HOW TO SHINE IN TODAY’S COMPETITIVE JOB MARKET

In today’s competitive job market it’s tough to shine amongst other qualified individuals. Many wonder why some employees with less education acquire higher positions, while others with higher education and better credentials are not promoted? This question puzzles many employees who have been in companies for years and see a new hire quickly going up the company ladder. There are ways to excel in your job regardless of credentials or level of experience. In this article we will review key factors to help you excel in any particular job setting.

Laurie Erdman author of Burnout: Identify It- Extinguish It. Ignite Your Life! writes, in The Huffington Post, three ways to excel at work. Erdman recommends the following:

1. Eat brain foods such as nuts, cold-water fish, spinach, and pumpkins seeds. These foods are a great source of healthy fats (polyunsaturated & monounsaturated) and low in hydrogenated fats.

2. Sleep is not for slackers, and a lack of sleep has shown to reduce productivity. She recommends 8 hours of sleep to prevent what she calls “survival mode” or just getting by at work. 

3.Lastly, she emphasizes on the practice of giving. Suggesting employees to go out of their way and do something nice for another co-worker. This concept of giving back to the company provides an opportunity for the individual to feel good about their performance, as well as increase their value in the company.

Healthy, energized, and giving employees are assets to any company. They bring positive ideas that burst creativity and business growth. Although today’s job market can be competitive and challenging, there are ways to shine and excel in your job!

TIPS TO SIMPLIFY RETIREMENT PLANNING

You’ve invested years into the workforce and are now considering retirement. What factors drive some people to retire sooner or later in life? Is there a specific age-range that’s best to retire? Planning for retirement is unique for each individual’s situation and goals. Optimal timing for retirement depends on the person’s needs, aspirations, and financial position. It’s important to maintain flexible and open to new possibilities when planning for retirement. 

THINKING OF RETIREMENT? CONSIDER THIS:

1. How many years have you been in the workforce? Social Security collects a portion of your employment income, accumulating funds for when ready to retire. Social Security provides detailed benefit information based on age, work history, and income. Applying for benefits is also possible on the Social Security website. According to AARP, the longer you wait to collect Social Security after age of 62 the greater the return. AARP comments further, “For each year you delay, your Social Security benefits will increase between 7 percent and 8 percent up to age 70, depending on your year of birth.”

2. Determine monthly income and monthly expenses. Jot down all sources of income and expenses for each month. This provides detailed information on financial obligations needed when considering retirement options.

3. Which sources of income will commence upon retiring and which will cease? List new sources of income such as Social Security, 401K’s or other retirement plans, savings, investments, and others. Also review income sources that will cease or decreases, and include updated financial figures to your retirement planning list.

4. It’s never too late to strategize for retirement. Regardless of age or work experience there are many options available. Seek assistance from a financial expert who can provide retirement options based on your goals and financial needs.

5. Working is still an option after retirement. Seeking employment after retiring is a choice for individuals who require extra income or enjoy working. There is a limit to the number of work hours allowed when receiving Social Security benefits. Consult with Social Security to make sure you’re keeping within their guidelines.

*All suggestions should be discussed with a professional who specializes in retirementment prior to implenting any ideas discussed in this article. This article is only intended for informational purposes.