PCG Blog

How to Build a Winning Holiday Event Staffing Strategy

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 19:00:30 GMT

By: Gina Squicciarini-Ozer

Scroll down to learn more about me!

The holiday season brings a surge of retail activations, luxury brand experiences, corporate parties, and high-profile events. With so much happening, one thing is certain: success depends on having the right holiday event staff in place. A strong staffing plan ensures flawless guest experiences, seamless execution, and peace of mind for your team.

As Vice President of Event Staffing at Pyramid Consulting Group , I’ve supported some of the nation’s most recognized brands with holiday temp staffing solutions . Here’s what I’ve learned about creating a strategy that attracts top talent, builds reliable teams, and keeps events running smoothly all season long.

1. Begin with a Clear Staffing Strategy

Instead of simply asking “how many staff do we need,” start by defining the type of holiday staff you’ll require. Do you need polished brand ambassadors for retail pop-ups, experienced hospitality professionals for VIP events, or a logistics crew to manage behind-the-scenes operations? Aligning your staffing plan with your brand’s specific needs ensures that every team member contributes to your guest experience.

2. Partner with a Specialized Event Staffing Agency

The holidays move fast—you need more than just a staffing provider; you need a partner who knows your industry. At Pyramid Consulting Group , we specialize in event staffing and understand the unique demands of seasonal hiring. With access to a deep, pre-vetted talent pool, we build teams that don’t just “fill roles” but enhance your brand presence.

3. Prioritize Flexibility and Scalability

Holiday events are unpredictable: guest counts change, schedules shift, and last-minute activations pop up. By building flexibility into your staffing plan —such as having floaters, standby staff, or staggered shifts—you can quickly adapt to any challenge without compromising service.

4. Retain Top Talent All Season Long

High-performing temporary staff are in demand. To retain the best talent through the busy holiday stretch, focus on communication, recognition, and consistency. Clear expectations, positive feedback, and dependable scheduling go a long way in keeping your team engaged—and more likely to return for future assignments.

5. Plan Ahead to Avoid Last-Minute Stress

The best holiday staffing strategies begin early. Securing your temporary event staff ahead of time gives you access to top talent before peak demand and allows for proper onboarding and training. This proactive approach minimizes last-minute stress and ensures your event season runs smoothly.

Final Thought

Your holiday event staff are the face of your brand during the most important season of the year. With the right strategy and the right staffing partner, you can build a reliable, motivated team that elevates your events and delivers unforgettable guest experiences.

At Pyramid Consulting Group , we take the stress out of holiday staffing by managing recruitment, onboarding, payroll , and

compliance—so you can focus on creating exceptional events.

The Learning Curve: Gen Z in the Workforce

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 20:30:21 GMT

Written by: Anne Feininger

Gen Z has begun to join the workforce, and job market is more competitive as well as the expense of living is increasing, with this, Gen Z is looking for a few specific things for their next job and in their career, which are: stability & job security, skill development, location, benefits & work-life balance, value alignment, and positive company reputation vs “Traditionalists” who preferred structure, stable settings, clear expectations, and a fixed schedule. “Baby Boomers” are known for being very goal-oriented, dedicated to their work, and prioritizing stability.

As a rising senior in college and a Gen Zer, I have begun thinking about jobs and what I will be doing after college. At my current college, my school requires 2 internships and a Co-op as a graduate requirement. I hope that through my internships and Co-op that I will be able to get an offer from them. I have already begun looking around the jobs just to be able to get an idea of what the market is like and what positions are open. When it comes to what Gen Z wants in a job, I have also found myself looking for companies and positions that fit some of those desires. However, I have found myself prioritizing salary as one of my key factors in looking for a job. This differs a little from what Gen Z wants or is willing to have; they are generally content with taking a lower salary, just enough to cover the basic expenses, but they also hope to be able to develop skills and learn from the job they have. I, too, have begun to lean towards finding a job that may give a lower salary, but has growth and development opportunities.

For me, when it comes to finding a company that I would want to apply to/work with, I consider the answers to some qualifying questions:

“How does the company support their employees and work-life balance?”
“What skill development opportunities do they offer?”
“What Support such as mental and physical health benefits do they offer?”
“How do their values and mission drive their actions?”

Author Bio:

Anne is going to be a senior in college this Fall 2025 & is a Marketing Intern at PCG. She is a business management major with a minor in digital business at LIM College. She has a strong interest in the analytical side of social media.

The Learning Curve: How I'm Building Confidence in Professional Settings as a College Student

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 18:45:24 GMT

Written by: Julianna Martorilli

As a nearly graduated college student entering the professional world for the first time, it has been much more intimidating than I anticipated. The job search for an entry level role can be overwhelming; interviews, resumes, LinkedIn connections, cold emails, and coffee chats. I look around and everyone seems to have it all figured out, but how? Do they all know something I don’t? I struggled with this for a while, and something I’ve learned is that every confident business owner, friend, and coworker was once unsure, inexperienced, and intimidated, just like I am. To build a foundation for confidence in the professional world, I had to reframe my inexperience as an opportunity to learn. This mindset shift, focusing on my professional goals, and asking questions has helped me make the most out of my first internship experience here at Pyramid Consulting Group thus far.

Creating professional goals for myself is something I attribute largely to building confidence. Before starting my internship, I wrote down goals of things I wanted to accomplish or improve at, and some actionable steps I could take to do so. Being able to track my progress has helped a lot with my confidence. By setting and actively working toward my professional goals, I have been able to see proof of my growth. This proof has allowed me to begin building my confidence professionally by showing myself that I can consistently progress and accomplish tasks.

Here are a few examples of attainable professional goals:

Get out of your comfort zone . This month, I will place myself in a situation that is unfamiliar to me and challenges me (a networking event, speaking up in a meeting, reaching out to someone new, engaging in a new project, etc.)
Introduce yourself. I will reach out to someone new in my organization or in my desired field to expand my network and practice building new connections.
Be curious. In a meeting this week, I will speak up and ask a question that adds to the conversation to learn something new.

A final important thing I’ve learned about building confidence in the professional world is to ask questions. I used to worry that asking questions would be perceived as a weakness or made me seem unfit for the job, but that is not the case. Being able to engage with my curiosity shows my interest, engagement, and desire to learn. Asking questions and being open to receiving help has enhanced my learning, allowed me to create connections, encouraged my growth, and overall has helped me build professional confidence. No one expects you to know everything; your coworkers, supervisors, and managers are there to support you. We gain confidence through knowledge, and a great way to obtain knowledge is through engaging and asking questions.

If you feel lost, intimidated, or unsure entering the professional world for the first time or starting a new role, just remember that it’s okay to not have it all figured out. What has helped me is focusing on learning, setting goals, tracking my progress, and asking questions as they come up. Confidence is something you build over time and just know, if you’re trying, you’re learning – and if you’re learning, you’re growing!

Author Bio:

Julianna is a Marketing Intern at PCG and a Fashion Marketing student at LIM College. She is passionate about combining creativity with strategy and is exploring this through hands-on experience with social media marketing and content development!

Recruiters or Special Agents?

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 21:14:34 GMT

“Juan, XYZ Fashion needs 20 people for the grand opening of a pop-up shop in Los Angeles… in 5 days. I’m assigning this case to you!!”

For a minute there, you might say that this sounds like an assignment for a 007 agent, right? Well, that is exactly what agency recruitment is for me. For the past 8 years, I have worked on the agency side of recruitment, and I can assure you, most of the time, it feels like we recruiters are in fact special agents, assigned with special tasks that if unsuccessful, a whole operation would fail.

Talk about pressure huh?!

You see, in order for a project to be successful, you need to have the right people in play. In other words, people are your greatest resource and your most valuable treasure. As we delve into a more automated future, the human factor is going to be more important than ever. We are already seeing retail stores close and be replaced with an uptick with pop-up shops and experiential marketing. Having actual human beings who can resolve an issue for you in the moment, answer your questions, or even throw a simple smile your way will never go out of style.

Now back to this grand opening in 5 days…

How will I get so many people who are out of work in such a short amount of time? Where will I find them if I am on the other side of the country?! Prior to Covid, I might have flown to Los Angeles and scoured the streets for people at the risk of people giving me suspicious looks. But, in a post Covid recruitment world, I would be less likely to do that.

***Cue Little Mermaid: “I want to be where the people are”***

I have to go where my target audience is. Depending on the brand of course, I would most likely to go to social media. Maybe the brand has an Instagram or a fan page where I can post a blurb and have people message me. Maybe I search LinkedIn for people who have in interest in the brand’s industry. Social media is an important tool in today’s world, and I think recruiters should take advantage of it. Think out- of-the-box and be creative. We are looking for PEOPLE who are interested and invested in a company or brand. You could pay someone to go to work every day to collect a paycheck, but wouldn’t you rather work with someone who is a fan and will show up every day excited to work?

At Pyramid Consulting Group, we believe in finding the person behind the paper. In my opinion, soft skills are much more important than how many Google certifications you may have. I would prefer having someone who is hungry to learn and is willing to be a hard worker, than someone who is an expert at v-look up, but disinterested. At the root of it all, we want to work with human beings who don’t make our daily lives harder than they may already be. Someone to ask us “How are you?” instead of “When are you getting that project to me?”

You can have the budget, you can have the best marketing in the world, you can even have the most beautiful and innovative product but if you don’t have the right people, your operation will fail. Next time you need the right people, consider hiring a special agent to do the job. They will make sure your mission is truly… ACCOMPLISHED.

Tips for Returning to Work After Vacation

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 20:41:42 GMT

Vacation is over, it is time to return to the real world, and you are dreading it. No matter how much you love your job, it can still be hard to put yourself back into the routine when you would rather be on the beach, sightseeing, relaxing, etc. We have put together a couple of tips to help you get back into the swing of things.

Take a buffer day
This tip is one that starts before your time off starts. If possible, when requesting your time off, build in an extra day between when vacation ends and when you need to return back to work. This will give you a day to get yourself ready for the return to work. Whether that is unpacking, going grocery shopping, meal prepping, or reviewing (but not doing) your to do list, having those tasks done before you return will help ease you in.
Make a to-do list
Before you just dive right back into work, take a look at what needs to be done, make a list and prioritize your tasks. Many people get lost in just catching up on emails or joining meetings that were already on their calendar and wind up feeling like they are never going to catch up. To-do lists will help with the time management aspect and ensure you do not feel overwhelmed.
Connect with your team/supervisor
Building off of the to-do list tip, meeting with your team or supervisor will help you to figure out what you missed and what the priorities are upon your return.
Take your time
You might feel like you need to catch up immediately and make it seem like you were never gone, but that will just overwhelm you. After your wonderful time off, the last thing you want to do is burn out immediately.
Reflect on your time off
How did you spend your time off? Did you find yourself reading, hiking, or trying new foods? Is it possible to do those things during your regular days off? Finding time in our regular schedules to unwind and do the things that we enjoy can help to avoid burnout and reduce overall stress.

Our final tip?

6. Check in with yourself

Are you dreading going back to work because you had the best time on vacation or do you dread returning to work any time you

have a standard day off? If you answered the latter, you may want to reevaluate your job as a whole.

If you find that you resonate with our last tip, we can help. When you are ready to take the leap and make a change in your career or role, contact us . There is no need for the Sunday scaries!

Benefits of Summer and Temp Jobs

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 15:22:49 GMT

Whether you are a student, in between jobs, or need another job for any reason, a summer temp job has many benefits that you may not be aware of.

Building your resume as a student or recent graduate

When you are entering the workforce, it can take time for you to find the right position to kickstart your career. You may find that taking on summer temp jobs may be the best way to gain the experience you are looking for while you look for that perfect match. Whether you are looking for retail roles that will give you great skills including communication and customer service or you are a graduate looking to break into the industry of your choice, there is a temp role for you.

2. Building your resume as someone who is between jobs

When you are between jobs, you may not realize that there are benefits to taking on a temp job while you continue to search. In addition to having an income while you interview for perm roles, you will also show companies that you are keeping sharp on your skills and filling in the potential gap between jobs on your resume. Strengthening your experience and skill set will help you when the time comes to move into that more permanent role.

3. Networking

Networking has always been an important role in the job search, but in recent years people tend to discuss it in terms of LinkedIn or other social platforms. We should not count out the traditional ways of networking when looking for a new role and temp/summer jobs can help with just that. No matter at what point of your career you are in, building new connections is always a positive.

4. It can turn into a permanent position

While this is not true of every temp job, many of them do offer the chance to become a permanent, full-time position based on performance and the needs of the business. There are some roles that this may not be true for, such as covering for someone on leave, but even if they do not have the chance to convert now you already have your foot in the door for the next job opening.

5. Build your list of references

Similar to our point about networking, working temp/summer jobs can help you build your references. If you are someone new to or early in your career, you may not have many professional references to offer potential employers. Working these short-term roles gives you a chance to prove yourself, make an impact quickly, and add a new reference your list.

6. Extra money, of course

We would not be able to wrap up a list of benefits of a temp or summer job without mentioning income. Whether it is your full income, or extra money on the side, a paycheck is always a nice benefit when it comes to working.

The summer may feel like it is rapidly coming to a close, but there is still time to get started with a temp role. If you are interested in learning about the process or what opportunities are available, contact us today . Know someone that might be interested? Contact us to learn about our referral program!

AI and Job Hunting

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 12:00:02 GMT

The job market, how you apply/look for jobs, and how people recruit/hire is always evolving. The newest trend that is causing all the buzz is AI. We all know that AI is finding ways to slip into our everyday lives and job applications are no exception.

There are many programs that can be used as part of your job application process. You can have AI write your resume, generate headshots, autofill job applications, mass apply to jobs, and so much more.

As an agency that spends their days looking at job applications, resumes, and LinkedIn profiles, PCG has had conversations about how AI can be a benefit to job seekers (if it is used properly). If you have decided that you want to use AI platforms to assist in your job search and application process, we suggest that you:

Make sure that your voice still comes across. Just because a robot wrote it, does not mean it should sound like it!
Double check that the information is correct and formatted properly.
Ensure that if you are using AI to write a cover letter or your resume, it has prioritized the information that is relevant to the job that you are applying to.
Read everything over to see if there is anything giving away that you used AI.

At PCG, we believe in the human touch, so we see an opportunity for candidates to use AI to generate that connection. Our clients view thank you notes as confirmation that you are interested in the role that you interviewed for, so we encourage all of our candidates to send them. This adds a human touch to your job search and informs the candidate that you want to move forward in the process. We see that AI can assist here by saving time and writing something that is different than the general templates that you will find on a web search. Of course, ensure that you are including details that were discussed in the interview and that it sounds like you!

The PCG team sees a benefit in candidates using AI throughout the job process, but to maintain the human aspect of recruiting, we do not use AI to scan resumes or make any hiring decisions. We want to understand who you are, not just what a piece of paper says.

If you are ready to get started with a recruiter and experience recruiting the PCG way, contact us today !

PCG Events Division

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 20:58:27 GMT

Pyramid Consulting Group, LLC. is known for acting as a staffing firm for temp, temp to perm and perm roles for Retail and Corporate clients, but what you may not know is that we also have a large Events division. This division is dedicated to staffing pop-ups and events hosted by a variety of clients. We wanted to share more about what the Events Team at PCG does and how you can work with them as either a client or candidates and we thought what better way than with an interview with Gina Squicciarini-Ozer, the Senior Account Director of Retail & Events, at PCG.

To get started, here is a bit about Gina:

Gina came to PCG with experience from the event and retail pop-up staffing world partnering with luxury retailers, concepts stores, and eCommerce experiential pop-up shops nationwide. She has experience in Talent Management, Event Production, Marketing and Hospitality industries focused on successful activations. She now works with a team of events recruiters to staff exciting pop-ups across the country.

What are the most common questions for the events team from potential clients?

1. Where do you staff events?

“PCG staff’s events and pop ups nationwide and in Canada.”

2. What are your biggest markets?

“Our MAJOR markets are NYC, LA, Chicago, Austin, Miami, D.C., but PCG can staff in any state in the U.S. and Selected provinces in Canada.”

3. How do I inquire about staffing my event or pop up?

“If you are an individual or brand looking for qualified events professionals or staff for your next event or pop up, please reach out to me at ginas@pyramidcg.com to set up a call to discuss. Based on your needs we can outline your exact needs.”

What are the questions you receive from candidates looking to work with the events team?

1. How do you apply to work events at PCG?

“There are a few ways you can apply to PCG events but the easiest way is to email events@pyramidcg.com with your resume and introduction about you are interested in working events in your city!”

2. What is the coolest event/activation you have staffed?

“There are two that stand out! The most "infamous" was Fyre Festival. I was in charge of hiring and transporting 40 concierge

staff to the Bahamas. (LOTS OF STORIES). Ask me anytime. :)

The other is San Diego Comic Con. We worked with SYFY Network and took over the entire downtown area with hundreds of staff working street teams, activations at the Children's museum, after parties, Wedding Chapel, and Dance teams for the SYFY band. It was so cool to see thousands of people in San Diego with SYFY Swag and engaging with our team.

3. How do I send a referral?

“Have your referral email events@pyramidcg.com with their resume and name YOU as the referral.”

4. Do I need experience to work events at PCG?

“We hire staff at ALL experience levels. Some events may require specific skills or attributes, but these will be outlined in the

interview and/or onboarding process.”

5. What are the responsibilities of Brand Ambassadors or Event Support Staff?

" Brand Ambassadors are typically the "face" of the brand they have been selected to represent. You may have to learn some brief product knowledge or may be given talking points about the event or product to memorize. Big smiles and welcoming

personalities are the key to a Brand Ambassador's success!

Event Support Staff covers a variety of roles such as Production Assistants, check-in teams, directional staff (guiding guests to a

specific destination), basically any role in which you are essential to the success of the event or activation to run smoothly from

a guest perspective.

6. What might I be doing at an event as a BA or Event Staff?

The responsibilities will differ depending on the brand or event, but many times they include checking in guests, general set up

or breakdown, line management, photo booth attendant, activation BA (Assist with a specific room or guest "activation" point),

Greeter, and passing light items such as champagne or canapes. All role responsibilities will be outlined in the initial reach out

by your recruiter or in the job posting.

If you would like more information on working with our events team or to make a referral email: events@pyramidcg.com .

If you are a potential client and you want to learn more about how our team can help to staff your next event, email: ginas@pyramidcg.com .

Benefits of Working in Retail

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 18:28:33 GMT

Looking to get started in the world of retail, but unsure if it is the right place for you? Whether you are looking for something temporary or to build a new career, there are a lot of benefits of working in retail that you should take into consideration. As recruiters who work day to day to place candidates at luxury retail locations across North America, we see first hand what the benefits of working in retail can be. Many of our recruiters even got their start working in the retail sector!

Growing a Career

One of the best benefits of working in retail is that it can get you started on a few different career journeys. If you are looking to learn more about the fashion or beauty industries, working in retail is a great way to do that. You will gain knowledge and experience with a variety of brands and products that will help you when looking for a role in the corporate sector. If you do not plan on working in the fashion or beauty industries, you can also build a career working in retail. While you may start out as an associate, you can grow into roles such as manager, director, area manager, and more. Maybe you even take that experience and shift into retail recruiting! However, you look at it or whatever your plans are for your career, retail is a great place to start.

Customer Experience

Unsure about where your career is going to go? That is ok too, there are still benefits to working in retail that are applicable to you. Working in retail stores is a great way to learn transferrable skills that you can take with you to any career move that you make. Retail jobs can teach you effective communication and problem-solving skills as you work every day with clients. You can also learn sales techniques, multitasking, and the ability to switch between tasks in an organized and productive manner. These are all skills that you can take from these retail positions to whatever your next step may be in your career.

Extra Cash

Not looking for a full-time position in retail? Many retail stores look for temporary help around the holidays as their business picks up or even for pop up events/stores and special sales that may make their store busier than normal. These are great opportunities for people who work full or part time jobs but need extra money. Whether it is for gifts around the holidays or everyday life expenses, retail jobs are a great way to earn a little extra money.

Discounts

Now for the fun! One of the best benefits of working in retail is that you may become eligible for employee discounts. As a full-time, perm employee you have the opportunity to gain access to discounts on items you’ve had your eye on. If you are interested in fashion, beauty, tech, or whatever store you may work for these discounts are a great way to try out products and get your hands on highly coveted items.

Take it from one of our retail recruiters:

“My 10-year tenure in retail management truly supported my career transition into recruitment. It allowed me to develop my people skills, ignited my competitive nature and trained my judgement. Retail recruiting requires these same skills. Considering my tenure in the retail industry, I know the necessary questions to ask candidates for entry to senior level roles.” - Tatianna D’Auvergne

Looking for a role in retail? Contact us , we can help.

Working With an Agency as a Recent Grad

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 15:14:14 GMT

As a recent graduate, you may be wondering where to start when looking for a job. Of course, there are the job boards that everyone uses, but you may have questions or wish there was someone guiding you through the process. Luckily, that’s exactly what recruiters at PCG are here to do.

Every day our recruiters work with candidates across the country to guide them through interview processes, salary conversations, and overall job search strategy. While in school, you may have worked with a career services department that helped you build out a resume and search for part time jobs or internships, think of recruitment agencies as career services post-grad.

At Pyramid Consulting Group, LLC, we want to make sure that your first experience looking for a job after graduation is as smooth as possible. Our recruiters have spent years developing relationships with some of the top companies in the world and matching talent to fit their needs. Our recruiters will not just look at your resume, but also get to know you and understand your career goals. Once we understand what you’re looking for, we will work to match you with not just the job that suits you, but the company.

We have curated some recent grad FAQs to help you further understand what a recruitment agency does, how they can help you, and what makes PCG different than other agencies. Have more questions or ready to get started on building the career of your dreams? Contact us , we’re here to help.

Educate & Empower

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 23 Jun 2022 20:53:06 GMT

As everyone knows, June is Pride Month, and at Pyramid Consulting Group, we have been abuzz with finding ways to empower the LGBTQ+ community and educate our employees.

Through Pyramid Possibilities , PCG’s charitable arm, we have partnered with a New York based non-profit organization called Live Out Loud . LOL “works with schools, parents, and community organizations to provide programs for LGBTQ+ youth to build their knowledge of LGTBQ+ history and struggles for equality, increase their awareness of current issues and challenges, build their self-esteem, develop leadership and advocacy skills, and foster safe communities and spaces of allies and peers.”

We have supported LOL, not only through our donation program, but also by sharing information on social media and by hosting a Lunch & Learn with LOL for all PCG employees. At this optional Lunch & Learn, our employees were able to learn important facts and statistics about the LGBTQ+ community as well as this amazing organization. One of our very own recruiters, Rafael Mathiss , is on the board of Live Out Loud and had this to say about the important work that they are doing:

“We hope that one day we will live in a place where kids don’t have to hide or live in fear of abuse. This organization is near and dear to me as I was that gay kid in school that got all the abuse in school. I wish I had an organization where I felt safe. Where I had resources and could connect with people that would protect me. Therefore, I do this…It makes me so happy when I hear how we have impacted these agents of change. The future generation.”

We are so proud to be a place where employees feel comfortable approaching us with ideas to partner with organizations close to their hearts. We strive to be a place of employment that is not only accepting, but also continuing to grow, learn, and change.

At PCG, we are embracing the vision to empower LGBTQ+ youth by educating and being allies to those who need our support. Join us in supporting and empowering the youth & those who are just entering the work force. If you, or someone who know, is getting ready to enter the workforce, contact us. We can help.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 24 May 2022 14:00:50 GMT

Just a few years ago, mental health in the workplace was a topic that was never discussed, but now it seems to be on the forefront for many employers. While many companies do not feel like it is on them to assist their employees when it comes to mental health, others understand that providing resources and uplifting their employees is a benefit that can increase retention and avoid burnout.

Why does mental health need to be discussed in the workplace? There used to be a clear delineation between work life and home life, with mental health being a topic that fell under home life meaning there was no need to discuss it in the workplace. With the increased number of people working virtually or on hybrid work schedules, those clear lines have become a bit more blurred. As was made clear during “The Great Resignation,” employees are taking the power back and finding jobs that provide them the balance and benefits that best suits their lifestyle. One of these points being mental health.

So, what can employers do? Changes that can be made within the workplace will vary depending on every company, but there are options. The first thing that needs to be done is an evaluation of what your current benefits or offerings are at the present time. Perhaps you are already providing tips to avoid burnout and self-care ideas. Maybe you’re already doing virtual, or in-person, hangouts where work is not to be discussed or HR Q&A sessions where employees can learn more about mental health benefits. Here are some more ideas of things you can do! Set up a dedicated team of employees who share tips & tricks, add an EAP to your employee benefits, or close your office for mental health days on a scheduled basis to help avoid burnout.

What should employees look for? It may be difficult to find out what employers are doing to support their employees’ mental health, not just in May, but all year round, as not all companies list their benefits outright. During an interview, you can ask about benefits offered at the company, including PTO where they may mention Mental Health Days. If you work for a company that does not have these resources, be an advocate and bring up your concerns to HR! If they do not seem interested, or it seems unlikely that the company will implement any changes, there is always a job or company out there that will.

As always, if you work with a recruiter at PCG, you can let them know what you are looking for from an employer so that they know which companies would make the best matches. PCG is proud to offer their employees access to an EAP, mental health day office closures, a Health Habits group, and so much more to support their employees. We are also a proud supporter of Vibrant Emotional Health , an organization dedicated to education and resources surrounding mental health.

If you’re looking to find a company that offers you more than just a job, contact us . We are here to help!

#showusyourleave

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 12:45:03 GMT

Over the past couple of weeks, you have likely seen the hashtag #showusyourleave across social media, especially on LinkedIn. If you have not seen the trend, the #showusyourleave challenge was a call put out to companies by The Skimm to share their paid leave, but quickly expanded to include all benefits.

Major corporations, such as Etsy and Estee Lauder, shared their paid leave benefits which opened corporations and their employees to a much larger conversation. While in the past candidates have been focused solely on what their salary expectations are, the market has made a shift to also include benefits/paid leave as one of candidates’ top priorities.

As recruiters, when our team speaks to candidates, they are very often asked about the benefits that our clients offer. Many times, they are prioritizing those benefits, whether that means leave benefits or just the ability to work remote, over the salary that is being offered. Over the last couple of years, companies have seen that in order to recruit and retain employees, they need to reevaluate the benefits that are being offered. For example, standard maternity leave has traditionally been 6 weeks with no paternity leave, but Reddit boasts that it “offers 26 weeks paid leave for birthing parents and 16 for non-birthing parents, including 8.5 weeks paid leave for pregnancy loss.”

A shift towards better benefits is something that PCG has seen grow as a trend with both our clients and candidates. We encourage our clients to examine the benefits that they are offering, not only regarding paid leave, but bonuses, discounts, etc. where applicable. We also ask our candidates to be open with their recruiters regarding what they are looking for. Our job is to match our candidates to the client and job that is the perfect fit!

Looking to make a change in your career or position? Contact us today to discuss your next career move.

Pyramid Possibilities & the Thurgood Marshall College Fund

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 20:19:54 GMT

February is Black History Month, the annual celebration of the achievements by African Americans and the time to recognize the central role they’ve played in the history of the U.S.

At Pyramid Consulting Group, we strive to find ways to give back to our communities and encourage our employees to get involved through our Pyramid Possibilities program. While a charity or organization is annually chosen by our company to focus on throughout the year, in 2022 we wanted to do more. PCG will also be choosing charities and organizations to donate to and/or volunteer with throughout the year. We hope to bring awareness to organizations, give back to our communities, and as a way for our team to work together and team build through volunteering.

This month, in honor of Black History Month, Pyramid Possibilities has chosen to support the Thurgood Marshall College Fund .

“Established in 1987, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) is the nation’s largest organization exclusively representing the Black College Community. TMCF member-schools include the publicly-supported Historical Black colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs). Publicly-supported HBCUs enroll over 80% attending HBCUs. Through scholarships, capacity building and research initiatives, innovative programs, and strategic partnerships, TMFC is a vital resource in the K-12 and higher education space. The organization is also a source for top employers seeking top talent for competitive internships and good jobs.”

PCG is proud to support such an important organization and share their mission with our candidates and clients throughout the month. For more information on TMCF, we encourage you to visit their website and/or social media platforms listed below.

https://www.tmcf.org/

https://www.facebook.com/ThurgoodMarshallCollegeFund/

https://www.instagram.com/tmcf_hbcu/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/476234/

If you’d like more information on Pyramid Possibilities or Pyramid Consulting Group as a whole, please contact us !

New Year, New Job

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 14:30:04 GMT

It’s a new year! Much like many people around the world, the team at PCG has come up with our New Year’s resolutions. Some included spending more time with family, developing stronger work/life balance habits while working remotely, learning new skills, owning property, and so much more. While our team is sharing our goals for this year, we also reflect on the goals of our candidates: new jobs.

A quick scroll through any social media or news feed will show you that many people are leaving their jobs in search of something that they feel is a better fit. Whether they’re looking to leave an unhappy work environment, follow their passion, or are in search of a higher salary, people are leaving jobs and taking their careers back into their own hands. As recruiters, we’re inundated with open positions to fill and candidates looking for a new opportunity every day!

It’s an exciting time in the world of recruiting, but it may be an even more exciting time in the world of job hunting. The marketing is being driven by what candidates are seeking and people are landing jobs that they truly love. Our team spends their days placing talented candidates looking for a new or better opportunity with our awesome clients who are looking for build their teams this year.

So, what is your New Year’s resolution? If it is a new job, PCG wants to help you find it. Contact us – we can help!

'Tis the Season

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 14:27:19 GMT

‘Tis the season for giving! Pyramid Consulting Group is proud to support local and nationwide charities through our charitable arm, Pyramid Possibilities . Throughout the year, as PCG makes permanent placements, we make a donation to one of our charitable partners.

This year, we not only made financial contributions throughout the year, a group of us also spent some time volunteering for Little Essentials. Based out of Brooklyn, NY, Little Essentials offers at-risk families living in poverty urgently needed children’s supplies and parenting education to promote the health, wellbeing, and safety of their children under five years of age. We also encouraged those who could not travel to Brooklyn to donate books, clothing, canned goods, and other items throughout PCG’s 8 Days of Giving.

Having the space and support from a company to give back through volunteer days, matched donations, and the knowledge that the work we do everyday goes towards making a difference, is inspiring. These philanthropic efforts are becoming not only more common for companies, but also more of a demand from candidates when choosing a company to work for.

As a staffing agency, PCG works with candidates and clients to find their perfect matches to open positions, and sometimes that means looking deeper than a job and finding out if it’s a value match. Candidates are open to asking potential employers questions about these efforts to ensure that they’re able to feel good about the company they’re working for.

One of our own recruiters, Tatianna D’Auvergne , comes from a retail background and expressed how grateful she was to join a company that matched her values: "I've always wanted to volunteer during the holidays, but working retail, it was always very difficult for me to find the time to do so. I finally had the opportunity to volunteer with Little Essentials, and it was such a great feeling. It's very fulfilling to know that I work with a company where it is encouraged to volunteer."

If you’re looking to find a company that matches your values, contact us – we can help!

Holiday Jobs Galore!

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 16:18:20 GMT

It’s the most wonderful time of year! In NYC, the leaves have changed color and are beginning to fall. The Rockettes are on TV promoting the Christmas Spectacular. The holidays are quickly approaching and so is the rush to buy gifts!

Deck the halls, deck your savings account! Holiday jobs mean gifts for you, and gifts for family and friends. Contact us for one that “fits” you perfectly . Lucky for you, there are hundreds of jobs located at stores throughout the country that need to be filled in order to help the extra rush that comes along this time of year! We’re working with our clients to ensure that we’re placing candidates that can handle the holiday rush and are excited about getting to work with their brand. We also know that many of our clients are offering exciting incentives this holiday season, including discounts off merchandise – perfect to help you find the right gift for someone in your life.

Whether you’re looking to make some extra cash, get experience with fashion brands, or find some great merchandise discounts – we have the job for you . Not looking for a job this holiday season? Refer a friend and get a gift card that you can spend on gifts for others, or maybe yourself!

Fall Back in Love With Your Job

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 13:22:33 GMT

It is October! The leaves are changing, it is getting dark earlier, the temperature has finally started to cool down, and people are fully settled back into their pre-summer routine. During the summer months, it can be easy to feel like there is more to life than your job. Whether you get summer Fridays, you’re able to work outside, or you are counting down until your next beach day, the summer is just a more enjoyable time.

So, now that Autumn is here, it is possible that you are starting to feel like all you do is work. The days are busier, but they are also shorter. Feeling disconnected from your job and coworkers is normal, especially with much of the workforce still working remotely. Here are some tips from PCG on how to fall back in love with your job and stop that feeling of being disconnected.

1. Schedule time with coworkers

The hardest part of working from home can be the lack of interaction between you and your coworkers. Try scheduling a virtual coffee or lunch where you do not talk about work at all! Talk about apple picking or what your children will be for Halloween – that human connection will make all of the difference!

2. Propose a group activity

Maybe you onboarded remotely and do not have that same connection with your coworkers that some others do. Bring up an idea to your bosses about a virtual activity for your whole company, or team, to do together. It could be trivia, a virtual escape room, or just a nice “getting to know you chat.” Building those relationships will help to foster a better work environment for everyone!

