Oakdale Consulting

The Human Touch: Enhancing the Hiring Experience   At the Top Echelon 2023 Fall Conference, surrounded by industry experts, I had the privilege of meeting Barbara Bruno https://lnkd.in/grePjjP7. Not only was Barbara a dynamic presenter, but she also shared very pragmatic advice. The message that resonated the loudest with me was the importance of the human touch during the recruitment process. Barbara was very clear in her message -- she’s not just about buzzwords and algorithms; she’s all about the human touch.   In her book, “High-Tech High-Touch Recruiting”, Barbara shares invaluable insights for hiring managers and recruitment specialists. While technology can boost efficiency, it does not replace genuine connections. When we automate too much, we risk overlooking exceptional candidates—the ones who don’t fit neatly into keyword searches. A recent article on LinkedIn Talent Solutions shared the same message. To quote “Recruiters will set themselves apart by doing things that AI can’t do. Forging strong ties to candidates. Offering positive candidate experiences. These kinds of interactions will make soft skills even more important.” The top skills noted were communication and relationship-building.   As part of the human touch experience, after an interview candidates want feedback. Having spent many years as a corporate recruiter, sometimes it is not always easy to provide or articulate feedback. However when interviews are structured, then during the debrief meeting, some things to share with a candidate would be: 1) what went well; 2) what the candidate missed when answering a question; and 3) if a candidate felt they were the right fit for the role, but lacked some key skills, share a takeaway that would help them improve. Above all remain professional and empathetic.   This Is not new information, but worth repeating. In the digital world that is moving at warp speed where we’ve got AI, data analytics, chatbots, and the never-ending race for talent, we mustn’t forget the art of conversation, the power of empathy, and the impact of a well-timed phone call. Because behind every resume is a person—a story waiting to unfold.   So, let’s embrace the best of both worlds: cutting-edge tools and an old-fashioned heart. Take the time to engage with candidates and uncover their hidden skills. After all, it’s the human touch that turns a candidate into your next hire.   #humantouch #positivecandidateexperience #talentacquisition #topechelon #oakdaleconsulting

Are you passionate about numbers and financial analysis? The financial management field is booming with opportunities! From tax accounting to financial advising, there are numerous paths to explore. Now is a great time to advance your career in financial management. There is a high demand for accounting and tax professionals in every industry. Companies offer competitive salaries which provide financial stability and growth. As a financial management professional, you can explore various specializations like tax, audit, and management accounting.     Check out our job board to see openings within the Top Echelon Network. Don’t see a role that aligns with what you are looking for? Connect with Elaine Daniels at Oakdale Consulting for further discussion.     #Accounting #Tax #Finance #JobOpportunities #CareerGrowth

Organizations thrive when they embrace diversity, inclusion, and belonging. A McKinsey study from May 2020 revealed that companies in the top quartile for diversity are 36% more likely to outperform their industry peers. This trend will remain relevant in 2024.      Key points: - Many organizations now have a diverse workforce, representing various genders, races, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, locations, nationalities, and disabilities. Inclusive organizations create safe, collaborative environments where everyone can thrive. - Embracing diversity and belonging doesn’t mean everyone fully understands its benefits. However, HR and management won’t tolerate behavior misaligned with the organization’s mission and values. - Talent acquisition is pivotal in an organization’s human capital strategy. To drive change: - Actively seek candidates from diverse backgrounds. - Use structured interviews to reduce bias, including questions about personal or previous work experiences unrelated to the job. - Embrace diverse interview panels where candidates can feel they are welcomed and belong.   Internationally educated professionals or candidates with disabilities often face challenges adapting to new workplaces and understanding company cultures. Career coaches help candidates understand a company’s culture, mission, and values. Engaging the services of a career coach, such as Margaret Wong of Cross-Cultural Career Coaching, provides personalized one-on-one coaching. They empower their clients to overcome employment barriers, improve resumes, navigate job searches, and prepare for interviews. Career coaches are not recruiters or hiring managers but strategic career guides.   Talent acquisition teams that actively source diverse candidates, promote structured interviews, and embrace fresh perspectives will be at the forefront of leading positive change. With an experienced job search coach, candidates benefit from personalized guidance, which boosts self-confidence and interview readiness.   Together we can build a workforce where candidates from diverse backgrounds feel welcomed! Let Oakdale Consulting be your talent-sourcing partner as you continue on your journey to an organization that embraces diversity, inclusion and belonging!     #diversityinclusionbelonging #talentacquisition #crossculturalcareercoaching #jobsearchcoaching #oakdaleconsulting

If you’re looking to advance your architecture, engineering, or construction career, there are over 500 jobs in the Top Echelon Network (https://topechelon.com/).  Let your strong technical skills, creativity, teamwork, understanding of building codes, problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, project management, communication, and knowledge of construction processes move your career forward.   

