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How to Write a Thank-you Email After an Interview (with Samples!)

You just walked out of a job interview. You gave great answers to all the interview questions and really hit it off with the hiring manager. You nailed it! That’s great—but you’re not done yet. 

Fair or not, most hiring managers pay very close attention to whether you write a post interview thank-you email (and you’ll want a catchy subject line to go with it).

Our advice? Follow up as soon as humanly possible by writing a terrific interview thank-you note. Below, we list out tips for writing the perfect thank-you email—and provide a template to get you started.

Why send a thank-you note after a job interview

Olivia Johnson, a Muse career coach with more than 20 years of experience in the corporate world, says there’s no good reason why you shouldn’t send a thank-you note after every interview—and plenty of reasons why you should. 

Read more: https://www.themuse.com/advice/how-to-write-an-interview-thankyou-note-an-email-template

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4 Better Ways to Answer “Why Should We Hire You?”

If there were some sort of Job Search Grammys, “Why should we hire you?” would have my vote for “Most Brazen Interview Question.” I don’t even like asking it in a mock interview, so I don’t know how hiring managers stomach it in a real one. And while it’s super tempting to return the sass with, “Well why should I work here?” I’d recommend… not doing that.

The good news is, “Why should we hire you?” is actually a really great opportunity to sum up why you’d be an awesome choice.

So why do interviewers ask this question?

A couple reasons, actually. Hiring managers might want to get your perspective on why you’re a good match for the job. Obviously, they’re trying to decipher that for themselves during the interview, but it’s also helpful for employers to see it from your angle.

Alternatively, maybe they can already see that you could do the job, but they’d like to know what you think might set you apart from all the other qualified people who applied. In other words, what makes you special?

Read more: https://www.themuse.com/advice/3-better-ways-to-answer-why-should-we-hire-you

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11 Ways to Overcome the Fear of Failure

So, you’ve got something big on your mind. Maybe you’re dreaming of changing your career path, or you’re weighing a huge business decision. Maybe you got a couple of college acceptance letters, and you’re deciding which school to attend. Or maybe it’s time to take your relationship to the next level, like proposing to the love of your life or starting a family.

Whenever we face a new challenge or opportunity, we also face the fear of failure. What if I don’t have what it takes? What if our new product line is a bust? What if she says no? Listen, whether you’re 18 or 80, we all experience doubts like these—that’s part of life! But you shouldn’t let the fear of failure hold you back from living your best life . Let’s talk about what causes the fear of failure and what practical steps you can take to overcome this fear and get on with your big goals.

What Is Fear of Failure?

Fear of failure, or atychiphobia, is the intense feeling of anxiety or danger around messing up, not measuring up, or being judged by other people for not accomplishing a goal. A fear of failure takes over when someone wants to avoid feeling shame about not getting an outcome they want or expect. We often fear the failure of one-off events or situations, but it can also hang out in the background as a general feeling of anxiety.

Read more: https://www.ramseysolutions.com/personal-growth/4-ways-to-fight-the-fear-of-failure

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Why Employers Should Consider a “Right to Disconnect” Rule

With many people still working from home and technology available at our fingertips, the lines between work and personal life are becoming increasingly blurred. Add to that, ever-increasing expectations for productivity and revenue growth, and the pressure to be available for work at all hours of the day continues to build along with it. In fact, working after hours has become so prevalent in today’s society, that 80% of workers reported working beyond their scheduled shift, with 35% doing so every day, according to a recent Monster poll.

But people need downtime — time away from their work to recharge and attend to their own personal obligations. “The most democratized thing is time,” says Barbara Palmer, a leadership coach and founder of Broad Perspective Consulting. “We all get the same 24 hours, and in that amount of time, we have to figure out how to do everything we need and want to do. If I over-index the time that I work, that time has to come from somewhere else… If everyone is consistently working nights and weekends, that means employees have to forgo rest, recovery, family and friend time, self-care, hobbies, and interests.” Without that crucial time away, employee engagement and productivity takes a nosedive, burnout becomes rampant, and absenteeism and turnover skyrocket.

So, what can employers do to help ensure employees are prioritizing work-life balance and not engaging in work during non-working hours? Implementing a “right to disconnect” rule could be a good place to start.

What Does Having the “Right to Disconnect” Mean?

First implemented in France in 2017 as part of the broader “El Khomri” law, other countries as well as companies around the globe have since enacted their own “right to disconnect” rules. As the name implies, these policies protect employees from working outside of their set hours, meaning employees do not have to respond to emails, calls, or other work-related matters during that time. It can also prohibit employers from communicating with employees outside of defined working hours, except in emergencies or for scheduling changes.