3. Remember what you loved about your job in the first place

Hopefully, there was a point that you loved your job and you have just forgotten about it. Take the time to try to remind yourself why you accepted this position in the first place. Were the values aligned with yours? Did you find the work fun or meaningful? Find that reason and focus on it! Once you remember what that reason was, you will start to feel it again.

4. Learn or try something new

Sometimes part of the reason we slip into slumps at work is because we get stuck doing the same tasks every day. Why not try to do some research and find a new strategy or idea that your company has not found yet? Not only will this look good, but you will have something new and exciting to discover and maybe a new project to lead!

5. Become a mentor

If you have been in your position for a while, it may seem like you have tried all of our above suggestions and they just are not working. Try mentoring! There was a time when you were new in your company or even your career and you may have loved to have someone take you under their wing. Why not try to be that for someone else? Reach out to a new employee and see if they’d be interested in shadowing you. Teaching them may just spark something in you!

Now, what happens if you do all of this, and you do not fall back in love with your job? That is where PCG comes in! We are here working with people every day to change their lives and find jobs that they love. Contact us and let us help you find your next move.

Holiday Kickoff!

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 17:16:17 GMT

The holiday season will be here before you know it. Sounds crazy, right? It seems like only yesterday we were celebrating the 4 ^th of July and now here we are planning for the busiest time of the year.

While it may feel like the holidays are a bit out of reach, at PCG we know that it is always better to be prepared for anything coming around the corner. The team at Pyramid Consulting Group is currently getting ready for our 2021 Holiday Kickoff Meeting! We are gearing up to help both clients and candidates have the most successful season of the year.

We have a national team that is ready to help our clients and candidates reach their goals! Our clients can rest easy knowing that we’re ready to be a full-service partner . Not only is our team ready to leverage their candidate pools to find the talent that perfectly fits our clients’ needs, but we offer services such as payrolling and shift management to be a partner every step of the way. Similarly, our candidates looking for a job in the coming months can reach out to us at any time to get started. We have clients ready and waiting for talent just like you!

Whether you’re a client needing help, or a candidate looking for a job, the team at PCG is ready and waiting to help. Contact us for more information on how we can help you !

Interview Tips from the PCG Team

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 14:01:08 GMT

Going on interviews can be a nerve-racking experience. Luckily, at PCG, our recruiters work with candidates everyday to prepare them to give the best interview possible. We want all of our candidates to land their dream job, so we share our industry expertise to get them ready.

We asked our recruiters to share their best interview tips, and we are here to give you the top five.

Mimic the tone and pace of the person interviewing you to help keep the conversation flowing naturally
Be aware of your body language! Nonverbal communication is just as important as what you say.
Be prepared to speak in quantitative terms. Rather than having your experience sound exactly like the job description, talk about your accomplishments. Discuss what you specifically impacted in your roles and include actual numbers when possible
Research, research, research: Do your research on the company and be familiar with the person you are interviewing with.
Ask the right questions: Don’t focus your questions on compensation and potential growth. Be sure to ask questions that will provide you insight into the company, the role, and what would make you successful in the role.

If you are ready to put these tips to use, contact us so we can help you find your next career move.

Your Boss Wants You Back in the Office. Like, Now

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 11 Aug 2021 11:30:02 GMT

As businesses begin to reopen, many companies are asking their employees to return to the office sooner than many had expected.

In the Wall Street Journal, Your Boss Wants You Back in the Office. Like, Now . , they discuss the reasons that employers have for requesting their employees back into the office and how employees are feeling about the return. In addition to the concerns about COVID-19 and the delta variant, employees aren’t all ready to give up the extra time in their day that they gained by losing a commute. On the other hand, employers believe that their team is unable to flourish while working remotely. It will be interesting to see how many companies adjust to the changing world.

At PCG, we understand that not everybody is ready to go back into an office environment. That is why we work to highlight remote jobs on our website so candidates can feel comfortable. If you have any questions, or want to discuss your next career move, contact us .

New Look, New Jobs

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 15 Jul 2021 21:47:05 GMT

Throughout the years, we have all watched brands go through changes. For example, Google’s logo has changed five times in its 20 years in business. There are a lot of reasons that a company would go through a rebrand such as a change in leadership, a change in markets, hiding from a negative reputation, etc. So, why did we?

Pyramid Consulting Group, LLC. celebrated its 18th year in business this past June! As we approached that date, we realized that the company that we have grown into wasn’t being reflected in our look and our logo needed a bit of a shift into 2021. PCG prides itself on being a company that works to be an extended arm of our clients and also gets to know the candidate behind the paper in order to find them their dream job. We have built a team of knowledgeable and approachable recruiters who thrive on finding the perfect fit.

Our new look is meant to reflect the bright and open feeling that we all hope clients and candidates feel when they work with us. With the help of the amazing team at New Breed Marketing, we are excited to step into this new phase of Pyramid Consulting Group and hope you’ll come along for the journey.

A word from our CEO, Allyson Goodman, on the rebrand:

“At PCG, we have enhanced our logo and website to highlight what we can do for candidates and clients navigating these unique times in career placement. We even added a feature to easily find REMOTE jobs across our client base, so that job seekers can go beyond their geographic areas to find their next great position. Information on how we create custom staffing strategies for our clients are also present alongside our fantastic staff, our mission and story, our inspirational partnerships, and the extended areas of expertise we excel in. We truly are one place to fill your space.”

Are You Really Ready to Quit?

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 16:52:30 GMT

So, you think you’re ready to start looking for a new position. Congratulations! We would love to help you get started.

There are questions you may be asking yourself, such as “Am I ready?, “Why am I leaving?. Could a change in my position here change my mind?” These are all valid questions! Dorie Clark at Harvard Business Review may have answers for you in a piece titled “Are You Really Ready to Quit?” We suggest reading it over and finding out if you’re really ready to make this move.

If you have read the article and find that you still want to search for your dream job, contact us. We can not wait to help you.

Employee Referral Program

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Fri, 11 Jun 2021 16:36:21 GMT

At any point in your career you have heard, or will hear, of employee referral programs, but you may not be aware of why they are so beneficial to you. Whether you are an employer looking to fill a role or an employee with a strong network referral programs are valuable.

At PCG, we see one of our candidates referring someone to us as the highest compliment that we can receive! This says to us that not only do you trust us to help you find your next career move, but you also trust us to share with your network to assist with finding their dream job. We know from our 18 years of experience that attracts talent, and we want to reward you for that.

Pyramid is happy to have a Referral Program in place that we believe is beneficial for everyone involved. While we get to put our expertise to use and help people find a new role, you are rewarded monetarily for wanting to help support those in your network. See below for more information on our current program and more benefits to referring employees.

For Temporary Referral Placements* you will receive a $25 Amex Gift Card (per referral placed) after your referral works 80+ hours in their

new role.

For Permanent Placements* you will receive an Amex Gift Card dependent on the level of candidate placed. These gift cards range from

$50 to $250.

Do you know someone who would be perfect for one of our open positions? Contact us for details.

*Valid through 8/31/21

Anxiety Returning to the Office Post COVID

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 05 May 2021 21:02:01 GMT

As offices begin to reopen, employees are feeling a twinge of anxiety at the thought of going into an office full-time. Feeling alone? A quick Google search will show you that you are not the only person feeling uncertain about a return to “normal life.” While you may not have control about whether your company chooses to return to the office full-time, you do have control over how you handle the situation.

After talking to friends and colleagues it appears that many companies are fairly transparent when communicating their reopening plans. The first step to mitigating your anxiety may be to simply ask what your company’s plan looks like. Being prepared and having a plan are great ways to help relieve some of the anxiety associated with change.

Another way to help alleviate some of the nerves is to come up with some coping mechanisms and find positives in your new situation. If you are going to be traveling on public transportation for the first time in over a year, that can seem daunting, but look at it as a chance to catch up on the newest best sellers or popular podcasts. Now might be the right time to skip the cab or bus ride and choose to walk those last couple of blocks – a great way to get exercise and fresh air.

There are a lot of great ways to help prepare and cope with the anxiety that has begun to arise when discussing returning to the office. If you are a business owner or leader your anxiety might stem from not having a full staff in place for when your business is set to reopen. If that is the case, contact us – we are here to help you with all of your staffing needs. We understand how the market has changed and we want to ensure that you are set up for success.

Resources to help guide you in managing your return-to-work anxiety:

CDC.gov – Managing Stress & Anxiety

National Alliance on Mental Health – Return to Work

VirusAnxiety.com

Headspace.com - COVID

Job Searching During COVID-19

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Fri, 31 Jul 2020 11:34:00 GMT

It may be hard to stay positive while job searching – especially in the midst of a global pandemic. Whether you’re a recent graduate or in search of your next great opportunity, staying positive may be the keep to helping you keep your cool during a pandemic-ridden job search. Here are a few tips – straight from PCG recruiters – on how to maintain a positive outlook while job searching during COVID-19.

Maintain a positive outlook:

First and foremost, maintaining a positive outlook during a global pandemic goes far beyond searching for a new job. Maintaining a positive outlook can help boost personal morale and keep you motivated to continue your job search.

“Stay positive!” said Laura Menezes, Senior Account Director at PCG. “You are not alone in the ups and downs of a job search. These are unprecedented times, and many other people are in the same boat.”

Keep in touch:

Tapping into your personal network of friends, family, or previous colleagues could be a great way to link up with a new job. You never know – your uncle’s friend from high school may be hiring for a job that checks off all of your personal boxes. It never hurts to ask!

“It’s important to rely on each other and there should be no shame in asking for support during this time,” Said Krista Esposito, Manager of Retail Recruitment for Pyramid. “As recruiters, referrals are a huge part of our business and have become some of our best candidates!”

Reach out:

As recruiters, we always advocate for reaching out to extend your resources. Utilizing the tools and resources of a staffing or recruiting agency is a great way to get your resume out there and, sometimes, to the top of the shortlist.

“It’s a great time to partner with a recruiter and discuss your career and where you see yourself growing,” said PCG Executive Vice President, Erika Mendez. “Use this time to make human connections versus submitting your resume blindly and not knowing where the company is in their process.”

Don’t be afraid of temp or freelance:

If you’re coming from previous experience in a full-time permanent capacity, don’t be afraid to explore temporary or freelance positions. Depending on the length of assignment, some temporary roles can offer placement and work for over a year and can really boost up your resume with great companies and experience!

Don’t give up:

It may be easier said than done, but don’t give up! Utilize your resources and keep pushing – you’ll be so thankful you did when you land an amazing job!

Wanting to connect with a recruiter to learn more about our services and how we can help you during your job search? Send your resume to resumes@pyramidcg.com.

PCG Positivity: What words inspire YOU?

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Fri, 05 Jun 2020 14:24:00 GMT

We could all use a bit of positiity during these uncertain times. This week, we asked the PCG to provide their favorite quote that has helped them stay positive, motivated, and optimistic during times of uncertainty:

"Courage is contagious. Every time we choose courage, we make everyone around us a little better and the world a little braver." - Brene' Brown

Allyson Goodman, CEO & Founder

"When you focus on the good, the good gets better."

Erika Mendez, Executive Vice President

"Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it." - Charles R. Swindoll

Jennifer Goldrick, Senior Director of People & Operations

"No matter how you feel, get up, dress up, show up, and never give up."

Ashlie Berardocco, Assistant Vice President, Strategic Partnerships

"Act as if what you do makes a difference. IT DOES." -William James

Krista Esposito, Manager of Retail Recruitment

"Obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or walk around it." -Michael Jordan

Haley Tanella, Marketing Manager

"Determination today leads to success tomorrow"

"It takes a dream to get started, desire to keep going, and determination to finish." -Eddie Harris, Jr.

"Take passion and determination anywhere you go and we promise you, you'll go far." -Dorothea Jackson

Ashley Delgado, Manager of Corporate Recruitment

"Do something today that your future self will thank you for."

Mary Lorraine Ocariza, Assistant Vice President, Retail & Events Recruitment

"Try to be a rainbow in someone else's cloud." -Maya Angelou

Jason Collazo, Client Relationship Manager

From My Home(Office): Rejuvenation, Regrowth, Renewal,

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 27 May 2020 14:54:00 GMT

12 articles

From My Home(Office): Let the Sunshine In

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 20 May 2020 14:52:00 GMT

As week 10 begins, a routine normalcy starts to settle into working from home. The weather this weekend gave us all a reprieve from the indoors on the East Coast, flowers are blooming, birds are singing, and it seemed optimism was growing. I am hopeful to keep this optimism growing as the summer season begins.

With this new “abnormal”, it is easy to fall victim to negative thoughts, and this week I want explore ways to keep the sunshine in. Here are some of the ways my team and I at PCG are supporting each other during this time.

“When you can’t find the sunshine, be the sunshine”

How do you keep away the grey and allow the sunshine in?

-Allyson Goodman, CEO & Founder

From My Home(Office): Sprouting the Planted Seeda

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 13 May 2020 14:50:00 GMT

Over the last 9 weeks we have seen this pandemic transition our lives in dramatic ways, and how the seeds of change have taken root in everything we do as humans…especially in the workplace.

Because of this, new roles are essential to our world as we consider the safety of others around us, and also the hope to get back to what Mark Cuban has named “the new abnormal”. He has openly discussed how businesses need to be resilient, and even if one seed does not sprout, to keep trying, keep nurturing your seed ideas and be responsive to changes in environments.

Business Insider predicts 15 million jobs will be created in the next decade to continue to promote social distancing, mainly to facilitate the growth and maintenance of critical care centers and their capacity levels. At PCG, we have adapted to the needs of our clients and are offering new roles that did not exist before this pandemic, but are critical in a post COVID-19 world. Wellness Ambassadors to take temperatures before you can continue on site. Contact tracer needs are growing nationwide as we track communities for patterns in this virus. Social Distancing Officers maintaining distance and ensuring crowd control. Sales Specialists that can create a safe, clean environment for customers to shop in, and to manage the stock levels of items that need to be sterilized. Business Continuity and Operational Risk roles to ensure effective framework. In addition, there are still mass needs for delivery and warehouse support staff as people continue to stay safe at home.

These needs will help to facilitate “the new abnormal”, create jobs for those seeking employment, and also to be a positive step into our future.

“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow” -Audrey Hepburn

I am motivated to keep growing seeds, to nurture ideas, and be a part of change so we can bloom again.

-Allyson Goodman, CEO & Founder

From My Home(Office): Pivot!

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 06 May 2020 14:49:00 GMT

Week 8. Two months of virtual work, on-screen meetings, and remote teams brought together by a unified effort to push forward through this challenging time.

Have you seen the Friend’s episode with Ross and the couch- the “Pivot” episode? Well, readers, we are Ross. The couch is the future, and the stairwell is full of the challenges we have all faced during this pandemic. I am encouraged by the quick adjustments made by teachers nationwide to continue to educate our children. By office teams to come up with communication methods that allow us to work at home successfully. For the community of people across the world that have banded together to stay home, and stay safe so that those on the front-lines can continue to fight this battle.

In order to get the couch up the stairs and in the door, we need to pivot. Easier said than done right? Last week I talked about growing teams in the wake of this virus. Today, I am focused and committed to learning about what provisions need to be made to pivot forward so companies can make each employee on their valued team feel safe- internally and externally.

Retail brands begin to challenge the norm and offer appointment only services, companies begin to look at what reopening an office means to elevator rides, kitchen spaces, and cleanliness monitoring. Still others begin the concept of a virtual office continuing on as the new normal of operations - some that have never even had virtual offices before.

I am curious- what provisions will make you comfortable as we begin the reopening process? Learning about what will help all of our comfort levels will help us pivot and begin this new chapter.

Thank you in advance for your responses. Together we will get through the doorway!

-Allyson Goodman, CEO & Founder

From My Home(Office): Seeds of Change

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 29 Apr 2020 14:47:00 GMT

Week 8 of working from my home (office). It has been two months of extreme change, transition, and hardship. It has also brought rainy weather here on the East Coast, which means more indoor time to reflect while we are safe at home.

As the news starts to talk about reopening parks and public places, and states consider reopening, I am reminded of the old adage “April showers bring May flowers”. (Adversity is followed by good fortune)

May begins this weekend, and so does a new initiative for our team at PCG. We are connecting with our networks to talk about reopening, what that looks like, and how we can be creative business partners to help with staffing needs. Change begins with conversation, and conversation creates hope. These conversation seeds can help all of us get through the rain to finally start seeing the sun shine again.

Things to think about:

As we have starting having these creative conversations with our clients, I'm filled with hope and gratitude for the relationships that were once seeds that are now blossomed partnerships.

Now that we can start to visualize the future, how will your teams bloom?

-Allyson Goodman, CEO & Founder

From My Home(Office): Focusing on the "After"

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 22 Apr 2020 14:34:00 GMT

Welcome to week 7 of working from home. It can certainly feel overwhelming reminiscing on the “before”- the commuting, the meetings, the happy hours, the freedom…

I prefer to continue to visualize the “after”. How the face of staffing will change, what support my clients will need, and how candidates will adjust to this new landscape of their career. My team is actively meeting talent nationwide, who have experienced layoffs, furloughs, and change in job responsibilities. It gives them a pause to reflect on what they hope their work will look like “after”.

I watch our own clients have some sparks of success- food industry companies booming with the convenience of well balanced meals delivered to your door, and eCommerce blossoming under the heavy demands of every day shopping item supply and demand. This creates new workforces in production, planning, buying, customer service, and operations. Company missions become personal missions as they work to provide comfort in a time of unknown. These comforts now will be etched into the “after”, and something we will no longer take for granted.

Further still I watch our experiential clients begin the seeds of planning for “after”. These projects may have new and additional faces- security, line control, crowd management and brand ambassadors that can create an experience we have all been hopeful for.

All change starts with great people; as great people create the “after”. These think-tank conversations on how we can partner with our clients and candidates at this time is our personal way to start.

From My Home(Office) To Yours

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 14:31:00 GMT

Hello from my Westchester home office! I read a quote recently that said “we are not working from home, we are surviving at home” and it really made me stop and think. I am so grateful to be home safe with my family, and so grateful for all that work to keep us safe on the front lines of this pandemic.

I am also grateful for my company, that provides a positive place for myself and my team to be creative and productive, and that this can all be done virtually. We have not missed a beat, and I feel forever changed on how I view “the workplace”. We are continuing to meet talent nationwide, listen to their stories, engage them in conversations of what their career looked like before, and what their after can be.

As I connect with colleagues and clients, I am inspired by ways many of them have transitioned their businesses to support efforts of relief, and how they have been able to adjust their workplaces overnight. Although we still have an uphill climb, it is promising to have conversations on new roles for teams to be built out and projects that are being planned. The use of technology like FaceTime and ZOOM have been essential in “e-meeting” talent and continuing staffing processes.

I am excited to share my thoughts and findings here with you weekly as our industry changes. Stay safe, and stay positive.

-Allyson Goodman, CEO/Founder @ Pyramid Consulting Group

Improve Your Professional and Personal Well-Being During Quarantine

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 12:44:00 GMT

Have a few extra hours on hand? We know we do! So, why not take the time you have to do a bit of personal (and professional!) self-care! Here are a few times to improve your personal and professional well-being during your free time:

Rethink your resume & cover letter

With a few extra hours in your day, why not take some time to rethink your resume and cover letter. Even if it’s glancing over your job descriptions, gearing the language towards positions you may way to work on in the future, or even giving it a design reboot, there has never been a better time to kick your professional representation up a notch!

Need a bit of guidance in this department? Our PCG recruiters are an excellent resource if you’re looking for a big of help! Feel free to send your resume to our team by emailing resume@pyramidcg.com.

Learn a new skill or brush up on existing ones

Online learning has made learning a new skill (or brushing up on some existing ones!) easier than ever. Learning platforms like Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, and General Assembly offer free online classes that cover everything from mastering excel spreadsheets, to understanding the basics of JavaScript – and even some more non-traditional online classes, like knitting or music.

Remember to take time for yourself

In times of uncertainty, it certainly is easy to get wrapped up in the craziness. One thing that is important to remember is to, obviously, take care of yourself! Throughout the day, make sure you take some time for yourself – to do something you love! Whether it’s running outside, baking a fresh batch of homemade cookies, reading a chapter of a new book, or doing a bit of yoga – make sure to do something you enjoy that stimulates your mind, body, or both!

We've been hopping on Citi Bikes after dinner every night, with our face masks, and enjoying the lower Manhattan bike paths. –Liza Park, Senior Account Director

Running a few miles over the course of the week and doing online workouts has become my “me time”. I love staying active – it helps me clear my mind and allows me to let out a little steam at the end of the day.” – Haley Tanella, Marketing Manager

Take an internet break

No seriously – do it! If you can, step away from the news, internet, and even your phone for a short break during your day. Not only will this help you keep a clear head, but can actually help boost your mood and even clear your schedule for some time with yourself, your family, or that list of chores you meant to get to. Stay positive!

Essential Tools To Keep Your Team Connected While Working Remotely

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 30 Mar 2020 15:48:00 GMT

There’s no getting around it – working from home has become a new norm, especially in recent weeks. While we may be facing difficult times at the current moment, staying positive and fully connected to help businesses grow amongst any uncertainty. Here are a few tips to help keep your team connected while working remotely:

Working remotely presents its number of challenges – one of those being face-to-face interactions and daily touch bases. One way to keep connected with your teams is to hold weekly touch bases via video conference tools, such as Zoom or Amazon Chime. Take some time out of your day to reconnect with face-to-face connectivity and collaborate in ways you may not be able to on a typical work from home day.

If you’re looking to touch base quickly or send simple messages, an internal chat feature may be a great solution for your team! Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Blink all offer internal chat solutions to send quick messages, other than hopping on the phone or email. Send a quick hello, a funny gif or meme, or even share files – without the delay of back-and-forth over email for a quick communication solution.

Make file-sharing easy! Systems like Google Docs and Microsoft OneDrive can allow you to share documents within your organization – ensuring that everyone is up-to-date with any changes to presentations, documentations, or files. These types of cloud-based file organization can also allow your team to edit documents within the system, once again eliminating the need for continuous back-and-forth file sharing. This will also ensure that everyone is aware of any changes in real time!

A lot of companies are different, but one thing that all can agree is that employees must be kept aware of existing or changing policies, company news, and other announcements (especially in times such as these!) At PCG, we use Microsoft Yammer – an enterprise social media tool – to keep our employees up-to-date on any changes in policy, industry news, and use it as a place to keep any human resources documents for easy access.

A fun way to keep your employees engaged while working from home is to set up a weekly meeting! Take some time to set aside your work for a few minutes to reconnect with everyone on your team! Set up an internal video conference to enjoy each other’s company over lunch, while talking about your latest Netflix binges, or discuss any new recipes you may be testing in your kitchen – virtually. This will help to keep your internal communication strong while adding a bit of brightness to everyone’s day.

5 Easy (And Inexpensive) Ways to Learn a New Skill Outside of Your Career This Year

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 18 Feb 2020 11:36:00 GMT

“When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.” Paulo Coelho. I firmly believe you should always be striving to elevate yourself in all areas of your life, whether it is a work/career related skill, a creative passion, or lifestyle choices. Depending on the skill, it can be costly to learn new programs or techniques, so to aid in that issue, we compiled 5 inexpensive ways to learn a new skill.

We are hopeful that some of these suggestions aid or inspire in your quest of self-improvement. Whatever the skill may be that you are trying to learn, be proud of yourself for pushing for change, and holding yourself responsible to follow through with it… You can do it!

Dillon Hughes

Marketing & Administrative Assistant

What Can You Gain from Freelance?

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 05 Nov 2019 13:47:00 GMT

What do freelance roles offer you that can help grow your career? In short, freelance offers a different experience than full-time roles in different aspects. The skillset you can gain from these assignments will also set you apart from the skills that other people in more traditional roles may not have. To give a better understanding, we asked our team what you can gain from freelance roles:

Erika Mendez , our Executive Vice President, shares “Freelance roles within a pop up or experiential marketing store can highlight leadership skills, regardless of role. Often times, these pop ups are fast and furious: lines to get in, chaotic with traffic, lots of excitement in the air. The ability of a candidate to show calm under pressure, create an experience or keep a smooth flow can be excellent ways to add leadership skills to a resume for future roles!”

Memo Faraj, the Director of Retail Recruitment, adds “Freelance roles are great for many reasons! Not only do freelance opportunities provide you with experience on your resume, but they give insight into different types of companies, roles and responsibilities that you can utilize the direction in which you want to take your career. Give it your all – sometimes freelancing leads to other opportunities; you never know who you will meet and the exciting time you may have!”

Mary Ocariza, Assistant Vice President, Retail & Events, said “Freelance opportunities provide a fantastic way to showcase your skills and talents within a shortened period of time. Although it’s temporary, the impact that you make with the company can be huge! Perhaps you organized their stockroom into best shape it’s ever been or went above and beyond for a client and they emailed the corporate office to rave about their experience with you or assisted them on a large project where you helped them achieve the deadline with awesome results! At times, you may be offered a permanent position with the company due to your performance. It’s always best to give 100% in each role! All of these things definitely enhance your resume, so if you’re looking for something new or challenging, freelance is the way to go!”

Juan Rivera , Recruitment Manager, said “The best thing about pursuing freelance roles is that you can really explore what you want to do and where you want to do it. For example, if I wanted to try working in an office environment after being in retail for a long time, trying out a contract role would suit me best because I can get a taste of what I think I’m looking for. Whether I love it or hate it, the worst that could happen is that I gain experience with an awesome company and a better, clearer understanding of what I want to do with my career.”

There is much to gain from freelance roles, from skills to observations about your career path. If you or someone you know is interested in freelance opportunities, send over a resume to holiday@pyramidcg.com !

Bridging the Gap: From Freelance to Full-time

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 04 Nov 2019 14:43:00 GMT

If you’ve been freelancing and find yourself ready to take on a full-time position, we can help! We can help you transition your skills learned, and focus on a permanent job search. Here are some great tips to consider when deciding if focusing on perm is right for you….

Build Your Network

While you’re planning out your next career move, take on any temporary or freelance position in the industry you’re looking to work. Network with the people who you may meet at any events, as you never know who may want to extend an offer to you full-time!

Know What You’re Seeking

Searching for a full-time role can feel daunting. To prepare yourself for your next career move, prepare a list of non-negotiables that you know you’ll need in your next position. Do you need flexible hours? Would you rather work 9-5? Are you going to enjoy sitting at a desk for most of the day? No matter what you’re looking for, the position you desire is out there. We can help you find it!

Transitioning to a Full-time Role

There will be a shift in experiences between freelance and full-time work. You may lose the flexibility in your schedule, but you will gain stability in your routine. You’ll also gain an ability to budget when you know what your paychecks will look like month to month.

Be Yourself

Communicate your skills and your personality through your personal brand. You can draw employers towards you by being your authentic self and showcasing your performance. Being yourself can aid you in finding full-time positions, because your employer will know exactly who you are!

Most importantly, remember that your freelancing skills are transferrable into any role. Whether you enjoy working with people, marketing or selling a product or enjoy leading a group, your skills can take you far. For more information about transitioning to full-time or to inquire about our open roles, contact resume@pyramidcg.com !

Tricks & Treats for Acing The Interview

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 07 Oct 2019 16:37:00 GMT

Congrats! You just landed an interview, now what? Having a successful interview is key to getting that job, and it can be quite a daunting process to prepare. To ensure you’re on your A game follow these tricks from our industry experts!

Memo Faraj is the Director of Retail Recruitment. His past experiences working both in-store and at the corporate level of the retail industry have provided him the ability to connect and identify amazing candidates and place them in their ideal roles. “It is so important to do your research! This speaks volumes in an interview. For retail roles, visit a store, explore the product or the services and follow their Instagram. You will be making a commitment to work and represent a brand, so you should familiarize yourself with it inside and out.”

Quanasia Graham is a Retail Recruiter with over twelve years of experience in fashion retail and styling. “Video interviews have become very popular, so it is very important to dress for success for them, just as you would an in-person interview.”

Mary Lorraine Ocariza is the Assistant Vice President, Retail & Events, managing a nationwide candidate base in tandem with her diverse client pool. “An interview is the best way to showcase your skills and interest in the company and position you are applying. To ACE the interview, know exactly WHO you are meeting with, whether it’s the CEO of the company, your potential manager or someone in HR. Prepare questions ahead of time tailored to the person you are meeting, which will help you decide if this is the right company for you. Most importantly, let your personality shine! Be your authentic self and always remain professional at all times.”

Erin Mahoney is an Assistant Account Manager, specifically working on large key accounts that span nationwide. “You always want to bring several copies of your resume just in case you meet with more than one person. Bringing them in a folder will ensure they remain neat and clean!”

Jason Collazo is a Client Relationship Manager, who implements innovative and effective sales strategies to best partner with his client’s needs. “I cannot stress the importance of a thoughtful and prompt thank you note enough. The thank you note should be sent within 24 hours of the interview - preferably the same day if possible. It’s important to touch on specific conversation points and personalize the message to leave a strong and lasting impression on the hiring manager. Generic or brief thank you notes can show lack of interest and lessen your chances of securing the job.”

There are numerous steps to preparing for an interview, but consider trying these tips to help you get a jump start being well prepared. For more of our current open roles and up to date tips, follow us on Instagram @Pyramid.CG

Preparing for the Retail Holiday Season

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 07 Oct 2019 16:24:00 GMT

Holiday time is the busiest time of year for retail market and freelance workers, which can make it stressful for each individual employee to manage duties, provide excellent customer service and keep a calm mindset and poise. When prepping for the holidays, follow these tips compiled from our team and have your best season yet!

Take Care of Personal Errands in Advance:

To avoid unnecessary stress, get all of your personal errands including holiday shopping done early and on your free time. Instead of stressing out about your own personal errands, you will allow yourself to manage clients and customers more efficiently.

Take Time for Yourself:

Prioritizing self-care during this season is crucial. If you do not take the time to relax your mind and body, you will burn out quickly. During breaks, find a quiet area to take a breath and refresh. You will head back to work with a clear and positive mindset.

Customer Service:

Be polite to customers, and create experiences. Make the most of every encounter by being kind – one act of kindness can change someone’s day for the better. If you find yourself working and losing your pep, take a minute to yourself by practicing the self-care tips mentioned above.

Holiday Pay:

If all else fails, remember your bonus, employee discount or paycheck at the end of each assignment. Reminding yourself of what you will use that money towards – gifts to yourself, vacation, paying off debt – will make all of the hours and daily obstacles worth every penny you receive.

Holiday season is here! Whether you’re looking for full-time work or a part-time gig to make extra cash, we may have something for you. Take a look at our seasonal positions on our job board or send your resume to holiday@pyramidcg.com !

Freelance MVP: Tiffany Cline

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 07 Oct 2019 16:15:00 GMT

Photo by: The WriteOne Creative Services

At PCG, we get to work on a myriad of projects for our clients that allow us to place freelance employees at exciting experiences. We have helped to grow the resumes of our talent pool with the exposure they have received through our assignments. Though we do not see our freelance talent day-to-day in our office, we work closely with them and form strong relationships that allow us to continually place them within new assignments. This month, we are highlighting Tiffany Cline, a Brand Ambassador who has chosen to make an exciting career out of experiential marketing projects.

Read on to find more about Tiffany’s experience as a freelance Brand Ambassador and how she’s become a resident Freelance MVP here at Pyramid!

PCG: Hi, Tiffany! Thanks for taking the time to chat with us and allowing us to feature you in our new blog series featuring freelance employees. Can you tell us how you started working with PCG?

TC: I started working with Pyramid when I saw a Facebook post on the Brand Ambassadors of Tampa Bay group last year. A high profile client needed some holiday assistance with their retail program. We hit it off!

PCG: Do you do a lot of experiential marketing experiences?

TC: Yes! That’s actually my full-time career. I am 100% freelance and I don’t think I will ever go back to a desk job! I’ve done pretty much every other marketing event this client has done since my first!

PCG: How did you get involved in doing this kind of work full time?

TC: I come from Central Florida, so I was in the entertainment industry as a performer and trainer. I slowly started crossing over from entertainment to more special events entertainment. I moved up to the D.C. market and there are events all over the place. I was constantly working events and met a lot of people who do it as their full-time career and decided to give it a go!

PCG: How much time do you allow yourself in between assignments?

TC: I have found myself planning vacations and then if there’s certain trade shows or certain events throughout the year that you have your eye on, check your calendar before you pencil in a vacation! You never want to be out of town and find out that you’ve missed out on some of the biggest events of the year. This past year, I knew that the Super Bowl was going to be in Atlanta and I said “you know what, that’s close to my market! I’m going to Atlanta!” I got staffed and was in Atlanta for 12 days.

PCG: Is there anything you particularly love about freelancing? What’s your favorite part?