Are you looking to progress your career as an engineer in manufacturing? Here are some benefits: *Make an Impact: You’ll contribute to designing and producing products that meet people’s needs and solve real-world problems. *Job Satisfaction: Whether it’s optimizing production methods or focusing on product design for manufacturability, your work matters. *Cutting Edge Technology: You’ll sharpen your analytical and creative thinking skills from evaluating process flows to minimizing product defects. *Continuous Learning: You’ll have opportunities to learn about cutting-edge technologies, process improvements, and innovative solutions.   Your next role combines technical expertise, impact, and job satisfaction. These key elements will allow you to progress your career by providing stability, professional growth, and a chance to work with cutting-edge technology.   Within my network, there are over 100+ jobs that would help you progress your career. To get more information about these jobs, reach out to me directly at recruiting@oakdaleconsulting.ca

Are you looking to explore a career that bridges architecture, engineering, and construction?     Architecture/Engineering/Construction: A Multidisciplinary Career in a dynamic field that combines principles from various disciplines to create safe, sustainably built environments.  It spans multiple areas, including electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), fire safety, and construction.  As a professional in this dynamic environment, you aim to balance client goals, budgets, and environmental awareness. Jobs remain in demand due to the need for sustainable, well-designed buildings. If you’re passionate about blending creativity, engineering, and construction, this career path offers exciting opportunities.   As a recruiter with 20+ years recruiting in the architecture/engineering/construction sectors, Elaine Daniels (https://lnkd.in/eBrXq4H3) understands the challenges that candidates face in finding the role that aligns with their career aspirations.     Looking to move your career forward?  Check out the jobs in the Top Echelon Network or contact Elaine Daniels at recruiting@oakdaleconsulting.ca. #architectural #engineering #construction #oakdaleconsulting #topechelon

Time to Relax and Recharge. Unlocking the Mental Health Benefits of Nature Summer invites us to step outdoors, soak up the sun, and connect with the natural world.   Here’s why spending time outdoors matters: 1. Improved Mood: Sunlight triggers the release of serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone. It lifts our spirits and enhances our overall well-being. 2. Reduced Anxiety: Nature provides a calming environment, reducing stress and anxiety levels. 3. Enhanced Cognition and Memory: Fresh air and green spaces boost cognitive function and memory retention.   Now, let’s embrace summer! Canadian Living (May 2024) suggests activities that can make summer meaningful such as: Try New Restaurants: Explore culinary adventures in your neighbourhood. Read a Classic: Dive into timeless literature. Observe Birds: Connect with wildlife. Plant Seeds: Cultivate a garden—flowers or veggies! Learn a New Hobby: Expand your horizons. Watch the Sunrise: Witness nature’s beauty. Explore History: Discover heritage places in your local community. Hit the Beach: Sand, waves, and relaxation. Learn a new Board Game: Fun with family and friends. Stargaze: Marvel at the night sky. Volunteer: Give back to your community. Pack a Picnic: Enjoy alfresco dining. Go Camping: Nature immersion. Attend a Fun Fair: Celebrate local culture.   Relaxation and recharge are essential. If you’re a small business owner, Oakdale Consulting can help you develop a culture roadmap that will enhance your workplace environment.  Let’s connect to develop your culture roadmap.

What is your value proposition?   Your value proposition is a unique set of benefits that you bring to the workplace. Why does your value proposition matter? In today’s competitive job market, as a candidate knowing your value proposition is crucial. Your value proposition sets you apart from other applicants. Completing an online employment assessment will give insight into your unique value proposition. This self-awareness helps you articulate your skills, experiences, and attributes effectively. Knowing your value proposition enables you to align with a company’s needs and culture.  It goes beyond your resume; it’s about how you can contribute to growth and success. Armed with a well-defined value proposition, you’ll confidently address interview questions, emphasizing innovation, dedication, and positive impact.     To help develop your value proposition, Peter Urs Bender’s “Leadership from Within” listed five key steps for personal and professional leadership. These steps can also apply to understanding and developing your value proposition. They are:    1) Know Yourself – what sets you apart 2) Have a Vision and Passion – how can you contribute meaningfully 3) Take Risks – be open to new experiences 4) Communicate – articulate your value proposition 5) Check Progress and Results - regularly assess how your value proposition aligns with your career journey     At Oakdale Consulting we specialize in helping candidates to move forward by developing their unique value proposition. Contact Elaine Daniels at recruiting@oakdaleconsulting.ca and let’s set you up for success.

Opportunities in Accounting/Finance/Taxation   If you want to progress your career, within the Top Echelon Network we have several jobs for accounting/finance/tax professionals that might be of interest to you.  To know more about the jobs in the network, DM Elaine Daniels at recruiting@oakdaleconsulting.ca.   Here is a quick link to the current vacancies.   https://lnkd.in/eEXkp9Mq     #accounting #finance #taxation #TopEchelonNetwork #OakdaleConsulting

Navigating Success: Crafting A Career Path for Your New Hire   In today’s dynamic professional landscape, the role of hiring managers to focus on shaping and nurturing their team members’ careers is more critical than ever. Crafting a meaningful career path for your new hire involves a delicate balance: understanding individual aspirations, aligning skills with organizational objectives, and fostering an environment of continuous growth.   A good starting point is to develop a 30-60-90 day plan to uncover the unique ambitions of your new hire. If your company uses assessment, this tool is useful for career conversations.  Regular one-on-one discussions serve as a compass, revealing their strengths, weaknesses, and the passions that drive them. By leveraging tools such as career development surveys, employers gain valuable insights into the skills, interests, and future goals of how a new hire can contribute to the team and organization as a whole. #careerpath #newhires #hiringmanagers #oakdaleconsulting