.C., Northern Virginia and Maryland metropolitan areas.

Growing industries include professional and business services as well as education and health services. These sectors – along with a few others – have seen noted growth in the number of D.C. area residents employed in recent years. For anyone interested in pursuing an office-based career in or around Washington, D.C., now seems like an excellent time to conduct a job search.

A hot job market does not necessarily mean your job search will be smooth and easy. The current landscape presents both opportunities and challenges for job seekers trying to find a job in the D.C. area. Consider connecting with a local employment service, like Whitman Associates, for assistance in finding a job in the current D.C. job market. 

How do I find the best role in the current market?

A hot job market gives candidates the chance to think about long-term career goals. The best role is the one that allows you to meet your current responsibilities while opening up options for the future.

Start by looking at job openings in the D.C. region and consider connecting with a career coach to help you strategize for the future. If you need immediate work, staffing and placement agencies are the best resource to use.

Based on the growing number of office-based roles opening up in the Washington, D.C. area, job search candidates should consider the long-term potential of office work. Keep an eye out for positions with some of the following words in their title:

  • Office Administration
  • Administrative Assistant
  • Program Coordinator
  • Human Resources
  • Legal and Clerical Support
  • Marketing
  • Secretary
  • Communications

These positions are in high demand and can often be entry level roles. Perhaps the best advantage of office work is the ability to connect with people in different industries. Then down the line, you can then utilize those connections to find your next  job in the D.C. metropolitan area.  

As an example, let’s say your job search connects you with a temporary clerical support role at a law firm in Washington, D.C. While in that role, you learn about office operations. That can open a career path leading to higher-level office administration roles. By the end of your placement, you’ll have potentially dozens of new pathways to consider.

I have a job – is now a good time for an upgrade?

Absolutely – you should take full advantage of the DMV area’s hot job market while you can. If you already have a position but are thinking of taking the next step forward with your career, there are resources to help you manage your obligations while finding your next great fit.

Keep an accurate and up-to-date calendar and develop a strategy to make your job search as efficient as possible. Failure to show up on time for an interview or missing a day of work could result in burnt bridges if you’re not careful. Make sure you are familiar with typical traffic conditions and transit options in the D.C. metro area so you’re able to keep all of your appointments.

If your job search goals include changing industries, the current employment market in the Washington, D.C. area presents many opportunities to do so. If you are between jobs  your resume will likely have gaps that can make you less attractive as a potential candidate. One way to avoid this is by taking on a temporary placement in your industry of choice. A temporary role can help bridge the gap between your existing experience and the requirements of your new industry.

Two men shake hands

Connect with The DMV’s top staffing agency

The best thing you can do to aid any job search is to connect with an established staffing agency. Whitman Associates, Inc. has been helping job seekers in Maryland, Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. with their job search goals for over 50 years. Our team members connect top employers with candidates looking to find a job in the D.C. area. Contact our placement team to learn about the latest opportunities.

How to ask for a job that does not exist yet (with sample email)

WAI Staff

Job seekers tend to assume that all open positions are clearly listed. However, as few as 20% of open positions are posted on job boards. This means that job seekers who apply for work exclusively through job postings found online are missing a lot of opportunities. So how do you ask for a job that doesn’t exist or that isn’t listed as open? Just ask!

If you find a company you are interested in working for and don’t see any current openings listed that match your skill set, you can, and should, still submit a cover letter and resume to that company’s human resources department or to a suitable manager within the organization. 

That may seem like a waste of time, but really, you will be getting ahead of the game. Whenever a position does open up, the hiring manager will hopefully already have you in mind. Take a look at this sample email asking for job openings to see what this looks like. 

Sample Email Asking for Job Openings

Subject line: [Your Job Title (for instance, “Legal Secretary”)] Interested in Career Opportunities

[First Name of HR/Recruiter/Hiring Manager] 

My name is [your name], and I am a [recent grad from [school] OR job title and your expertise; for instance, a “social worker with experience in child welfare.”] I hope you’re doing well. 

