jsl_web_admin, Author at SearchWide Global

Here’s Why You Should Visit Austin, Texas: and What to do When You Get There

1.21.2016 by jsl_web_admin

Millions of vacation days go unused every year by Americans. Millions! Why is that? You did earn it after all. Consider getting that vacation time on the work calendar now and start planning your travel arrangements for the year ahead. If you commit well in advance, you’re more likely to take the time. Plus, by taking time to focus on traveling, friends and family makes for a more focused and productive employee.

One city we thought might be a great destination to explore this year has a huge music scene, plenty of shopping, foodie experiences, and great weather year-round for the outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the sites. Touted as the city to “Keep Weird”. . . . We’re talking about Austin, Texas, the music capital of the world!

Here are some awesome things to do once you arrive:

Photo: Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, Barton Springs

Barton Springs Pool

The huge man-made swimming pool located in Zilker Park. It’s just over 3 acres and 900 feet long. Visitors flock during the summer for a refreshing dip, but is still a cool sight to see any time of year. The average temp is 70 degrees, definitely bearable for those brave enough to have a winter swim. For the history buffs, the pool has been a sought after attraction since the 1800’s. Do a Google image search to see some cool vintage photos.

Photo: WikiMedia Commons, Texas State Cemetery

Texas State Cemetery

A cemetery, really? Yes really. Located 22 acres east of Austin’s downtown with over 900 graves of prominent Texans who pass the burial guidelines to be laid to rest there. In order to be buried here, you have to be a governor, senator, legislator, or similar stature. So many of these plots contain the leaders that made the state what it is today. The grounds are open 7 days a week, the visitor’s center is open Monday-Friday and tours are also available.

Photo: Eric Ellis Courtesy of Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, Franklin Barbecue

Austin BBQ

It just wouldn’t be right for anyone to visit the great state of Texas and not indulge in some good ol’ BBQ. However, your choices are abundant, so you might have to indulge a few times on the trip.

Photo: Eric Ellis, Courtesy of Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, Franklin Barbecue

Franklin Barbeque is the brisket lover’s heaven, some even call it legendary! Even with wait times averaging over two hours, people still say it’s the best and well worth the wait. There’s only one way to find out if that’s true, and that’s to get in line. Some say it’s all part of the Franklin experience anyway.

La Barbeque is a Yelper’s favorite. They have covered outdoor seating, and usually have a line due to their popularity. Dress for the occasion and roll up your sleeves, because their famous brisket can get messy.

County Line on the Lake is another BBQ joint that is worth the trip! This place has a great setting for a meal with a view. It sits on Bull Creek, right off Lake Austin, in an old lodge. It has been voted a must to take out of town guests to for a meal. You’ll definitely want to try their legendary bread and honey butter, and maybe share some with the cute turtles that hang out near the deck.

Photo: Stephen Rudd, courtesy of Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau

6^th Street

The seven block stretch on 6^th Street is the heart of Austin’s live entertainment scene. And, let’s face it, it would be violating some type of unwritten law to visit Austin and not experience their iconic live music scene. From small, intimate venues, coffee shops, and huge spaces with state-of-the-art acoustics, there is something for everyone. 6^th Street isn’t the only place for live music, there are a few other entertainment districts that are a must too. Here they are.

Photo: Dan Herron, courtesy of Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, State Capital

Texas State Capitol

What a cool sight to see. It’s the largest state capitol in the nation and a well-known architectural structure. It’s so gorgeous that it’s named the number one place to visit in Austin on TripAdvisor.com. Guided tours are offered daily, or you can opt for the self-guided tour route. Either way, it’s free! Believe us, you’ll be amazed by the immaculately landscaped grounds, the building, monuments, and finishing touches that went into this beauty. It makes for the perfect picnic location. Don’t forget to wear walking shoes!

Photo: Bruce Lemons, courtesy of Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, Zilker Park

Zilker Park

A 351 acre metropolitan park, located across from Lady Bird Lake (formally known as Town Lake). Zilker Park is home to a botanical garden, hillside theatre, science center, sculpture garden and museum, miniature train for children and parents, and the previously mentioned, Barton Springs Pool. Needless to say, you can spend quite a bit of time discovering everything this park has to offer.