TC: I would say my absolute favorite thing is that I’m never bored. I come from a Performing Arts background where I’m used to things being chaotic. You audition, you do one show, that show ends and you go to the next. You’re all over the place. I like the mess and I like I’m not going to do the same mundane job every day. One day I might be working medical conference, the next I’m working a football tailgate. It’s fun. My job is fun. I feel like I’m using my degree every day, which is great. I went to school for Performance Communication, and I feel like it really helps me in learning how to talk to different types of people and different cultures and environments. Like I said, it’s never the same!

I’m talking to you the airport in Atlanta after working an expo that is basically a giant convenience store where you see all these new products that are about to come into the market. It’s really cool.

PCG: What kind of jobs have you worked for PCG recently?

TC: The bulk of the work I’ve done with PCG has been through a major mall and events company. I’ve worked multiple locations in Central Florida, and I’m blessed to say that I have a pretty good rapport enough to the point that any time they have a marketing event come up, I’m there. They have three different malls in the Tampa Bay area. It’s usually always seasonal and they are usually pushing to get families to come into the mall. They are always family-friendly events. Sometimes it’s a gift card retail program, but I couldn’t even tell you how many dozens of events I’ve done over the last year and a half.

PCG: Do you feel you have more freedom working freelance or, because you’re always watching the calendar and seeking what events are coming up, do you feel you’re more restricted in that sense?

TC: There’s definitely more freedom – it’s all based on a timeline and chance. Sometimes, it’s a gamble. I may have someone tell me they are getting married and I’ll look at the calendar and see that I don’t have an event booked that day so I’ll just keep that day off. Or there may be something that pops up and I’ll have to say “no, I’m scheduled to work an event that day”. I like the flexibility. There’s obviously no PTO in this industry, but there are so many events out there that pay better than most of the management jobs I’ve had in my career! I’ve had jobs where I was managing teams of 50 and everything from the initial interview to the onboarding to the schedule and onsite management – most stressful jobs of my life – didn’t pay as well as my freelance work does. So it really depends. You can have the security of PTO, vacation days and a hard-set schedule where you have to request days off, but for me personally, I’d rather just work hard and make my money and be my own boss. You just have to make sure that you have the discipline to do so and you maintain those relationships with those agencies and clients.

PCG: Is there any advice you’d like to give anyone breaking out into a Brand Ambassador or freelance career?

You meet some BAs out there who think this is a cakewalk because you’re an independent contractor and they don’t take it seriously, and that will reflect on them eventually. You have to show up on time and develop your product knowledge and show up in the correct uniform. You know exactly who your target audience is. There’s a lot that goes into this. You have to maintain the books at home for tax purposes and making sure your checks show up when they’re supposed to. There’s a lot of stuff that goes into it, you just have to look at it as a career and not as some frivolous, part time work. Which is fine if it is, but you still want to make sure you’re on top of it so if you decide to do it on a more regular basis, you’re prepared and not just all over the place. I have a home office! You have to make sure that you have a clear head if this is something you want to do as a full time job.

PCG: Finally, what is your experience working with our company? With Mary or any other recruiters you’ve worked with at PCG?

TC: It’s fantastic. What I like about PCG is Mary’s timeliness in getting back to me about things. I don’t feel like a number. We will text each other directly and it’s like I can talk to her like I’ve known her for years even though I’ve only been working with her for a year and a half. I’ve seen pictures of her kids! I just like that she is always quick to get an answer to me and I feel like I know her. I think that’s important to have that type of interpersonal communication with an agency where you don’t feel like you’re just a number or an employee. She’s very personable and I’ve always had that perfect mix of professionalism with friendliness.

Tiffany has made a career out of being a Freelance Brand Ambassador. If you’re interested in following her path, contact us today or send your resume to retail@pyramidcg.com to be contacted by a recruiter!

Meet Your HR Team!

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 03 Sep 2019 15:27:00 GMT

After you receive an offer letter for your freelance position, you’ll receive an email with onboarding and paperwork instructions from our HR Generalist, Katelyn Cahill. She is the point of contact for all things onboarding. Before your first day as a freelance employee, our Payroll & Onboarding Specialist Lindsay Ritter will send you personalized instructions via email with what to expect regarding payroll and logging hours. Lindsay ensures you are paid accurately and on time. After 90 days of full-time employment with Pyramid Consulting Group, Katelyn will send you instructions about health insurance eligibility.

Both Katelyn and Lindsay are fully accessible to our freelance employees at all times. They are a wealth of knowledge regarding all things HR and can answer any questions that you may have.

“I love onboarding and training new hires because it’s great to see individual development and accomplishments. From short-term, temporary to ongoing assignments, being able to help people from start to finish is something I find very rewarding,” said Katelyn. For any questions about onboarding or other exciting benefits through PCG, contact Katelyn Cahill at 646-930-0085 or katelync@pyramdcg.com

“The best part of working with freelance employees is building relationships with both candidates and clients and helping them to find success during their time working with PCG,” said Lindsay. For any questions about payroll, contact Lindsay Ritter at 646-930-0092 or lindsayr@pyramidcg.com

Benefits of Freelancing

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 03 Sep 2019 10:58:00 GMT

Working as a freelance employee has a multitude of perks:

We asked some of our own freelance employees their favorite aspects of working in the business and these are some of the responses:

“I love freelancing because I get to work with new people every day. I have the opportunity to meet people at different levels in their career and grow my network.”

“Freelancing is great because every assignment is different. Each task varies from the one before it and I get to learn different skills and discover new things I’m good at!”

“Being a Brand Ambassador works for me because I’m always working on a cool new project and get to learn about new industries all the time.”

“I started working freelance jobs to pay off some extra expenses in college and ended up loving the work. I’ve continued working Brand Ambassador roles as a side hustle!”

“Always give 110% and be open and willing to learn anything! You never know what connections you can make for the future.”

If you’re interested in becoming one of our freelance employees, contact us at retail@pyramidcg.com with your resume and we’ll get you started with a recruiter!

Freelance MVP: Jorgina “J” Marzan

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 12:58:00 GMT

Pyramid Consulting Group is excited by the freelance projects we work on for our client portfolio. We get the opportunity to match talent to awesome projects and have helped grow the resumes of our talent pool with the exposure received at these assignments. Though the freelance talent we work with do not sit in our office, we work closely with them, form relationships and continually place them on assignments again and again. One such talent is Jorgina “J” Marzan, a seasoned veteran of freelance projects and our resident “go-to” MVP!

Read on to learn more about J’s experience with Pyramid, some advice for getting into freelance projects to grow your career!

PCG: Hi, J! Thanks for taking the time to chat with us and allowing us to feature you in our new blog series featuring freelance employees! Can you tell us how you started working with Pyramid?

J: A recruiter at PCG found me on Indeed when I had just gotten laid off from working a hotel job I had for 4 years. I was eager to connect and had a great experience with the recruiter, they really listened to what I was looking for and worked hard to match me with opportunities. I started working my first project with Pyramid doing the Up Close & Personal with Michelangelo Sistine Chapel Art Exhibition at the end of July 2017.

PCG: What part of freelancing do you love?

J: I’m often in operational positions that allow me a lot of control and responsibility, which I like because they are always fresh and never boring. I also like that there are periods between assignments and I can pursue my career of DJing with flexibility. I also do other side work, like private catering. It gives me the opportunity to balance out a lot of what I want to do and what I’m capable of doing.

PCG: What kind of operational roles have you been doing for us?

J: A lot of times I’m in managerial roles where I’m in the back of house doing retail pop ups and handling inventory, Human Resources tasks including scheduling, budget costs, handling hours for Brand Ambassadors and Sales Associates and other things - not just with Pyramid, but also in partnership directly with the client, to make sure that needs are met and making any adjustments in a timely and affordable manner. A lot of the projects I have to do are hands on. For example, I was doing administrative work for a client during fashion week last year, so I had to be hands on with the casting agency and get all of the requirements from the models’ agencies so they were able to walk the runway shows. I look at each project as a different learning opportunity. There are some things I didn’t know when I started doing these pop ups that I now have on my resume!

PCG: Do you have any advice for other people looking to get into a freelance career?

J: This is a commitment. If you want to get into this, you have to be 110% with this commitment, as each client has an objective for the project. This is short term work, but has long lasting rewards.

PCG: Have you traveled for other roles?

J: When the client needs it, I travel. The last leg of my current project was in SoHo. We worked in Baltimore and Chicago executing inventory, opening an experiential pop up in Chicago, and then ending with a larger project in SoHo with several high profile events.

PCG: What is your experience working with PCG? Any feedback for other freelancers?

J: Pyramid reaches out to me a lot for work - it reflects on my work ethic and performance, and their commitment to me. A lot of times, clients of PCG ask directly for me from the work Pyramid has introduced me to. I’m very privileged in that sense.

J has been freelancing for PCG for over 2 years. If you’re interested in learning more about freelance work, contact us today or check out our Instagram @pyramid.cg to learn about our open opportunities!

A Day in the Life of the PCG Intern

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 14 Aug 2019 11:13:00 GMT

This summer, PCG’s two interns worked to support us with admin tasks and projects. They’ve helped us immensely and we cannot wait to see what the future holds for them. We asked that they give us some insight into their time at PCG. Read on to learn more about behind-the-scenes of the Pyramid offices!

Hi, we’re the interns of Pyramid Consulting Group, Bella and Max! We had such a great summer working within the many different departments of the company. Working here gave us good insight into all the different aspects it takes to run a company from behind the scenes - from their HR department, to marketing, to accounting - we really have seen it all!

We have completed tasks including spreadsheet making, filing, running errands, but best of all, we have learned how to improve ourselves professionally. We have exercised our communication skills on the phone by talking with potential candidate references to conduct reference checks on them. Also, we have learned ways that we can enhance both our resumes and LinkedIn profiles.

PCG is not your typical office environment. Here, you are allowed to dress casually and it’s a dog-friendly environment! What we have loved most is how friendly everyone is and admire how supportive they are of one another. The teams within the company work very collaboratively and communicate to solve problems together. Another perk of working in this office is the fourth floor snacks and how close we are to Bryant Park!

Overall, working at Pyramid Consulting Group was a one of a kind internship, that gave us a great taste of NYC and have taught us so many skills that we will take with us to on our future endeavors!

Increasing Productivity in the Summer Months

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 21 May 2019 10:37:00 GMT

Summer is upon us! Some employees find it difficult to remain focused and productive in the summer months, so it’s easier to fall off track. Just because warm weather is here to stay doesn’t mean that productivity has to decline. Stay focused, even as the sun is shining through the office window, with some of these tips.

Get Organized
Clutter can be distracting, which is why it’s important to keep a neat desk with minimal disruptions. Clear your workspace of any old files, project documents or knickknacks you don’t use multiple times per week. A clean workspace will lessen feelings of anxiety and help to clear your head in order to focus on the tasks at hand.

Prioritize
Prioritize your to-do list in order to maximize productivity levels. List every task you need to get done in the week in order of importance. Tackle the larger projects in the beginning of the week when your efficiency levels are high and you are more likely to put in your best effort.

Set Deadlines
Deadlines are important for accountability. If you feel yourself starting to slack off, set close deadlines for yourself and tell a co-worker or supervisor about them. They can remind you to have your task done by the date you had promised and keep your motivation high.

Take a Vacation
If you have the time, use your PTO days! Whether it is for a Caribbean vacation or a staycation at home, using your paid time off will ease your mind and allow you a much needed mental break. You’ll head back to the office feeling refreshed and ready to take on your responsibilities.

If you follow these tips, you’ll stay motivated through Labor Day. Always remember to organize, prioritize and most importantly – relax and enjoy the warm weather while it’s here.

For more information about PCG, follow us on social media!

Maintaining Stress Levels In and Out of the Office

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 10:22:00 GMT

Did you know that April is Stress Awareness Month? Established in 1992, Stress Awareness Month brings attention to the dangers of stress and how to manage it. The Pyramid Consulting Group team is practicing stress management every day this month, so we wanted to share our initiatives with you! Here are some little known facts about stress management that you can adapt into your daily routine.

The foods you eat can affect your stress levels. ¹ Highly caffeinated substances including coffee, soda or energy drinks can elevate your stress levels. Refined sugars found in sweet treats or processed carbs found in bread, potato chips or pasta can spike blood sugar levels, which will eventually lead to the “crashing” feeling midday. Stay on alert and satisfy your hunger with plant-based foods, herbal tea and Vitamin C. Stress often affects your diet and will change your overall health in the long term.

Physical activity can reduce stress levels. ² If you’re feeling stressed, get your steps in around the office or take a walk to pick up your lunch. A 10 minute walk per day gives you the opportunity to step away from your desk and clear your head of any approaching deadlines, projects or presentations you are facing while sitting in the office. Working out a few times a week can influence your stress levels, too! Take some time in your day to squeeze in a workout, whether it’s running, yoga, dancing or powerlifting. You’ll feel better when you do!

Putting your thoughts on paper can relieve stress. ³ Being overwhelmed is a regular part of life, but it doesn’t have to be all of the time. Try journaling – or writing down your frustrations – to clear your mind and relieve any negative thoughts you may have. Write down daily or weekly mantras and practice saying them to yourself in times of high stress. Add in some jokes to laugh at when you need a break from any pressures you may feel.

While these aren’t the only ways to relieve stress, they are our recommendations for easy stress management. Stress can affect your overall mood and health, so you’ll want to be in best practice for maintaining a level head, even in the highest of stressful situations. For more tips on stress relief, check out our Instagram @pyramid.cg. We’ll be sharing some ideas with you all month long!

Constructing the Perfect Thank You Note

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 11:56:00 GMT

The most essential piece to every interview process comes after the initial meeting: the thank you note. Failing to follow up with potential employers could leave the impression that you are not interested in the position or the people who took time out of their day to speak with you. If you’re stuck for ways to express your gratitude to your possible new bosses, we have some ideas!

When should I send a thank you note ?
A thank you note should be sent to your potential employer within 24 hours of your meeting. You’ll want to wait a few hours to digest what was discussed and find a way to add a personal touch to your letter. If you hand your interviewer a thank you note as you’re walking out of the interview room, you may leave the impression that you send the same standardized message to anyone. You’ll want to put a lot of thought into expressing your thanks.

Where should I start?
The first step to showing gratitude is exactly that! Show your appreciation right away by thanking your interviewer for taking the time out of their day to meet with you. They cleared their schedule to see you, so you want to acknowledge that!

Add some personality
Express your interest in the role and the company itself. Reference something you saw or heard in the meeting to suggest you were listening. Make it conversational! Add some personality to your thank you note to give your interviewer more insight into who you are behind the resume, and don’t forget to tie in your current skills and how you believe you and the company will be a perfect fit for each other.

How long should it be?
A thank you note should be short, concise and kept to the point but not so brief that it seems rushed or thoughtless. A few short paragraphs that highlight all your main points will be enough to show the employer how interested you are! Overall, it should be kept under a page.

How should I leave off?
You can end your note by mentioning you looking forward to next steps and that you will make yourself available if they have any follow up questions. Make sure you proofread before hitting send!

How should I send it?
It’s perfectly acceptable to send a thank you note via email, as this method ensures your note goes directly to the intended party. Snail mail adds a personalized touch, but there is room for error and delay, so consider email as your best bet to express your gratitude.

A thank you note can make or break your chances at landing the role you want. To avoid missing out on a position, follow these tips! "The thank you note is an opportunity to showcase your personality, writing skills and interest in a company and position. Take time to write original content and express something you learned or enjoyed about the interview or the person you met with. A great thank you note is an excellent way to continue the interview process in a positive direction!" says Erika Mendez, Senior Vice President.

For more tips about navigating the interview process, check us out on Instagram at @pyramid.cg!

The Resume: What to Keep and What to Delete

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 07 Mar 2019 14:16:00 GMT

With only six seconds to pass a scan, a candidate’s resume needs to stand out from the get-go. Keep potential hiring managers interested in you by including the most important details about who you are, what you do and your capabilities in the workplace. Including outdated or common information could keep you from landing an interview. Follow these tips from our recruiters and management to ensure your resume is in tip-top shape:

What is some common information you see listed on a resume that could be considered outdated or irrelevant?
“Microsoft Office. At this time and age, it should be a given that we are all comfortable working with it. Ditch filler words such as ‘Results-oriented manager’ or ‘Forward thinking contributor’ – all of those skills should be proven in your bullet points. If you reached 95% approval rating on a customer portal your company uses, then include that rather than saying ‘proven skills in customer service.’ Ditch any ancient jobs from several years ago, especially during college.” – Yara Diab, Associate Recruiter

What should a candidate include to ensure their resume looks stellar?
“The best thing a candidate can add to their resume is clear and concise examples or statistical information if it applies to the role they are working on!”- Krista Ballante, Retail Recruiter

What would stand out to you on a resume that would make you want to call a candidate?
“Your resume is a professional outline of your experience. Bullets should explain accomplishments and successes. They should consist of personal examples of what you have done in the role. Overall, a resume should be succinct, but not too brief.” – Laura Menezes, Account Director

What are some formatting tips that a candidate should follow?
“Bullet information in the order of importance of the position. Be thoughtful: it paints the correct picture of the role and responsibilities you held.” – Erika Mendez, Senior Vice President

Follow this advice and you’ll be sure to pass the six second scan test. If you’re ready to make your next career move, contact Pyramid Consulting Group today to connect with a recruiter!

AI vs. Recruiter: How Do They Match Up?

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 15:55:00 GMT

Artificial intelligence has made its way into the staffing industry. Though it has some benefits, such as saving time while sourcing new candidates or onboarding employees, AI can’t do everything a person can, like listen to who you are, where you want to be or help guide your career. It can’t work with you to ensure that you are applying for a job where you will be the best fit. Recruiters seamlessly handle these efforts while adding their own personal touch. We can also provide information and answer questions in ways that AI cannot. These are some examples of what you can find out from a recruiter that makes the human experience unique from AI:

Office Culture
If you want to know what kind of atmosphere you are getting into, feel free to ask your recruiter what they know. We can tell you if a company has team bonding events, product samples or what the day-to-day environment is like. Are you heading into a corporate structure? A more relaxed, casual atmosphere? Whichever it is, your recruiter knows the answer.

Brand Expectations
Recruiters are in constant communication with their clients, so they begin to get to know them and what they expect of their employees. If you know that you work autonomously or that you work better under a strict deadline, your recruiter will be able to tell you if you’d work well under your potential managers. They can also fill you in on the career path within that particular position, so you will know in advance how much room for growth there is within your potential new role.

Work Perks
Everyone wants work perks! Summer Fridays, flex time, company-paid lunches. If you ask about these things in an interview, it’s an immediate red flag on the hiring manager’s part. Asking “what’s in it for me?” is difficult in an interview, but a recruiter makes it easy to learn about a company’s perks and benefits to help guide your decision.

Career Coaching
AI has its perks, but a recruiter has the ability to help you achieve your goals through career coaching. We want you to know exactly what you are committing to, which is why we work diligently to prepare each candidate for their interviews. “Ask all of the questions so you’re prepared for your meeting and so you know that you’ll be a great fit for the company!” said Krista Ballante, Retail Recruiter.

Are you interested in making the next move in your career? Contact Pyramid Consulting Group today to meet with a recruiter!

Get Noticed at a Career Fair

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 11 Feb 2019 17:11:00 GMT

Career fairs are great tools to utilize whether you are a recent college grad or someone who is seeking a new position. If you’re unsure where to start, check out local college websites or social media for updates on job fairs or alumni events. Show up confident and stand out among the crowd with these tips:

Dress for the part
At career fairs, there are plenty of companies looking for potential candidates, and the one you are most interested in working for could be in attendance! Make a great first impression by wearing your most professional attire.

Know what to bring and prepare your career pitch
Bring copies of your resume to hand out to employers. If there isn’t a position available currently, there may be in the future. With hundreds of other candidates in attendance, you may feel pressure when standing in front of a potential manager. By preparing a pitch that presents who you are, your skills and the kind of job you are seeking, you will be able to avoid stuttering or appearing uncertain.

Leave a lasting impression
“The best way to leave a lasting impression is to focus on your presentation. Presentation says a lot about someone; it gives us a good idea of whether or not we’d feel comfortable taking them on as a candidate and sending them out on interviews. Taking the initiative to approach a recruiter is something that really makes a candidate stand out,” said Melissa Castellanos, Senior Recruiter.

Be prepared to answer questions about yourself
Just like you would prior to an interview, do your research about the career fair and the companies that will be present. By knowing which brands you are looking to meet, you can prepare yourself for the questions they may ask, including what you know about the company or why you want to work for them. Practicing your answers in the mirror or with a friend will help you respond confidently.

For job listings and more tips on how stand out during your job search follow Pyramid Consulting group on social media!

What is a Professional Summary?

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Fri, 01 Feb 2019 17:00:00 GMT

Preparing your resume for a future employer can seem intimidating, specifically if you haven’t applied for a job in the recent past. When contemplating where to start, consider a professional summary to catch the employer’s eye. If your resume is a sales pitch, the summary is your hook to reel in the consumer.

A professional summary highlights your skills and qualifications and how you will translate them to your next position. Keep it short and interesting so the company will continue reading for more information about your accomplishments.

You may associate this synopsis with a resume objective, but the two are different. Every job seeker’s objective is the same: to get hired. Set yourself apart by emphasizing your past accomplishments and what you will bring to your next role.

The summary can be a great way to insert yourself and your personality into an otherwise simplistic piece of paper. Give potential employers an opportunity to see the person behind the resume so they will want to call you for an interview!

If you’re still unsure where to start, think of the known interview question, “what are your strengths?” and insert that answer into your statement. Right away, your future employer will catch a glimpse of who you are and what you can offer to the company.

“Just like you want to read a bio or do some research about someone before you meet them, a professional summary gives a quick idea of who someone is before bringing them in for an interview,” said Quanasia Graham, Retail Recruiter.

As we know, the average hiring manager will spend six seconds scanning your resume before moving on. “Keep your summary short and to the point, and don’t include information that can be found later on the page, such as your job history or education,” said Yara Diab, Associate Recruiter.

At Pyramid Consulting Group, we can help you with every aspect of your job hunt. Send us your resume today and we will help you find your next position!

Presenting Your Best Self in a Job Interview

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 24 Jan 2019 15:02:00 GMT

A first impression can make or break your chances at getting a job, which is why it’s important to make it a great one! We’ve compiled the top pointers for presenting your best self at every interview.

Body Language

It’s totally normal to feel nervous before an interview. The downside to a case of the nerves is that it usually presents itself in your body language. Not only will the interviewer be able to sense it, but anxiousness can affect your ability to shine. Thankfully, you can fake it ‘til you make it with the right body language. Our recruiters suggest sitting still, keeping your hands open and unmoving and having an open stance will leave a more positive impression.

Conversation

The pressure of interviewing can make you forget that an interview is a two-sided conversation that should allow your personality to shine through. While a hiring manager does want to hear about your work experience and what you bring to the table, they are also trying to determine if you are a culture fit for the company. Our recruiters say it’s important to listen and engage versus talking at the person who is interviewing you.

Attire

What you wear to a job interview plays a huge part in the decision-making process. Wearing jeans to a meeting with a company that has a formal dress code is a no-go. You don’t want to wear a three-piece suit to an interview with a start -up company, either. Women should keep makeup light and neutral, avoiding bright or dark shades. The best way to avoid any fashion faux-pas is to do plenty of research beforehand to get a feel for the culture of the company, their dress code and who you will potentially be working for.

Use these tips to present your best self at every job interview you have forthcoming. For more ideas or suggestions about how to leave a great first impression, contact Pyramid Consulting Group!

Four Job Search Challenges and How to Defeat Them

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 16 Jan 2019 16:59:00 GMT

Searching for a new position can be daunting. Whether it’s your first job fresh out of college or you haven’t changed positions in 10 years, the process can be nerve-wracking. Though interviews are stressful, they are a great way to sell yourself and your capabilities to a recruiter or hiring manager. Many applicants are faced with challenges in their interview process and can become unsure of how to overcome their past experiences. Here are some suggestions for tackling those tribulations:

For more interview tips or to meet with a recruiter, contact Pyramid Consulting Group to find your next role today!

Important Resume Tips for the New Year

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Fri, 04 Jan 2019 10:06:00 GMT

You’ve heard it before: the average recruiter spends six seconds scanning your resume, which means lots of resumes are eliminated quickly. Here are some tips to have your resume in tip top shape, so you can start the new year with confidence!

Use the right keywords

You can make your resume stand out instantly by using the right words. Take a look at the descriptions of jobs that you want to apply for. What kinds of words to do they use? Find a way to incorporate them into your resume. It might also be helpful to research terms that are specific to your industry, and use some of those as a bonus factor.

One of our recruiters on the eCommerce team, Yara, shares what she notices first when reviewing resumes, “You will want to include important terms that are linked to your specific industry. Words such as engagement, tracking, strategic and measure should be on there in some shape or form. It might sound like a lot, but it really only does take a few seconds for recruiters to scan a resume and catch those words.”

Make sure there is enough white space

It can be overwhelming for a recruiter to look at a resume with too much information on it. Likewise, it will make it harder to distinguish certain points on your resume that are important. To ensure your resume flows and is readable, you will want to make sure you leave enough white space between separate points.

Incorporate Social Media Links

Having links to your social media on your resume is a great way to personalize it! LinkedIn should be in the header, but should only be included if it is up to date and enhances your resume. Other social media links can be added as long as they are relevant to your brand. Including these is a great way to give the recruiter a further look into who are you are, which will set you apart from other candidates.

A resume is a representation of who are you are, and it is the first step to getting closer to your dream job. Once it is perfected, contact Pyramid Consulting Group to find your next position!

Land the Job you Want for the New Year

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 15:12:00 GMT

Looking to change your career path? Here is some insight into what into what employers are seeking, the steps to make the most out of your job search, and landing you the job want.

Skillset and interviewing

As technology, economy, and times change, so does the skill set that employers will need from job seekers. Business Insider highlights communication skills, negotiation skills, complex problem solving and critical thinking. These are skills that, during interviews, you will want to emphasize that you have- and how you can use them to help their team.

One of our recruiters, Juliana, shares from her experience working with both candidates and employers: “Employers are seeking candidates whose prior experience is transferable in their next role. Also, employers want candidates who will share the same passion and drive for their business/services. With employers receiving hundreds of resumes a week it’s important that resume have keywords to make their profile stand out. That is what is great about working with a recruiter; we can help curate your resume to make the best impression on the hiring managers!”

Brush up on your Resume

Look your resume over and make sure it’s up to date and ready to be sent out to employers. You’ve likely changed or grown a little bit since you last updated your resume. Review things like your professional summary, your skills, and don’t forget to include your current position.

Get your job applications in now

Now that you’ve brushed up on your resume and interviewing skills, it’s a good idea to begin sending out applications. It’s hard to get things started while the holidays are going on. You have a better chance of employers getting to your application if you apply before all of the holiday madness. Plus, just like we all have goals we make for the new year, companies have new initiatives to set- and they will increase hiring to meet them. In a nutshell- apply, apply, apply!

Set Your End-of-Year Work Goals

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 03 Dec 2018 08:14:00 GMT

Do yourself a favor and give yourself the gift of productivity this holiday season- ahead of the resolution curve. Here are some examples of end of year work goals you can set, so you’re ready to enter the New Year on the right foot

Become More Organized
One of our latest blogs explains how easy it is to organize yourself before the holidays. Think about how to use your downtime productively. How can you utilize a planner system to stay on track with all your to-dos?

Learn a New Work-Related Skill
Maybe use your downtime to pick up basic Photoshop techniques or learn the latest SEO marketing trends. After coming back from the holidays, you can use the new skills to benefit your productivity in the New Year.

Innovate
Whether your idea is large or small- it’s a good idea to start planning how you can contribute to your company in the new year. Collaborating with other co-workers can be beneficial for efficient and timely completed work.

Befriend A New Co-Worker
This time of year is always full of new hires. If you see someone trying to catch their footing in a new position, lend a helping hand. The holidays are a perfect time to spread some cheer and do some good around the office!

Volunteer
We’ve already explained how volunteering can help your career- now it’s time to get involved! With the holiday spirit in the air, see what kind of initiatives your company offers for you to lend a helping hand! Likewise, soup kitchens and clothing drives are two super popular volunteer opportunities this time of year!

The Rise of eCommerce Jobs

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 27 Nov 2018 14:44:00 GMT

Retail has been an ever-changing and evolving industry, which has led to the rise of eCommerce. When we meet with candidates, they often don’t realize all the career opportunities that are available within eCommerce. Retail has made a huge shift to online, and we stand by and watch as some of our favorite childhood stores close down. But as eCommerce grows, so does the opportunity to utilize your creative skills.

eCommerce growing rapidly
Research shows that e-commerce will continue to grow by at least 16 percent in each year to come. Stores are beginning to change their website experience for shoppers, using new technology, to adapt. Things like shipping and returning will be made even easier and more convenient, so shoppers will likely react positively to these changes-further contributing to the growth.

What this means for career options
If you are interested in exploring a career in copywriting, project management visual design, and so much more, retailers will be focusing on these areas even more to impact the shopper experience. Skills like data analysis, writing content, or marketing automation are highly transferable to other industries should you choose to make a switch. For those who want to work internationally or work from home, this is a great industry to be in.

Grow professionally and acquire more skills
A large part of growing professionally is networking, and in eCommerce, you will constantly be collaborating with suppliers and working closely with multiple departments within the company. Working with so many people on a daily basis will grow your interpersonal and communication skills, which is useful in any industry. Savana, one of our recruiters in eCommerce, contributes her thoughts- “eCommerce is the future of retail. Right now, is a great time to learn and grow from eCommerce corporations – whether it’s digital merchandising, logistics, or eCommerce customer service, these are great timeless skills to learn and be a part of.” This is a great industry to learn, grow, and develop your skills while also growing professionally.

We here at Pyramid Consulting Group, work with some of the largest eCommerce brands in the word. If you are interested in exploring a career in eCommerce, email your resume at Savana at svivas@pyramidcg.com

Retail Hiring Trends for the Holiday Season

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 19 Nov 2018 11:54:00 GMT

If you are looking for a job in retail for the holiday season, we have good news for you: the opportunities will be plentiful. Retail is expanding, meaning more jobs will need to be filled and employers will be seeking out temporary employees.

Better economy leads to more job openings
According to “TheBalance.com” retail jobs are expected to increase by 1.7 million. With the economy in much better standing than in previous years, a stronger economy means employers will be hiring more.

Wage for hourly workers is expected to grow
Another attractive perk of working in retail during this holiday season is that employers will be paying their workers higher wages. According to our research, some companies will be starting their employees at about two dollars higher than the minimum wage. Juan Rivera, Recruitment Project Manager, shares his perspective from working with retail clients: “Retailers are starting to understand that the demand for quality employees during the holiday season requires them to pay a higher hourly wage. We now know that consumers are no longer looking for transaction retail experiences. Retailers now need to create an interactive experience which can be achievable by hiring the right people at the right pay rate.”

More opportunities for Temporary Work
Because the job market is strengthening in demand in retail and job openings are increasing, there will be more temporary jobs available. So, if you are looking to grow your experience in retail and earn some extra money for the holidays, this is the perfect time to do so. And if you are looking for holiday work this year email our team your resume at holiday@pyramidcg.com

Top Job Search Tips from PCG Recruiters

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 08 Oct 2018 17:22:00 GMT

Searching for a new job can, at times, be daunting, a bit stressful, and generally overwhelming. However, we sat down with a few of Pyramid’s recruiters and account directors to talk about their favorite advice to give in regards to applying or searching for a new job. Check out some of our favorites to help you take on your job search:

“When looking at a job posting, be sure that you check the job requirements before applying! Make sure that your skills and experience match what the job seeking is looking for.” – Liza Park , Senior Account Director

“Load up your resume with keywords and phrases.” – Savana Vivas , eCommerce Recruiter

“Always take the call from your recruiter. You may not know if your next great opportunity is on the horizon.” – J uan Rivera , Project Manager, Retail Experience and Events

“Be specific when discussing your experience on your resume – the more detail the better!” – Juliana Guzman , Finance and Accounting Recruiter

What is your favorite job search tip?

Staying Healthy at Work During Flu Season

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 14:01:00 GMT

Summer has officially come to a close which means it’s time for both fall and flu season. With the cooler climate heading our way, it is important to keep health and wellness on your mind when the autumn rolls around.

However, don’t panic! Here are a few tips to have you feeling happy and healthy this cold and flu season:

Wash Your Hands

This may sound like a ‘no-brainer’, but washing your hands is critically important to continuously wash your hands throughout your day. Whether it’s before or after you take your lunch break, are meeting with a group of co-workers, or are just working at your desk, maintaining cleanliness is crucially important. Having a bottle of hand sanitizer nearby at all times also doesn’t hurt!

Maintain a Regular Excursive Routine

If you can, try to hit the gym, go for a walk, or do some sort of physical activity a few times per week. Staying active will help you feeling great and staying healthy during the cooler months of the year. An article from Mindfood discusses the “do’s and don’ts” to working out and maintaining a regular exercise routine during cold and flu season.

Snack Wisely and Stay Hydrated

It goes without saying, but staying healthy through what you eat and drink is key to staying healthy during cold and flu season. Not only will eating healthy and staying hydrated help to keep you from becoming sick, but will also boost your energy throughout the day and having you feeling your best while at work.