I realize you do not currently have a job opening listed for a [job title], however, I would still like to make introductions and explore ways I can help your team with [value you can provide; for instance, “developing accessibility-focused website projects.”]

I checked out the [company’s name] website and like the projects you are currently developing, in particular:

  • [the name of a relevant project with an explanation for why you are interested]
  • [the name of a second relevant project with an explanation for why you are interested]

Note: This is also a great place to personalize your email and add information about where you heard about the company and why you would like to work for them.

For the past # years, I have worked with [your experience with examples of past clients or projects. Providing detail and showing you you will be an asset to their team is key.] 

When time allows, please see a few examples of my work here:

  • [Link to example #1 of your work, if available; you can also attach files if it makes more sense. Be sure to reference the attachment name here instead]
  • [Link to example #2 OR attached file]
  • [Link to example #3 OR attached file]

Note: If you are a recent grad with limited real-world experience, provide links to college projects, case studies, internship projects or volunteer efforts. 

I have also attached my resume to this email. Please let me know if I can provide more information.

Sometime in the near future, I look forward to speaking with you.

Warm Regards, 

[Your name]

[Your email signature with contact information]

Apply for a job that doesn’t exist yet

The bottom line for how you ask for a job that doesn’t exist is that you have to take the initiative. Simply calling or sending a note based on this sample email asking for job openings can tell hiring managers that you have initiative and are eager to work with them. The company or hiring manager may not necessarily be looking for someone, or at least not yet. But when you prove yourself to be an attractive candidate, you will get your foot in the door for whatever opportunities come next. Start with this sample email asking for job openings and see where it takes you!

Setting self-improvement goals for work

Julie Lindgren, President, Whitman Associates, Inc.

Almost 40% of Americans claim to have set New Year’s Resolutions this year, according to one poll, yet only 3% have written goals for self-development. There are plenty of ways that goal-setting can impact our lives, but self-improvement goals for work are one of the most neglected categories. If you’re curious about why self-development is important at work, take a look at this guide.

Why self-development is important at work: cultivating a work-life balance

Before we get into the details of setting and evaluating self-improvement goals for work, here’s a little piece of why self-development is important at work. Put simply, work self-development is a critical aspect of cultivating a work-life balance. 

There are times when work becomes our primary objective and it may at times get in the way of an ideal work-life balance. In general, though, when we have a mindset focused on self-development, it’s easier to determine if adjustments should be made to maintain the balance. Active progress on self-improvement goals for work promotes a healthier lifestyle that helps ensure our work and other aspects of our life are in check with each other. 

a blank to-do list ready to fill in

Start small and break your goals into achievable tasks

Self-improvement feels like a lofty task, but the good news is that you can work at your own speed. Setting self-improvement goals for work is more of a constant resolution than a one-time goal: you can always strive towards self-improvement. Rather than getting overwhelmed with all the aspects of why self-development is important at work, break down the nebulous idea into tangible, achievable goals that you can measure and apply more easily. 

If your self-improvement goal is to “learn new things,” for example, that’s very broad and hard to measure. However, if you try to “write down one new thing I learned at work every day,” that’s both easy to measure and simple to apply. “Taking initiative” sounds great as a goal at work, but it’s a lot easier to keep a goal that calls for specific actions, like “offering assistance” or “asking for more responsibilities on a project.” The most effective self-improvement goals for work are the ones with built-in room to grow. 

a woman’s hands typing on a laptop

Work towards career aspirations

While it may be tempting to judge your success based on the progress or skill sets of others around you, we must strive to set self-improvement goals for work that are appropriate for each of us personally – and that includes acknowledging that the right goals for you may look very different than the ideal ones for your coworker. Self-honesty is a critical aspect of self-improvement. It is also crucial to have goals that will guide you toward your career aspirations.

Many people who find themselves in a temporary job miss the opportunity to use that position to grow and develop for the next step in their career. It can be extremely powerful to choose goals that intentionally prioritize where you want to go. For example, if you want to be a partner in a law firm, there are tangible steps to take such as going to law school and applying for positions, but there are also other practical skills you can improve while at your current position. Focus on soft skills such as cooperating with a team or sharpening your research abilities. 

