Renoir Staffing Blog

The staffing and property management industries are entering the busy season as the days grow warmer and longer. For residential and commercial properties, there is landscaping to be done, events to prepare for, vacations looming (aka, increased workload), and a myriad of other tasks, both large and small. Some days can feel outright overwhelming.

Last week I received an email from a colleague that contained some really good tips on staying calm during stressful days. You know, the kind of days when you feel like you can’t work fast enough, or the tasks you set out to accomplish fall apart, or even just those days when you wake up with a black cloud over your head, grumpy and exhausted for no apparent reason. Her email addressed all these unfortunate workdays and more, so I thought I would compile my own list of tips to get you through a frustrating workday.

First off, it’s always important to remember that although you may not have control over what happens around you (although you might be surprised at just how much you do), you do have control over how you react to them. Breathing. Staying calm. Giving yourself the time to think before responding. These are paramount to turning an unsuccessful event around. Here are more tips on taking control over a cloudy day:

1. Bad mood day? Accept your emotions (feel them, don’t bury them), don’t take them out on other people (apologize if you do), and give yourself plenty of time to take deep breaths and relax. Some days you’ll have to make the time, but you’ll find that no matter how busy you are, stepping away from the desk and/or task for ten minutes for some personal time can be invaluable. The following link is for an article on WikiHow that gives you tips on how to deal with your bad mood at work and it is excellent! Check it out: How to Turn Around a Bad Day at Work.
2. Ask for help. Are you bogged down in a project? Feeling resentful towards coworkers and employers who seemingly don’t notice that you’re working at maximum capacity and add more to your load? Remember that no one is a mind reader, and expecting them to be can lead to really bad consequences. They are focusing on their own projects. So speak up. If you need help or more time with a project, ask for it. Most people, when given the chance, will seize the opportunity to provide their assistance, especially when the outcome is beneficial to all involved.
3. Is stress distracting you from accomplishing your goals? Stress runs rampant in this country and can be a detrimental deterrent to our happiness and success. Maybe you’re not having one bad day here and there; maybe they are all becoming unpleasant in one way or another. If this is the case, you’re probably feeling rotten outside of work too. That’s no good. I went through a lot of online resources for stress, and the best one I found gives us sound advice on the options we have to control stress levels. It’s so good, I think I will let it speak for itself: Stress At Work. My favorite? Eliminating self-defeating behaviors.  

You know that Renoir Staffing is here to make these tasks easier for you and more successful with our database of talented property management professionals, but we’re also here to provide useful tips on making your day more successful, and therefore your career and/or business!

Have a happy and healthy workday!

Jessie Williams, Marketing Coordinator

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Last year, the Renoir Staffing team took a look at the company’s Mission Statement and decided it was time for a change. We liked the message it expressed, we’ve always stood behind it, but in the midst of the changes the company was experiencing (new ownership, new logo, a stronger online presence and even stronger dedication to excellent customer service), we felt a new Mission Statement could only showcase the professionalism of our company even more! We were an even better company and wanted to share that information with our industry.

We knew it should be a team effort so management decided to ask for volunteers from the company’s team members and from those eager to participate they made sure to cover all departments: Management, Sales, Marketing, and Finance.  Although volunteers from these departments were chosen to form a discussion group, no employee was left out. It was up to one individual per department to take note of what their colleagues felt was important to include in the Mission Statement. And once we had this information, we sat down together as a group and discussed itl.

It didn’t take us long. One of the principal components of our company culture is how well we work together and the enthusiasm we each have for this company and the values upon which it stands. Within the hour, we had a new statement that reflected not only the services we provide but the sincerity behind our efforts to solve staff dilemmas and build careers.  We are very proud of (and thrilled about!) our new Mission Statement and we hope you are too!