Listen to Your Body

No one knows your body better than you do! If you are feeling under the weather, take the time to rest up and recover. Ask your supervisor about possibly working from home or taking the day to visit a doctor if you’re feeling ill. Staying home to rest will also aid in stopping the spread of germs in your office, helping to keep your co-workers or clients healthy and happy.

Accepting The Job Offer

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 24 Sep 2018 13:54:00 GMT

Congratulations! You've been given a job offer! While it may be an exciting time in your career, there are a few steps to consider before taking on a new job. From reviewing your offer letter to signing your name on the dotted line, here are a few suggestions from our team before you accept your new position:

Take Your Time

Before officially accepting this new offer, take the time to think about the process of taking on the new opportunity. If you’re able to, ensure that you are able to receive an offer letter with the full details of the position, the salary and any other information that you may need in making your final decision to accept or not. Make sure you are able to take the time to process your job offer and ensure that accepting the job will ultimately be the right decision in the long run.

You may also consider consulting the ideas of another person or professional. Having a second opinion before making your ultimate decision may also help you in the long run.

Prepare Your Notice

If you are currently in a role in which you are looking to leave, be sure to prepare a letter of resignation to your current employer. Be sure to express your gratitude for the opportunities and experiences with your current employer and remain respectful and professional in your resignation.

Sign, Sealed, Delivered

After carefully reviewing your job offer, it is finally time to sing your offer letter! If you’d also like, you can send a job acceptance letter, formally accepting the position, thanking your new employer for the opportunity to join their team. This letter can also outline your understanding of salary expectations, and any other benefits that are associated with the offer letter.

Finalizing with Extra Details

Before your first day, be sure to iron out any last-minute details. Whether it’s organizing and planning any last-minute orientation details, signing any onboarding paperwork, or ensuring all personal documentation is up-to-date. This will help you in your transition into your new role.

Is The Job The Right Fit For You?

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 10 Sep 2018 16:00:00 GMT

How do you know if the role you’re interviewing for will be the right position for you in the long run? Here are a few steps that you can take to understand whether or not the role is right for you:

Do Your Research

Before you even step foot into the office or location of your interview, do your research on both the company and the position. With the accessibility of the internet, conducting research on the company that you are interviewing for and the standards responsibilities, tasks, and expectations for the role or position. This will also ensure that you are properly prepared for your interview and will help you in deciding if the position fits exactly what you’re looking for in your next role!

Be Continuously Observant

On your interview, be aware of your surroundings. From the moment you arrive to your interview, be sure to take mental note of the office environment, employee relations, and other factors that play into your decision of whether or not the position is the right fit. Stay observant during your interview and truly pay attention to your interviewer as they describe the job specs and company culture. By being observant, you can take that one additional step to determine if the position is right for you.

Ask Thoughtful and Insightful Questions

Along with excellent observance, asking the right questions during your interview is essential to understanding if the job is right for you. If company culture is important in your next role, be sure to emphasize your questions around that. If you need a few more details on the scope of the role, be sure you ask the appropriate questions to fully understand the role you are applying for. Coming into your interview with questions prepared will further assist in making sure you are pursuing the right role. And furthermore, before accepting a position, ensure that all of your questions are questions about the role are answered – which leaves little room for surprises or grey areas in the position.

It is always important to remember that, if given the opportunity to take on the role as your next position, your first week or so on the job may consist of training sessions and a bit of down time - all of which should subside after the first few days. Don’t just generalize or base your opinions of the job on the first few days or weeks. Be flexible. Anticipate your first week to be a bit slower. Just remember to be a bit flexible when starting a new role and to always remain optimistic with a positive outlook!

Finding The Right Internship Opportunity

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 13:17:00 GMT

As students begin to head back to campus for the fall semester, not only will they begin to prepare for classes, but they’ll be on the lookout for new and exciting internship opportunities to add to their resumes. Finding the perfect internship can not only add some experience to your resume but can also help you to determine the type of career you’d like to pursue post-graduation. Take the right approach to find the perfect internship for you this year:

Construct Your Resume and Cover Letter

If you don’t have one already, work on creating a resume that properly showcases your skillset and prior relevant industry experience. Ensure that your resume is industry relevant and clear about your prior experience. Fix and grammar or spelling mistakes and organize your previous positions and any leadership experience, volunteering, and relevant skills – such as computer skills, software expertise, and certifications.

Network

It is okay to network with friends, family, family friends, colleagues, school contacts or prior work connections to help you find an awesome internship – it’s actually encouraged! Using your contacts as a way to gain insight into internships is a great way to get your resume to the right hiring managers. Also, consider attending industry events, job fairs, or conferences to learn about industry trends and companies hiring in your desired industry. The more people you’re able to connect with (and pass your resume along to) the better!

Use your College Career Center to Your Advantage

Many colleges have extensive and dedicated teams of counselors at their university’s campus career center. Not only are these centers and teams a great resource for finding a job while you prepare for graduation, but they can be an excellent way to better understand the internship market in your field of study. Find out where on campus your school’s career center is located and find out how you can schedule a meeting with a career counselor.

Be flexible and Ready to Learn!

Internships are a great stepping stone to gaining relevant industry experience – especially as a college student. While you may be on the lookout for your “dream internship”, taking on opportunities that may not fit your perfect job descriptions could still offer great learning experiences. Just remember to keep flexibility in mind when taking on internships opportunities and be prepared to learn about an industry you’d never think you’d ever work in!

How To Stay Motivated During You Job Search

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 20 Aug 2018 13:48:00 GMT

A long and tedious job search can certainly be cause for a lack of motivation in making a career change. However, taking the right approach to a job search may help you maintain the motivation you need to land your dream job! Take a look at some of our favorite techniques for staying motivated during a job search:

Stay Organized

One of the best ways to stay motivated is to maintain excellent organization. Separate job-related emails and messages in your inbox into separate job search folders, keep your resume up-to-date and saved directly to your computer’s desktop to be easily attached to applications, and maintain an accurate record of all of your job applications. Better organization will help you feel prepared during your job search and will help you stay motivated to find that perfect position!

Connect with a Recruiter

Recruiters are a great tool to utilize during your job search. Whether it’s understanding and processing your career goals and expectations, commentating and displaying your talents to clients, and pinpointing opportunities that meet your skill set, recruiters take a lot of the traditional job search work off of your shoulders. With a recruiter maintaining communication with you through your job search, staying motivated is as easy as making a phone call or sending an email.

Network!

Who you know can benefit you greatly in your job search. Work on expanding your personal network and seeking advice (or even job referrals) from those closet to you. Connect with your contacts to see if they’d be interested in conducting informational interviews with you to better understand what types of opportunities are available and the skills and experience that hiring managers in your field of interest are searching for. Also, ensure that you are following up with any referrals and staying up-to-date with any and all new opportunities that may become available.

Trust the Process

Finding a new job may take time – and that’s okay! While it may be frustrating to go through the tedious process of job searching, finding the perfect job will be worth it!

“As recruiters, we’re always on the lookout for jobs and opportunities that fit your skills and personal goals,” said one of our Associate Recruiters, Ashley Delgado. “It may take time for that right opportunity to appear, but it will definitely be worth it!”

End-of-summer Organization Tips for Your Office

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 13 Aug 2018 12:45:00 GMT

As the midway mark of August quickly approaches, you may have realized that you have hit a “summer slump” in terms of organization at work. Your desk may be cluttered with paper mugs that have gone unused for weeks, your inbox may be flooded with spam emails, and your computer desktop may be covered in a slew of unorganized PDF files and Word documents. However, this point in the summer is the perfect time to get organized and rid your workspace of unnecessary clutter. Here are some of our favorite tips for re-organizing at work:

Clean and clear your physical workspace

Cleaning your desk or workspace shouldn’t be restricted to your office’s designated spring cleaning sessions! Organize your desk by recycling old unused papers or empty plastic water bottles, disinfect your desk thoroughly, return any unused mugs or cups to your office kitchen (and wash them!), and straighten up your computer, phone, and keyboard. At PCG, our team practices a Clean Desk Policy to improve overall office productivity and organization. Try implementing a standard cleaning policy in your office – you and your co-workers will feel better with a neat and organized work environment!

Organize your inbox

We’ve all been there – going through the motions and ignoring the (what feels like) 11,000 emails in your inbox. Whether they’re spam or requests from your co-workers that you’ve responded to months prior, your inbox can quickly flood with emails; important and unimportant content alike. This summer, take the opportunity to sift through your inbox and organize your messages. Hit the “delete” button on spam messages and organize emails of importance by separating them into folders to assist you in keeping critical information easily accessible.

Declutter your desktop

You may have found that your computer’s desktop has become a place for all of your important documents to live. And while it’s easy to just save documents and files to your desktop, try to really take the time to ensure your files are organized in folders on that desktop. And if your desktop is currently a little disorganized, take a morning or afternoon of your workday to manage folders, documents, or photos on your desk.

Thank You Notes: Showing Gratitude After an Interview

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 12:19:00 GMT

Vocalizing appreciation should never be overlooked. Whether you are showing gratitude to thank a friend or family member for a birthday gift, thanking a co-worker for assisting with a difficult or time-consuming project, or demonstrating appreciation for newly acquired business, sending a thank you note will never go unappreciated. This is also true when interviewing for a new job or opportunity. Keeping in mind that you always want to make a lasting impression on a prospective employer, here are a few reasons why sending thank you notes after an interview are very important in helping to secure the job:

Show Your Genuine Gratitude

Most of the time, your interviewer has set time out of their busy day to meet and discuss your qualifications for their open position with you. And while it may seem cliché, showing gratitude to that person for taking time out of their busy schedule is critically important. Understand that while the interview may have only taken a few minutes of their time, the rearranging of meetings, scheduled phone calls, and tasks were most likely changed in order to meet or speak with you.

Set Yourself Apart

In today’s modern job search market, setting yourself apart from the competition in any way highly encouraged. By showing gratitude through a thank you note to your interviewer, you are setting the stage to set yourself apart from other prospective interviewees. Providing a thank you note will also give you the opportunity to further express further how your experience matches the qualifications they seek for filling the role. Make sure your strengths are highlighted and promote yourself as the rock star you are!

Reassure Your interest

As well as including reaffirming your skill set to match that of the position requirements, sending a thank you note will also support your genuine interest in the role. Sending a thank you note will assist in keeping your interview at the top of the minds of the employers and may help in landing the job of your dreams!

It Will Make You Feel Good

A 2011 study from the Huffington Post suggests that showing gratitude can lead to a happier and overall healthier life. Increasing the positivity in your life through gratitude is said to increase your overall happiness – and who doesn’t love to be happy?!

Tips for Improving Office Communication

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 17 Jul 2018 13:28:00 GMT

Maintaining strong communication is essential, not only in the workplace but in general face-to-face and social interactions, whether in a one-on-one situation or in a group setting. However, it can be argued that practicing strong communication is one of the keys to success in the growth and development of businesses and companies. To ensure that your coordination is strong among your team, here are a few tips to keep in mind when communicating amongst your colleagues:

Ask Questions

If you have questions about a task or assignment, ask! A key to developing strong communication is knowing that both parties involved in the interaction have as much information as possible. If you’re confused or need a little more of an explanation, ask the right questions. This will not only save you time and energy communication back and forth, but will ensure that your project, event, or other task is completed quickly and efficiently – the first time! Remember – there are no stupid questions!

Write It Down

“A best practice that I love is to have everything (and I mean everything!) written down before moving forward with a task or assignment,” said Haley Tanella, a member of our marketing department. “That way I can really ensure that I have all of the information I need, not only for my reference later on, but to organize for other tasks and assignments throughout my day.”

Whether it’s keeping track of meetings on your calendar, having requests sent through email, or jotting down notes during a big company presentation, maintaining information in written form will not only allow you to retain information more easily, but can also act as a reference tool in the future – cutting out the need to connect continuously one-on-one in the future.

Be Receptive and Responsive

In an effort to show group collaboration, be responsive to coworkers and colleagues during meetings or even in passing conversation. This receptiveness will show mutual understanding and respect. Create a receptive office atmosphere where ideas are not just accepted, but encouraged. Ensure that despite the content of the conversation, meeting, or interaction that all communication is perceived in a respectful manner.

Show Appreciation and Acknowledgement

Everyone likes to be appreciated for their ideas – so, show that! Displaying acts of appreciation and acknowledgment of other’s ideas is a great way to maintain strong communication. Always to thank listeners for their time and practice simple courtesy.

How to Restart at Work After Vacation

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 09 Jul 2018 10:59:00 GMT

With the 4 ^th of July week concluding this past weekend, many companies and business are starting to regroup after a few days of possible closures or vacation days. And while vacation time is always important to keep in mind when establishing a strong work/life balance, it is crucial to ‘hit the ground running’ when returning to work. To help you get back in the working mindset, here are a few tips for restarting after a vacation:

Get into a Routine:

Whether it’s setting up a meal plan for yourself, getting into the habit of visiting the gym every morning, or even getting an extra hour of sleep at night, setting a routine for yourself will help you readjust after time away from the office.

Create Healthy Habits:

Eating well and exercising regularly are important not only for overall well-being but will help you to get back into the habit of the work week. Eating the right foods will help to rejuvenate your body with healthy vitamins, minerals, and proteins and exercising will aid in providing you with more natural energy. You’ll be ready to go in the morning even before you step foot in the office!

Prioritize:

Make your transition back to work easily by understanding which tasks you need to prioritize upon your return. While returning to a full inbox and list of tasks may seem daunting, understanding where your priorities lie will help to alleviate some of the stress that returning after a holiday can provide.

Be Positive!

Walk into each day with a positive attitude – this will help to give you a positive outlook not only on the day but for days to follow.

Interview Tips from PCG Recruiters

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 02 Jul 2018 16:34:00 GMT

Acing your interview is key to securing your next big job opportunity. However, the “do’s and don’ts” of proper interviewing techniques may be unclear from time to time. Many of our recruiters work closely with their candidates to help prepare them for their interviews – whether it be on the phone, in person, or even through a video chat call!

Here are some of two of our recruiter’s favorite tips for properly preparing for an interview:

“I always tell candidates to consider the interview a conversation. The word “interview” can scare some people but if you just approach the meeting like a discussion of your skills versus an interrogation session, it puts things into a much more relaxed perspective. You know what you are awesome at so be yourself and let those qualities shine through!” –Kerrin, Senior Recruiter

“As a best practice, take a minute to look up the company before scheduling a call or interview. This will ensure that you are informed before speaking with them; providing insight into your current and previous experience and path.” –Patrick, National Talent Manager

PCG Participates in Virtual Walk Benefitting She's the First

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 18 Jun 2018 13:50:00 GMT

This past weekend, members of the Pyramid Consulting Group team participated in a virtual walk in honor of She’s the First! From New York City to Puerto Rico and Boston, PCG employees participated across the country in this walk to raise awareness for women’s education.

She’s the First, the non-profit organization that the walk benefitted, “fights gender inequality by supporting girls who will be the first in their families to graduate high school and by training students everywhere to be global citizens,” according to their mission statement. By providing quality tools, mentors and support systems, insight into the work of international programs, and networking to create an expansive network of participating schools, She’s the First is able to provide quality education to deserving young girls across the world.

Through our charity involvement program, Pyramid Possibilities, PCG is able to partner with amazing non-profit organizations that share the same core values as us! And because of Pyramid Possibilities, we are able to connect with groups and organizations, not only throughout the world in different locations, but also through different types of service.

"What I love most about Pyramid Possibilities is that even though we work with a diverse group of charities, though them all you can find hope. Hope for better education, hope to end hunger issues, hope to bring to have clean drinking water, and hope that the people receiving our donations can create a better life for themselves,” said Lauren, Pyramid Consulting Group’s Senior Director of Marketing and Innovation. “It’s amazing to come together as a team and provide opportunities for those that are unable to help themselves, that is a feeling of impact that we always strive for each year.”

This year, PCG hosted a “Sweat for STF” virtual walk in an effort to raise funds to become a Girl Champion, which would cover the cost of tuition, empowerment programs, and boarding, as well as show support for equality in education. The team worked to raise funds and also participated in the walk - virtually!

One of our recruiters, Juan Rivera, weighed in on his thoughts about this year’s fundraising efforts. “This virtual walk gave us the opportunity to raise awareness of our initiative through the most effective way possible in this day in age: Social Media!”

PCG is continuing to raise money to become a Girl Champion! Learn more about our Pyramid Possibilities Partnership with She’s the First here !

Benefits Of Blogging (No Matter Your Career Industry!)

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 11:42:00 GMT

Starting and maintaining a blog can be beneficial, not only for personal branding but for individualized professional growth as well. Nearly 8 years ago, we launched our PCG blog and have continuously been learning more about the recruitment industry since! Here are just a few reasons why writing a blog can be beneficial:

Brand Yourself

For many bloggers, writing columns and producing content on a regular basis allows for personal expression. Whether it’s talking about a new food experience, a favorite movie, or a recent vacation to an exotic destination, blogging can give you the freedom to discuss what you love in a personal or professional way.

“A blog is a great way to show off some personality online,” said Haley Tanella, a member of our marketing department. “It gives you a way to show off a bit of your fun side in a creative outlet. You can show off your interest in specific things, places, or stories in a unique forum, which I think is pretty cool!”

Or Learn More About Your Industry

While creating a blog can be a personal endeavor, producing content on your specific industry or field of study can help you can insight on new and emerging trends, standards, and news. With blogging comes conductive research which can assist in various jobs in a variety of industries.

Become A Stronger Writer

When looking to expand your skill set, apply for a new job, or just work on personal growth, strong written communication skills are a key part of professional branding. Writing a blog gives you the opportunity to expand your writing skills and gain even more experience in writing standards.

“I think that writing my own blog has really helped me boost my writing and gain important skills and insight into different writing techniques,” said Haley. “I’m glad that I have the more ‘relaxed’ writing experience to credit on my resume experiences – I think it shows diversity in skill set and is also key for someone like me who is currently working in marketing.”

Learn A New (Highly-Coveted) Skill

While blogging is not only a great way to expand your creative skill set, but also gives you the opportunity to take on a new (and fairly coveted among employers) skill. Using internet software systems has become an important skill, not only in blogging but in job seeking as well.

Website production sites, such as Wix, Weebly, and Squarespace make it relatively easy to conceptualize basic website programming and these such tools make it very easy to create beautiful, easy-to-use blog sites!

Perfect Your Cover Letter With These Simple Steps!

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 15:48:00 GMT

When applying for a new position, having an up-to-date resume is key. Highlighting your skills and depicting your career experience is important through the use of a well-polished resume, however, having supporting documentation to further highlight your skills – such as a cover letter, portfolio, or written references can truly give you a boost when looking for a job and can even help you stand out from the crowd of applicants. Here are a few tips to help you highlight your skills in your supporting documentation:

Break it up and be specific

While a cover letter gives you the opportunity to truly highlight your strongest skills, it is important to keep the letter as detailed and clear as possible. An easy way to do so is by breaking up your skills into specific sections. Not only will you be able to highlight your specific skills, but you’ll be able to highlight your skills in an easy-to-read letter. This will also allow you to highlight the specific skills that the company is searching for and truly make your cover letter stand out from the rest.

How can you help them?

While highlighting your skills and prior experience is the overall objective of your cover letter, emphasizing how your prior career steps can help grow the company you’re looking to work with will add an even more effective touch. By specifically targeting your cover letter to the needs of the company, it shows your interest in the position and dedication to your application.

Keep it personable

The contents of a cover letter vary slightly than a resume simply because the writing and description can be personalized to your specific tone. Add a personal touch to your cover letter, such as the inclusion of a personal experience, reduce the amount of formality, and customize the voice of your letter to give it a bit of personalized pop!

These Tips Will Help You Make The Most Out Of Your Day While Working From Home

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 22 May 2018 04:26:00 GMT

With advancing technology, companies have been finding it easier to expand their teams on a remote basis (including us here at PCG!). While working from home may present ups and downs throughout the work day, there are ways to make the most out of your remote work accommodations if your company allows you to do so. We spoke with one of our Luxury Recruiters who works remotely in Mexico City, Courtney, to gain a little more insight on how she makes the most of her remote work experience.

Communicate!

Strong communication among a team is critically important for the success of any type of business. It is critically important to stay up-to-date with the status of office happenings, but while it may be easier to stay in contact with co-workers while in the office, maintaining strong communication throughout the workday while working remotely is also critically important. Whether it’s sending a quick email to a co-worker or making a phone call to review the status of a project with your direct supervisor, maintaining strong communication helps you to stay in the loop with critical company happenings.

“Communication throughout the day is THE most important,” said Courtney, “I’m constantly emailing, texting or on the phone with my colleagues in the office. Being in touch constantly with my colleagues also helps me feel like a part of the team.”

Create a To-Do List

One way to make the most out of your day-to-day remote work day is to create a to-do list for yourself filled with daily tasks. When we asked Courtney about one way she keeps herself on task while working from home, keeping a physical to-do list in front her during her day helps to accomplish tasks throughout the day.

“I’m old school and don’t use any special apps, just my notebook, and pen and I make sure I have everything crossed off by the end of the day.”

Whether you keep your checklist in a notebook, on a phone or tablet, or on a desktop computer, creating a to-do list can certainly increase remote productivity.

Set (Realistic) Goals

Another way to boost productivity while working remotely is to set goals for yourself. Create goals, whether metric-based or project-based can help you make the most of your workday.

“Having goals that I have to reach pushes me to stay on task on a daily basis and make sure I’m being just as productive as the team in the office,” Courtney told us.

And while working remotely may present its challenges, it is important to remember that there are positives to working with this type of flexible schedule as well!

“I feel empowered and trusted by our leadership team to work away from the office and know that I’m doing my best to contribute to the success of the company, said Courtney. “Plus, I have the fun perk of getting to spend all day with my shih-tzu, Wembly!”

Top Tips for Your Office Summer Dress Code

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 14 May 2018 12:04:00 GMT

The arrival of warm weather typically brings along with it an annual office memo for the summer dress code. Summer dress codes set office standards for what is and are not appropriate to wear at work when it gets hot out. These dress codes may vary depending on what industry or field you work in, but typically there is a general understanding of what you should or should not wear. In case your office does not provide a strict dress code for the summertime, here are some tips on how to keep your outfits office-appropriate this summer.

Avoid flip-flops. Although some open-toed shoes, such as a nice pair of sandals with a strap in the back, maybe okay to wear, flip-flops are definitely too casual for the workplace. Plus your coworkers don’t want to stare at your feet all day long, just as much as you don’t want to see theirs!

Modesty is key. No matter what season it is, appropriate clothing should always be worn in the office. Make sure anything you’re wearing is not too short and doesn’t show too much skin. This includes sheer materials, plunging necklines, skimpy clothing, or strange cut-outs.

Keep it neat. Although summer dress in the office tends to be more casual, always keep your outfits neat. Tuck in your shirt, remember to iron and keep yourself looking put-together.

Improvise! If you find yourself lacking a variety of appropriate summer outfits, there’s always a way to make some pieces work. PCG Senior Human Resources and Total Rewards Manager, Jenny, suggests “polishing off a summer dress with a cardigan to make it work-appropriate.”

Don’t be afraid to ask. HR departments are meant to uphold the standards of an office. If you are a man and curious if you can wear shorts, just simply ask your HR directors. The same goes for women’s dress code restrictions too!

When it comes to summer office-dress codes it is most important to be conscientious about it. Chances are if you think something may be too inappropriate to wear, it probably is. Although dress codes may change in the summer, office etiquette never does!

The Benefits of Hiring a Recent College Grad

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 07 May 2018 07:32:00 GMT

In the next few months, college students who are graduating this spring will be heavily applying for job opportunities to begin their careers after school. Although they may not be as experienced in the workforce as other candidates, recent college graduates have a lot to offer. Here are some major reasons why you should consider hiring a recent college grad for your business:

Lower salary costs. As a result of having less exposure in a particular field of work, college graduates tend to be willing to work for a significantly lower salary than “experienced hires”. This is definitely a benefit because it saves your company valuable operating capital.

They are comfortable with technology and social media. A great advantage that recent college graduates have is their experience and knowledge of the most modern technology and social media trends. This makes them a valuable asset for both current and future business needs. A recent college graduate could help your workplace stay competitive in this rapidly changing, technology-centric society.

They are quick learners who can work longer hours without as many distractions. Typically, more experienced workers are older than new workforce members and have more personal life responsibilities such as children. Not having these types of obligations, recent college graduates are able to devote more time to their occupation. This combined with the fact that they are used to learning new things regularly makes for an incredibly efficient and hardworking employee.

PCG's

Preparing for the Work Force After Graduation

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 10:13:00 GMT

It may be hard to believe, but the end of the academic year is quickly approaching for many college students. And while most will be headed back to campus in the late summer to continue their studies, many will take that next step – graduating. And while transitioning from college student to working professional seems like a fairly large jump, here are a few ways to aide in that next step of your life:

Reach Out to Your Connections:

Whether you reach out by connecting on LinkedIn, sending an email to a prior internship supervisor, or sending your resume out through mutual friends or colleagues, reaching out to a large plethora of people can only benefit you in the long run. Most likely, these connections, if they’re not familiar with any jobs at their direct company, may know of others looking to hire entry-level professionals like yourself!

Market Yourself Professionally:

Create a thought-provoking and detailed resume as well as a professional-looking LinkedIn page, and draft a well-written cover letter to use while job searching. These three tools will help to attract companies hiring, as well as act as a great tool to present on job interviews. Create a resume that showcases all of your career milestones, such as internships, as well as organizations that you had participated in college, such as sports clubs, volunteer groups, Greek organizations, or work-study, and add them to both your resume and LinkedIn. You can also use these experiences to highlight your career interests and motivators in your cover letter.

Connect with A Recruiter:

Whether you’re looking for a temporary or permanent position right out of college, recruiters can help alleviate some of the stress of finding a job post-grad. Recruiters, like those here at PCG, are dedicated to assisting you through the difficulties of finding a job. Whether you’re in search of a job in marketing, sales, or finance, recruiters will help you revamp your resume, provide you with awesome (and sometimes confidential) jobs, and provide a face to turn to with any questions or concerns. Recruiters really help to put a face to the job search!

Send a Follow Up:

When you finally secure that first job interview, be sure to send a letter of thanks to your interviewer, regardless of how you think the initial conversation went. Send a short email explaining your gratitude for the interview (or any other member of the team that you had met) for taking the time to meet with you as well as reiterate why you believe your skills will make you a great fit for the role. Not only will this show the interviewer that you are serious about the position your interest in the position and company, but will also keep you in their minds when making a final hiring decision.

Benefits of Working an Administrative Job

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 23 Apr 2018 11:02:00 GMT

Did you know: Administrative Professionals Day is April 25 ^th ? With that day quickly approaching, we thought we’d highlight the benefits, perks, and insight gained from working an administrative job. Here are a few reasons why taking up a temporary or entry-level job in Admin can kick-start an amazing career!

More Exciting Responsibility:

With the growth of modern American companies, the new responsibilities of administrative professionals have become much more exciting and intersecting as opposed to roles of the past which primarily consisted of book-keeping, creating memos, and answering phones. Administrative professionals, such as Executive Assistants, Office Managers, and temporary employees, have now been able to take on more responsibilities that lead to larger company success and productivity.

No Two Days Are Alike:

Variety is the spice of life! If you are the type of person that enjoys variety in your work day, working an administrative job may be a great fit for you! From managing budgets to planning office events or even assisting with the hiring of company support or employees, the list can go on in terms of the responsibility for administrative professionals. One day you may be assisting with planning an office party and the next you may be in a meeting with the company CEO!

You Can Work in Different Industries:

Whether you’re interested in fashion, tech, art, or media, most industries rely on the help of administrative professionals. This means, if going through your entire career in administrative support isn’t your full-time plan, you can start off your career in the industry you desire without the exact years of experience. This is a great way to build up your resume with relevant industry experience and observe, first-hand, the workings of a professional field.

Jason, a member of our PCG administrative team who works as an Executive Assistant, has been working in Admin for the last 2 years. “I love that my job is always different day-to-day,” said Jason. “I’m able to work closely with the Executive team, Human Resources, Marketing, Accounting and our recruiters. Having such a central role in the company has given me a lot of knowledge and insight on how exactly a business is run and that alone is invaluable.”

Improve Your In-Office Communication With These Helpful Tips!

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Fri, 13 Apr 2018 00:55:00 GMT

Here are a few other ways to achieve successful communication with your colleagues:

Consider their communication preference. Everyone has their own preferred method of communication. While some may like to receive an email over a phone call, others may need a face to face conversation to understand an assignment or question. Put an effort into remembering the different ways to communicate with your various coworkers.

Be cautious of sounding too casual. Even if you consider yourself extremely comfortable with your coworkers, the office is still a place of business. Avoid cursing or distasteful conversation topics that could upset or even offend your colleagues.

Pay attention to body language. If your coworker says that she can meet your deadline, but is avoiding eye contact while she says it, she may be afraid to tell you the truth. Body language can reveal a lot about how your colleagues are feeling, so noticing it can help you better understand someone.

Remember to listen! Although it may seem obvious that you need to listen to your coworkers, it is incredibly important to actually listen to them. Don’t interrupt them while they are speaking and give them your undivided attention. Listening is a way of showing your respect as well as an example of how you would like to be treated in return.

The Best Ways to Re-Energize Throughout the Workday

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 02 Apr 2018 11:48:00 GMT

Although it may be tempting to reach for another cup of coffee or an energy drink when you feel a crash coming on at work, there are plenty of other ways to get a boost of energy on the job. Here are some of our favorites!

Get some fresh air.

It can be daunting to sit in the same office space for extended periods of time. To break things up and to get your blood flowing again, try taking a short walk outside. Whether it is two minutes long or twenty, any time you spend outside can help you feel more awake during the workday.

Snack on something.

Your body needs fuel to perform at its best and fuel is found in food. To prevent yourself from burning out on the job, keep a few snacks on hand, but remember to choose your snacks wisely! Healthy choices like toasted nuts or fruit are much better options for both your energy levels and your overall health than a bag of chips.

Take a break to stretch.

Stretching, surprisingly, has various health benefits for your body. One of these includes increasing blood flow to the brain, which leads to raised energy levels. Doing just even a few desk stretches could instantly give you a boost at work.

"I like to just get up and stretch periodically throughout the day," said Haley Tanella, a member of our marketing department "If I'm feeling sluggish, a quick stretch or a brief walk can help me get back on focus for the rest of my workday."

Take a moment to socialize with your coworkers.

Although you are on the clock, everyone in the office could use a break to laugh or chat for a minute or so. Share a funny story from the weekend or discuss something going on in the news with your coworker. Taking a quick pause from your work can actually help you be more productive in the long run!

Women's History Month: An Interview with Maggie Louise Confection's Dorelia Miller

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 03:29:00 GMT

In honor of Women’s History Month, Pyramid Consulting Group is celebrating women in the workplace! As a company founded by a female CEO, PCG is always excited to learn about and collaborate with female-founded companies that share some of the same values that we do.

This month we’re sitting down with a few women from women-run businesses all across the country to learn about their individual stories and what it means to be women in the workplace.

This week we are featuring the fabulous (and delicious) Maggie Louise Confections! MLC is based in Austin, Texas and was brought to life by founder Maggie Callahan, a lawyer-turned-chocolatier who decided to pursue her love of art and food after her corporate career in law was not filling the creative void in her life.

We had the opportunity to speak with Dorelia Miller, the Director of Client Experience at Maggie Louise to understand her point-of-view when it comes to women in the workplace.

After joining the team in 2016, Dorelia has seen Maggie Louise grow into one country’s fastest growing confection companies, and she says that the support of the women behind the chocolate is what helps the company thrive.

“We are so lucky to have an amazing woman leader,” said Miller, “and I love that our company is made up of 85% female employees. We can really relate well, not only to each other, but to our customers, and I think that’s pretty special.”

When asked about the success of women-owned businesses in today’s society, Doriela expressed that the more, the merrier.

“I think having more women-run businesses is great for our economy, and it really helps to open the door for the coming generations by having a face and a name representing successful women in business.”

And as for the growth and rise of women in the workplace? Miller says today’s women are truly leading the way.

“I think that women are truly changing the culture of business. Having more women holding leadership roles in today’s market is leading the way for more opportunity for young women now, especially with strong mentoring programs in women-run business,” explained Miller.

Dorelia also mentions that she believes that the continuing success of women-run businesses in the future will become more prevalent and influential in the coming future.

Women's History Month: An Interview with The Sill's Erin Marino

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 28 Mar 2018 01:51:00 GMT

This month we’re sitting down with a few women from women-run businesses all across the country to learn about their individual stories and what it means to be women in the workplace.

This week we are featuring the amazing work of The Sill! Based in the heart of NYC, The Sill is dedicated to their motto which is “plants make people happy,” and we agree! From their adorably delicate succulents to their fun and funky hanging air plants, The Sill delivers high-quality products to their customers and has been since founder, Eliza Blank, launched the company officially in 2012.

We sat down with Erin Marino, Director of Marketing, to gain a bit of insight as to why she loves working for The Sill and how she thinks women-run business are changing the face of our global economy!