It helps to set goals by first focusing on your career aspirations, and then considering what smaller steps can help you get there. This means that you intentionally create your goals from big to small. In other words, look at the big picture and then dive into specifics. Similar to how it is important to engage in both long-term and short-term planning in our daily lives, we must define both big and small goals in the workplace. Self-improvement goals for work can vary from person to person based on many different factors. However, there are some common aspects to consider, including time management, emotional intelligence, active listening and a growth mindset. There may be certain attributes that will be specific or especially important to your career, such as a specialty in a skill-based profession.

Don’t be afraid to switch it up

When it comes to self-improvement goals for work, practice makes perfect. Don’t be afraid to tweak your goals based on your prior experiences. It’s important not just to measure progress towards meeting your goals, but also to evaluate the end result in terms of practical gains in the workplace. A goal to “improve your public speaking skills” may seem great. However, when evaluating the practical benefits of your efforts towards achieving that goal, you may recognize that you actually first need a goal to “learn to communicate clearly when presenting ideas to the team.” Your goals will be most effective when you carefully consider not just how you’re doing with them, but how they are working for you.

4 Qualities of a Good Worker

Julie Lindgren, President, Whitman Associates, Inc.

In today’s competitive job market, standing out as a potential candidate requires more than just the right qualifications. While experience and skills are essential, certain qualities of a good employee can make a significant difference in your professional journey. Whether crafting your resume or preparing for a job interview, highlighting your unique qualities with examples of positive results will give you a clear advantage over the competition. When describing the responsibilities from your previous positions, make sure you include evidence of your most marketable traits. Additionally, if you are a hiring manager, consider these four qualities of a good worker to look out for while identifying exceptional candidates for your team.

1. Initiative – Going Beyond Expectations

One valuable quality of a good employee is the willingness to take initiative and go beyond the defined scope of their role. While competence in completing assignments is crucial, employers seek individuals who proactively contribute and exceed expectations. Demonstrate instances where you have led projects and contributed innovative ideas and solutions. Emphasize your passion for a specific project or role and explain how you went above and beyond to show your sense of initiative, especially if the new role you’re seeking is directly related to that passion. This desirable quality of a good worker will immediately set you apart from the competition.

2. Prioritization – Efficiently Managing Responsibilities

The ability to prioritize responsibilities effectively sets outstanding employees apart from others. An employer seeks individuals who can balance multiple priorities and recognize the most critical and time-sensitive tasks. Being able to share examples of how you have efficiently prioritized your workload and delivered measurable results demonstrates qualities indicative of a good employee.

A woman smiling in front of a white board with flow charts

3. Communication – The Key to Professional Success

Strong communication skills are universally valuable in any career. Speaking professionally, clearly, and politely significantly enhances your professional image. Additionally, proficient writing skills are equally essential qualities of a good worker. Highlight your ability to convey ideas clearly and provide instructions effectively, as these traits are highly sought after by employers while they are reviewing resumes. Additionally, consider the times you’ve experienced miscommunications at work and the solutions you found to avoid them moving forward. Nobody is perfect, but employees who can learn from their experiences to become even better can make the most attractive hires.

Three people sitting in front of a table laughing together

4. Reliability – A Pillar of Trust

Employers seek employees they can rely on when needed the most. Punctuality and a solid attendance record exemplify the qualities of a good worker. When an employer needs extra help, a trustworthy team member takes the initiative to assist when and where the situation demands it, without waiting for explicit instructions.

By emphasizing these four critical qualities of a good employee on your resume and during interviews, you will stand out and leave a lasting impression on prospective employers. Take a moment to reflect on your experiences and identify areas where you can further enhance your initiative, prioritization, communication, or reliability. Which aspects can you self-identify that need improvement? For expert hiring or job hunting assistance, connect with our recruiting team at Whitman Associates to get started today. We’re eager to help you demonstrate the  qualities that make you a good worker.