Mission Statement:

Renoir Staffing, LLC is committed to providing the most qualified staff for temporary and direct hire positions within the real estate market. With the goal to serve as consultants to our clients, we facilitate the success of businesses to operate at an optimum level of productivity and efficiency. Renoir Staffing is the source for providing Property Management Professionals employment opportunities that stimulate the growth of their careers. Since 1985, Renoir Staffing has enhanced our area of expertise and geographical presence to meet the challenges of the ever-evolving Real Estate and Property Management industry.

Carol Martinez, Payroll Administrator

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Temps often don’t get the respect they deserve and with the downturn of the economy, it is taking temporary employees much longer to secure a fulltime position.

However, if a temporary worker uses an assignment as a working interview very often they are invited back, or asked to stay at the assignment longer.

Here are some tips on how to be the perfect temp:

Do your homework: If you have been assigned a position, do some research on the management company and the property. A good resource is the local Apartment Guides that can be found free at supermarkets and other stores.  If time permits call the property and introduce yourself.

Show up and look good: It is very important to be on time or a bit early and always look professional!

Forget you’re a temp: While you are at the property you are part of the TEAM and you work for them on behalf of the agency.

Throw away your watch: Clock watchers irritate dedicated bosses and key team members.

Expect no support: Understand that people won’t have that much time. Just get the work done.

Be yourself: But try and fit in! If you think you like the idea of becoming a temp-to-perm employee, work well with the team. As a temp, everyone gets to see all of you, which is a good thing if you’re hoping they’ll offer you a job. People often get jobs based on personality. Through temping, people who wouldn’t normally get the job, get the job!

Heightened skills: Soft or hard, you need to have good skills. Seek extra training if your skills are not strong.

interviews:Interviews are a very forced thing.  Working as a temp-to-perm obviously gets you out of the interview traumas. Employees who start as temps are often people who stay at the job. You get an opportunity to establish whether the culture suits your personality.

Interview your bosses: One of the beauties of temp work is you have the chance to select your prospective employer. Working as a temp also gives companies the chance to “talent spot” you.

Eyes and ears: Keep your ears open if you hear someone say that they need something done, and then volunteer to do the job. Don’t bury yourself in your desk.

Think Solution: Nobody recruits a temp unless there’s a problem they need solving. You should behave as though you’re a solution to a problem they’ve got!

Think long-term: Your temporary boss might pop up elsewhere – perhaps in your next permanent job. Show interest in their business. Don’t say ‘I’m sorry, I’m a temp’ when you answer the phone.

Know your objectives: Is it to earn money, be valued or increase your network?  It could well be all three!

Impliment these tips and you’ll be well on your way to securing a job, permanently!

Karen Quennel, Recruiter

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Happiness has wide ranging effects- Like improving your motivation. A study shows that adults and children who are put into good mood select higher goals and perform better than those that are unhappy. The GREAT news is that recent scientific reports show your happiness level is something that can be increased with a minimum amount of effort and that a full 40% of your happiness level is completely within your control. You may have suffered unfortunate life events, but you get a clean 40% at YOUR command. Don’t you want to be happier and in a better mood?

The Myths of Happiness:

1.       Happiness is something we find. This is not true, so don’t wait around for a magical occurrence.

2.       Our circumstances determine our happiness. This is not true, so don’t think, “IF only this would happen, THEN I would be happy.”

3.       You either have it or you don’t. This is also not true. As you read above, you’ve got 40% to develop. You CAN make improvements.

Here are some simple tasks that anyone can do to improve their level of happiness:

1. Express Gratitude- You can tell others or you can write it down.

2. Avoid Over Thinking And Social Comparison- Cut down on how often you rethink your problems and compare yourself to others.

3. Practice Acts Of Kindness- Practice this at least once a day. Hold the door someone, give a compliment, etc. Putting a smile on someone’s face will naturally make you smile too.

4. Nurture Relationships- Spend time and energy in cultivating and enjoying a relationship, or healing an ailing relationship.

5. Develop Strategies for Coping- Practice ways to handle or get over stress, hardship, or trauma.

6. Learn To Forgive- Write a letter in which you try to let go of anger or resentment of someone. It’s necessary to write it, but NOT necessary to mail it.