It’s a perfect place to stay fit while traveling too. With the nice mix of land and water, you can run, walk, bike, rollerblade, kayak, or paddleboard. Barton Springs Pool is located here too. So, pack your swimsuit! Some cool events are held at Zilker Park, such as festivals, live music, and theatre. Check the Austin Visitors Bureau’s event calendar before your trip.

Photo Credit Dave Mead Courtesy of Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2nd Street District

Second Street District

You could quite possibly spend your entire trip to Austin shopping, if you wanted to. There is no shortage of brand names and local shops, with shopping districts throughout Downtown Austin. The Second Street District is filled with sidewalk shops that have items found only in Austin. From jewelry, home décor, to unique gifts, and apparel, this district “Keeps Austin Weird”, in the best way possible. Do they sell luggage on 2^nd Street? They might need to, in order for you to bring home all your cool finds.

Photo: Courtesy of Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau

Access ATX Tour

Looking for a guided tour of Austin? Or wonder what “Keep Austin weird” means? This tour might be for you! They offer a few different tours that will take you sightseeing, escort you to the local hotspots, get you to the best barbeque in town, and of course, make sure you get your fill of live music too. This is also a great option if you have a large group, leave the planning up to the pros.

There are some other tours offered that are equally as cool, check out austintexas.org for the list.

Think of travel as a career investment! Book the hotel, tell your boss the days you’ll be out of the office and pack your bags for Austin, Texas!

What other cities are on your list to explore? Tell us by Tweeting us @SearchWide Global.

SearchWide Global is honored to be retained to recruit the CEO of Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, the leading tourism authority for this great American city.

SearchWide Global is the leader in executive search and recruitment for public and private organizations in the convention, hospitality, tourism, lodging and event industries for almost two decades. We specialize in executive recruitment at all levels. Our knowledge and experience help us fully understand and interpret your business, competitive set and individual dynamics related to your business. With offices across the country, we remain connected at all levels while valuing our client and candidate relationships which in turn will build a solid bench for future success.

Contact us to learn more about how an executive search firm can help you and your organization.

Why can’t they make a decision?

1.12.2016 by jsl_web_admin

A person is on their way to a fifth interview with a company for a position that is of high interest when all of a sudden gripping fear takes over “Oh no, am I wearing the same suit I wore on the second interview? Are they going to think I only have two suits?!”

Then thoughts drift toward the reasoning for this fifth interview. What else can be asked that hasn’t already been answered? I completed two Behavioral Assessments where my brain was poked and pricked along with a series of references from previous employers who all received calls. Plus, there is the dutiful substance/drug check and a background check to see if I’ve ever stole anything or drove over the speed limit!

The fact is this scenario is becoming more the norm than the one off special situation.

Let’s take a look at the reasoning for why multiple interviews are required:

1. Companies have been burned before on hiring someone to be surprised by the skills, or lack of skills, that someone actually brings to a job. Therefore more time and effort goes into the hiring process.

2. Cross-function teams and peer associates are encouraged to provide input, and be included in the hiring process. Therefore, add a few more meetings to that interview schedule!

3. Travel agendas; more often than not, everyone isn’t in one place at one time to interview with you. Bingo – that’s another interview that has to be scheduled.

4. The next level is included, so up the corporate ladder we go. Another meeting, the company didn’t want to waste the time of execs for anyone but a more serious finalist.

5. Some fear by hiring managers to pull the trigger. Let’s get buy in all around, making it a collective decision. That way, the hiring manager doesn’t stand out as a lone wolf if things didn’t work out.

What can you take away from this? Remember, your liaison and contact person, usually in HR/Talent Acquisition, is an asset to you. Treat them with respect and appreciation, it will help you behind the scenes.

Be consistent, stay true to your beliefs versus what you think the company wants to hear from you. A part of this is to peel things back to see what your approach and tendencies are in different situations. A company wants to see the real you in contrast to the person you were on stage in your first interview.

After skills are assessed on a resume, a curious question is, “What is the percentage of importance that chemistry and fit falls into a hire?” It’s pretty high, and that again points to confirmation of extended interviews.

Once you get that job, remembering how it felt at a candidate level will go a long way. When you’re doing the hiring, be open with candidates about the timeline, and thank them for their flexibility in repeat meetings and the intermediary steps that have to be taken.

READ ALSO: 10 Things You Need to Know to Ace an Interview

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Contact us to learn more about how an executive search firm can help you and your organization.