About Whitman Associates

With over fifty years of experience providing expert staffing services to the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, Whitman Associates proudly offers personalized employment services to our community of talented candidates. Our staffing professionals offer coaching and development to set you up for success during interviews and throughout your career. With unique opportunities to learn via temporary and temp-to-hire positions, you can tailor your resume to reflect your long-term goals.

Navigating the lively, ever-changing professional landscape of the greater D.C. area can be overwhelming. Instead of braving it alone, work with Whitman Associates for guidance on qualities you should highlight as  a good worker. We will provide unwavering support throughout your entire job search process, from updating your resume to making a great impression by demonstrating the qualities of a good employee in your new role.

Our office is conveniently located in downtown Washington, D.C., making us easily accessible via Metro from the Farragut North or Farragut West stations. Email your resume to resumes@whitmanjobs.com so we can get a better idea of who you are and your professional experience. Use your resume to show us your personal qualities of a good worker.

How to Advance Your Career

Julie Lindgren, President, Whitman Associates, Inc.
diverse women leaders in a modern office

Are you looking for ways to advance your career? You may be seeking to get a job promotion or to go from temp to permanent. While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, there are key things to keep in mind. Here are some tips that will help you get there.

Develop a win-win mindset

The first step in knowing how to advance your career is developing a win-win mindset. You can’t expect to move up if you’re only thinking about what’s best for yourself. Instead, think about the company’s goals and how they align with yours. 

By taking some time to understand what your superior needs and to find solutions to problems, you make everyone’s life easier. If you lead by example, being genuinely helpful to your co-workers and superiors, others will likely follow and it will encourage a sense of community. In a world that celebrates a go-getter, differentiate yourself by being a go-giver. 

Keep learning

There are three things you need to do to advance your career: learn from your mistakes, learn from others’ mistakes and keep learning new things. You can do this by taking classes or workshops, reading books on leadership or management, taking advice from your co-workers and industry professionals, listening to podcasts about industry trends, joining meetups related to your interests and even making friends outside of work who share similar passions as yourself. All these things will help shape how well prepared you will be for future opportunities that come down the road.

Keep in mind that there’s truly no such thing as a stagnant career. When you deeply understand how to get a job promotion or how to go from temp to permanent, you know that your job is set to change in different ways as time passes—and you should be too. That’s why keeping up with the latest trends and technologies is so important to advancing your career. 

Build strong working relationships

The workplace is a social arena, and knowing how to build strong relationships with your colleagues will advance your career and lead to more opportunities for growth. Chat with your team during breaks, or set up a lunch meeting to discuss a professional goal you’re working on and how the team can get involved. Asking about their lives and opinions will help you understand how they think, which will expose you to new ways of thinking. Your co-workers might have insight or tips you’ve never heard of before – even if it’s about the best barbeque place in town or how to get on the boss’s good side. Learning new things and building relationships is key to climbing the career ladder. 

In addition to being friendly and communicative with those around you, it’s also important that you learn how to work well as part of a team. Being able to collaborate effectively—and having others recognize this ability—will make your career prospects much brighter in the long run.

Take ownership of your work

Effective steps to advance your career include taking ownership of what you do and knowing how to do it well. This means that you don’t pass the blame on to others or say “I’m sorry” all the time. When work isn’t getting done properly, it’s up to you to make sure your work gets done correctly and on time. 

Accountability speaks volumes about leadership. In taking responsibility, even if others weren’t clear about expectations from the start, you set the tone that you will be showing up no matter what.

Take initiative

In learning how to advance your career practically, there will be times when you are asked to take initiative and be proactive. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or get involved with new projects if needed. 

If someone asks for help, take it as a chance to learn and offer support. The more confident and skilled you get in your field, the better off you and your company will be in the long run. More importantly, moving from a temp role to a permanent position or securing your chances of getting a job promotion will be a breeze.

Make yourself indispensable

Knowing how to advance your career means you understand that it’s a lot easier to get ahead if you’re the go-to person for everyone else. You know that when there are problems, your co-workers come to you for help. When others need guidance, they run to you first. If you have a reputation for being reliable and results-driven, it means that people will want to work with you and possibly for you. Make yourself indispensable by knowing what needs to be done in a crisis. 