7. Do More Activities That Truly Engage You- Get involved in something that really takes your mind away from things. Get in the “Flow Activities” – You know you’re in a flow when you lose track of time.

8. Savor Life’s Joys- Pay close attention and repay life’s momentary pleasures and wonders.

9. Commit To Your Goals- Pick one or several of your goals and devote time and effort to pursuing them.

10. Take Care Of Your Body- Engage in physical activity, meditating, smiling, laughing and some “ME” time.

Being happy with yourself will reflect on your work and at home so put a smile on your face and don’t worry yourself with things that you have no control of.

“Smile- it’s the most generous thing you can do and an inexpensive way to improve your mood”

Maria Torres, Staffing Associate

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This week check out the newly released Renoir Staffing newsletter! We’ve had a busy summer this year: new office and recruiter, amazing events, and great new clients who love our rock star employees!

Check it out here: Renoir Newsletter

The team at Renoir Staffing would like to thank all the clients and candidates that make this company the leader in the real estate staffing industry-we appreciate you!

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CHOC, or Community Housing Opportunities Corporation, is a successful organization serving people and families in the greater Sacramento area.  As their website explains, “CHOC exists to empower families through the increase of available affordable housing, substantially improving the quality of life for very low to moderate income households.  This is achieved through the development of high quality, affordable, and environmentally-sensitive housing; advocating for affordable housing programs; the efficient leveraging of all corporate resources; and the continuing, shared dialogue between CHOC residents, staff and board members.”

Renoir Staffing has partnered with CHOC over several years to staff trained, skilled, and exceptional candidates in subsidized property compliance and maintenance.  CHOC requisitions include Tax Credit or HUD qualified personnel, bilingual staff, and experienced and knowledgeable maintenance workers.  Many of these Renoir-provided employees work on long-term, full-time contract assignments.  On occasion CHOC has offered permanent employment to our candidates, a lucky few of whom are currently employed with them today!

My experience with CHOC and the management team is always enjoyable, and truly beneficial for the parties involved.  Renoir Staffing has a wonderful, time-tested relationship with contacts in various CHOC departments.  From the corporate office in Davis to traveling area supervisors, representatives are professional and pleasant at all levels.  It’s a pleasure to do business with a company like CHOC.  Not only do they offer the local community needed solutions and services, they promote positive social values and encourage growth and education in an economically expanding field.

Congratulations to CHOC for being an inspiring example of a community-minded organization!

For more information about CHOC, click on the following link to their website: http://chochousing.org/

Christina Mason, Recruiter

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Does it really make a difference what you wear to an interview?  In many cases it does. According to Kim Zoller at Image Dynamics, 55% of another person’s perception of you is based on how you look. It is best to dress for success and if you are not sure what the dress code is for the organization you are interviewing with, it is best to dress on the conservative side. Another rule to observe: It is also much better to be overdressed than underdressed!

All jobs may not require the same type of attire for an interview. Here are a few pointers that have worked for me and other people I know: You should wear a solid color suit or slacks, with a coordinated blouse or shirt, coordinated tie (men), moderate shoes, light jewelry (women), light perfume/cologne, and your hair should be neatly groomed. However, depending on the position it may be appropriate for you to dress more casual. In that case, I think it is acceptable to wear jeans that are clean, neatly pressed without holes, with a coordinated shirt (not a t-shirt), moderate shoes, light jewelry (women), light perfume/cologne, and again, your hair neatly groomed. Last but not least, you should ALWAYS look in the mirror before heading to the interview!