Hospitality Acquisition and Mergers: The Career Impact

12.16.2015 by jsl_web_admin

People have been asking for our crystal ball view on what the current consolidation of hotel and travel brands will mean for career opportunities. Our answer, “Go get some popcorn and let’s watch the movie!”

It is interesting how rumors of Starwood being shopped around made the morning news shows with many commenting on how “their points” will be impacted. The raw emotion and allure of travel made it more public than many larger deals that are relegated to the back stories of the Business section and trade pubs.

OTA’s (On Line Travel Agents) have also experienced merger mania, with Expedia leading the pack in acquisition of Orbitz and Travelocity. People are commenting that with roughly 20% of hotel brand reservations coming from OTA’s that major changes would need to occur in lodging to account for continued market share.

Most articles on these mergers discuss the Wall Street implications and the customer affects- potential negative pricing and diminished value of travel programs.

Back to the popcorn- what should the employee do when watching this movie develop? Acquisitions are announced and there is a gap of time before the deal is done. Will there be job duplication and therefore position jeopardy? Who will be in a better situation due to a lack of depth in the gobbling company’s portfolio? At what level is there the most risk?

A majority of people will want to wait and see the whole thing to the end, “I’ll wait for the buy-out”. And that may be the best thing, a chance to take a lump sum and go on that sabbatical. Go for the next job after it is recognized that your garden is better than any neighbor’s on the block.

Another consideration is to measure the opportunity cost of that buy out… Or the diminished responsibility in a new company and the angst of SO MANY MEETINGS to see where you fit in.

Opportunity cost is relatively simple to measure. If I get a sum of 3, 6 or 12 months’ severance, what job will I get after that time? At what compensation, how long will it take, and how satisfied will I be? Will there be an oversupply of people with my qualifications at that time? Will that push competitive salaries down? Regardless, blow cobwebs off your resume and get a professional document completed and ready. You will need it just as much internally as you will for outside opportunities.

In this unique time, keep your eyes wide open- listen and even potentially seek opportunities in the interim period. Take care of yourself and your family; to the degree of designing what you think a career plan can be in the newly restructured company, or on a path in an outside organization. Include financials, determine whether relocation is possible. What are you willing to accept or pursue?

Try to enjoy this movie as it plays out to its conclusion!

Contact us to learn more about our services.

10 Things You Need to Know to Ace an Interview

11.24.2015 by jsl_web_admin

We’ve all seen that perfect job and wondered how cool it would be to work there! Some of you were lucky enough to land “that” interview…now what?!?!

Well relax! Take a deep breath, compose yourself and then take a step back. It takes time and practice to ace a performance in the interview room.

After seeing hundreds of interviews, most do well, some fall hard and a few simply nail it! The candidates that nail the interview were certainly the most prepared.

Here are some thoughts for interviewing preparation for success…

1. First off…evaluate yourself:

It is not about the hardest worker or the one that arrives early and stays late that will get that position… Know your strength and weaknesses; know them well enough so you can effectively communicate these to the hiring party. They will ask…believe me… Most importantly, you really should know this for your own personal growth. Ask yourself some really tough questions and you may want to ask others you know and trust. You’re really only as good as the information you get and “not knowing that you don’t know” is not a strong trait. Lastly, know WHY you want this job…practice how you communicate this…ears perk up when candidates respond to WHY!

2. Know the company:

Do your homework! Not only is it important to know the company but know their competitive set and have the ability to speak about those comparable strength and weaknesses at least at a surface level. You can’t get into the nitty gritty until you can conduct your own internal assessment but online can provide a surface level view to give you some talking points. Go for it!

3. Know who will interview you:

LinkedIn…BAM! Look to connect your life with theirs. This will give you talking points and can break the ice out of the gate when you walk into the room. Look at the cities they’ve lived in, former companies, college, groups, etc. Play it safe when looking at common connections because your friend may no longer be their friend.

4. Be a good listener:

You can’t just listen with your ears…USE YOUR EYES; body language can tell you everything. Listen carefully to the question and answer the question. Do not fill in silence with speak. I think we’ve all interviewed somebody and asked one question and received a 30 minute response…not good! Watch for body language to know when to wrap it up.