Read more: https://hiring.monster.com/resources/blog/company-policy-right-to-disconnect/

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7 Ways to Build a Sense of Belonging in the Workplace

Feeling a sense of belonging at work isn’t just a perk — it’s essential for a thriving workplace. In fact, a 2023 Work in America Survey found that 94% of workers consider it very important to feel they belong in their workplace. After all, when you’re connected to and secure within your community, whether that’s with family, close friends, or colleagues, you experience that vital sense of belonging — a feeling of being at home, where your true self is welcomed and safe.

But here’s the big question: Is your organization ready to commit to creating an environment where every team member feels that they truly belong? It’s a commitment worth making. Achievers Workforce Institute (AWI) research shows that employees who feel a strong sense of belonging are ten times more likely to recommend their organization as a great place to work and are genuinely enthusiastic about their jobs.

So, how do you cultivate this all-important sense of belonging within your company? Read on to discover practical strategies that can help you create a more inclusive and connected workplace.

What is a sense of belonging in the workplace?

A sense of belonging in the workplace is a profound experience of connection, security, and community that encompasses a feeling of being at home in one’s environment, free from hesitation or doubt. This sense of belonging is more than just a positive feeling; it represents the deepest measure of employee engagement and serves as a crucial indicator of an individual’s potential to thrive within an organization.

A genuine sense of belonging is a key driver of both individual and organizational success. According to AWI’s Belonging Blueprint, employees who experience a powerful sense of belonging are significantly more likely to be engaged in their roles. They are also more than twice as likely to demonstrate higher levels of productivity, resilience, and commitment to their company, as well as greater job satisfaction and enthusiasm for their work.

Read more: https://www.achievers.com/blog/sense-of-belonging-work/

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14 Incredible Ideas For Work Anniversary Recognition

Congratulations, you just made it to your tenth year at your job! Unfortunately, your boss barely took notice. You got a brief shoutout in a team meeting, and that was it. That’s a real blow to morale after a full decade of service, isn’t it? Lackluster work anniversary celebrations are an all-too-common experience for employees. Failure to recognize big milestones leads to lower morale, engagement, and retention.

There’s a lot more to recognizing employee work anniversaries than simply sending an email or giving a brief shoutout in a meeting. Creating meaningful anniversary celebrations can be done in a variety of ways — from fostering new experiences to giving meaningful gifts. Here’s a look at the true importance of recognizing employee anniversaries together with 14 great ways to celebrate anniversaries at your organization.

Read more: https://www.achievers.com/blog/work-anniversary-recognition/

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Key Interview Prep Insights to Nail Your CRE Interview

Job interview prep can be thrilling—and yes, a bit nerve-wracking. It’s your shot at that ideal commercial real estate (CRE) job, so it’s essential to approach it with strategy. Don’t just think of it as a Q&A session. Nailing an interview is less about what you know and more about how well you prepare. Instead, think of it as a performance.

The right interview preparation will give you the confidence and clarity you need to make a lasting impression. If you’re serious about standing out and landing your dream CRE job, then follow these interview prep insights. These keys will unlock the door and help you nail your next interview.

Know the Role and the Company

Start by getting laser-focused on the job itself. Read the description not once, but until you can almost recite it. Dig into the responsibilities, key skills, and qualities they’re after, and think of specific examples from your past work that align with what they’re looking for.

Helpful hint:

It’s about more than just telling them you’re qualified; you’re showing them you’re perfect for this job.
Then, go deeper into the company itself. Understanding the organization’s values and culture can transform your responses from generic to genuinely connected.

Dive into their website, scan their social media (update your LinkedIn to show compatibility), and if you can, find employee reviews to see how people feel about working there. Does their mission resonate with you? Could you see yourself fitting in with their team dynamics? These are the kinds of details that help you move beyond just a resume on a page.

Prepare to Show More Than Just Skills

Yes, you want to make sure you cover all of the skills you listed on your CRE resume. But beyond listing your qualifications, expect questions that reveal more about your thinking and personality—how you handle challenges, what motivates you, and how you work with others.

For example, “Tell me about yourself” isn’t an invitation for a life story; it’s a chance to spotlight the highlights of your career and how they directly connect to the role. Frame it around where you’ve been, what you’ve learned, and how all that brings you here, to this moment. Communicate your worth in clear terms framed around the needs of the hiring company.

And practice being concise. You’re aiming for memorable, not lengthy.

Look the Part, Feel the Part

Appearance matters. Showing up polished, organized, and self-assured sets the tone before you even say a word. Wear something that fits the company vibe but still makes you feel like yourself, and come prepared with whatever materials you need—extra resumes, a notebook, even breath mints.