La Terra Francis, Accounting Manager

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The inspiration behind this blog provided by:

http://jobsearch.about.com/od/interviewsnetworking/a/dressforsuccess.htm

We have all been there, ‘there’ being the ever so isolating and energy-draining lure that every Monday morning seems to engulf us in once we walk into our work space ready for administrative combat.  From having to address numerous emails that all seem time sensitive to racing from meeting upon meeting while still fitting in the unpredictable tugs of each day, we can agree that the term ‘multitasking’ is an understatement.  With today’s economic challenges, many companies have felt the all-mighty sting of layoffs and downsizing which has thus drenched  the surviving staff members of these companies with an even heavier load, as they aim to pick up the slack where needed.  This creates an almost chaotic existence among an office that most likely deserves some serious organization and attention to detail, concentration and patience, and commitment to integrity and production.  How can those qualities be achieved may be the question we must ask ourselves and the answer lies with a realistic and solid approach to multitasking.

Prioritizing:  Understanding Your Position

First thing first, do you understand your position and what responsibility you have to your company and team overall?  If not, ask yourself how your job affects the team around you and how your deadlines affect the company as a whole.  What key repetitive tasks do you perform on the daily that aid in generating the overall success of your company?  Once this is realized a miraculous thing happens, you are now ready to prioritize!  Put in order all of the things that need to be done first while also understanding the tasks that need your complete focus without interruption and plan to carry them out from start to finish.  This will help you get them done with little to no interruption or distraction.  For best results, take a task one at a time.  Gage how long each task will take and comingle the time needed to complete it within the time allowed for you to be at work, which for most of us is an eight hour day.  The goal here is to get in the habit of thinking about everything that needs to be done in one day, not one week.  Remember, being realistic will promote a can-do attitude and propel you into feelings of accomplishment and endurance.

Knowing How to Manage Your Time

Technically, we have already addressed this subject with prioritization and since these two are close cousins as well as counterparts they need to be presented separately in order to produce the most potent results in your goal to be a master at multitasking.  Time management is self-explanatory and if implemented can really help you stay on the right road when trying to get work done.  Assess the time you have in a day and divide it amongst all of the important tasks that need to be addressed as well.  For example, block out a time when you are able to review and respond to email messages and voicemails if possible and stick to it.  For those of you that have jobs that require constant communication on email, filter through your emails and organize them based on priority.  This will help you focus on the more important emails that need an immediate response rather than the emails that can wait.  If you have meetings all day, communicate to your clients, customers, employees or anyone that will need to contact you in advance so that they know not to expect a response from you right away.  This could eliminate the amount of emails you receive while unavailable also.

Follow Through

Often times we consider the raw definition of multitasking as doing many things at once while effectively and accurately completing them from start to finish.  This is not advisable when so many people’s jobs rely on accuracy, efficiency, and professionalism.  Instead, consider multitasking the art of organizing and completing a variety of tasks one by one within an allotted amount of time.  This may assist you in viewing the task as something that needs to be done from start to finish, hence the ultimate goal.  Realistically, you may have a series of interruptions or distractions which is why planning can really be a plus in regards to getting things accomplished.  Even still, learn to roll with the punches if unexpected changes do occur in scheduling tasks out for the day.

Consistency

This is very critical in maintaining and mastering effective multitasking practices.  Without a ritualistic approach, how will you know what works for you and what does not?  Committing to a routine would be advisable and the best part about it is that you can always switch it up once in a while if it proves to be ineffective.

The power of multitasking lies with you and anything goes within the boundaries of professionalism and productivity.  So, start tackling your tasks with authority and confidence.  Make them work for you instead of the other way around.  Multitasking does not have to consume us; instead it should sharpen our skills by challenging us to be assertive and professionally poised employees.

Wakema Ligons, Staffing Associate

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In asking ourselves the big question, “how do we grow our business?” there are many times that we miss the mark.  No matter what industry you are in there is always the push for profitability and growth no matter what industry or company you are with.  Sometimes we spin our wheels trying to get those numbers and we forget the big picture and our greatest asset.  Our current clients, residents, employees and vendors are seen as dispensable.  Our main focus is to replace those that have given us their loyalty over time and worked with us during changing times.