Erin joined The Sill’s team as an intern and the first ever employee in 2012 since then she has grown to one of the company’s highest-ranking employees as the Director of Marketing. Watching the company grow has been one of Erin’s favorite things about working for The Sill.

“I’ve seen the company grow from the ground up,” said Marino, “It has been an incredible experience.”

Erin also credits The Sill’s founder and a strong team of motivated individuals for the ever-growing success of the business as well as an inspiration for all employees.

“We have an incredible founder and mentor to look up to. I think that can really impact and inspire a team. I feel inspired every morning to get to my office. To be surrounded by people that feel passionate about their job and the company it’s within is unbelievably motivating.”

Marino also mentions that working for a female-founded company has helped her feel more ‘at home’ while in the office, mentioning that she feels that the company is an extension of her own family.

And as for the growth of women-owned companies in the US and around the world? Erin believes that companies, such as The Sill, are working to improve the global economy one step at a time, and she is proud of the work that The Sill has contributed thus far.

“3% of women-owned business in the US surpass the $1 million mark and I am proud to work for one that has.

'For Erin, the growth and stigma of women in the workplace are only growing and she hopes to someday be a role model for young women looking to make a change in business globally.

To learn more about The Sill, head to there site here and connect with Erin on LinkedIn here !

Women's History Month: An Interview with PCG's Allyson Goodman

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 26 Mar 2018 03:03:00 GMT

March is Women’s History Month and for the next week, we, at Pyramid Consulting Group, will be celebrating the work of amazing and dedicated women and their influential impact on the modern-day workforce.

We sat down with a few women from women-run businesses all across the country to learn more about their individual experiences and what it means to be a woman in the workplace.

To start off this week, we spoke with the CEO and founder of Pyramid Consulting Group, Allyson Goodman! Since she first founded PCG in 2003, Allyson demonstrated that she is a pioneer in the recruiting world and has shown that businesses can thrive under the leadership of strong and hard-working women.

When asked about why she thinks that PCG has set itself apart from other staffing agencies, Goodman credited the unique approach and training of internal recruiters that have helped this women-founded company succeed for close to a decade and a half.

“I think what sets us apart is our approach to hiring and the process,” said Goodman. “We know that there is nothing transactional about a job change, and that never gets lost in our process.”

Goodman stated that she feels very lucky to work in an industry that truly acknowledges the success of women in modern-day business endeavors.

“I feel so fortunate to work in an industry that can allow women to have fulfilling, successful careers, and can still provide a meaningful work/life balance,” said Goodman.

Similar to other female-founded organizations, PCG has always been a strong advocate for pushing women to achieve great success in their careers and also encourages women to take on leadership roles.

“I think it’s essential for a woman to pave their own path with their own financial stability to create strong self-sufficiency,” said Goodman. “I couldn’t be prouder to work alongside such a smart, courageous and inspiring team of women. They are shining examples of strength and resilience.”

Whether this Women’s History Month or any month, Goodman feels strongly about the essential balance between succeeding in a career and leading healthy, meaningful lives outside of the office.

“I am incredibly grateful to have an organization where women can not only propel themselves into leadership roles but also create a healthy balance to be the best they can be at both. I am a believer that you can have it all when it’s done with care, thoughtfulness, and perseverance.”

Women Empowering Women: Happy Women's History Month!

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 05 Mar 2018 09:06:00 GMT

March 8 ^th is International Women’s Day! As a company who was founded by female executives, we at Pyramid Consulting Group takes pride in working with strong, motivated women as well as empowering women and young girls to achieve their goals in life. We also understand the absolute importance of giving back to groups and organizations that share the ideas and work to withhold the same morals as we do. Through our charity involvement program, Pyramid Possibilities, we have been able to give back to so many women through fantastic and supportive non-profit organizations, especially She’s The First and Bottomless Closet – two organizations that strive to support and empower women, both in both domestic and international locations.

She’s The First

Founded in 2009 by Tammy Tibbetts and Christen Brandt, She’s The First is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to supporting “girls who will be the first in their families to graduate high school and trains student everywhere to be global citizens,” in an effort to empowered women all over the world!

STF believes that women are unstoppable – and we agree! Their strong belief in educating young women and girls helps them develop into amazing human beings. With an education, according to STF, young women earn 20% more on average per year of schooling, are more likely to establish healthy relationships, have healthy children later in life, and are more likely to make a worldly change themselves.

“They are a perfect match for PCG, a woman-run business,” said Pyramid Consulting Group’s Senior Director of Marketing and Innovation, Lauren Schuman, “it makes me so proud to know that there [are] young wom[e]n out there in the world getting an education because of us.”

Bottomless Closet
In an effort to support women during their job search, Bottomless Closet was founded to provide women, who otherwise would not have access to nice clothing, with fashion-forward and trendy fashion to wear during upcoming job interviews.

And while providing fashionable clothing at a reasonable price is their main forte, Bottomless Closet also provide education curriculum classes and workshops at the NYC-based offices.

“Being a part of a company that is primarily women, as well as solely founded and owned by a woman, I am a huge supporter of Bottomless Closet,” said our Director of People and Operations, Jennifer Goldrick.

To learn more about these two amazing non-profit organizations, click HERE to read about She’s The First, and HERE to read more about Bottomless Closet.

Benefits of Working in Retail

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 27 Feb 2018 05:04:00 GMT

Whether you’re looking for a short-term or part-time position to earn a bit of cash for the summer, or are looking to kick-start your full-time career, working a job in retail can provide a non-conventional option to offset the typical office desk job. Here are some benefits that are the result of working a retail job:

Grow Your People Skills
Gain helpful and insightful experience while mastering your ‘people skills’! Working a retail job creates awesome opportunity to speak face-to-face with an unfamiliar clientele that you would never have had the opportunity to meet without your retail job! Work on communicating efficiently, problem-solve effectively and practice patience effectively while promoting amazing products to interested clientele. Retail jobs are great for people are flexible in situations and can adapt easily to changing customer situations.

Flexible Scheduling
For those who do are not favorable of the typical “9 to 5” schedule, working in retail may be the option for you! Most retail locations offer flexible hours, which you can get your hours in during early mornings, late evenings, or on weekends when your personal schedule allows. While working retail does limit you to the specific retail location, these shops and stores are great options for students or other part-time job seekers who are looking for non-traditional timeframes to make a bit of money.

Stay on Your Feet
Working a retail job is a great way to keep you on your feet. Whether you’re assisting customers, running product on the sales floor, or maintaining a stock room, you’ll never be short on time on your feet. These types of sales jobs are great for high-energy people who can’t picture themselves sitting behind a desk. Spend your work week hours burning just a few extra calories on your feet!

A Great Start
Whether you’re looking to get your foot in the door in the fashion industry, make connections in the beauty world, or gain a bit of experience in the technology sector, working a retail job can help you make lasting connections in an industry that you are passionate about. Working a part-time or full-time job in retail can help you gain a better understanding of your preferred industry and can be helpful in starting your career off on the right foot! Plus – many retail companies have great growth and development programs which help employees grow internally within the company, making it a great option to launch a career path!

Discounts!
One of the best – and most talked-about benefits of working a retail job is that most companies offer excellent employee discounts on their products! Now, who doesn’t love a great sale?! Despite that this perk is merely just that – a nice perk – it definitely doesn’t hurt to receive a hefty discount off of some of your favorite products, like clothing, jewelry or cosmetics.

The Benefits of Using A Recruiter During Your Job Search

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 19 Feb 2018 02:03:00 GMT

The benefits of completing your job search with a recruiter are numerous. With career and industry expertise, recruiters can provide you with the steps to find your dream job. Here are a few reasons why working with a recruiter can be an amazing benefit:

It's No Cost to You

One of the greatest benefits of using a recruiter is the fact that it is no cost to you! That’s right – starting or kick-start your job search by using a recruiter is free. Your recruiter will be dedicated to finding you your dream job while keeping in mind the requirements and specifications of the company’s client. A great benefit of working with a recruiter!

Access to Unpublished Jobs

With the confidentiality of the recruiting industry, many recruitment firms will not reveal their clients or even some of their client’s current openings to maintain that secrecy. When working with a recruiter, they understand what both you and their client are looking for, so although the right job may not contain a public posting, they could have a job available that is the right fit for you.

A Wealth of Knowledge

Many recruiters, especially those here at PCG, work within industries, specializations, and fields in which they are experts. Which means not only do they know what their clients are looking for, but also how to really “wow” them in an interview, on a resume, or during your first day on the job. They’ll be able to provide you with professional insight on the jobs you are interested in.

A Helping Hand

Another great perk that goes in favor of using a recruiter comes from the fact that they maintain constant communication between you and the job opportunity that you’re interested in. They’ll be sure to help you schedule interviews that fit around your schedule, add standout points to your resume, ask questions during the entire interview process, and provide insight as to what the client is looking for in terms of the right fit. They’ll be helping you every step of the way!

A Great Place to Start

If you’re not sure exactly what you’d like to accomplish in your career, your recruiter is a great person to contact! They’ll take the information – such as what you enjoy doing, where you live, the hours you’re able to accommodate – and find a position that they think will suit your needs Another great way to start your search with a recruiter is asking about temporary placement opportunities. Many staffing agencies (especially PCG!) staff for temporary positions. These short-term opportunities will help give you a taste of what some full-time positions can entail.

Mastering Your Interview Elevator Speech

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 12 Feb 2018 05:44:00 GMT

“So, tell me a little bit about yourself!” This phrase, typically heard in the interview room, can certainly be a startling one if you’re not mentally prepared to provide a well thought out answer. However, with the right preparation, you can ace this question with a spectacular answer that will help to make a good first impression. Here are a few tips for perfecting your elevator pitch:

Be Clear and Concise:

It may stand for itself, but making sure your interview elevator pitch is clear and to the point is an essential part of ensuring that it makes a lasting impression. Ensure that you are clear about your points and express exactly what you are looking for a new job opportunity and what the interviewer should know about you as an employee. Be clear on your accomplishments, education, and relevant training (they are things you should be proud of!) and state your exact goals and timeline points of which made you successful in your prior roles.

Quality, Not Quantity:

In an effort to highly your truly impressive skills, be sure to include your more impressive and relevant skills into your elevator pitch; things and aspects that you’re truly proud of and related directly to the skills required for the job you’re interviewing for. A recent article from Inc. suggests that it is most likely more important to highlight transferable skills from prior experiences and jobs, rather than listing positions. Be sure to highlight your most impressive special skills and personality in under 2 minutes.

Practice Makes Perfect:

Before you go into your interview, try rehearsing your elevator speech to yourself. Whether you stand in front of the bathroom mirror or repeat it to yourself just before you step interview, you’ll feel much more comfortable and prepared when it comes time to speak on behalf of yourself!

Be Confident!

Share your speech with a smile! Even the most impressive speech would miss the mark without personality and proper be conveying. Show off your true personality and positivity with exciting energy throughout your speech to express your passion for your career or field of industry. Also, remember to maintain strong eye contact – another sign of confidence!

Debunking Resume Myths

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 05 Feb 2018 08:08:00 GMT

While a new year may spark interest in excelling your current job, it may also encourage you to take on new job opportunities. After all, it is the new year. In an effort to explore these opportunities, a key asset to one’s application is their resume. A well-formatted resume free of grammatical errors and typos must always be of high importance for candidates. This shows employers that candidates are serious about the opportunity and have put in ample time and effort in their application. However, there are also several myths we must debunk. We have been trained to think to include certain things in our resumes which can actually be hurting you rather than helping you in your job search.

"Your resume should only be one page."

It is widely believed your resume will be most concise by capping it at the one-page limit. However, the word says so itself. By capping it at one page, you are limiting yourself and maybe cutting short on the experiences you really want to be highlighting. It is okay to go the two pages. Two pages will accommodate your experience whether it is 10 or 20 years of experience. What you do not want is to overcompensate and drag out experiences that will not be emphasizing your skills and work ethic.

"Your resume must be formatted in one, standard way."

If you have a business background in comparison to a more creative background like visual arts or music, your resume will be very different. A business resume, for example, will focus more on one’s education, skills either technical or managerial, research, and of course experience. Someone in a more creative and hands-on field will still want to definitely focus on their education but include more relevant and leadership experience to showcase projects and production or software experience.

"A great resume will always guarantee you a job."

A good resume will get you to the interview phase of your application but it will not always ensure you will get the job. After being notified you have made it to the next round of applicants, you want to hone in on your interview skills. Know your resume inside and out because recruiters will question you about it. You want to be sure you can answer anything they may ask about a past experience or skills you have listed. For further interview tips, check out previous posts on our blog!

How to Job Search in a Different City When Relocating

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 29 Jan 2018 06:33:00 GMT

Relocating to a different city, state, or even country can be an incredibly daunting task for a multitude of reasons: this including finding a new job. When job searching for a position in a new place, it is important to keep a few tips in mind to ensure you succeed.

Start planning ahead and give yourself plenty of time. A job search can be a long process in your own city, let alone in a completely remote one. Ensure you have plenty of time to find and secure a job before you move. Organize your job search by laying out a timeline for yourself with open dates you can travel for interviews. Don’t wait until the last minute to find a new job there, because you will have a much more difficult and stressful time.

Sign up for local job alerts and change the address on your resume. Signing up for job alerts for the area you are relocating to is an easy way to get fast and recurring updates about available positions you could be suited for. It is also smart to switch your resume address to a local one by or in your new city. This ensures employers will not disregard your resume solely because you are an out-of-town candidate.

Consider working a temporary job first. Working a temporary position would allow someone more time to secure a permanent position after they have moved. Temporary jobs offer great work experience and consistent compensation during a transition period in your life.

Consider reaching out to connections you have at that location. LinkedIn, Facebook, and PCG recruiters exist for a reason! Contacting family or friends you have in the area can help make your transition easier and network grow, while a recruiter can potentially help you find a job that is perfect for you. Click here to contact a PCG recruiter today!

Pyramid Consulting Group Launches New Site

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 22 Jan 2018 11:24:00 GMT

Pyramid Consulting Group is excited to announce the launch of their brand-new website. And while this new site features easier ways to apply for job openings and learns about current opportunities with PCG, the team is promising to ensuring that the team is still dedicated to connecting their clients with amazing talent.

The new website promises a clean professional look with an easy-to-use interface, which will provide both candidates and clients with the information they are seeking.

We sat down with Haley Tanella, a member of our marketing team, to learn more about how PCG’s new website will make it easier than ever for candidates to find their dream jobs.

“I think the new layout of the website is a great representation of who we as a brand,” said Haley “I really love the clean layout and user-friendly interface that lets you search for jobs as soon as you log on.”

Haley also likes the ease-of-use that the new site promotes as a result of this company-wide change.

“It’s great that you’re able to apply for our current openings with existing resumes, such as your indeed resume or LinkedIn profile, but also lets you add your personal resume. All three options make applying for jobs simple and super easy, which I think will really help to encourage candidates to apply!”

The new site also features division highlights, which describe Pyramid Consulting Group’s focused departments, staffing service information for clients, and career-based blog posts that are updated on a frequent basis to provide insight into the job world and also updates on current industry trends.

To explore the new site and check out its new features, click here .

Stay Connected In the New Year

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 15 Jan 2018 02:10:00 GMT

The new year has arrived and there is no better time than now to reconnect with colleagues, bosses, and friends. Here are some ways in which you can reconnect to enhance your new year:

Emails: One email can go a long way. Reach out to old colleagues and wish them a happy new year. Share any recent experiences you may have had that you can talk about and ask them what they have been up to. This shows that they are in your thoughts and nothing is as refreshing as hearing from an old colleague during the holiday season. Always remember people connect with people.

LinkedIn: LinkedIn is great for remaining updated with colleagues and/or old bosses. LinkedIn also notifies users when someone is celebrating a work anniversary or starting a new job which is perfect for messaging someone to congratulate them.

Make Time for Lunch or Coffee: In the busy city we live in sometimes it’s very easy to fall into a routine. We all have them. However, reaching out to someone to meet for coffee or lunch is super simple to do, can be coordinated on both schedules, and can do a lot to help maintain a relationship.

If you weren’t able to reach out to people you’ve been meaning to, now is the perfect time to do so! There is nothing like the start of a new year to rekindle work or personal relationships.

Setting Career Resolutions for 2018

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 08 Jan 2018 05:02:00 GMT

With a new year comes your typical new year’s resolutions. Vowing to eat healthier and work out more, read a new book every month, and spend more time with family and friends tend to be at the top of many lists this year. But, why not take your drive and motivation to improve your life outside of the office, and fuel it to improve your career goals? Here are a few “career resolutions” to help kick-start your 2018:

1. Communicate

It goes without saying, but excellent communication can be the key to success when it comes to your career. Make sure you are able to set aside some time with your supervisor or team members to go over weekly, daily, or even yearly goals that you have for yourself and your department. And make sure to maintain this open communication throughout the year to ensure all operations run smoothly amongst you and your coworkers.

2. Update Your Resume

Whether you’re looking for a new job and advance your career or not, updating your resume ensures that you are always ready to make that change when the time comes. It also allows you to keep track of your yearly goals in your current position.

3. Volunteer

When the stress of modern-day work can get the best of you, dedicating your time to an amazing non-profit or charity organization can help revitalize your career goals. Many companies today are taking part in volunteer and charity initiatives, including us! (include link to Pyramid Possibilities) Learn more about how expanding your charity involvement through your office can create lasting memories and a helpful impact.

4. Learn A New Skill

Take some time out of the office to learn a new skill. Whether you’re interested in learning more about the Adobe suite, taking up some new key phrases in a foreign language, or enhancing your public speaking skills, there are so many ways to increase your professional resume and skill set.

5. Set Time Aside for Fun!

Your career is very important, but also taking time for yourself outside of the office is equally important. Whether attending yoga classes bring you joy, traveling puts some pep in your step, or even spending time with friends and family, make sure you are able to take time for the things you enjoy throughout the year!

6. Learn and Grow

In this year and every year, always be sure to learn and grow as an individual in every sense of the word! Always try your best to improve to be the best version of yourself! Take advantage of every learning experience you come across and take whatever you can from other life experiences, as well.

Pyramid Possibilities – 2017 Holiday Initiative

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 05:05:00 GMT

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKWom3fhgRo

This holiday season, we are creating moments through our charity involvement program – Pyramid Possibilities.

Each year, we partner with an amazing non-profit organization through Pyramid Possibilities in an effort to give back to the community that has given so much to us. After countless stories from our business partners, candidates, and our employees about how their friends, family, and loved ones were directly impacted by the recent natural disasters, including hurricanes and earthquakes, we knew that we needed to assist in the relief efforts of these devastated areas.

We worked with our beloved partner, Pajama Program, in Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico, and Saint Martin and sent relief boxes to the children in these affected areas to help create a special and meaningful moment for them this holiday season. We packed the boxes full of warm and cozy pajamas, books, child-friendly insect repellant, mosquito nets, hand sanitizer, toothbrushes, and toothpaste – everything a child would need for a good night’s sleep.

In addition to sending relief boxes through our collaboration with Pajama Program, we also partnered with a local organization providing earthquake relief for Chiapas and Oaxaca, Mexico that will use our donation to offer psychological support to the children of these communities.

We are so thankful for our amazing partnerships with our clients, candidates, friends, and family members and are so very grateful for the opportunity to make lasting moments because of these relationships.

Pyramid Consulting Group wishes you a happy holiday season with you and your loved ones!

How to Properly Prepare to Leave Work Before the Holidays

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Sun, 17 Dec 2017 05:09:00 GMT

With the holiday season around the corner, the next few months at work may seem very scattered. Between having extra time off for the holidays and taking your own time off for vacation, there will be plenty of occasions where you may be out of the office. And that’s okay! The important thing is to prepare properly for your times of absence at work so that you can enjoy your time off, while also ensuring everything runs smoothly while you’re out. Here are a few ways you can accomplish this:

Remind your boss, coworkers, and clients of the times you will be out of the office. It is important to ensure that nobody is blindsided by your absence at work. Be sure to send a reminder, whether it is an email, phone call or text, to those who will be affected most by your time on holiday. This way you can avoid any miscommunications and ensure that those you work closely with know about your plans.

Create a customized autoreply email and outgoing voicemail. To avoid angry emails or voicemails about why you are not replying to messages or returning calls, be sure to set up an autoreply email and voicemail. Make sure that these inform the people contacting you of how long you will be out of the office and who they can contact in your absence.

Prioritize your workload and look ahead at your calendar. Before leaving for the holiday, it is important to make sure that your most important work tasks are accomplished. Be sure to look ahead at your schedule for after you return to ensure that you won’t be overwhelmed immediately when you come back.

Clean your office or desk before you go. Be sure to throw out any trash or food, unplug electronics to save energy in your absence, and clear off any clutter from your desk. You’ll thank yourself later when you return to a clean and organized office space.

Ideas for Holiday Gifts to Give Your Boss

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Sun, 10 Dec 2017 05:12:00 GMT

With the holiday’s right around the corner, you may be starting to think about gift ideas for your boss. You should never feel required to buy your boss a present; however, it can serve as a meaningful and kind gesture at the end of a great work year.

To avoid gifting your boss something that would be considered inappropriately expensive or distasteful, check out our ideas for thoughtful and affordable gift options.

Personalized Desk Supplies

Considering you work with your boss, getting them a gift for work makes total and great sense! A customized desk item, like this Mark and Graham multi-compartment desk tray , would add a tasteful touch to any desk space. An added plus: you know they will make great use of it! Other desk gifts include personalized desk signs, journals, and planners, or business card holder.

Food or Drink

Gifting your higher-up either a food or drink-related gift is most likely the safest buy for one simple reason: it is very easy to re-gift. Even if your boss may not have a taste for the bottle of wine you got them, someone else they know probably does. Besides, the thought is what matters the most anyway! A great sweet treat to consider giving your boss could be the Gold Discovery Tasting gift box from Godiva. Other great food or drink ideas include coffee sets, a wine of the month membership, or a gift card to their favorite lunch spot.

A Meaningful Book

Books can be great gifts even for people who don’t necessarily love to read. If your boss enjoys cooking, try gifting them a cookbook. Do they have a passion for photography? Try giving them a book on that. If they love inspirational stories, give them a motivational book, like The Power of One . Books can connect to people in personal ways and make for unique gifts.

Donate to Charity in His or Her Name

Instead of a physical gift this holiday season, consider donating to a charity you know your boss supports. Donating on his or her behalf shows your appreciation for your boss while helping make a difference too.

Office Etiquette During the Holidays

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Sun, 03 Dec 2017 05:14:00 GMT

Know your company guidelines. Every workplace celebrates the holidays differently. Be sure you are aware of your office’s particular standards and guidelines when it comes to things like gift giving and decorations. Some businesses are far stricter than others, so take the time to know what is appropriate for yours to avoid any misunderstandings.

If you do exchange gifts, don’t take it too far. Typically, the standard of proper gift-giving etiquette in an office setting is that presents flow from upward to downward. Therefore, it is not usually required for an employee to give their bosses or coworkers gifts. However, exchanging gifts can be a nice gesture and very meaningful to the people you work with. Stay away from giving gifts that are too expensive or overly personal. Also, be wary of making people feel “left out” if you are only gifting a few colleagues. Try exchanging presents outside of the office to avoid this. If you are stumped on gift ideas, check these out.

Your office holiday party is an office holiday party. Do not treat the annual holiday party your office has every year as something other than just that. It is a company event with your coworkers and higher-ups that is intended for everyone to celebrate a great year of work together. Do your part to keep it that way.

Be mindful. It is important to remember that not everyone you work with may celebrate the holidays or may not be able to afford to participate in the office Secret Santa. Respect personal boundaries by not forcing any office celebrations onto anyone.

Benefits of Working a Temporary Job

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 27 Nov 2017 06:21:00 GMT

With the holiday season now in full swing, hundreds of thousands of companies are hiring temporary workers and employees to offset the long hours, busy retail rush, or overload of corporate work and duties. But what about the perks of taking on these temporary responsibilities during, not only the holiday season but any time of the year?

Exposure to different climates and experiences:

Whether your background is in retail or in office administration, taking on the responsibilities associated with and temp job can give you exposure to different climate cultures, industries, and even career paths. If you’re looking to make a career change, taking on a temporary position in your career industry of choice may help you better understand how the industry works and if the choice to move forward with applying for temporary positions is worth your while.

Your wallet will thank you:

If you’re looking to add a few extra hours to your weekly work schedule to help boost your resume or to just feel up a few empty hours on the weekend or at night, working a temporary job is a great way to make a little extra money. Especially during the holiday season, having a bit more money in your pocket is a great way to supplement the cost of holiday gift-giving, personal seasonal expenses, or any other last-minute payments that need to be made.

Working is better than not working:

If you’re in-between jobs, taking on a temporary position is a great way to fill those gaps on your resume. With the ability to add more jobs to your resume, you’ll become more marketable to future employers as opposed to keeping ‘blank spaces’ on your future job applications.

Build up your contact list:

Adding temporary jobs to your resume also provides you with the ability to build up your contact or reference list. Not only are these contacts a great way to help establish a strong list of future recommendations, but they can also provide insight into future job opportunities through their potential job connections with industry contacts.

Simple and Easy: Meal Prep Your Lunches!

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 06:25:00 GMT

Now that the holiday season is among us, it seems that your free and available schedule is now shrinking by the day, right? From gift shopping for friends and family, working extra hours, traveling for the holiday get-togethers, planning your own seasonal celebrations, and trying to get in that one session at the gym, the shorter days seem to finally be catching up.

This probably means you are resorting to buying lunch or ordering out to your office come lunch time. However, to help you save money and time this holiday season, we have a few of our favorite meal prep lunches ready for you to enjoy throughout the week!

Mason Jar Salads – We absolutely love the idea of mason jar salads! These adorable combinations of salad fix-ins stacked neatly in a delicious salad makes for an easy meal prep! Stacking these salads and keeping similar ingredients together help to ensure that these salads last long (making them perfect for meal prepping!)

Here is a delish combo we love: https://kristineskitchenblog.com/chicken-salad-mason-jar-salads-creamy-no-mayo-dressing/

Power Bowls – Put down that sandwich and reach for one of these delicious Mediterranean-inspired bowls! This delicious combo of veggies and quinoa makes a perfect lunch that is super easy to compose! Add your favorite veggies and a yummy simple dressing that will have your coworkers feeling very jealous come lunch time!

Recipe here: http://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/258195/mediterranean-chickpea-quinoa-bowl/

Slow cooker meals – Utilize your slow cooker! On Sunday, let your meal cook low and slow and then serve it up into individual lunches when it’s finished! This will help you save time and money during the week and you’ll have a delicious lunch for every day of the work week before you even start it! This hearty lentil and veggie soup is perfect for the upcoming chilly weather, but there are hundreds of ideas to utilize your slow cooker!

Find this recipe for the veggie soup here: http://www.sweetphi.com/healthy-slow-cooker-lentil-vegetable-soup/

Find the recipe for this turkey chili here: https://wholefully.com/turkey-taco-chili/

Find the recipe for teriyaki chicken bowl here: https://projectmealplan.com/meal-prep-slow-cooker-chicken-teriyaki-quinoa-bowls/

The New NYC Pay History Ban

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 13 Nov 2017 06:29:00 GMT

As of October 31st, The New York City Pay History Ban has become the new “law of the land” for all employers in NYC. But, what exactly does this new law require of businesses and how will it affect the day-to-day operations of companies looking to hire their next top talent?

What does the law prohibit?

This new law prohibits all “New York City employers from requesting a job applicant’s salary history, or using a job applicant’s salary history to determine his or her salary, benefits or other compensation during the hiring process, including the negotiation of a contract”. “Salary history” can include, but is not limited to, current or prior wages, benefits, and other forms of compensation such as bonus, commission, and allowances.

What are some provisions and exceptions to the NYC Pay History Ban?

In the event that an employer is already aware of a prospective employee’s salary history or becomes aware through the prescreening process, this bill would prohibit reliance on that information in the determination of salary.

According to SHRM, “if the applicant makes an unprompted and willing disclosure of his or her salary history to the prospective employer, an employer is permitted to verify and/or consider salary history in determining a prospective employee’s salary, benefits, and other compensation”. This law does not apply to internal employees seeking a promotion or transfer.

What are the benefits?

This law has been passed in hopes to close the wage gap between men and women. “Adopting these types of measures can reduce the likelihood that women will be prejudiced by prior salary levels and help to break the cycle of pay inequality in regards to gender”. This law will allow applicants to negotiate wages based on education, experience, and skill set rather than salary history.

This is a popular topic trending in employment law and it would not be surprising to find more states adopting similar policies.

The Advantages of a Flexible Schedule

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 06:31:00 GMT

Balancing work and life outside of the office can be very challenging. However, the option of working a flexible schedule to maintain a healthier life balance has become increasingly more popular over the past few years.

The Department of Labor defines a flexible work schedule as, “An alternative to the traditional 9 to 5, 40-hour work week. It allows employees to vary their arrival and departure times.” A ‘flex’ schedule intends to meet the needs of both the employee and employer in a way that benefits both sides of the party.

There are many advantages of working a flexible schedule. One of these is having a better ability to meet family needs, personal obligations, and life responsibilities more conveniently. Whether you are a full-time parent and employee or working multiple jobs, flexible schedules can help you accomplish everything on your to-do list by being accustomed to your needs.

Another advantage of a flex schedule is that it can reduce employee burnout due to overload. Working a compressed week or fewer hours a day gives an employee the opportunity to take necessary work breaks when needed. This allows for them to better focus their energies while on the clock.

At PCG, we understand that a flexible schedule is sometimes needed to find a balance in work and life. Our Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships, Ashlie, has been working a flex schedule for the last four years and gave us her best advice on how to make it work to your advantage. She said, “Work your day and don’t let your day work you. Strategically plan out the tasks that you can do best in-office versus the tasks that can be done when working from home. For those work-from-home days, plan your schedule and create a clear to-do list of things you want to accomplish that day to minimize distractions and stay focused. When you do this, those at-home days can often lead to higher productivity than when you’re in the office because of the distractions that can occur there also.”

Consider talking to your supervisor about working a flex schedule if you feel yourself burning out at work or needing more flexibility in your daily routine. It could make all the difference in your career!

How To Make The Best of Your Daily Commute

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 07:34:00 GMT

Similar to many of my fellow co-workers, I sustain a pretty regular commute routine on a daily basis to get from my home in Connecticut to our offices located in the heart of Midtown NYC. When I first started taking the train into the city, I was afraid that the almost 2-hour commute would be daunting, boring, and downright exhausting. However, after my first few trips on the train, I came to realize that the time commuting could be used to kick start my day in the best way possible. Here are my favorite ways to get one foot in the right direction while commuting:

Plan out your day:

I love to carry my planner around with me wherever I go – I tend to keep it in my purse! This allows me to check frequently on meetings, upcoming company events, or other tasks that I need to complete. Take the time that you have on your commute to look at your planner to see what you will need to accomplish that day. Not only will this help keep you on task during the day, but you’ll be ready to go as soon as you walk into the office.

Read a chapter (or two) of your favorite book:

The benefits of reading are numerous – it stimulates your brain, makes you think creatively and will help get you into the right mindset for the rest of the day. Take the opportunity during your train commute to pick up that book you’ve been meaning to try or catch up on a classic favorite that has gone unread on your Kindle. You’ll be shocked how much you’ll read on your way to work!

Listen to a podcast:

I am a huge advocate of podcasts! With so many different options to choose from, there really are podcasts for everyone! For music lovers, sports aficionados, news-seekers, tech fans, you’ll be sure to find one that will spark your interest during the entirety of your commuting trip. Take the opportunity to learn something new or gain a bit of knowledge on a topic that sparks your interest – you’ll be happy you did!

Just relax:

If anything, take the opportunity to relax during your commute before you head into the office. If your commute is anything like most of those commuting to NYC from the tristate area, that means it starts early and can be long. Take the opportunity to listen to your favorite music, close your eyes, and just relax out before stepping foot on the job. Your body and mind will thank you!

Why You Should Work a Seasonal Job

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 16 Oct 2017 07:39:00 GMT

For retail brands and companies, the holiday season brings not only the most wonderful time of the year but also the busiest. Between Black Friday deals and seasonal savings promotions, people shop more during the holidays. As a result of the influx of business happening in the retail market, stores need all the extra help they can get to assist shoppers during this particular time of the year.

The opportunity for a seasonal job is one to take advantage of. Whether you are trying to make some extra money, seeking full-time work, or looking to transition your career, freelance seasonal work can benefit you in a variety of ways. Here are just a few of the advantages of working a seasonal job this holiday season.

Earn money

The most obvious benefit of working a seasonal job this holiday season is that it is a great way to supplement your income.

Gain new skills, while improving the skills you already have

Freelance work offers a person the opportunity to work in a field he or she may not be entirely familiar with. You may pick up new skills in training or on the job that will translate well to other positions in the future. Seasonal work also allows you to refresh or continue practicing abilities you already have, like communicating with customers.

Build your resume

Seasonal jobs look great on a resume because they fill gaps where you may have been otherwise unemployed. They also put your dedication to working on display which sounds excellent to any employer.