It’s not about overdoing it; it’s about feeling ready.

And don’t overlook the power of a confident mindset. Get plenty of rest, stay calm, and go in with a relaxed, positive attitude. A great outfit and good organization make a powerful impression, but the best version of you—the well-rested, confident version—is what really lands jobs.

Stand Out with Smart Questions and Genuine Interest

An interview goes both ways, and the questions you ask can be as revealing as the answers you give. Show enthusiasm and curiosity about the role, team, or company direction. Skip questions that you could easily look up online, and instead ask about team dynamics, upcoming projects, or what a successful first few months look like in the role.

The right questions make you look strategic, invested, and ready to make an impact.

Your Path to Interview Success

The right preparation doesn’t just make you a better candidate—it makes you the candidate they’ll remember.

Prepping for an interview is an investment in your career. With these interview prep insights and strategies, you’ll be ready to walk into your interview (or log into it) with confidence, clarity, and control. Remember: preparation is your secret weapon. Use it well, and you’ll be that much closer to landing the CRE job you’ve been dreaming of.

Sources:

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Interest Rates Are Falling: What It Means for Commercial Real Estate

The commercial real estate (CRE) industry is witnessing a shift as the Federal Reserve takes steps to lower interest rates. With a recent 50 basis points (bps) cut and further reductions expected, the implications for CRE are vast.

But what do falling interest rates really mean for the industry? Currently the US has been facing the prospect of a CRE recession. Will the Fed’s cut be enough to avoid the big slowdown? Let’s explore how this shift can reshape the landscape for developers, investors, and borrowers alike.

Lower Borrowing Costs, Better Opportunities

Perhaps the most immediate and tangible benefit of falling interest rates for commercial real estate is reduced borrowing costs. For CRE stakeholders, this is huge.

Lower rates mean cheaper financing, which can improve the profitability of new projects and reduce the cost of servicing existing debt. As borrowing becomes more affordable, we may see an uptick in activity. Developers could be more motivated to greenlight new projects, while investors might take advantage of lower financing costs to expand their portfolios.

It’s important to note, though, that while financing costs will decrease, the effects won’t be felt evenly across the board. Larger players with access to capital might be quicker to act. But smaller firms could still feel the pinch of high costs until rate cuts fully trickle down.

But balance and caution are called for here. The 10-year Treasury yield is a key benchmark in the real estate world, and rate cuts generally push those yields lower. This can create a more attractive environment for CRE investments as the spread between borrowing costs and expected returns narrows. For developers, this alignment of falling yields and reduced interest rates might make it the perfect time to launch new projects.

That said, while lower rates create a fertile environment for investment, they can also spark competition. As borrowing becomes more accessible, demand for prime assets could drive up prices, creating new challenges for investors looking to capitalize on the favorable conditions.

CRE Fundamentals Looking Good

Historically, when the Fed starts cutting rates, it signals better days ahead for the financial markets. But do lower interest rates in 2024 equal a better 2025 for commercial real estate? CRE has been cooling for a few years now; can it be turned around so quickly?

The ripple effect of easier financial conditions often leads to improved fundamentals in the CRE space. Net operating income (NOI) could grow as businesses find it easier to expand, driving demand for commercial properties.

For CRE professionals, this means a shift toward more favorable conditions for cash flow, underwriting assumptions, and valuation metrics. The current rate cut, although modest in impact for now, signals a broader move toward easier conditions that could open the door in future years for more growth in the sector.

It’s not just new deals that stand to benefit, either. Investors with floating-rate debt could see relief as well, with lower rates making it easier to manage debt service costs. Over time, these developments should contribute to more fluidity in the capital markets, helping to restore positive leverage conditions. In other words, this could be the beginning of a new chapter for CRE.

Looking Ahead: More Cuts to Come?

The Fed’s recent action marks the start of a shift from restrictive to more accommodative monetary policy. And it’s not over yet. Analysts are predicting more cuts by year-end, which could push rates lower. And lower interest rates would ease financial pressures on commercial real estate.

While these reductions are certainly welcome, it’s important to remember that we’re still in the early stages of this easing cycle. The effects will take time to materialize, but as more cuts come, the broader CRE market will likely experience a boost in more tangible ways.

For CRE stakeholders, the Fed’s rate cuts bring cautious optimism. Lower borrowing costs, improved market conditions, and a more favorable investment climate are all on the horizon. But with these opportunities come new challenges – chief among them, increased competition and rising asset prices. Navigating this new landscape will require a careful balance of risk and reward.

As interest rates continue to fall, commercial real estate may be on the cusp of a new growth cycle. And for those ready to leverage this window of opportunity, the potential rewards could be significant.