5. Confident but humble:

Know you…know what you can do…be confident but humble…it’s all in the delivery. B and C players are indecisive. Good leaders are decisive and factual. If you want to be considered as leadership material, you have to possess a confident but humble characteristic. Be confident in your judgment and believe in yourself. Has anyone heard the saying…you’re good enough, you’re smart enough and dammit…people like you. They probably do until you give them a reason not to…

6. WE…Us…the TEAM:

The old saying is true, the letter “I” stands alone. Share credit when a project goes well. One of the most powerful and rarely discussed success factors with career success is the ability to share wins with others. “We” vs. “Me” will help the interviewer understand your ability to work well with others. This doesn’t mean refrain from sharing your individual responsibilities and accomplishments, but be clear about how those things benefitted your team. Helping your colleagues succeed is a sign of self-confidence, self-trust, teamwork and collaborative leadership.

7. Communication style:

The basics here…energy, polished and on point. Effective communication in a sufficient amount is VERY important. Careful not to ramble on and on and on and on…you get the point. Whether you bump into a CEO in an elevator, the guy on the loading dock…your ability to speak and engage with a wide variety of people is an absolute essential. I always found it extremely beneficial to ask the receptionist how a candidate interacted with them…pay attention to your verbal and nonverbal efforts.

8. Dress the part:

If you look good you feel good and that is contagious.

9. Have a few questions for the end and a brief closing statement:

Questions can prove that you’re prepared and have done some homework. Ask the questions you need answered so you can evaluate the position just as much as they evaluated you. But, read body language and know when it’s time to close. A closing statement should reiterate you want and desire to make a change. Don’t overkill this…keep it to the point, simple and polished.

10. Lastly and super important…be you:

You never want to sell yourself into a position that is over your head or where your experience won’t provide success. Nobody wants to scratch their head after 6 months and ask “what did I do…?”

Take positions that stretch your ability, will keep your interest so you stay motivated. Look for companies that can provide growth and an opportunity down the road. Look for a culture fit as much as a professional fit. Don’t sell yourself short…go for it and remember…success comes most to those who are surrounded by people who want their success to continue.

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Contact us to learn more about our services.

Executive Search Firm Assistance: Do You Need It?

11.7.2015 by jsl_web_admin

The very best candidates do not respond to postings or ads. They typically are not looking for new positions. They’re well compensated, they’re peak performers, and they’re more than likely being taken care of by their current employers. They have to be sold on the idea of leaving a job and a company they love—they want and need to be recruited!

Based on the book, Effective Sales Force Leadership: The Science and Art of Sales Leadership by SearchWide Global President and CEO, Mike Gamble and co-author, Leadership Synergies President and CEO, John S. Parke. Here are four things to think about when considering hiring a search and recruitment firm.

1. It will be very difficult (if not impossible) for you or your human resources department to identify, contact, and persuade these all-stars to consider your opportunity.

2. The expense associated with retaining an executive search firm is well worth the investment. It will also give you peace of mind to know that no stone was left unturned and that you’re seeing the very best talent available.

3. Your search will also have more structure and accountability if managed by a retained firm.

4. Lastly, the search firm executive will play the role of the unbiased consultant, providing honest, candid feedback throughout the process that will prove invaluable.

When hiring a professional company to handle your job search, you have a wide range of options. Your human-resources department will likely have existing relationships with contingent and retained firms. A retained search is the best choice for executive-level leadership positions. Once a Request for Proposal (RFP) is developed, it is best to distribute it to a cross-section of retained firms to compare the services and costs between large and boutique firms.

Things to ask when hiring a search firm:

1. What is the level of experience of the executive who will be assigned to your search

2. Who is their past and current clients

3. What is their search process detail and services provided

4. What is their needs assessment detail

5. How your referrals will be handled

6. What is the timeline

7. What is their guarantee (one year is standard, but two is negotiable)

8. What is their pricing structure (especially costs above and beyond the fee)

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SearchWide Global is a full service executive search firm primarily for companies in the travel, tourism, hospitality, convention, trade association, venue management and experiential marketing industries. We specialize in C-Level and Director level executive searches for companies ranging in size from Fortune 500 corporations to mid-sized public and private companies and associations. Headquartered in St. Paul, MN, USA and several regional offices, we’re able to serve clients and candidates nationwide. Founded in 1999, we have remained focused on our four core values for almost two decades: INTEGRITY, ETHICS, PASSION and RESPECT.