Potentially transition to a full-time job

If you love your temporary position and the company you work for, while showing a consistent effort and dedication to your job, a temporary job could turn into a permanent one. You never know where opportunities can exist!

If you are interested in working a freelance seasonal job this holiday season, email retailrescue@pyramidcg.com to set up a time to talk with a PCG recruiter about potential opportunities!

Staying Healthy at Work This Flu Season

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 05 Oct 2017 07:43:00 GMT

Turning leaves, pumpkin spice, and Halloween are not the only things that come with the return of fall. The change of seasons can only mean the dreaded flu season is upon us once again.

But don’t panic! Although coworkers with colds may make you want to reach for your hand sanitizer every few minutes, it is entirely possible to stay healthy this flu season. By incorporating a few simple practices into your daily work routine, you can avoid the effects of flu season and stay healthy year-round. Here are some things you can do that will help make all the difference:

Get vaccinated! It takes about two weeks for the antibodies that protect against the flu to develop in your body. So don’t put it off any longer. Get vaccinated as soon as you can!

Wash your hands frequently and keep hand sanitizer on you at all times. It may repeatedly be stated, but washing your hands is extremely important- especially during flu season. Keep hand sanitizer in your bag or pocket to use after your commute in the morning or after touching a commonly shared space or object, like a doorknob.

Drink tea . Tea has a multitude of health benefits that can assist in keeping your immune system in check this flu season. Even one cup a day can help boost your immunity to fight off any unwanted germs.

Skip Happy Hour. A type of beverage you should pass on this flu season is alcohol. Excess alcohol consumption has been proven to weaken your immune system severely. Do your body (and wallet) a favor and skip the after-work happy hours this fall- especially since some of your co-workers in attendance may be sick already!

Stay home if you are the sick one. It’s not fair to yourself or your coworkers to be in the office when you are feeling under the weather. The body needs time to rest and recover, and you shouldn’t spread your germs to others. Missing a day of work may not be ideal. However, it will benefit everyone in the long run.

#WithoutHermione: Equal Education for Girls

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 02 Oct 2017 08:51:00 GMT

What would the Harry Potter Wizarding World look like without Hermione Granger? What would the world look like without educated girls? As a partner of She’s The First, an organization dedicated to getting girls an education and to graduation, Pyramid Consulting Group is proudly partaking in #WithoutHermione this fall.

So, what’s it all about?

Imagine a world in which Hermione did not have the opportunity to attend Hogwarts. She would never have met Harry or Ron which means she would never have had the chance to help them defeat the evil Lord Voldemort. Nothing would have been accomplished without her!

#WithoutHermione focuses on how girls have the power to change the world. However, the issue is that not every girl has the opportunity to reach her full potential because she does not have adequate means for an education. This should never be the case.

She’s The First works to sponsor girls in underprivileged parts of the world to help them receive an education and support them in anything they want to do in life. By participating in the #WithoutHermione project and by sharing Hermione’s waitlist letter with friends and family, it shows support for girls everywhere to have an equal opportunity for education.

Pyramid Consulting Group, a female-founded and run company, is supporting the #WithoutHermione project in association with She’s The First, to advocate for equal education opportunities for girls everywhere. An educated girl can change the world, and nothing should get in her way to prevent that from happening. The entire PCG team is proud to support #WithoutHermione and will be sharing her waitlist letter on social media to begin a conversation about why making sure every girl can go to school and be a leader is important.

Get involved today and share her letter too! #WithoutHermione.

How to Handle a Career Fair Successfully

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 25 Sep 2017 08:55:00 GMT

Between crowds of people and limited time to make an impression on someone, a career fair can have an intimidating and overwhelming environment. However, if you properly prepare yourself and handle a job fair with confidence, it could lead to major opportunities in your career.

We asked one of PCG’s recruiters who regularly represents the company at job fairs, Juan, why they are beneficial to attend. He said, “By participating in a career fair, you can identify what employers want. After speaking to company representatives, you can ask yourself: are your skills in line with what they need? Going to a career fair is also an awesome networking opportunity. You never know what can come out of a connection.” As far as making a memorable impression, Juan said, “Personality is key! Being interesting is how you grab people’s attention.”

Besides focusing your energies on making a personable connection with recruiters, other ways to make your job fair experience a successful one include:

Research who is going beforehand. Being knowledgeable of what companies will be at a job fair can help you prioritize which you know you want to approach.

Prepare a small bag to bring. You want to be comfortable and not lugging around some big bag or backpack with you. Bringing a small bag or folder with at least 20 copies of your resumes should suffice.

Have a pitch ready. Career fairs can be crowded and, as a result, you may not have enough face time with a recruiter to have an extensive conversation. Be ready with statements you know you want to make.

Follow up after. Within 48 hours after a job fair send a thank you note or follow-up to everyone you spoke to, whether you are interested in working for them or not. Connections are only beneficial to make, and someone unexpected could help you later in your career.

Clean Desk Policy: How it Affects Your Work

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 08:57:00 GMT

A clean desk policy has further implications than just keeping your meticulously clean co-worker at bay. In fact, it has been proven that implementing a clean desk policy not only encourages employees to keep their areas clean but also keep their focus better and their secured information private.

If you are one who finds your desk messy at most hours of the day, you may think you work well, even better, surrounded by clutter. However, a clean desk policy could encourage you to alter your job ethic in many positive ways completely. Aside from the improved overall organization that a clean desk policy entails, some of the other benefits that come as a result include:

Ensuring private documents and information are secure. If your desk is free of clutter, there is no way you could have accidentally left any sensitive company documents out for anybody and everybody to see.

Saving time. Searching for a missing document you know you left in a pile under your stapler is time well wasted. Having an organized desk helps avoid this issue altogether.

Making a good impression. One of the most repeated requirements seen on job descriptions is ‘great organizational skills.’ Having a consistently messy desk isn’t an appealing trait and can many times come off as a direct reflection of one’s self.

Pyramid Consulting Group plans to implement our clean desk policy because of the many benefits that come as a result of them. An Account Director at PCG, Laura Menezes, shared her insights on why it is so essential to sustaining an orderly desk: “A messy desk equates to disorganization. The last thing you want to do is forget where you jotted down that note, or put that important piece of paper. You will be more efficient and stay on task if you can easily access what you need. Also, your desk is your home away from home and reflects who you are through your organization. You should always want to be your best self.

Work & Life: The Importance of Finding a Balance

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 31 Aug 2017 09:07:00 GMT

Human beings are not robots. We should not have to work countless hours without taking personal time for ourselves and our families. Maintaining a healthy professional and life balance is an incredibly important, yet sometimes overlooked, aspect of the modern day workplace. Ensuring that you are giving enough attention to both your career and your home life is not always the easiest task, but it is a necessary one.

Pyramid Consulting Group’s Senior Vice President, Erika Mendez, agrees that a healthy work and life balance plays a role in a successful career. She believes, “I 110% believe you need to find a balance. You spend upwards of forty-plus hours a week with your team and at work, so it is a huge part of who you are, but you have to take time to be at home with family and friends too.”

Finding a balance between work and your life outside the office is no simple task. It can seem difficult or nearly impossible to achieve at times, but accepting and practicing a few lifestyle tips may help you find the balance that is right for you.

Leave your work at the office. The evening company phone calls and emails can wait. Devote the time you have to your friends and family to only them. If you work from home, schedule downtime and stick to it.

Take full advantage of your vacation days. An employee can achieve the reputation of a hard worker without staying overtime every night or passing on taking vacation days. Concentrating your efforts at work and doing your job well will lead to you knowing you deserve to take time off with your loved ones.

Be transparent about your needs and schedule. If you know there will be days you have to leave early to pick your kids up from school, or that you volunteer somewhere every Tuesday and aren’t available then, communicate that. Your higher-ups are humans too and understand people have lives outside of the office. So as long as you put in your best effort while on the job, you will have time to maintain a happy life at home too.

Dressing for Success: Why What You Wear Can Affect How You Work

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 31 Aug 2017 09:00:00 GMT

The phrase “dress for success” may sound to some like a superficial idea of wearing expensive clothing to work to impress people artificially rather than with their work. However, dressing for success encompasses a very different meaning. To “dress for success” implies styling yourself in a way that makes you feel confident and at your best. Feeling good about yourself and the clothes you are in can have an overall positive effect on the quality of your work and your confidence in the workplace.

We asked one of Pyramid Consulting Group’s top retail recruiters, Amelia, about her thoughts on what it means to dress for success. She told us, “The way you dress is a reflection of who you are. If you come to work looking and feeling great, it will show. It’s a way to demonstrate that you respect yourself and your co-workers to bring the best you to the office. It indicates that you’re ready to work- the effort you put in to look good, will be the same effort that shows in your job.”

Amelia’s opinions are backed by science, too. Scientific American conducted a study in 2016 that proved what one wears on the job can have a substantial effect on the work they produce. It’s all about mindset: if you feel good because you look good, you’re more likely to perform at your best.

Dressing for success does not have to be expensive either. Affordable staple pieces can be purchased once and worn multiple times for various outfits. It’s all about feeling confident in the clothes you wear and presenting yourself well.

Pyramid Possibilities: The Importance of Giving Back at Work

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 09:12:00 GMT

A company’s success cannot be solely determined by a profit number. The executives at Pyramid Consulting Group firmly believe that a huge part of running a successful business is giving back. Pyramid Possibilities, PCG’s charity involvement group, is a major reason for this belief.

Giving back as a company is a significant aspect of PCG’s success. Pyramid Consulting Group proudly sponsors Pyramid Possibilities, founded by CEO Allyson Goodman, based on her belief that employees should have the opportunity to make a difference both at work and beyond.

Lauren Schuman, the Senior Director of Marketing and Innovation at PCG as well as a major proponent of Pyramid Possibilities, believes, “When you have a thriving business, it’s important to share that success with charities that represent your company’s values. Being able to give back creates a sense of community, and it gives your business purpose beyond just earning a profit.”

We have seen firsthand that working with and actively donating to organizations we support not only benefits the charities’ causes, but also our internal company dynamic. Giving back at work can lead to increased office morale through the encouragement of an overall better corporate environment.

Another significant aspect of the company involved with charity is that it brings together all levels and departments of a business. Giving back promotes working as a unit for a good cause which provides employees an awesome opportunity to work as a team. Schuman added, “Volunteering is an excellent way to bond with coworkers outside of an office setting while meeting other members of your community.”

Pyramid Possibilities works closely with six different charities including She’s The First, which helps girls become the first in their families to graduate high school. PCG, a female-founded and run company, is honored to support a charity that works to improve the lives of underprivileged girls.

For more information on Pyramid Possibilities and how to donate to the organizations, we support you can visit our website: https://ow.ly/UfCi30ezmCe .

PCG Senior Vice President Erika Mendez’s Best Career Advice

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Fri, 11 Aug 2017 09:16:00 GMT

Erika Mendez has been an integral part of Pyramid Consulting Group’s tremendous growth for the last 8 years growing the team of amazing recruiters and account directors. She has been a huge part of creating an environment where careers grow right along with the company.

We sat down this week with her to ask about her best career advice that has not only helped her succeed at work but also achieve personal goals every day.

How do you manage to stay motivated on a daily basis?

EM: It starts in the morning. You have a decision in the morning to hit the snooze button, which is very tempting or to get up in that moment. I try to get up at that moment. I always regret hitting the snooze button and then feel rushed. The morning sets the tone for the rest of the day. Beyond that, I think it is gratitude. I try to take a moment every day to appreciate something. It sets the mindset for the day versus thinking “this is going to be such a stressful day”. It imprints positivity on your day before the day has even started.

In your opinion, what is the best way to handle a failure or downfall in a career?

EM: The first thing is not to knock over your glass, but to keep your glass half full. I think there is a bright side to every event, but sometimes you can’t see it in that moment. Sometimes with your failures, or as I like to call them “opportunities,” you learn more about yourself and what you’re great at which allows you to find an opportunity to make yourself better.

What do you think is the most valuable skill an employee can have?

EM: Its attributes. I’m big on ‘the person behind the paperwork.’ You can’t teach attitude. You can’t teach positivity. You can’t teach outlook. Those things are invaluable to a team. I think too many times we look at just the job requirements and forget that a lot of those things on the job requirements list can be taught. What can’t be taught is the desire to learn.

From your perspective, how can an employee gain the attention of an executive level supervisor?

EM: Sometimes it’s hard because it is easy to see how busy a senior level executive is and employees feel like they don’t want to interrupt them. It’s not an interruption though. I love when someone shoots me an email and says “I have a few ideas, I’d love to gain some exposure, or I’d like to take on some extra responsibility.” Those are all buzzwords that any executive loves to hear. At the end of the day, we want to grow people and give them opportunities. It’s initiative. Show them the initiative; you might be surprised at the results.

The Best Ways to Communicate With Your Recruiter

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 07 Aug 2017 09:19:00 GMT

We sat down this week with her to ask about her best career advice that has not only helped her succeed at work but also achieve personal goals every day.

How do you manage to stay motivated on a daily basis?

In your opinion, what is the best way to handle a failure or downfall in a career?

What do you think is the most valuable skill an employee can have?

EM: It’s attributes. I’m big on ‘the person behind the paperwork.’ You can’t teach attitude. You can’t teach positivity. You can’t teach outlook. Those things are invaluable to a team. I think too many times we look at just the job requirements and forget that a lot of those things on the job requirements list can be taught. What can’t be taught is the desire to learn.

From your perspective, how can an employee gain the attention of an executive level supervisor?

Communication is key when it comes to working with a recruiter. An honest, open relationship with your recruiter promotes trust in one and other, which is crucial for a beneficial job search.

An Account Manager at Pyramid Consulting Group, Jessica, believes: “Open and honest communication is mutually beneficial throughout the process so that we can work to achieve professional goals together. As a Recruiter, it is so helpful to receive updates from our candidate’s so that we can be effective and efficient with their searches.”

Candidates and recruiters alike can do their part to ensure transparent communication throughout the job search process. Here are a few simple ways to achieve this.

Establish the best way to get in touch. It can get confusing to use different platforms to communicate with your recruiter. Identify the best way for your recruiter to talk with you, whether it is phone calls, e-mails, or messages on LinkedIn. From a recruiter’s point of view, consistency here tends to improve the communication process.

Clearly identify your career goals. It is crucial that you and your recruiter are on the same page about your job search goals. Don’t be shy about being detailed when speaking about salary expectations, benefits or flexible hours. A recruiter’s job is to find the best fit for their open positions. Identifying your expectations with them will make the process easier for the both of you.

Don’t be afraid to decline. If a job your recruiter contacts you about does not interest you, tell them that! Don’t waste anyone’s time by being vague or unsure about a job you know does not interest you. Being transparent with your recruiter ensures not only an honest job search but an efficient one.

Always remain professional . There can be an array of triumphs and downfalls during a job search. No matter if you don’t get the job your recruiter had you interview for, or if you just become impatient with your process, always remember to keep a positive, professional attitude. Being gracious rather than unprofessional is the best way to gain the respect of your recruiter.

Recruiters want to see you achieve! Overall job search success comes from a great relationship with your recruiter which begins with open communication. You can contact a PCG recruiter today instantly through our live chat feature on https://www.pyramidcg.com/ .

How to Respectfully Give Criticism at Work

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 26 Jul 2017 09:22:00 GMT

The result of criticism nine times out of ten is an improvement. Criticism can occasionally be necessary for a work environment so that standards are met, and progress is made. However, the thought of assessing your co-workers, and possibly even your boss, can be intimidating. If done respectfully though, and in an appropriate setting, critiques could prove to be incredibly beneficial in the long run. Here are a few tips on how to give considerate criticism at work.

Remain optimistic and offer your opinions with a positive attitude. Nothing could make the person on the receiving end of criticism feel more hopeless about their work than the person criticizing doing it negatively. Professional criticism is meant to escalate a person’s abilities, not to tear them down. Offering a compliment along with a critique can be a good way to reassure someone of their abilities before suggesting where you see room for improvement.

Use “I” rather than “You.” By using statements that begin with “I,” such as, “I think this could be better if…” instead of using ones that start with “you,” like “you always forget this…” it automatically becomes less harsh. Stating something as your personal opinion won’t make the critique sound accusatory. Ensuring that whoever you are assessing feels respected in that situation is the most important factor.

Talk to them in person. It is very easy to misunderstand things over email or text message. The best way to handle situations in which you are providing criticism is to do so in person. Having a face to face conversation is the most respectful and authentic way to offer criticism. Avoid misunderstandings by taking the time to address someone in person. It is worth the extra few minutes of time

Bonding with Co-Workers

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 09:26:00 GMT

Taking time out to bond with your co-workers can enrich your work experience. From low-key events to fitness-themed get-together’s, there are plenty of ways to get closer to the people you work with– especially when you have more time outside the office. Here are a few of our favorite bonding activities:

Happy hour

Happy hour is a classic co-worker bonding event. Even if you’re not into the bar scene, happy hour can be a great way to let off steam. Chances are, your co-workers will be in high spirits. The ambiance allows everyone to feel relaxed and casual. Another great benefit of happy hour-like events is saving money because of special deals!

Wiffle ball

Wiffle ball or any other sport can prove beneficial when bonding with co-workers. The team atmosphere encourages people to work together towards a particular goal- in this case, it’s winning a game. You can always delegate tasks like score-keeping to those who are less inclined to competition.This type of activity is great for fitness-forward offices!

Dance

Dancing is a great form of self-expression. Every few weeks, we get together to learn a new choreographed number taught by one of our recruiters. This bonding activity can seem intimidating if it’s outside of your comfort zone, but you’ll be amazed how fast the staff comes together to learn and laugh!

Volunteering

If you’ve read our blogs before, you know that we love to get involved with our community. Pyramid is always trying to give back in ways like donation drives, lending a helping hand to kids, and more. Volunteering allows you to feel good while doing good. This is beneficial to bonding because you’ll have feel-good memories that will last a lifetime!

Themed events

These can range from holiday parties to baby showers to anything in between. If your office decides to throw a soiree or celebration of any kind, take the time to attend. Special events allow people in the office to come together and celebrate important events. Your presence (and your co-workers’ presence) will show your enthusiasm for all things office related!

Simple Ways to Show More Initiative at Work

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 17 Jul 2017 09:28:00 GMT

Initiative leads to action, and action leads to results. An employee who is ready and willing to take initiative at work serves not only as a beneficial asset to any business but a vital one. Creative and motivated people tend to make the best employees because they want to do as much as they can for their companies. These types of people lead by example and as a result, inspire the same type of attitude in their co-workers. It doesn’t take a specific type of person to achieve this proactive mindset; anybody can do it! Here are a few simple ways you can start taking more initiative at work today.

Think as a team player. When you start working for team goals, rather than solely personal ones, you become driven to constantly perform at your best for the benefit of others. Company prosperity will lead to personal prosperity: it’s a two-way street. Try asking your co-workers if they need help with any of their assignments the next time you have downtime. Do your part to promote office camaraderie!

Speak up: share ideas and ask questions. Being vocal at work not only supports good overall office communication but also enhances your presence and productivity. There is no such thing as a bad question, and nothing valuable ever comes from an unvoiced suggestion or idea. Don’t hold back! You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by speaking up at work

Go the extra mile. Opportunities surround you at work. From organizing your desk to working overtime to complete a project, there is always room for personal improvement and growth. Having the initiative to consistently take extra measures to accomplish something won’t go unnoticed by your co-workers. This type of attitude is beneficial to everyone in the office place for promoting a standard of hard work that can lead to a better overall workplace.

So, the next time you feel unmotivated at work, take the initiative to start taking more initiative. It could make all the difference in your job!

The Benefits of Competition at Work

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 09:33:00 GMT

Competition, in healthy doses, has the ability to drive us forward and accomplish our goals. This also holds true in the workplace. Benefits of competition at work can range from receiving more hours, to earning a coveted promotion. Regardless of your goals, a bit of day-to-day competition with your co-workers can ultimately help you succeed at work in more ways than one.

It keeps you motivated

This benefit is probably the most evident in terms of competition. Setting goals keeps you focused and ready to take on new challenges. Additionally, the more competition influencing you to accomplish something, the more motivated you will be to head to work each morning. Thinking positively about your goals in a competitive environment will keep you determined to do your personal best to work- even if the competition doesn’t turn in your favor.

It keeps things lively among co-workers

Competition with your co-workers can be a fun way to get your office involved. Your competition can be measured in sales, a number of clients, or even participation in a wellness program (a PCG favorite)! Regardless of the field, you’re competing in, the office will feel eager to participate. Most importantly, friendly competition encourages camaraderie which can lead to a better overall office dynamic.

It showcases your ambition

Your supervisors will take note of your hard work in a competitive environment. Your motivation and productivity can skyrocket with a bit of competition, and your supervisors will see firsthand your determination to achieve even the smallest of feats. Ambition and determination are attractive qualities in any employee, so it will be beneficial in the long run to prove these to the higher-ups in your company.

Just remember to keep any competitions professional while at work or during work activities. Let us know what benefits you experienced a little competition at work!

Work Stress: Its Effects on Your Health & How to Control It

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 09:39:00 GMT

Stress at work puts more than just your job on the line; it can put your health on the line too.

Between critical deadlines, overbearing bosses and aggravating co-workers, stress literally surrounds you at work. The APA found that the effects of work stress can directly relate to major health complications including high blood pressure, increased cholesterol levels, and cardiovascular issues. Your full-time career can also affect your mental health and anxiety levels. In short: your job may be making you sick.

If you find yourself feeling the physical and mental impacts of work stress it’s probably time to implement some changes into your daily routine. A few small lifestyle adjustments can make all the difference when it comes to how work stress affects your overall health.

• Make the most of your breaks. Whether a ten minute trip to the bathroom or hour-long lunch break, utilize your free time as free time. Walk away from your phone or computer to avoid tempting work distractions. Go for a short walk to get your blood flowing. Have a carefree conversation with a coworker. No matter what you do, give yourself a mental break from your job to clear your head and keep you calm.

• When you get angry or upset, try counting to 10 or walking away. Acting or speaking irrationally can lead to major stress in the office place. Thinking before you speak or removing yourself from a negative situation both work as good options when it comes to handling certain scenarios on the job.

• Rest your mind and body when out of the office. Don’t let your work follow you home. Give yourself a complete break by spending your hours outside of the office working on your wellness. Taking proper care of both your mind and body is an essential aspect of keeping stress levels in check. Try incorporating healthy activities into your out-of-work hours of exercise, yoga, or meditation to accomplish this.

Stress may be unavoidable at work but it is also manageable. Implementing these tips into your daily routine will help keep your stress levels in check and health a priority.

Using Social Media to Benefit Your Career

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 09:55:00 GMT

Social media is often regarded as a personal medium. Alternatively, brands use it to get the word out about their product or to interact with customers. If you’re someone who wants to make social media more enriching, you don’t necessarily need to have a business. Your social media can always prove to be a platform to maintain your personal brand. Here are a few ways to tidy up your social media from a casual standpoint to allow you to start cultivating the right personal brand.

Follow relevant brands/companies/organizations

and repost and share articles they post. This will show anyone stumbling on your social media that you are engaged in current news and events. Don’t be afraid to start a thought-provoking conversation with friends and followers about your favorite topics!

Share your work on social media

If you’re a creative- be proud- and share your work on your social media. We recently wrote an article on how to create the perfect online portfolio. Your next step is to promote your website link wherever possible. Be sure to include the link in the bio of your Twitter, Instagram, and/or Facebook for easy access.

Stay real, but appropriate, with your followers

It might be okay to post a luncheon photo with co-workers, but try to skip posting the night at the bar pictures. You never know what kind of vibe your feed will give off, no matter how harmless the pictures might be. It’s always better to air on the side of caution rather than post something that could compromise your current or future job prospects.

Communicate with potential employers

LinkedIn is probably the most popular platform to do this- but you can definitely gain access to potential jobs through other social media sites as well. Here at Pyramid Consulting Group, for example, we keep our Twitter ( follow us at @pyramidcg ) updated with our latest available positions- for all types of fields and experience levels. You never know what you might find.

Your First Day of Work

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 15 Jun 2017 10:01:00 GMT

It’s time to get excited because it’s finally your first day of work at a new job! You’ve been eagerly awaiting this day for some time now. Before you go into your new office, here are a few things to keep in mind for your first day.

Introduce yourself

Say hi to your new desk mate, the administrative assistants at the door, and anyone else you might encounter when you first get into the office. Introducing yourself is important because, after all, first impressions matter! Having little introduction conversations will let you get a feel for the office culture. Likewise, your friendly introduction will go a long way and might open new doors of communication and collaboration in the future.

Listen

This is probably one of the most obvious but most vital things to do on your first day. You might have to speak with someone who more or less seems to ramble on, but you shouldn’t let your mind wander off. Listening (and listening well, at that) will not only benefit you in your ability to do your job, but it will also make a good impression. The more attentive you seem, the better.

Take notes

Taking notes goes hand in hand with listening. You could be the best listener in the world but that doesn’t make you exempt from forgetting little things from time to time. Take your favorite notebook with you on your first day to jot down anything and everything you might learn. This is also useful for when you inevitably need to be reminded of how to do something. First days are known to be full of information and you’re going to want to say ahead.

Ask questions

First days will likely present you with information that could confuse you down the road. If you’re not sure how your lunch breaks work, ask! If you’re uncertain about a specific job responsibility, ask! Ask for a reminder when you forget someone’s name because it’s totally acceptable to forget the first day! Your first day is made for learning a multitude of new things. Besides, the sooner you clarify your uncertainties, the sooner you’ll feel more confident in your role!

Don’t forget-

After your day is over, make sure to reach out to your recruiter! We want to know about your successes on the first day!

Your Last Day of Work

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 10:11:00 GMT

You’re about to move to the other side of the country with your family or you’ve decided to part with your company for a new opportunity. Regardless of the reason, you’re starting to prepare for your last day of work. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you walk out the door at the end of the day.

Clean out your desk

This seems like a given, but it’s one of the most important last day tasks! Your desk could potentially have old confidential documents that need to be shredded or little mementos you’d like to keep going forward. If someone new will take your place after you leave, you’ll want to make sure it’s tidy. Besides, you don’t want to forget to take your favorite pen and notebook when you leave!

Check up with HR

Your Human Resources department is more than likely going to catch up with you on your last day. This can be for a number of reasons, but likely it’ll be to conduct an exit interview. During your exit interview, you’ll be able to divulge your favorite and least favorite aspects of the job or company. Your feedback is essential to improving on employee experience throughout the company!

Transfer any important info

If you have important files on your computer that need to be shared with your department, you should forward them along before wiping your computer. Likewise, if you are responsible for clients or customers, it’s important to let them know who they should contact upon your departure. This can be done in an email “out of the office” reply to save time.

Bid your farewells

It’s almost the end of the day! Make your rounds and let people know your appreciation before you go. Handwritten cards and little gifts are optional but of course, appreciated! This can be a great time to strengthen your network. Will a co-worker let you use them as a reference? What about vice-versa? Take some time to thank your team or anyone else who lent you a helping hand over the course of your employment.

Embracing Creativity at your Office Job

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 01 Jun 2017 03:13:00 GMT

Some of us are fortunate enough to have a job that allows our creativity to flourish! Others might find there’s not much creativity going on between the hours of 9a-5p. Luckily, there are a handful of ways to ensure we’re using our creative brains- regardless of whether or not we have a strictly “creative” job.

Engage in creative hobbies

One of the easiest ways to stay creative is to engage in any sort of creative hobby or activity. This can be daily poem writing, taking a pottery class after work, or creating a tasty food inspired Instagram account. Likewise, even reading your favorite fiction novel during your lunch break will surely get those creative juices flowing. Allowing yourself to have a creative outlet will keep you energized to take on the rest of your day.

Use your innovation to your advantage

Though you might not necessarily be required to be creative in your role, you might have some creative impulses waiting to be acted upon. Perhaps you recognize a much more efficient way to organize company files, or maybe you’ve got a really creative way of taking notes ( OneNote is a PCG favorite). Use your innovative tricks to your advantage by spreading the word. Moreover, the more creative ideas you contribute to the team, the more likely you’ll be asked to do it again – and maybe even on a larger scale!

Practice general mindfulness

General mindfulness can mean many different things to each individual. Some people take solace in yoga, while others might find journaling every night works best for them. Practicing mindfulness, in whichever way you choose, will lead you to a more open-minded life. You’ll soon see you have clearer thoughts and an improved ability to focus. Likewise, if practiced enough, your mindfulness will prove to others that you’re eager to think outside of the box!

Staying Healthy With a Full-Time Job

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 30 May 2017 03:16:00 GMT

Often, a 9 am – 5 pm desk job doesn’t allow a lot of time for activity outside of, well, your job. Especially if you lose time commuting back and forth each day. Likewise, people often get stuck in the convenience of eating out every day or overlooking basic health needs when they’re busy. Here are three guidelines to follow in order to make the most of your health while you’re preoccupied with work!

Fit in activity where you can

This can mean multiple different things. For example, if your commute requires you to take a subway, like a lot of our team here at PCG, then try walking those few blocks instead. Likewise, instead of taking the elevator to the fourth floor, walk up those few flights of stairs! Once you’re home for the night, take a walk around your block or head to the gym for a half hour. Fitting in small incremental bits of activity will add up- in a good way.

Healthy lunches for the win

The taco food truck down the street might be calling your name, but resist! Check out of some of our favorite healthy pack-your-own lunches while at the office. The list is full of sandwiches, soups, and salads that won’t make you feel that post-meal lull. Staying energized is important to maintaining a clean bill of health, after all! And of course, you’ll save a ton of money when you pack a lunch. Don’t forget to drink lots of H20!

Stay conscious

Most of all, you’ll want to stay conscious of your health. This means getting enough sleep, scheduling any relevant doctors appointments, and focusing on personal time. Yes- that means putting down your phone and taking a breath! It’s easy to overlook these health factors when you’re super busy. Dedicate some time for self-care and add it to your planner or mobile calendar. You’ll thank yourself for it later!

Questions to Ask Your Interviewer

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 25 May 2017 03:19:00 GMT

You’re all set for your interview. You practiced answering common interview questions. You picked out your interview outfit. When you finally reach the end of your interview, you breathe a sigh of relief. Then, your potential employer says “do you have any questions for me?” Good interviewers know that you should absolutely have some questions prepared. Here is a list of a handful of different questions (and some follow up questions) to keep in mind when the hiring manager asks for your input!

What do I need to do to succeed in this position?

In accordance with asking about the goals, you should be asking your interviewer how you can succeed. You might also be able to find out what your normal routine will look like. For example, if you’re told you’ll need to have advanced Microsoft Excel skills, follow up with “how often will I work in the program?” or “what functions will I use within Excel?”

What’s the company culture like?

In other words, how will you fit in? Maybe the office likes to do a happy-hour or maybe they provide a 10-minute massage appointment once a month. This can help you predict how you’ll fit in with your colleagues. Likewise, you can follow up with asking the hiring manager why they like working at the company. Getting to know the interviewer is important, especially if they may be your new supervisor.

What are some of the goals in the department?

Asking about goals will attract a good kind of attention from the person conducting the interview. Your interest in the goals of the department can then provide a follow-up question of “how can I contribute to these goals?” You can then elaborate on your experience and finish off on why you’d be a perfect fit for the role.

Books to Read for Career Inspiration

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 23 May 2017 03:22:00 GMT

We recently shared an article on our Facebook page about the correlation between career networking and book clubs. Our friends at Career Contessa explained that book clubs allow you to get to know people on a casual level. Additionally, book clubs provide a platform to discuss deep, meaningful topics. You can potentially develop lasting relationships in a book club- great leverage for anyone looking to make an impact on his or her career. So, why not start a book club of your own? Check out some of these inspirational books and how they can help you look forward in your career!

I Am Malala: Malala Yousafzai

Malala Yousafzai is one of the most recognized advocates of girls’ education. She survives an attack that nearly kills her, yet she continues to speak on what she believes in. I Am Malala is particularly inspiring career-wise, because of Malala’s young age and her relentless to fight for equality. The book reminds us to stay continue to stay true to ourselves, despite any setbacks (big or small) we may face along the way.

Big Magic: Elizabeth Gilbert

Big Magic is especially notable for people in creative fields. Gilbert explains the creative process through her writer’s lens. She wondered if she’d find success again after her hit novel Eat, Pray, Love. Moreover, Gilbert goes into depth about the importance of letting go of your inhibitions. It is especially important to shut out negativity and doubt in order to get ahead in your career. Whether you’re a writer, a sales professional, or otherwise, you can always stand to gain from a little bit of embracing a little bit of “big magic”.

Wild: Cheryl Strayed

Cheryl Strayed’s journey was influenced by a rough patch in her life following the death of her mother. She embarked on a hiking trip alone and with no experience. Though Wild is about one woman’s journey to a peaceful, happier life, it serves as a determination guide to anyone seeking a profound career. Wild reminds us that mistakes in life are inevitable, even in our careers. However, there will always be opportunities to start again and come out stronger than before.

Which are you most interested in reading?