Sources:

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10 Job Posting Secrets to Attract Top CRE Talent

If you’re looking for job posting tips to ensure your CRE job post brings in only the most qualified candidates, then this is for you. Because it’s a crowded job market out there. And hiring the wrong person can cost you. Unlock the secret to strategic job posting with the tips we reveal below.

It all starts with creating the right job post. But most companies have to revise their job posting after publishing it. Why? Obviously, they didn’t get it right the first time. And apparently, they weren’t attracting the right talent.

So, here are 10 tips to nail that job listing and get resumes only from the most qualified and talented leads out there. Every one of them is guaranteed to improve the quality of your results.

1. Write Clearly.

Now is not the time to use fun buzzwords that don’t tell prospects much about what is actually required for the position or what the role entails. Be clear, concise, and descriptive. Looking for someone with experience in multi-family? Then state how important this point is.

2. Include Compensation.

It’s the elephant in the room. No one wants to list salary specifics. Yet it’s the #1 most important distinguisher to serious job applicants. So at least state a clear range and what the benefits entail. Of course this is all negotiable. But list some numbers to filter out candidates who would be a waste of your time.

3. Create an Employment Value Proposition.

What is an employment value proposition (EVP)? In short, it’s the sum total of the value that your organization can provide to potential employees. Everything that makes your organization an attractive place to work – from the salary to workplace culture to employee development and team building opportunities – your EVP is a statement that attracts qualified professionals of similar personalities and value sets.

It’s one of the most overlooked job posting tips, but including a clear EVP will automatically draw the right kind of candidates and convince them of the value of committing their time and energy to your team.

4. Help candidates Self-Assess.

Think about it. If you give candidates the right tools within the job posting to assess their fit, you avoid having to filter out unwanted resumes later on. A good job posting saves resources for both your company and the candidates by giving specific markers to gauge if they are a good fit or not.

5. Use the Right Keywords.

Everything is all about the algorithms these days. Technology has reshaped CRE as well as the way we find CRE professionals. If you want your advertisement for this job to land in front of the right people, make sure it corresponds to the same keywords your ideal candidate is searching right now. All the other CRE job posting tips are worthless if your ad doesn’t get seen by the right people.

6. Ask for Help from a Similar Employee

No one ever thinks of this. But why not get help writing the job post from someone already working in the same role or who has the same basic skill set? Ask them to think about what attracts them and what to include in the post. Because they’ll know more than anyone what skills are needed.

7. Format.

Break up text blocks by using sub headers and only 1-3 sentences per paragraph. Clearly define the sections, and consider adding translations for diversity.

8. Prioritize Company Culture/Personality.

Among the most important job posting tips is that new hires who are a good cultural or personality fit tend to perform better than those with the right skills. The saying goes, hire for attitude, train for skills.  Put your company vibe out there in the job post and be specific about the kind of personality that will fit best. Your vibe will attract your tribe.

9. Include Multimedia.

This isn’t just a job description. It’s an advertisement meant to motivate and attract the right talent for your opening. Include eye-catching graphics and video to show off perks and employee experiences. Images of the property and team consistently rank among the top factors candidates look for in a new job.

10. Talk About Onboarding.

It might seem like jumping ahead in the process, but candidates who are committed to success want to know they will be appreciated and fully utilized. In the job posting, include information about your onboarding and new-hire integration process.

In all of these, remember that you can spend the time sorting through and screening dozens of resumes to find one or two worth interviewing – or you can spend that time crafting a strategic job post that will self-screen and automatically bring the right candidates to you. Starting your hiring search right is up to you.

Sources:

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How to Avoid Comparison in the Workplace

Folks, you’ve probably heard the old saying by Teddy Roosevelt, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” And I wholeheartedly agree with that statement. But you should know that comparison is the thief of more than just joy—it can seriously take away from your career, too. 

Even if you can’t tell by looking at them, most people struggle with comparison—and to be honest, I’ve struggled with it myself. I didn’t land a national radio show until I was 42 years old. That means I spent a lot of time watching other people around me succeed, wondering if I’d missed my chance. Wondering if I was really good enough.

But fortunately for me (and any of you who struggle with comparison too), there’s a healthy way to stop comparing yourself to the people around you and advance in your career with way less stress and anxiety. It all starts with identifying your comparison traps.

What’s a Comparison Trap?

Comparison is a lot like quicksand—the more you struggle, the deeper you sink.

You (probably) won’t come across quicksand at your workplace today, but I bet you will come across a comparison trap. Let’s go over some of the most common comparison traps people fall into, so we can avoid them at all costs!

For more details, check out the article here.

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