In an ever changing economy and world, it is very important to look within.  Look to your current employees for ideas that they may have to strengthen your strategy from their experiences in the field.  Inspire open communication; you would be surprised at the volume of feasible and attainable recommendations you have at your disposal without having to spend money to find the ideas.  Your employees are customers, the biggest way to ensure their loyalty is to listen to them fluidly.  This is where your feedback and implementation will begin.  Without their buy-in you are headed down a shaky path or a difficult transition.

Often times when we seek to increase profitability we look to find new clients, residents and vendors to start the process over again from scratch.  While this may be a viable thing, I would never recommend placing all of your eggs in one basket.  Don’t forget that it’s easier to maintain an established, trusting relationship than to start from scratch.   Many times companies wish to grow but do not consider the potential growth from established relationships.  The best way to do this is to get to know your clients and residents on a level that does not include the “sale.” Show a personal interest that will build value for them individually and gain their loyalty.  These loyal relationships will build referrals which will increase your bottom line and establish long-term relationships.

Work together with current vendors to negotiate costs to ease the budget pains and maintain quality.  It can sometimes seem less costly to go with a lower price but in reality sometimes you get what you pay for.  Is your good name worth the reputation of below-expectation results?  Do you really want to have the job done twice, now exceeding the original cost?  A good vendor that you have built a relationship with will be willing to negotiate what they can to maintain the relationship and loyalty of their customers too.  In many ways it’s all about the asking.

Jacquee Landry, Recruiter

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It is virtually impossible to go through life and not utilize or apply some level of emotion when encountering people or situations.  With the immense amount of diverse pressures currently placed on many people, it is no surprise that some have allocated their frustrations inappropriately.  Those of us with full time employment spend a hefty amount of time with our coworkers and superiors daily.  And with this amount of time invested comes the possibility of more misunderstandings and personality clashes making their way to the surface.  How many times have we experienced a shortage of patience when having to repeat ourselves again and again?  What about conjuring feelings of annoyance when we feel there is a lack of appreciation for the hard work we put forth?  Certainly not every encounter in the workplace is negative but the premise of this discussion is to know what to do when faced with negativity in the office before it boils over and takes on a life of its own.

Possible seeds of tension

Everyone has a pet peeve.  Maybe you dislike when your coworker uses your writing pens without asking and doesn’t bother to return them, or perhaps it bothers you when you make a conscious effort to email your coworker a legitimate question and they simply do not reply to the message.  It could be that your issue with something or someone is work related or it could be that it is more ‘’preference oriented.’’ Regardless of which it is, you need to realize that most people have no idea what bothers you if you have not expressed it to them.  So what happens next?  You slowly begin to maintain a mental tally of all of the offenses your coworker has ‘’poked’’ you with over time.  Before you know it, you may be so burnt out by their actions that you snap at them, and that is unacceptable in the work place.  In order to prevent this sort of happening, effective communication needs to be practiced.  If there is something hindering you from working productively with a coworker or boss, you need to discuss and dissolve the issue as it arises.  If you do not feel comfortable approaching the person with the issue, it’s always best to get an office manager, office mentor, or human resources representative involved as a mediator.  The goal here is to do everything possible to alleviate an issue so that it does not create further tension in your work environment.

How to avoid tension & diffuse it

There are a few simple ways to avoid tension from the start.  Communication is always a valuable weapon in squashing tension and misunderstanding of any kind.  If possible, when an issue arises that could spawn unproductive conversation or action, verbally suggest to the parties involved that there has been some sort of miscommunication.  Offer clarification and allow them to offer you their understanding of the matter.  Then quickly decide on how to move forward after comprehension has been acknowledged.  This will not only allow clarification but will help you learn how a person communicates.  Remember to remain calm and composed when speaking.  The best results will occur when we are open to hearing one another out.

These are just a few solutions you can try when experiencing conflict in the workplace.  The key things to remember are that we will all make mistakes, we will all implement our emotions into our actions when working on the job to some degree, and we will all have our own preferences and opinions.  Yet the common goal is to work as a team to get the job done and the only way to do so is to eliminate as much tension in the office as possible with positive communication and actions.

Wakema Ligons, Staffing Associate

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