The Secret to Balancing Multiple Jobs

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 18 May 2017 03:25:00 GMT

In today’s society, it’s pretty common for the average person to have more than one job. According to USA Today , at least 7.8 million people have multiple jobs as of September 2016. The article goes on to explain that this is about 5.2% of people in the workforce, which might not seem like a lot. However, the number increased by 300,000 in just one month. If the increase remained steady, it’s possible that an additional 2.4 million people are now working multiple jobs. That would mean over 10 million people are juggling several sources of income. Because of this workforce trend, employers and employees alike are shifting the way they balance jobs. Temporary positions are on the rise. (Check out some of our open positions here !) Regardless, if you’re someone who works multiple jobs, you might find difficulty in balancing all your responsibilities.

The Secret?

Time management is your best friend and the most trusted key to managing all of your jobs. While time management is essential to any working professional, it’s especially important for someone with more than one gig. You’ll thank yourself for allocating time to work and time to rest. If you’re a digital guru, download the latest app or fill your calendar with your to-do lists. If you’re a pen and paper kind of person, invest in a planner or notebook to begin a bullet journal . Now, you can start managing your time!

Time management helps you coordinate your schedule for each job

This aspect of time management is important to simply working at all. Your job schedule will essentially dictate your week. Perhaps you work weekends at your local gym, but during the week you’re a brand ambassador at a boutique for your dream luxury fashion brand. You’ll need to stay on top of your time management for flexibility’s sake. If your fashion job absolutely needs you to work Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, you’ll need to communicate the information with your supervisor at the gym. This way, you won’t get caught in a scheduling conflict. Both you and your employers will be better off that way.

Time management helps you find time for yourself

Some of us might work more than 40 hours a week or more than five days a week. In this day and age, working professionals can easily get absorbed into the 24/7 working lifestyle. Time management will be your savior. Set some time out each week to delve into your favorite hobby. Likewise, you should also know when it’s appropriate to “check out” for the night and go to sleep. It can be pretty tempting to stay on your phone into all hours of the night, especially with more than one demanding job. However, your employers will thank you for getting some rest and coming into work refreshed and ready to take on a new day!

Leadership and Staying Grounded

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 11 May 2017 03:28:00 GMT

Leadership is no easy task, but it can be a rewarding one. Perhaps you’ve been promoted to a director level position or maybe you’re now responsible for training a new employee at the office. Regardless of the leadership role you’ve taken on, you will need to focus on your team and your collective goals to see any kind of success. Staying grounded in your leadership role will ensure a constant flow of productivity and positivity. Keep yourself in check with the following guide:

WHO is following you?

Your leadership duties will require you to constantly stay conscious of your team. While it might appear to be an obvious reminder, your overall awareness will help your team grow. Simply knowing the names of your staff won’t get you all very far. Practice continuous engagement with your team. Understand how your team works and functions as a whole and as individuals. This will improve your approach to decision making and it will improve it greatly. Your “who” will stay connected with the glue that is your leadership. Moreover, your knowledge of your team, their strengths, and their aspirations is the first step to achieving goals of any capacity.

WHY are they following you?

The “who” and the “why” go hand in hand in this guide. It’s not enough to say “my team follows me because it’s their job to follow me”. Good leaders give their team a reason to follow their direction- and not just any reason. Your motivation for taking on this role will play a huge part in the “why”. Likewise, your enthusiasm plays an important factor for inspiring your team. What makes you want to succeed? Chances are, your team will have similar sentiments. Keep your team encouraged and motivated to achieve (and hopefully surpass) their goals by setting a good example. Show them how to do a task, rather than simply ordering them to do so.

WHAT are you trying to achieve?

Usually, the answer to this question is a better business. Working professionals all over the world are trying to achieve better business in one form or another. This can mean improving your customer relations, providing top of the line product, or even administering internal support for a larger team. Your awareness of your goals will help you focus on the big picture. In that same vein, it is your responsibility to keep your team in the loop. A team can only be as aware as their leader. Practice open communication through meetings, email correspondence, and/or quick briefings to ensure your team is as focused and goal-oriented as you are.

HOW will you achieve it?

Your knowledge of “how” to achieve goals will be essential in propelling your team forward. Chances are, you were selected for this leadership role based on your knowledge and experience in your field. Present that knowledge to your team and permit your team to contribute to the “how”. Begin to formulate a blueprint of your business plan with your team. How will you hit that sales goal or how will you pitch your ideas to a potential business partner? Give your team the full-circle implementation of your knowledge from “who”. Delegate tasks to your team based on your knowledge of their capabilities. Soon enough, you’ll reap the positive effects of your grounded leadership.

Warm Weather Office Etiquette

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 09 May 2017 03:31:00 GMT

We’re finally seeing some delightfully warm days here in the Big Apple! Warm weather means lighter clothing and daydreaming of spending time outside in the sun. As we become reacquainted with spring, we should keep office etiquette in mind.

Dress Code

Your place of employment most likely has a dress code. Perhaps you’re a business casual office or maybe your luxury retail store requires you to wear professional dress. Chances are, the dress code isn’t going to change as the weather gets warmer. It’s a good idea to direct all dress code questions to your Human Resources department. Find out the nuances of presenting yourself on warm days. For example, is it acceptable to wear open-toed shoes at the office? Retail stock environments might frown upon open-toed shoes due to the nature of the job. Does your office participate in casual Fridays? More specifically, you might want to double check if your favorite springtime dress is office ready. Ask your HR team about a refresher meeting or email to talk about what is and is not appropriate.

Staying Focused

Warm weather encourages many things- and daydreaming is one of them. Of course, we’d all rather be outside enjoying the day- at the beach, at a picnic, etc. This isn’t, however, an excuse to let the weather get in the way of work. While it’s completely normal to wish we could take our laptops outside with us, it’s probably not going to happen. Give yourself a schedule of things to do to stay on top of your work. Hopefully, by completing everything at a decent time, you might be able to take your lunch break outside! Likewise, if your position allows, inquire about using PTO day for when you need a little rest and relaxation. Use the days leading up to your day off to get ahead on your work. You and your supervisors will be glad you were proactive about your time- and not daydreaming the work day away!

Fixing an Email Error

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 04 May 2017 03:35:00 GMT

So, you’re working on an email pitch for a client or sending your resume for a job application. Everything looks great and you press “send”. Then suddenly, you realize everything did not look great- you made a spelling error or forgot to attach your document. Uh-oh. While typos surely aren’t the worst things in the world, they can make an impression on a hiring manager or a potential client. The question then becomes: what should you do when you make an error in your email? You’ll want to immediately address the situation with a new email. Likewise, you don’t want to simply leave your error to chance, i.e. hoping the recipient doesn’t notice. The correction email will show your dedication to accurate information.

The Body

The body of your email will essentially be the most important part of your correction. Depending on the severity of your mistake and to whom the email is intended for, you can be more casual or formal. Keep your message to the point and make sure you clarify the issue. Apologizing will definitely help! Try something such as:

“Hello again,

Attached you will find an updated version of my document. Please disregard the first version as the information has not been updated. Sorry about that! Thank you!”

“Good afternoon,

Unfortunately, my previous email contained a document that was corrupt and will not open. I apologize for the inconvenience. Please see the attached, corrected version. Feel free to reach out with any other questions or concerns.”

The Aftermath

After you’ve sent your response, all you can do is wait. Hopefully, if all goes well, your email recipient will carry on with business as usual. Direct communication will help remedy the situation if further action is needed to mend your error. Remember to take a breath- as we all make mistakes and nobody is expected to be perfect. Allow yourself to learn from your mistakes and pay more attention to details next time you correspond over email!

Stay in Touch with Your Recruiters

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 02 May 2017 03:41:00 GMT

You’ve finally landed an awesome job, thanks to help from your recruiter. While you won’t necessarily need his or her services anymore, you should maintain contact. It’s a good idea to stay in touch with your recruiter even after finding a job for many reasons, but the most relevant comes down to networking and new jobs.

Networking

Career-focused individuals are constantly expanding their networks. You never know when you might need a favor. Perhaps your company needs to staff a major retail event! You could call your recruiter for this. Here at PCG, we’re always excited to fill high-demand retail jobs and we’re always looking for eager candidates to present to our clients. In that regard, a friend of yours could be struggling to find an entry-level opportunity fresh out of college. If you’re maintaining contact with your recruiter, you’ll be the first to know about new positions needing the perfect candidate. Referrals are always appreciated both by recruiters and people looking for jobs. Here at Pyramid, we offer a referral gift whenever you can help us find the right person for a job!

New jobs

Staying in touch with your recruiter is a really important asset in your career. Likewise, there’s always a chance you won’t stay in your current position forever. You might move or decide on a career change. For example, if your experience lies in retail and you’re trying to shift into the corporate fashion world, your recruiter can assist in creating a seamless transition. Hopefully, you won’t be faced with a layoff, but in the unfortunate case that you are, turn to your recruiter. Your history with your recruiter will allow him/her to work on your strengths to ultimately achieve your career goals.

Writing the Ideal LinkedIn Summary

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 03:44:00 GMT

You might be wondering why a LinkedIn summary is needed when your whole profile is complete. In the age of social media, job seekers are always trying to stand out from the crowd. One way to grab the attention of hiring managers and recruiters alike is by updating your LinkedIn summary with interests and requirements. Furthermore, your summary is the perfect place to show your authentic, career-driven nature. Don’t forget to check out some of our favorite LinkedIn summaries below!

Your interests and requirements

Your LinkedIn summary is the ideal space to advertise your interests. This can mean your passion for retail or your desire to work in a luxury fashion setting. Likewise, this can also mean you want to work with a larger fast-paced company because your experience is similar. You’ll definitely want to include your career requirements in your summary. This doesn’t mean your salary requirements, but it should include things like “looking for a full-time position”. Additionally, even people comfortable in their positions should update their summaries. Hiring managers, for example, can advertise for their company to attract the best candidates with a LinkedIn summary.

Authenticity

Likewise, your LinkedIn summary is perfect for showing the real you. While your profile will absolutely showcase your work experience and talents, your summary is open to more detail. Moreover, your summary will be the first bit of information recruiters will see when viewing your profile. The summary provides a succinct, yet detailed account of your personality. For example, you add in anecdotes about your life to show how you’re qualified for positions in your field. Hiring managers and recruiters will take note of your volunteering at a retirement home and how that might translate to genuine people skills in a customer service role.

More information

Here are some more links to crafting your ideal LinkedIn summary!

https://business.linkedin.com/talent-solutions/blog/linkedin-best-practices/2016/7-linkedin-profile-summaries-that-we-love-and-how-to-boost-your-own

https://www.forbes.com/sites/williamarruda/2014/09/07/three-steps-to-writing-the-perfect-linkedin-summary/#556c31ad5fbf

Approaching a Challenge with Little Experience

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 03:47:00 GMT

When approaching a challenge you have little experience with, you might be prone to a bit of stress. How can you not, when your responsibilities are testing you in ways you’re not used to? We’ve come up with a guide to help get you on your feet with a challenging experience. Using your experiences, asking questions, and staying calm will help you make the best of any challenges you might face.

Use your experiences to your advantage

So, you might have experience in a customer service job, like a Sales Associate role. You might be faced with tasks you aren’t entirely familiar with in, say, an Administrative Assistant position. Don’t worry, you can use your friendly attitude to your advantage when answering dozens of phone calls in a short period of time, just as you would when ringing up several customers in a row at your previous job. You’ll be surprised to find how many basic skills are transferable in different roles!

If applicable, ask questions

There might not always be another person around to ask questions. However, if someone is nearby and is knowledgeable on the subject, ask away! Not only will asking for clarification help you with the task at hand, it will show initiative and desire to learn. (Especially if you’re asking a superior). Likewise, once you’re equipped with the appropriate information you need in this challenge, you’ll be able to utilize it and build on it the next time you face another challenging task.

Stay calm!

Odds are, you were chosen for your job for a reason. Even if you’re in an entry-level position, you’re probably going to gain more experience as you go. Staying calm might be difficult at first, but you’ll find it can propel your career. Moreover, your demeanor in stressful situations will likely be taken note of by your supervisors. If your supervisor sees you calmly and coolly handling a new task, they will probably give you more responsibilities going forward!

Hiring the Versatile Candidate

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 03:51:00 GMT

Often, candidates with varied experience seek jobs in different fields. What makes them so palatable in the job market? Why should you choose the well-rounded candidates for the incredibly industry focused ones? Diverse candidates make great employees because of their determination and adaptability.

They are always up for a challenge and are seamlessly adaptable.

Versatile candidates thrive in challenging environments. This is due to the fact that they’ve had to learn about different facets of various industries. While a well-seasoned candidate in say, the retail field might feel more comfortable as a sales associate, the candidate with administrative experience will need to prove themselves. These candidates work hard to stand out in interviews to prove why they are qualified for the job. Likewise, the candidate is probably really passionate about your industry, otherwise, he or she wouldn’t be making such a challenging jump into a new world. It’s important to note this because nobody wants to waste their time in an interview. Moreover, the candidate will have the careful craft how his or her customer service experience will translate well in a different industry.

For example, the candidate might have excellent communication skills, highlighted throughout a fast-paced administrative assistant position. The candidate already explained how she loved getting to know everyone that walked into the office. She can use her skill when trying to meet a sales goal during a busy sales event. The candidate already knows how to get to know people and how to provide customer service. Those two assets are easily transferable and make the candidate adaptable to different environments. Furthermore, candidates with diverse experience are more adaptable to working in a team. If you’re in the process of hiring a candidate with varied experiences, take note. You will most likely see that the candidate has worked with all kinds of people and customers. This bit of experience is important because you’ll want someone who can work with and get along with anyone. Your team will surely reap the benefits!

Writing a Letter of Recommendation

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 18 Apr 2017 03:54:00 GMT

As you build your career, you’re more likely to come across a request to write a letter of recommendation for someone. This might be a recommendation for another job or even for continued education. While you really want to help this old colleague or employee- where do you begin to write this letter if you’ve never written one before?

Show, don’t tell

One thing you’ll want to keep in mind when writing your letter is the concept of “show, don’t tell”. Anyone can write a letter and say “so and so is really great and very qualified for this position”. The whole point of your point of view, however, is to show others why the requester of the letter is so great. For example, you might say “my colleague consistently volunteered to lead team projects” instead of “my colleague is a great leader”. Of course, you can supplement both sentences in your letter, as long as you don’t solely leave out your examples. Overall, “showing” as opposed to “telling” will make your letter feel more wholesome in its entirety.

Make it personal and highlight their skills

The purpose of your letter of recommendation is to give your personal view on why the requester is qualified. The personal component of your letter will really stand out among others hiring managers might see. Utilize different anecdotes to talk about how your employee seamlessly fit in with your team. Talk about why this person stood out to you. Likewise, don’t forget to highlight skills that are relevant to the job. While your employee might have a knack for getting the Wi-Fi to work, his or her potential employers most likely won’t need to know this when hiring for a fashion designer role. Instead, talk about how they meticulously took note of any current fashion trends in their apprenticeship under your direction.

Proofread

While you should always proofread anything you write and send off here, it’s important to do so especially when writing a letter of recommendation. Are the dates when your former employee worked for you accurately? Did you spell his or her name correctly? These are small little details that could potentially make an impact in a hiring manager’s decision when reading your letter. If the dates are inaccurate, hiring managers might assume your employee falsified or made an error on their resume. If you spell your employees name wrong, the hiring manager might assume you probably didn’t know the person too well. After completing your letter, look it over carefully and have someone else (probably not the requester, though) look it over for any missed details.

Accounting and Finance: A Closer Look

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 03:57:00 GMT

We’ve covered Fashion, Retail , and Marketing/Communications in our “A Closer Look” series. Now, it’s time to delve into the world of finance! While the finance jobs we offer at PCG range from corporate to retail offices, they’re equally important for business. Here are just a few examples of some of the jobs we offer in the finance industry. Do you have an interest or background in finance? Email us your resume at financeaccounting@pyramidcg.com.

Accountant

Lots of our accountant positions have been with high-end, luxury fashion clients. Accountants, both of the junior, senior, and staff variety ensure that account records are maintained. Likewise, they are responsible for processing bank reports, invoices, and wire transfers of the like. What’s more exciting than surrounding yourself with the inner workings of a world-renowned brand? Some qualities you’ll need for an accounting position are a Bachelor’s Degree in accounting or finance, advanced skills in Excel, and knowledge of process efficiency. Check out our open Junior Account role here .

Analyst

One of the most sought-after qualities in a finance candidate is the ability to analyze. The finance world involves numbers upon numbers. Therefore, the most prepared candidates will come with extensive knowledge of how to handle and process data. Not only will you need to be good with numbers, you’ll also need to be good with communication, as you’ll need to report and explain your analyzing. Check out our open Financial Analyst job here .

Recruiter

Yes, you read that right! Sometimes, recruiting goes hand in hand with finance. In fact, we’re currently hiring a Senior Recruiter for our Finance division here at Pyramid! You’ll be joining a great team of experienced recruiters at one of the fastest growing agencies in New York City! If you have an established network of business or finance and accounting clients and a proven track record in sales or recruiting- apply here .

Better Communication in the Office

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 11 Apr 2017 04:00:00 GMT

Communication is key. We’ve all heard the phrase before, and we’re certainly always trying to improve it. The question then becomes, how? Your communication with your boss, colleagues, and employees can benefit from these simple to follow steps.

Listen

Listening while someone is speaking is not only courteous, it’s also helpful for back and forth communication. This may seem obvious, but it’s probably the most important aspect of communicating. Listening will give you instructions, feedback, and questions on important projects. Moreover, you’ll be more inclined to remember key points when you listen. What makes a good listener? Nodding your head and maintaining eye contact are two efficient ways to show someone you’re listening. Letting people know you’re engaged shows you’re open to communicating, regardless of the topic.

Repeat

Sometimes, especially in a fast-paced environment, important details get lost by the wayside. Even if you’re listening intently and taking notes, it’s normal that you might overlook a step. You should remember that asking to repeat something is a key to communication. Not only will you fill in any gaps in your info, you’ll also show your colleagues how focused you are. Your commitment to communication will prove to others that you’re a key team player. On the other hand, if you’re someone giving instruction, it’s not a bad idea to repeat your key points at the end of the conversation so you’re sure your employees know what to do next.

Ask

Asking questions is really important when communicating at work. Your colleagues may be on a completely different page than you are. This is normal and bound to happen at some point. Luckily, your open communication can fix this. In one example, your employees might believe their priority lies in a task you’d rather they handle at the end of the day. Ask for their progress and opinions, you and your employees will both feel more in sync. If everyone went around assuming one thing or another at work, the office would become much more confusing and difficult to navigate. Furthermore, asking for clarity can be handled through a quick email or in a mid-day review meeting- depending on the topic.

Building Trust: Candidates and Recruiters

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 06 Apr 2017 04:03:00 GMT

Trust needs to be developed between recruiters and their candidates to produce a successful outcome. We sat down with Patrick Musacchia, our National Talent Manager, to talk about how trust can effectively be incorporated into these relationships.

Selecting the Agency

Candidates should really do their research when selecting a recruiting agency to work with. Patrick explains that, although going in blind might be easier, candidates need to be familiar with the staffing agency’s line of work. He adds that building trust starts at the very first interaction between candidate and recruiter.

A simple internet search will help you start off. Check the agency’s website, LinkedIn pages and employee profiles for even more information. Doing your homework will help you figure out the focus of the agency. If you know what you’re getting into, there should be no surprises. For example, if you’re looking for fashion jobs, an agency like Pyramid is great because fashion is one of our largest divisions. Make sure your goals line up with the experience and focus of any recruiting agency you reach out to. It’ll only save you (and the recruiters) time. Once you’ve selected the right agency, trust that they will use their expertise to the best of their ability.

The Process

The next step in getting to know your recruiter should be getting to know their process. Patrick elaborates on the topic by breaking things down in terms of the business relationship. What will your recruiter/candidate relationship look like at the beginning? Moreover, how will your relationship grow through getting you that job? When it’s time for your interview, remember the trust goes both ways. You’re representing the recruiting agency as much as they are representing you.

You should also be asking how your relationship will continue after placement if your recruiter doesn’t make this clear upfront. By laying out the process in simplified terms, you and your recruiter will likely stay on the same page throughout your interactions. All expectations and promises will be outlined at the start of the relationship, thus allowing the trust to form through open communication.

Sending Thank You Notes

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 30 Mar 2017 04:07:00 GMT

Why should you vocalize your appreciation? Studies often show an improvement in overall well-being and happiness in those who share their gratitude with others. The question then becomes, when should you send professional thank you notes and why?

Post-interview

One of the most important musts while interviewing is sending a thank you note. Your interviewer will take note if you send your thanks for their time. The professional world agrees that a follow-up email showing your gratitude should be sent no later than 24 hours after the interview. Of course, the key is to make the thank you personally! The best thank you notes are always the ones that use specific moments from the interview itself. Monster has some great templates to choose from if you’re unsure how to craft this email. Likewise, ask your recruiter for any tips he or she may have!

Co-worker favor

Say someone you work with does you a favor. The favor can range from covering a shift to proofreading some copy before it goes to print. Regardless of the actual favor, your gratitude will surely boost your co-worker's mood. Your thank you note can be small, but if you’re feeling crafty- check out Greetabl . You can input pictures and treats along with your message to give a creative edge to your gratitude. Your thank you note will be a hit at the office!

New job opportunity

Perhaps you are parting ways with your company for a new opportunity across the country. While you’re thrilled to begin your new adventure, you should consider saying thanks to your former employer. A handwritten note for your supervisor or department lets them know how grateful you were for the opportunity to grow your company. Likewise, this type of thank you note lets your former employer know you’re looking to stay connected.

Employee appreciation

Last but not least, thank you notes made for your employees help build a more motivated team. Let’s say your team did an outstanding job closing an important sale or booking a high-end client. Engaged bosses will take note of these accomplishments and ensure gratitude is given. Canva is an excellent source to make quick, adorable graphics. They even have an entire section dedicated to making cards, so you all you have to do is type your info & hit print!

Pyramid Possibilities: Bottomless Closet

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 21 Mar 2017 03:11:00 GMT

This week, we are proud to announce our involvement with Bottomless Closet- an NYC based charity that provides professional services to women in need. Likewise, as part of our internal Spring Cleaning initiative, we are gathering professional attire and accessories to donate to Bottomless Closet. Moreover, the charity offers many more services than clothing donation. Learn more about some of the wonderful aspects of Bottomless Closet below. How will you get involved? Encourage your company to consider volunteer opportunities or starting a drive of their own.

Clothing Drives and Coaching

PCG has participated in more than one clothing drive for Bottomless Closet, and it’s so simple- you can too! Bottomless Closet is currently accepting warmer professional attire, perfect for those trying to clear out their closet after the cold winter season! Particularly, Bottomless Closet seeks attire in sizes 0 and 14+. They accept all types of professional clothing like blazers, skirts, blouses, and more. Additionally, they even accept accessories like nice handbags, belts, and unopened makeup products. Find more specific drive info here . What’s a great interview outfit without the skills to match? Bottomless Closet’s interview coaching program allows women to set up one on one career prep. Furthermore, volunteers will review resumes and create mock interviews.

Workshop Curriculum

Bottomless Closet offers lesson and classes focused on getting ahead in the job world. The courses fall into three separate categories: Financial Management, Professional Development, and Personal Enrichment. Likewise, each of the courses is designed to help women in various aspects of her future career. Financial Management offers classes like budgeting, student loans, and buying a home. Meander through Professional Development and you’ll find goal setting and networking, among many others. The Personal Enrichment section allows women to choose from book club, theater outings, and travel planning. Most importantly, all courses are free and most classes also offer dinner or a light meal. Take a look here at their schedule of open courses!

Moreover, you can click this link to find out more about becoming a volunteer- either in person or through a virtual medium like YouTube.

Marketing and Communication: A Closer Look

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 16 Mar 2017 03:16:00 GMT

Marketing is an exception in-demand field across the globe. Here at PCG, we offer a variety of marketing positions for a diverse group of clients. Are you seeking an entry-level position in the field? Check out our Digital Merchandising Assistant position. Have you spent many years in marketing and are looking for your next role? Come talk to us about our Marketing Manager position with a contemporary fashion brand. Regardless of your experience levels in marketing, you can always stand to learn more about this continually growing field.

It’s All About Image

Marketing and image branding go hand in hand. Thus, marketing professionals are always at the front of making businesses look their best. This quality creates a great need for new branding professionals. Social media coordinators, graphic designers, and copywriters all play pivotal roles in marketing. A company’s image has great potential to exist as an advantage over the competition. Therefore, the public relations and advertising fields pair nicely with marketing because companies strive to promote business.

Networking

People with careers in marketing have a large networking advantage. Marketing jobs of varying experience levels will most likely require you, at some point or another, to collaborate with external businesses. For example, a company’s marketing department might reach out to a charity to coordinate a walk or drive or some type. Networking can display itself other ways, like giving your company’s business to a locally owned printing shop. The relationships you build with customers and clients can come in handy later down the road.

Creativity

Last week, we wrote a blog outlining different jobs you can learn about if you’re seeking some creativity in your life. Three of those positions were, in fact, marketing roles that we offer or have previously offered here at PCG. One of the more exciting features of the marketing field is that it allows for creative growth, both personally and professionally. People with degrees in art, creative writing, and communications have all landed in marketing in some capacity.

Ask PCG: Interviewing

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 14 Mar 2017 03:19:00 GMT

Last week, we held our first ever Ask PCG Instagram Story segment. Erika Mendez, our Senior Vice President, hosted the event and informed our audience about interviewing.

If you didn’t get a chance to check it out, you’re in luck! We’ve compiled all of the questions from our followers and answers by Erika. Don’t forget to follow our Instagram account @pyramid.cg to stay tuned for our next Ask PCG event!

Question 1 : What are your best tips to prepare for an interview?

Erika : Preparing for an interview goes beyond google maps and what to wear. It is equally important to practice answering questions, so you ensure to hit every point you want to cover. This is your chance to sell yourself, and what you can bring to the company. Think about the impact you could bring to the company

Question 2: What do I do when I get an interview question I wasn’t expecting?

Erika : Remember to listen to your interviewer. Need an extra moment to figure out how to answer a question? Take a breath, repeat the question, and be honest! It’s okay to take a moment to ponder what you think is the right answer, so long as it’s authentic. Moreover, employers want to hire you, not a rehearsed answer or response!

Question 3 : How do I develop intellectual questions for my interviewer?

Erika: Asking questions can be a great way to show your level of engagement with the role. Make sure your questions are company and position focused. Likewise, do your research about the company. You might find articles online that can help you form an open ended dialogue between you and your interviewer.

Question 4: What steps should I take following an interview?

Erika : Send a thank you note before the end of the day. Make sure to personalize, spell check, and showcase your enthusiasm for the job.

When You Get Stumped in an Interview

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 09 Mar 2017 03:22:00 GMT

Let's set the scene: You’re in your interview. All seems to be going really well. You’ve nodded and smiled at all the appropriate times. You’ve eloquently described what you’d bring to the company. Then, you’re suddenly caught off guard. Perhaps a curve-ball interview question stumped you or maybe you just blanked on a question about your experience. Feeling shaken is normal but trust us, don’t panic. Here are a few ways to handle getting stuck.

Deep breaths

While you shouldn’t necessarily focus all your attention on your favorite deep breathing exercises, it’s important to maintain that airflow. We all lose our traction from time to time, even when we really wish we didn’t. A nice deep breath will allow you to slow your heart rate for a second, giving you clarity to carry on your interview. Deep breathing is also good to practice before and after your interviews to potentially curb the nerves.

Repeat /rephrase the question

For lack of rational reason, sometimes we just freeze in an interview. This can be due to nerves, which are often uncontrollable. Luckily, repeating the question isn’t a deal breaker – so long as you give a good moment of thought to what was asked. If applicable, ask your interviewer to rephrase or re-frame their inquiry. Sometimes a different context or simple sentence restructure will get your brain grinding its gears again.

Talk to a recruiter for feedback

Nobody is perfect – stellar interviewees included. If you believe you could’ve done a better job or the stuck moment could’ve been avoided, talk to your recruiter. Your recruiter is in a great position because he or she will have the opportunity to speak with your interviewer. Recruiters will equip you with the best interview tips and tricks.

Moreover, make sure you’re absolutely prepared before walking into an interview. You can’t always prevent a sudden brain freeze, but you can do everything in your power to know your facts. Likewise, it’s important to keep in mind that if you’re qualified in all the right areas, one little blip won’t necessarily doom your chances of landing the job. Let us know how you’ve gotten through a tricky moment in an interview!

Careers for Creatives

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 03:25:00 GMT

Creative jobs, otherwise known as dream jobs for some, allow creative people to make money for their passions. Luckily, here at Pyramid, we offer a plethora of creative jobs through various clients. One of the benefits of having so many different divisions is we constantly receive new job openings around the country, daily. Moreover, if you’re looking to incorporate more creativity in your life, check out some of the jobs we’ve offered here at PCG! Don’t forget to visit our job board to see all our open positions. Let our recruiters know what motivates you to work creatively!

Graphic Designer

Graphic design is becoming increasingly more popular these days through high-demand of advertising. Therefore, graphic design is important when creating the brand image for your company. Graphic designers often are responsible for things like preparing and conceptualizing digital content, such as social media graphics/images, and online banner ads.

Social Media Coordinator

Often working hand-in-hand with graphic designers, social media coordinators are essential creative roles. Social media coordinators are in charge of publishing relevant content on all our favorite social platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Likewise, this position has potential to involve a lot of writing- a great match for those with Communication or English degrees!

Digital Merchandising Assistant

The digital age is important in all fields of the job world, especially fashion. A digital merchandising assistant is generally in charge of maintaining the eCommerce segment of a company. How, you ask, is this creative? This type of roll is great for someone with an eye for web layouts and fashion. Furthermore, assisting is also a great way to gain experience that will propel you to even more creative opportunities!

Buyer

Buyer roles are highly coveted positions in the fashion industry. Buyers are in charge of researching trends that can be incorporated back into the company’s retail merchandise. Buyer roles can range from assistant buyer to senior buyer for an entire division of a company. While you might need a considerable amount of experience for the latter, your creative abilities will play a part at all levels of this type of position.

Fashion Designe r

This role is created for obvious reasons. Fashion designers are exceptionally important to the fashion industry. Designers create trends daily. Likewise, many of the fashion designer roles we’ve had the pleasure of filling over the years have been in all sectors of the fashion world. We’ve placed designers in accessories, luxury footwear, and men’s and women’s fashion that get distributed all over the globe.

Future College Grads & Starting A Career

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 02 Mar 2017 03:37:00 GMT

Looks like it’s nearly time for another batch of college graduates to enter the workforce. May is around the corner and college seniors are brimming with excitement for the next chapter in their lives. Whether you’ve got a job lined up after graduation or not – here are a few job search related tips to prepare you for the “real world”.

Talk to a recruiting firm, like Pyramid

Now, this might seem like an obvious pitch but we’re so serious. PCG offers a multitude of jobs in the fashion, marketing, and finance industries. Our recruiters love seeing new resumes fresh out of college because graduates are driven and ready to take on just about anything. Our services will help take some of the stress off of landing an interview and tweaking your resume. Send us your resume today at resumes@pyramidcg.com

Update your work wardrobe

Pyramid Partner Rachel Levin style talks about the importance of personal style when working and interviewing. Women will want to invest in the staples of work fashion – like blazers, blouses great for layering, and some straight leg pants (to name a few). Men should check out button down shirts, a nice pair of loafers, and a versatile briefcase. These clothing staples will go a long way and will last a while with the proper care!

Set career goals

These can be short term or long term. You’ll probably find it beneficial to set both. Ask yourself where you want to be 6 months to a year from now. Will you stay in the same area? Will you be working in the field you have a degree in? How will you work towards these goals? These are all helpful when determining your future. Likewise, ask yourself the big “where will you be 5 years from now?” question. Even if you’re not quite sure yet- these questions will help you define your plan. Moreover, they are great practice questions for potential interviews!

To find a more general list of real-world tips, check out Forbes’ great guide here: https://www.forbes.com/entering-the-real-world

Freelance / Temporary Work: The Breakdown

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 28 Feb 2017 03:45:00 GMT

Temporary and freelance work often get a bad rep for their lack of permanency. Working temp jobs can be intimidating because they are not secure positions. We hope that when one freelance assignment ends, another will begin shortly after. One thing is certain- the temp/freelance industry is steadily growing. Research shows nearly 3 million temp jobs in the U.S. Job Market as of May 2015. Likewise, Pyramid Consulting Group helps fill a plethora of temporary positions every day. So what makes temping so great?

Temping is great for experience

Lots of recent college grads are drawn to temporary environments. These days it seems like you need years upon years of experience to get into your desired field. Temporary work can be a great bridge into your dream career because of the fact that it’s not permanent. You and your place of employment know your contract has an end date. Both of you also know your willingness to learn the ins and outs of the field. This makes a great match because nobody will get their feelings hurt when you eventually move on to your next opportunity.