Be trustworthy

If you want to know how to get a job promotion or how to go from temp to permanent, developing a reputation for being honest and trustworthy is a crucial step. This means being a good communicator—you never know who you’re going to be working with, so it’s helpful if people know they can count on you and that what you say will be true. 

In considering how to advance your career, you also need to make sure that the information you share with others is confidential. Keep secrets close at hand and don’t gossip about co-workers or clients. 

Finally, avoid the temptation of becoming a know-it-all. This could alienate those around you professionally and socially, which could lead to negative consequences in both areas moving forward.

Network your way up

The people around you have the potential to help you understand how to advance your career in a variety of ways. They can provide mentorship and support, advise on how to improve your work and find jobs for which you’re well-suited. 
To make the most of this opportunity, build connections and network. Find people who are good at what they do. Asking someone for their insight can be intimidating if they seem far above your level in terms of experience or expertise—but it doesn’t have to be. Usually, they are more than happy to share what they have learned along the way.

If someone has been working in their field for a while, chances are they’ve learned from other people as well. Building a strong connection with one person opens you up to their network of connections as well. If nothing else, asking for help shows that you’re committed enough to your own success – which will not go unnoticed.

colleagues discussing business ideas in the office

A final word

By following our tips on how to advance your career, you can distinguish yourself from the pack. The key to advancing your career is being willing to do the work. You need to be willing to invest in yourself, whether that means investing in books or online courses or taking advantage of any opportunities for training that come up at work.

You also need to be willing to learn new skills by stepping outside your comfort zone and trying new things—even if it feels a little uncomfortable or overwhelming at first. Taking advantage of career coaching or trying out new jobs and hobbies is a great way to push yourself to try new things you wouldn’t have thought about previously.

Lastly, remember that the paths to success are many and they’re not often linear. Let your uniqueness shine through as you advance. 

D.C.’s top-rated staffing agency

If you need help with your job search or finding employees to fill open positions, Whitman Associates is your solution. We help employees find jobs they’ll love, potentially lifting them from temp work to a permanent position in a company. We also help employers by providing top-tier talent from the D.C. metropolitan area. Get in touch with us today to learn how we can help you succeed. 

Requesting Time Off From Work

WAI Staff

PTO (paid time off) days are a perk most companies offer , but be strategic on how you use your time and how you ask. When requesting time off from work, be aware of your supervisor and coworkers schedules, and keep in mind how it impacts your responsibilities when someone else is out on vacation. Being upfront and conscientious about requesting time off ensures that you and your colleagues are able to be comfortable with the time taken away from the office. Check out our top tips for what to do and what not to do when requesting time off from work.

Vacation beach with palm trees

1. Give Notice

Give your employer plenty of notice before taking time off. How much notice to give for PTO? That’s going to depend on your workplace, but a good rule of thumb is a minimum of 2 weeks notice if you’re taking 1-2 days and a minimum of 1-2 months for 3+ days. If you try to request off without much notice, chances are your request will be declined.

2. Request in writing

Speak with your manager first any time you are interested in taking time off. One you’ve had that conversation, be sure to formally submit your time-off request in writing or via email – a verbal request can easily be forgotten. At some organizations, employees can request time off via their payroll portal (ie. ADP or Paycom). Follow the protocols of your organization, but be sure to keep a copy of your approval in writing.

3. Be considerate of your coworkers

Try to plan your vacations, trips, etc. taking into account your supervisors and coworkers’ schedules to avoid taking time off at the same time as the rest of the office. No one wants to be at the office holding down the fort when multiple people are out on vacation. If at all possible, try not to overlap your vacations with those of your coworkers.

Another great way to make your time away go smoothly when requesting time off work is to provide a plan for how your responsibilities can be covered. Helping set your colleagues up for success while you’re away will make everyone’s lives easier and will give you the confidence that your work is being handled appropriately.