Temporary jobs also have the ability to last for years at a time. Likewise, your hard work has potential to pay off in terms of a permanent position. Lots of the jobs we fill here at Pyramid are temp-to-perm, meaning if all works out, the candidate will be placed permanently. While not all jobs have this option, it’s an important factor to note when applying for temporary positions. You never know when you might find a role that makes the switch to full-time, all the time.

Temping is great for networking

Another great benefit of temporary work is the likelihood that you’ll make a lot of new connections. For example, lots of our candidates are placed in the Retail and Fashion fields. Say you’re hired for a temporary position at a luxury fashion brand retail location. Your assignment might only last a few months, but you’ve really hit it off with the Store Manager. This can be great when looking for new opportunities as he or she can speak to your dedication to your work. Better yet, ask him or her to write you a recommendation on your LinkedIn profile!

Furthermore, working with a recruiting agency helps eliminate lots of fears about the “what’s next?” after a temp job ends. We keep all our candidates on file and will reach out to you as more great opportunities become available. If you’re looking to gain experience in the form of temporary work, check out our open jobs here: https://jobs.pyramidcg.com/ or send your resume to us at resumes@pyramidcg.com.

Pyramid Possibilities: Pajama Program

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 21 Feb 2017 03:51:00 GMT

Pyramid Consulting Group is able to give back to our community through Pyramid Possibilities, our charity involvement program. We believe it’s important to lend a helping hand whenever possible. Recently, we held a drive for a charity called Pajama Program . Pajama Program is a New York-based charity focused on donating books and warm pajamas to children in need. Pyramid previously volunteered to read to children through Pajama Program in years past. With Valentine’s Day fresh in our minds, we’ve decided to give you a firsthand look at Pajama Program. Come learn how you can open your heart to children in need today.

Genevieve Piturro discovered back in 2001 that several children she read to at a local charity didn’t have supportive caretakers tucking them in at night. Likewise, the children didn’t often have any warm pajamas or new books to read. Genevieve founded Pajama Program shortly after in hopes that the children in her area would be comfortable again. Pajama Program has grown to huge heights as 6,200 hours were spent reading to children just last year. Likewise, Pajama Program outsources to over 3,500 receiving organizations to allow distribution of all donations.

Pajama Program owes its amazing successes to their mission statement: “love is the foundation of all we do at Pajama Program”. How does the charity focus on these fundamentals? Through their Good Night Bill of Rights:

1. Every child has the right to a sense of stability and security.

2. Every child has the right to feel loved and cared for at bedtime.

3. Every child has the right to wear fresh, clean pajamas to bed and to enjoy a bedtime story that fires their imagination.

4. Every child has the right to have something special of their very own.

5. Every child has the right to a good night and a good day.

Moreover, consider donating your favorite childhood book and/or a warm set of pajamas to kids today. Check out this link to learn about starting a drive of your own! https://pajamaprogram.org/pajamas-books/start-a-drive/

Retail and Fashion: A Closer Look

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 16 Feb 2017 03:53:00 GMT

Retail and fashion make up two of Pyramid Consulting Group’s largest divisions. Pyramid partners clients with passionate and experienced candidates to ensure all business needs are met. Whether you’re a seasoned fashion guru or just trying your hand with retail, we want you to take a look at some insight into the retail and fashion worlds. Send our recruiters your resume and get immersed in the field today!

Customer Service

How does working in the retail stack up to other types of jobs? Retail brings people together. For one, everyone, at some point in his or her life, will need to shop for clothing. Though online shopping is gaining in popularity, shoppers still appreciate customer service experiences tailored to their specific needs. Many of our contemporary and high-end clients bring exceptional customer service to their customers- which is largely why they’re successful. If your passion lies in providing memorable experiences to others, retail fashion is your ideal field.

Innovation and Excitement

Another benefit of working in retail and fashion is the constant innovation and excitement that comes with the job. Trends are always changing, which keeps retail and fashion exciting. New colors, styles, and cultures constantly change the industry. Likewise, the customer base is always expanding as things like social media find new, creative ways to attract customers. Though there’s always bound to be a lull in customer traffic at one point or another, the next big sale will bring in another eager crowd.

Various Fields and Locations

The fashion world is a 1.2 trillion dollar industry , so there will always be opportunities in the field. While sales are one of the most heavily staffed areas, there is a multitude of other jobs to discover. The retail and fashion industries owe their success to warehouse workers and various corporate positions in HR, marketing, finance, and administrative (four more divisions we have at PCG) just as well.

Additionally, Pyramid mainly helps candidates find jobs in the US, though that hasn’t stopped us from recruiting for jobs in places like Hong Kong . However, our available positions are located in a multitude of areas like New York (our largest network), San Francisco, Miami, and many other places in between. The retail field is ideal if you’re looking for exciting new opportunities.

Take a look here at some of our open positions. We can’t wait to learn more about your passion for retail and fashion!

Staying on Track While Working From Home

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 14 Feb 2017 03:57:00 GMT

Maybe the weather is bad or you’re feeling a bit under the weather. Luckily, you have the luxury to work from home. How do you make sure you complete enough work for the day? There are lots of distractions at home, like family or roommates, pets, and even your bed- calling to you to sleep just another hour. Here are a few easy ways to ensure you stay on track and focused.

Sit In A Quite Location

This one is a no-brainer. More than likely, your normal office setting is relatively quiet- aside from low-level chatter and phones ringing. This environment is important to mirror while at home so you can be sure to stay on track. Try sitting in your home office or your favorite reading nook- if you have one. The fewer distractions you have, the better- because you’re likely to encounter a few throughout the day. If you need a little bit of music to get motivated, turn on your favorite station at low volume.

Make a To-Do List

While you should always make a to-do list, they are especially important when you’re working from home. Likewise, you might not be able to work on a specific project due to your remote location. Ranking your tasks allows you to stay focused – even after you take a quick break to play tug of war with your pup! Even when distraction is inevitable, your to-do list will bring you back to your tasks. What’s more, you’ll be able to tie up loose ends even after normal quitting time because you’re already at home!

Silence Any Unnecessary Notifications

This means Facebook and your phone. While you might need to keep your phone handy in case you get a call from someone important, you can turn it on vibrate or low volume. Try to stay in the mindset of the office life and don’t check your phone frequently. Additionally, look into any browser blockers to help you stay off of tempting distraction-filled sites.

When You Don't Get The Job

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 04:00:00 GMT

Looks like this time, unfortunately, you didn’t land the job. While this might have resulted from a multitude of different reasons- maybe the job was put on hold or the company hired internally- you should start looking forward. Where do you begin? Here are some of the best ways you can make the most out of the job rejection.

Don’t overthink things

First and foremost, don’t be hard on yourself. The last thing you want is for your confidence to take a dip before you step back out into the job search world. While a rejection always feels like a bummer, you can learn from it. Take the experience of a great opportunity to practice interview skills, if nothing else.

Reflect on your improvement

Staying humble in the job search world is tricky- especially when we’re always trying to convince employers how awesome we are! Therefore, thinking about how you can improve might not always come quickly. When you’re ready, sit and reflect on how the process could be revamped. Perhaps you forgot to send a thank you note or maybe your cover letter had a few grammatical errors. These are small mistakes you can change instantly! Likewise, it’s never a bad idea to follow up and ask for suggestions on how you can improve.

Put the culture into question

The company culture, that is. Sometimes companies and candidates aren’t the right fit for each other. This doesn’t mean that you’re a bad candidate! Simply, the company might have specific needs and wanted to hire someone with particular skills. It goes without saying that not every single job will be right for every single candidate. Let this drive you to look for companies with a stellar dynamic!

Look for new opportunities

Last but certainly not least, you should begin looking for new opportunities. Who knows, you might have a great opportunity just around the corner. Moreover, consider using a recruiter. Each of the recruiters here at Pyramid is dedicated to making great job/candidate matches. Don’t forget to ask your recruiter for feedback after your interview – it’ll come in handy for the next time you’re up for an exciting new opportunity! Send your resume to resumes@pyramidcg.com to speak with one of our recruiters today!

Acing Your Performance Review

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 02 Feb 2017 04:03:00 GMT

So your performance review is just around the corner. Your supervisor asks you to schedule the meeting for later in the week. Whether it’s your first or hundredth performance review of your career- you might feel a bit apprehensive. This is totally normal- but don’t sweat it. Here are some tips you can follow to ace that review.

Come prepared with a notebook and pen

This may seem obvious, but it’s one of the most important items you can bring to your performance review. Preparedness always looks professional. Not only will you feel organized if you need to take notes, you might also benefit by jotting down your own notes beforehand – in case you forget to cover something during the review.

Give yourself a pre-review pep talk

Practicing your review might prove beneficial when trying to calm your nerves. You may not know exactly what your supervisor will discuss, but you will most likely be aware of any big (positive or negative) performance topics that will come up during the review. Going over your performance beforehand makes you seem prepared and focused on your role when you actually go in to have the talk.

Set some goals

Regardless of if your performance review happens monthly, quarterly, or even yearly- it’s a good idea to go in with some goals. They can be small and/or large, depending on whatever your position in your company calls for. Goal setting for your review will display your level of engagement with your position and company- thus proving to your supervisors that you really are committed to being the best employee you can be.

Set some improvements

Though you might be a stellar employee- you probably could stand to improve on at least one aspect of your job. Maybe you would like to start using a planner to help your organization. Perhaps you’d like to start going to sleep earlier so you’re not feeling drowsy halfway through your day. Whatever improvement you may have- keep track of it and feel free to share during your review. In a similar vein as goal setting, making your improvements known will help prove your dedication to the job.

Practice receiving constructive criticism

Chances are, you’ll probably be faced with some constructive criticism in your review. Don’t panic- this is a perfect opportunity to learn and grow with your position. Going over the things you need to improve like we mentioned earlier, is a great way to practice handling criticism. If you and your boss are on the same page about what you need to improve on, you’ll have a greater chance of finding the best solution.

The Essential Job Search Checklist

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 31 Jan 2017 04:07:00 GMT

Pyramid Consulting Group is dedicated to making your job search as simple as it can get. Regardless of your status as a job searcher – from just starting out to 20+ years of experience, it’s never a bad idea to refresh yourself on some of the essentials of job searching. Here are some of the most important things to ensure you’re on the track to success with your search! Let us know what your essential job search checklist contains and how you’ve benefited from a recruiting agency like us.

An excellent resume

A resume allows employers to see your experience. Because you’re showcasing nearly everything you’ve accomplished in your resume (or your CV) it should look presentable and well defined. Some resumes gain from a unique layout – see how you can benefit from your creativity!

A well-written cover letter

We’ve shown you how to have an outstanding cover letter. But what makes it so important? Why do we need this? Your cover letter is your hook to catch the attention of the right person. In the case of recruiting agencies; your cover letter should explain your passions about the field you strive to grow within.

Confident self-presentation

You’ll want to look the part of any job you go interview for. Likewise, your confidence plays a major role in your presentation. The way you shake hands and the way you sit will say a lot about you. Practice a firmer handshake and sitting up straighter-even if you’re an interview pro. You’ll thank us later!

A friendly recruiter

One of the benefits of utilizing a company like Pyramid Consulting Group is we essentially eliminate the hardest part of your search. Because we’re all experts in various fields, we’ll give you the upper hand in a specified search. Additionally, we’re dedicated to landing you a fulfilling role with the best companies and we stay in touch long after placement!

Staying Productive on Slow Days

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 26 Jan 2017 04:10:00 GMT

We’ve all experienced a slow day at work. Your work is finished and your checklist is complete. The worst part is it’s only 2 pm and you have to stay until 5 pm or later. It’s seemingly lazy for to bide your time until you leave. How do you begin to approach this slow day without sitting around doing nothing? We’ve got some suggestions to keep you productive on even the slowest days.

Ask For More Work

Though you might relish in the relaxation, you should take advantage of the opportunity to work. Ask your co-workers if they need assistance on a project. Let your boss know you’re free until the end of the day to take on any extra assignments. Asking for more work is easily the best way to ensure you don’t fall into the midday slump. Likewise, you’re showing your commitment to your position. Your colleagues will thank favorably of you for taking initiative.

Plan Out The Coming Days

Perhaps you’re aware that next week will bring lots of work. Take some time to your planner or favorite scheduling app to prepare. Jot down all meetings and tasks that need to be done. Allocate when you need to complete all projects. Additionally, take note of anything you need to accomplish in your personal / home life. This way, when things eventually pick back up again, you’ll be prepared and ready to prioritize your responsibilities.

Geat Ahead With Your Responsibilities

This is somewhat linked to our previous section. By planning out your day- you should be able to see what tasks need to get done in the near future. Your free time might allow you to start working on your upcoming projects and you should take advantage. Getting a head start on these tasks will open up your schedule as you finish them ahead of time – giving you a better chance for productivity in the future!

Achieving Great Customer Service

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 04:14:00 GMT

Anyone in the customer service industry knows all too well that “the customer is always right” and “the customer always comes first”. These two mantras are important when trying to remember the heart of your company. Likewise, positivity, gratitude, and communication are three pivotal aspects of great customer service. If your company is trying to stand out and go above and beyond service expectations, follow thee tips. Let us know how your company excels at customer service!

Positivity and happiness are heavily correlated with the customer service world.

If a sales associate is cheerful and smiling, his or her customer is likely to leave the interaction feeling something similar. Though the sentiment might not feel exactly mirrored, the customer will remember their experience with your company fondly. Thus, it’s imperative to encourage your team to stay upbeat and dedicated to their customer service duties.

In a similar vein, the positivity you display should coincide with your gratitude.

Customers are the backbone of fields like retail and hospitality. Therefore, saying “thank you” and giving back to your customers is essential. Gratitude can be shown in different ways. One approach might be to extend a sale, give a reward to loyal customers, or volunteer in the community. Regardless of the avenue taken, showing gratitude will allow your customers to feel appreciated, which will encourage them to keep giving your business.

Communication is crucial both internally and externally.

You should absolutely be communicating with your customers when something doesn’t go as planned or if the service falls flat on their expectations. Keeping them in the know will create a basic level of trust- something they should come to expect from your company. Likewise, it’s important to stay connected with your company. When communication falters among employees with key roles, your customers will feel the effects.

Staying Organized During Your Job Search

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 19 Jan 2017 04:17:00 GMT

Job searching can be overwhelming- especially if you’re constantly applying to new positions day in and day out. Searching definitely becomes a little bit easier when working with a recruiter like Pyramid Consulting Group. Recruiters complete most of the tricky parts for you. We help match you with the right company and set up your interviews. The key to staying on target and focused during your job search is keeping track. You don’t want to miss an important deadline. We’re here to show you how simple it can be to utilize tools like your email, a notebook, and Microsoft Excel to ensure you’re organized.

Keep track of everything!

You should always be keeping track of everything during your job search. This includes emails sent, phone conversations completed, companies met with, etc.

Sorting your emails can prove beneficial. Make separate folders for emails with your recruiter and with potential new employers. Sorting emails prevent getting lost in the confusion of all your promotional emails. Add your contacts to your email server’s address book for the even further organization.

Utilize your favorite notebook! Log any interview questions you found particularly difficult to answer or ones you found extremely helpful in showcasing your expertise. This is helpful in case you come across these particular questions in future interviews. Likewise, the more you practice talking about yourself and your accomplishments, the more confident you’ll feel in the long run.

You might find that keeping an Excel sheet is helpful when logging each new opportunity. Make columns for job title, employer/company, date applied, interview status, contact info, and location. It’s also somewhat helpful to add a column to a notes section- in case you need to remind yourself of any outlying important details about a certain position. One suggestion in the notes column is to keep track of the status of each opportunity. For example, you could write “sent a thank you email prior to the interview. Waiting to hear back”. Furthermore, brushing up on your Excel skills could be an exciting new addition to your resume!

Stress Relief at Work

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 18 Jan 2017 04:21:00 GMT

We will all inevitably feel stressed at work at one point or another. Stress is a seemingly normal part of work life, no matter how effectively we manage it. We’ve compiled a list of six different ways you can eliminate stress in your day to day work lives.

Deep breaths

Sometimes we just need a breather. Take a moment to close your eyes and inhale/exhale for a minute or two. The key here is to silence all the thoughts bouncing around in your head for a short while. Count to ten and backward while doing so to allow you to focus solely on your breathing.

Take a short break

Often times physical activity helps us relax. Use a short 5-minute break to get up and walk around the office. Go pick up your lunch instead of delivery. Pop outside for a bit if the weather is nice. Your eyes will thank you for getting a break from the constant computer screen glare and you’ll come back more focused and ready to take on the day.

Organize & prioritize

You might not even realize that you just need a little bit of organization to manage your stress. Create a to-do list with a timeline and rank your tasks with priority. You might just see your productivity boost instantly as you see all of your work planned out in front of you.

Use a personal day

Though we don’t always recommend calling out when work gets tough, we will say that personal days can prove to be beneficial. Taking the day allows you to recuperate and relax. Talk with your HR department or your supervisor about your personal day guidelines and when taking off is convenient with your schedule.

Take care of yourself at home

One of the most valuable stress eliminators is more sleep. If your constant worrying about a project at work is keeping you up until all hours of the night, it might be time to reconsider your sleeping schedule. Adults typically need at least 7 hours of sleep each night. Try going to bed earlier!

Ask for help

Sometimes we over schedule or overwork ourselves. We sometimes overestimate how much we can get done within a designated time frame. In scenarios like this, it’s okay to ask for help. Asking a co-worker for their time might be an easy fix for your stress. You might even get more accomplished with additional hands. Be sure to let your colleagues know of your appreciation of their help.

Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 12 Jan 2017 04:26:00 GMT

Are you trying to advance your career? It’s time to step out of your comfort zone. Don’t be intimidated by the stigma of stepping out of your comfort zone. Going out on a limb might seem scary- but there are several different ways that starting small can benefit you largely in the long run.

We’ve come up with a few suggestions to get your gears churning. Let us know how you’ve achieved success by stepping out of your comfort zone! What methods worked best for you?

Offer To Take A Leadership Role in a New Project

New projects will constantly present themselves at the office. Next time you become aware of a task you have experience with- offer a to lead or lend a hand to the project. This will show your supervisors and colleagues that you like taking initiative and can be comfortable with new change. Likewise, you’ll feel more confident after completing the project.

Sit In On Meetings

Take some time to learn what else goes on in your workplace. If you’re allowed to, sit in on other department meetings to see how you can improve company functionality. Besides, it’s always important to stay in the know about the inner workings of a business. Awareness within other departments creates a better flow of communication! Additionally, your presence at the meeting will show that you’re willing to listen and learn.

Speak Up and Offer Suggestions

You might know how to make things run more smoothly at the office. For example, if you’re an organizing wiz, offer to show your methods to your desk mate to help him or she achieve a better workflow. Offering suggestions can be super helpful on a larger scale as well. You’ll show drive and commitment to your job by sharing your points of view.

Is This The Right Opportunity For You?

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 04:29:00 GMT

There are a lot of things to consider before going into an interview. When working with a recruiting agency, like Pyramid Consulting Group, it’s important to be fully aware of the job details before accepting an interview. We recommend staying in the know about your interviewer and the position requirements so that you’re 100% prepared going into your interview.

Here are some questions you should keep in the back of your mind before saying yes to an interview opportunity.

Am I fully aware of the job responsibilities?

This question is a key player in your decision to take the job. Perhaps your potential employer listed out all of the necessary qualifications for the role, but you’re unsure of how your skills play into what you’re doing. It’s important to ask any questions you might have in regards to your responsibilities. This way you won’t be surprised after accepting the position.

Am I comfortable with all of the job responsibilities?

Similarly to the question above, you want to make sure you’re going to like your job. Of course, an entry-level position might ask you to do something your dream job wouldn’t necessarily require. In this sort of case, you’ll likely want to weigh pros and cons. Accepting a position that’ll teach you new skills is a great launching point for the rest of your career!

Who will I be working for/with?

Ask yourself things like “what values does this company possess?” or “what will the communication structure be like?” Say you love helping others and find this company does a lot of community outreach. Accepting this offer might be the best opportunity for you!

How is the pay?

This question is always important. Will you be paid enough to live comfortably? Do you think the pay is worth your skill set? List the pros and cons of whatever the salary or hourly wage might be. Even if the cons are even or a little higher, compare the rest of the job details. You might decide that pay ranks lower on your list of priorities than, say, job duties.

Am I eligible for any benefits?

Benefits may or may not be important to you in your job search, but reviewing them might prove beneficial. You might be swayed to accept one interview opportunity over another due to the company’s really stellar benefits.

How will this advance my career?

This question is one of the more important things to consider, even if the answer isn’t immediately known. Maybe you’re playing the field and testing out the waters in a new area. Maybe you’re working long and hard to achieve your dream job in a field you’ve loved since childhood. Whatever the reason might be- ensure you’re happy with your potential advancement before settling into a job.

If you have any other questions about your job search process- please tweet us or message us on Facebook. Our recruiters are more than happy to help assist in any way they can!

The Benefits of Starting a Blog

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Thu, 05 Jan 2017 04:33:00 GMT

Starting a blog can be beneficial for your personal brand and for your business. We’ve had our blog here at PCG up and running since 2010. We are constantly learning new things with our blog, even though it’s been nearly seven years since we began writing our job search and career-related posts. Here are some reasons why we think you should join us and start a blog today!

Improve Your Writing Skills

You’re engulfing yourself in the world of writing by starting a blog. It’s imperative to use correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation when posting something online for the world to see. This will propel you to consistently check your sentence structure and overall tone in your writing. If your readers respond positively to your work- you know you’re doing something right!

Improve Your Research Skills

Say you decide to write about fashion because you’re in the fashion industry. You’ll want to have substantial research done when you write your blog. Search the latest trends, the highest grossing niche markets, and other unique factors about your field to enhance your writing. You’re essentially learning something new every time you write a blog!

Show Your Passion and Involvement in Your Field

You’ll show your audience what your field means to you. Writing a blog shows your level of expertise in your area- whether it be strictly fact-based or experienced based. Besides, blogs look great on your resume because they display you’re driven to show what you know.

Learn About SEO

Otherwise known as search engine optimization is a useful tool for anyone to learn. Ensure your posts are ranked high in related topics searches. We write our blog through WordPress.com – which provides us with Yoast : an SEO plugin tool. Yoast allows us to optimize our blog writing for maximum audience interaction. Take advantage of features like this one to improve the potential reach of your work!

How to Be More Appreciative at Work

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Mon, 26 Dec 2016 04:36:00 GMT

It’s important to acknowledge the things in life we’re most appreciative of. Appreciation of small and big things alike are important- especially when we take time out of our days to ensure our appreciation is known. Likewise, it’s important to remind ourselves of the great things so we stay focused and driven in our work. By acknowledging and reciprocating appreciation, we’re making an effort to highlight the positive aspects of our work lives. Hopefully, we will start to see a snowball effect/ chain reaction in how we show our gratitude.

Reflecting

Take some time out of your day to think of all things you’re grateful for. These things can be as big or as small as you’d like. You’ll find that even the simplest of gestures could mean the world. Not only will reflecting allow you to recognize your appreciation for your job, it can also benefit things like integrity. According to this article on LinkedIn, reflecting on your core values will help strengthen your leadership integrity.

Saying Thank You

Sometimes, small things go unnoticed. Ensure your colleagues know you’re thankful for their help- no matter in what capacity it’s given. Forbes suggests there are at least seven benefits from showing your gratitude. Most importantly, saying thanks is important to building your relationships.

Giving Back

We’re always talking about how to give back to your community- but what about giving back at the office? For example, take an extra few minutes out of your morning to help the new person with the coffee machine. Large or small actions Reciprocate any helpful hand if you’re able to and you’re sure to reap the benefits of appreciation.

We’re excited to learn how these tips allowed you to feel more appreciative of work! Let us know how the tips have worked to your advantage. What are you most appreciative of in your career?

Staying Positive After Career Setbacks

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 20 Dec 2016 04:39:00 GMT

Career setbacks often catch people off guard. Thus, predicting setbacks is difficult to master. This doesn’t mean all is lost if you don’t plan for a direct hit to your career- however. Staying positive is one of the key aspects of overcoming the negative effects of a setback. Though positivity won’t always be easy to come by, practice makes perfect. Here are some examples of how you can find a silver lining in the face of any career hurdles.

The Blame Game:

First off, blaming someone for the setback isn’t going to make anyone feel better. It’s important to take ownership if you realize you yourself contributed to the setback. However, excessively blaming yourself only feeds more negativity into the situation. Likewise, avoid any unnecessary blaming of anyone who may have contributed to the setback. Harboring bad feelings accomplishes nothing. Instead, discuss how the situation could’ve been handled differently.

A Learning Experience:

Staying open minded after a setback is essential to moving forward. After the initial defeat, look for ways to learn from the setback. Perhaps you could’ve approached your raise differently. Maybe you could have answered an interview question with a different example. You shouldn’t be hard on yourself for any mistakes. Keep a log of ways to improve your approach to career goals. It’ll be harder to try again if your confidence is faltering. Furthermore, check out our previous blog to see what you can do to boost that confidence.

A Second Chance:

Try and try and try again. Setbacks challenge the motivation we need to continue pursuing our goals. It’s imperative to keep additional attempts in mind. Trying again shows initiative and determination. Perhaps a missed promotion opportunity will lead to a better one. Besides, J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter series, was rejected by 12 publishers before one agreed to publish her. Walt Disney himself was fired from a newspaper for lacking creativity. Don’t let your setbacks deter you because you might have a solid chance at success if you’re persistent.

How To Be More Confident at Work

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Fri, 16 Dec 2016 04:46:00 GMT

We’ve all been there. We make a mistake at work or when with assigned a task we don’t feel 100% comfortable about. It’s absolutely normal to feel this way in small doses. A little bit of stress pushes people to do better. However, if you’re feeling this way all the time, maybe it’s time to try a new approach to your work. See how these easy suggestions can have you feeling more confident instantly.

Ask Questions

We’ve all heard “no question is a stupid question” before. This mantra is relayed to us for a reason: so that we don’t feel afraid to inquire about something uncertain. Don’t feel you’re bothering a co-worker or superior when asking how to complete a task or assignment. Besides, if you’re someone who gets nervous with any kind of confrontation- asking questions can be easy practice to feel more confident and comfortable with your thoughts ideas.

Become More Familiar With Your Expectations

In a similar vein, when going to ask a question it’s important to have a general sense of what you’re looking for. If your job tasks have a lot of little details that are really important, a little forgetfulness could majorly halt productivity. Whenever you find you’re not absolutely confident in all that your daily routine requires, take some time out of your day to review your employee handbook or manual.

Give Back Through Charity Involvement

Does your company have some kind of charity program or volunteering opportunities you could participate in? Is your supervisor looking for some extra help on a weekend? Does the new person on the job need some guidance? If so, take the initiative to give back. Giving back doesn’t necessarily need to directly relate to your job. Your accomplishment will make you feel better about yourself thus fueling your confidence.

Pyramid Possibilities: She’s the First

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 13 Dec 2016 04:49:00 GMT

This year PCG supports She’s the First- an organization dedicated to providing girls with an education. The force of the girls’ education movement really makes an impact, especially with inspiring figures like Malala Yousafzai at the head. She’s the First is dedicated to girls in low-income countries who will be the first in their families to graduate from high school.

With the holiday spirit in the air- we’re going to give you a firsthand look at She’s the First and how you can give back to organizations like it today.

Tammy Tibbetts founded She’s the First in 2010. She initially wanted to get millennials involved with girls education through social media. With the help of co-founder Christen Brandt, the two women shaped She’s the First into what is today. Since 2010 the company has provided 2,216 scholarships, 805 scholars, 180 graduated scholars, 216 campus chapters, and 200 campus alumni.

Likewise, She’s the First provides four key elements to each of the girls they support:

Scholarships

100% of every donation made to She’s the First goes toward scholarships for the girls in low-income countries seeking an education.

Mentorships :

Mentors and scholarship recipients follow a curriculum-based program. This ensures both parties’ goals are met.

Health and Wellness :

She’s the First provides any medication the girls may need when feeling under the weather. Likewise, they provide school uniforms and nutritious food to keep the girls at their best.

Boarding :

Not all schools have available housing for students, but whenever they do, She’s the First covers the boarding costs and fees. This keeps the girls surrounded by a positive educational environment.

Moreover, She’s the First creates global awareness through its programs and various opportunities. She’s the First’s Young Professionals Network dedicates themselves to spreading awareness through millennials. The Young Professionals Network offers perks like professional development, creative participation in various fundraisers, and scholarship opportunities for girls. The program, based in New York City, invites all young professionals to send in an application. Once accepted, each member pays $40 annual dues that disperses $10 for YPN events and $30 to scholarships. Consider joining today!

Support of organizations like She’s the First wouldn’t be possible without our charity involvement program, Pyramid Possibilities. We strive to give back to the community and give our employees the opportunity to make a difference. We believe that giving back is a huge part of running a successful company.

Vanquish Your Procrastination

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Tue, 06 Dec 2016 04:53:00 GMT

We know the story all too well: the holidays are approaching, the weather is getting colder. Motivation at work can be hard to come by this time of year, especially as many of us would rather be at home, snuggled in a blanket watching our favorite holiday films. For most, the end of the year means getting down to the wire on any final business projects or hiring deadlines- so there’s no time for slacking. If you feel that your procrastination is getting the better of you- follow these steps to ensure your productivity doesn’t falter.

Rid Yourself of Distractions

You heard right. Get rid of that open Facebook tab- your notifications can wait. Social media is among the top sources of procrastination and it has no business interrupting your workday. If it’s absolutely necessary, wait until a lunch or bathroom break to check up on everything you’ve missed online. Likewise, if your chatty desk mate tries to strike up a conversation, politely decline and maybe suggest you two catch up during lunch or over drinks after work.

Make a To-Do List

Physically write down a list of everything- large or small- that needs to get done. Use OneNote (a favorite here at PCG) or even an old-fashioned planner or notebook to stay organized. If you’re able to see what’s in front of you, you’re more likely to stay on track. More importantly, you’re less likely to forget or continually put off a task if it’s staring you in the face.

Plan Out Your Time

Give yourself a timeline; it might even help to write your timeline down with your task list- (ex: “finish writing blog: 2 pm”). The key here though is to make sure you stick to your plan. If you’re lucky and find you have ample time, use it wisely. Keep the distractions at bay (because it’s harder to get back into your groove once you’ve broken the concentration).

End-of-Year Work Goals

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Fri, 02 Dec 2016 04:57:00 GMT

2017 brings a new year and new resolutions, both personal and professional, for people all over the world. Do yourself a favor and give yourself the gift of productivity this holiday season- ahead of the resolution curve. Here are some examples of end of year work goals you can set so you’re ready to enter the New Year on the right foot

Become More Organized

One of our latest blogs explains how easy it is to organize yourself before the holidays. Think about how to productively use your downtime. How can you utilize a planner system to stay on track with all your to-dos?

Learn a New work-Related skill

We made a resource guide on how simple learning a new skill can be. Maybe use your down time to pick up basic Photoshop techniques or learn the latest SEO marketing trends. After coming back from the holidays, you can use the new skills to benefit your productivity in the New Year.

Innovate

Whether your idea is large or small- it’s a good idea to start planning how you can contribute to your company in the new year. Collaborating with other co-workers can be beneficial for efficient and timely completed work.

Befriend A New Co-Worker

This time of year is always full of new hires. If you see someone trying to catch their footing in a new position, lend a helping hand. The holidays are a perfect time to spread some cheer and do some good around the office!

Volunteer

We’ve already explained how volunteering can help your career- now it’s time to get involved! With the holiday spirit in the air, see what kind of initiatives your company offers for you to lend a helping hand! Likewise, soup kitchens and clothing drives are two super popular volunteer opportunities this time of year!

Public Speaking at Your Next Presentation

wow@shazamme.com (Default Author) — Wed, 30 Nov 2016 05:00:00 GMT

Public speaking is an essential skill to have in the workforce, but sometimes it looks easier than it actually is. If you’ve got a big departmental presentation coming up, or even a simple idea you’d like to pitch to your boss, you’ll want to make sure you’re thoroughly prepared. We hope these three easy tips (the three R’s: research, revise, and rehearse) benefit your public speaking success!

Research .

If you’re not already doing so, you’ll want to research your topic. Add in significant statistics on your topic that will grab your audience’s attention. Of course, you don’t want to overload your audience with numbers, especially if you don’t have a physical presence for them to follow along. Research is also really important so that you know your topic inside and out, in case your audience asks some out-of-the-box questions at the end of your presentation.

Revise .

When speaking publicly, note cards are your friend. With that being said, you don’t want to write your whole speech out on your note cards, as experts suggest the word for word speeches don’t often feel genuine. Go through your key points and write each down on a separate note card. You’ll feel more organized this way!

Rehearse .

Practice your speech in front of friends or family. Record yourself and play it back, making sure to write down any critiques, changes, and suggestions for the next time. Memorize your whole speech and present again- this time with improvisation. Likewise, it’s a good idea to make note of when you should gesture and make voice inflections- two strategies you can use to make your speech feel more personal.

Keep in mind: these steps don’t have to necessarily happen in this order. If you rehearse a bunch and find you’re in need of more research and revising- go for it! What matters most is your confidence in your speech when your presentation day arrives!