4. Medical appointments

Try to schedule any doctor’s appointments, etc. during your lunch break, or at the beginning or end of the day, so that you don’t need to miss much work. No one wants to use their precious vacation time for appointments if you can help it.

5. Sick time

If your sick days are separate from your PTO days, try to save your sick days for when you are actually sick – you never know when/if you will need them. If you have all of your PTO days combined, try to reserve a couple in case you get sick, so you won’t have to take leave without pay.

packing for vacation

6. When starting a new job

Don’t request a lot of time off within the first 3 months of a new job. If you have previously planned trips that fall within that time span, let your employer know when you are going over your offer. Also, it’s a good idea to review the company’s PTO policy since some companies have a waiting period before benefits such as PTO kick in.

7. Holidays

Don’t assume that you have all federal holidays off. Review the PTO policy and clarify which holidays are observed, and which are not. All companies are different and outside of the federal government, companies observe different holidays.

Below are some examples of an in person and emailed time off request.

Time off request conversation example:

Hi [Supervisor], would you have a moment to discuss a time off request? I have [number] PTO days, and am hoping to take [number] of days off for [reason for request] in [month]. Let me know what might be a good time to discuss this further and to get something on the calendar. Thank you.

Time off request email example:

Hi [Supervisor],

As previously discussed, I would like to request to use my PTO to take off from [Date] through [Date].
I have prepared some notes regarding any active projects, and would be happy to go through them with the team in preparation for my departure.
Please let me know if there is anything else I can do to ensure everything is covered in my absence.
Sincerely,
[Name]

When to Consider Temporary Work?

WAI Staff

While a full-time, permanent position is ideal for most professionals in the workforce, temporary positions can be a great option for many people who find themselves looking for additional income and/or experience while pursuing that permanent job. Below, we have listed several situations where a short term job could be beneficial to your search for a permanent position. Although, our list is definitely not comprehensive; temporary work can be a great option for just about anyone.

1. Recent College Graduates

  • Temporary work is a great option for recent graduates who do not have a permanent position lined up upon graduation.
  • Temping can help give college graduates more real world, professional experience to add to their resume, especially if you didn’t have internships or work study experience while in school.
  • Utilizing a temporary staffing agency can help fill in the employment gap on your resume between graduation and starting your first permanent position. Potential employers will be impressed to see that you have been working and gaining experience while pursuing more full-time work.
  • Lastly, temporary work can help get your foot in the door with a company that you would not otherwise have access to. If the company you are temping for is pleased with your work, they could consider you for any full-time openings they might have.

women teamwork

2. Filling in the Gap

  • Like with recent college graduates, temp work can help fill in employment gaps on your resume.  Even if the temporary work you are doing isn’t exactly relevant to your career goals, at least you can show a potential employer that you have not been sitting idle while searching for a new position.
  • Temporary work is also a great source of income when you’re in between jobs. While you probably won’t make as much as you were in your last permanent position, a little money is better than no money.
  • Temp jobs can also help expose you to new industries or environments that you might not have had the opportunity to explore otherwise. You might find a new interest or change your career goals after having a great experience temping within a different industry.

two women at computer

3. After Retirement

  • Temp work is an excellent option for professionals who have decided to end full-time careers, but aren’t quite ready to stop working altogether.
  • Part time work can bring in a little additional income or help fill your newly empty schedule.
  • Temping is also a good option because you can do daily or short term jobs, without making a long-term commitment.
  • Temp work can also be a good way for retired military personnel to transition into a civilian work environment.
  • Temporary staffing agencies value your years of professional experience.

4. Re-Entry Professionals

  • Professionals who are reentering the workforce after taking time off from their careers should definitely consider temp work as a way to get reacquainted with the office environment instead of charging in at full speed.
  • Coming back into the job market after a break in your career, to care for children or aging parents, can make it hard for you to start right back where you left off. Temporary work can help you get your foot in the door with an organization, and prove to them that you are ready to rejoin the workforce.

Staffing agencies like Whitman Associates help job seekers to transition into the workforce. Working temporary positions is definitely a positive step in the right direction and will help to find the right role for anyone out of work.