Remember when applying for a job meant dressing your best, walking into a business with a pen in hand, and filling out a paper application on a clipboard in the lobby? For many years, that was the standard. It was common to spend an entire afternoon driving from business to business, asking if anyone was hiring, and physically handing in resumes. You’d hope to make a great first impression just by showing up. Fast forward to today — things look very different. ________________________________________ 📲 The New Normal: Online Applications These days, most companies have fully transitioned to online job applications. Whether you're applying from your phone, tablet, or computer, it’s now possible to find a job, submit your resume, and schedule an interview — all without leaving your home. This shift brings both convenience and challenges. On the one hand, it saves time, gas money, and opens up job opportunities that were previously hard to find. But for job seekers used to a more personal, face-to-face approach, the digital process can feel impersonal or even overwhelming. ________________________________________ 💡 Why Did the Change Happen? There are several reasons why online applications have taken over: • Efficiency: Employers can process and organize applicants much faster. • Accessibility: Job seekers can apply anytime, from anywhere — no more waiting for business hours. • Screening Tools: Companies now use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter candidates by keywords, experience, and more. • Post-Pandemic Precautions: COVID-19 accelerated the shift to digital to limit in-person interactions and streamline remote hiring processes. ________________________________________ 🤝 But In-Person Still Matters Even though applying online has become the norm, the value of face-to-face interaction hasn't gone away — it’s just shifted to the interview stage. Once you've passed the initial screening, that's when you’ll get the opportunity to meet in person, show your personality, and make that lasting impression. At Stand-By Personnel, we blend the best of both worlds. You can apply online at www.standbypersonnel.com, but we’re always here to talk in person, too. We welcome walk-ins, and we believe in building real relationships with our applicants — not just sorting through digital profiles. ________________________________________ 🛠️ What This Means for You If you're looking for a job in today's market, here's how to stay ahead: • Get comfortable with technology — create a clean, easy-to-read resume and know how to upload it. • Follow up — just because you applied online doesn't mean you shouldn't call or check in. • Be ready for remote communication — some interviews might start with a phone or video call. • Still be professional — first impressions now happen through your application, email tone, and online interactions. ________________________________________ 🌟 At Stand-By Personnel, We Keep It Personal Whether you're a seasoned tradesperson or just starting out, we make the hiring process simple, efficient, and most importantly — human. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process, whether you're applying online or walking through our door. So if you're ready to take the next step in your career — online or in person — we’re ready for you. 📍 Visit us: 4305 S. Mingo Road, Suite F, Tulsa, OK 🕐 Application Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM 📧 Apply: www.standbypersonnel.com ________________________________________ Job hunting has changed — but the need for great people hasn’t. Let us help you get where you want to go.

There is an important distinction between businesses that practice equity and those that showcase equality. A hospital, for example, may have enough PPE for all staff members, but a lot of that PPE is ill-fitting for most women. An equitable, not equal, resolution would be to ensure that all medical staff have PPE that fits them. Many skilled trades face similar issues, like female welders having to wear steel-toed boots and gloves that are at least two sizes too big, or construction workers dealing with a fall harness strap going directly on their chest. These inequitable practices not only create issues of safety and work efficiency, but also undermines efforts to create a more diverse skilled workforce. Ensuring that workplaces are truly equitable means addressing the structural barriers that disproportionately affect underrepresented workers. While more women are entering skilled trades than ever before, many still face challenges such as a lack of properly fitting tools, safety equipment, and uniforms. Standard work gear, from welding helmets to tool belts, is often designed with an average male frame in mind, making it difficult for women and smaller-built workers to perform their jobs safely and comfortably. Without adjustments, these oversights can lead to higher injury rates, reduced efficiency, and even deter new talent from pursuing careers in these industries. Beyond equipment, equity in skilled trades extends to training opportunities, mentorship programs, and workplace policies that support all workers equally. Many apprenticeship programs are structured around traditional career paths that historically favored men, leaving women and minorities without the same level of guidance or advancement opportunities. Companies that prioritize equity—by offering mentorships tailored to diverse employees, adjusting workplace policies to support work-life balance, and fostering inclusive job sites—help create a stronger, more sustainable workforce. By removing these barriers, industries can fully embrace the talent and innovation that a diverse workforce brings. Written by: Caleb Cunningham Stand-By Personnel

The job search process has undergone a massive transformation over the years. With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), job seekers now have access to tools and platforms that make finding, applying for, and landing a job faster and more efficient. Whether you’re entering the workforce for the first time or looking for a career change, here’s how AI can empower you in your job search journey and some of the most innovative tools to explore. The Benefits of AI in Job Searching AI streamlines the job search process in several ways: • Personalization: AI learns your preferences, skills, and career goals to recommend jobs tailored to your needs. • Efficiency: AI-powered platforms can sift through thousands of job postings to find the ones most relevant to you. • Skill Enhancement: AI tools help you improve your resume, cover letter, and interview skills to stand out in competitive markets. • Networking: AI connects you with professionals in your field, increasing your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. • AI-Powered Tools for Job Seekers Here are some of the most effective AI tools that can help you: 1. Resume Builders Crafting a resume that stands out can be challenging, but AI tools like Zety and Resume.io offer: • Pre-designed templates that align with your industry. • AI-powered suggestions to optimize your content for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). • Real-time feedback on grammar, structure, and keywords. 2. Job Matching Platforms Traditional job boards are being replaced by AI-driven platforms like LinkedIn, ZipRecruiter, and Indeed. These platforms use AI to: • Match your skills and experience to relevant job postings. • Notify you of opportunities that align with your career goals. • Rank you among other applicants to show how competitive you are for a role. 3. Interview Prep Tools Nervous about an upcoming interview? AI-based tools like Interview Warmup by Google and Big Interview can: • Simulate interview scenarios and provide real-time feedback. • Analyze your answers for clarity, relevance, and confidence. • Help you practice answering common behavioral and technical questions. 4. Networking Assistance Networking remains one of the most effective ways to land a job. AI platforms like Shapr and Meetup: • Suggest connections based on your industry and interests. • Recommend events, webinars, or meetups in your area to expand your professional network. 5. Skill-Building Platforms Employers increasingly value candidates who upskill regularly. AI-powered learning platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning can: • Recommend courses based on your career aspirations. • Provide certification programs that enhance your qualifications. • Track your progress and suggest skills to make you more marketable. 6. Job Application Tracking Tools Staying organized during your job search is essential. AI tools like Teal and JobHero: • Help you track the jobs you’ve applied for. • Provide reminders for follow-ups and deadlines. • Store tailored resumes and cover letters for specific positions. How to Get Started 1. Identify Your Needs: Determine which areas of your job search need the most help—resume building, job matching, interview prep, or networking. 2. Explore Free Trials: Many AI tools offer free trials or basic versions to help you decide which works best for you. 3. Stay Consistent: Regularly update your profile, resume, and skills on these platforms to increase your chances of getting noticed. 4. Combine Tools: Leverage multiple AI tools to cover all aspects of your job search process. 5. The Future of AI in Job Searching AI continues to evolve, and its role in job searching will only grow. From predicting in-demand skills to creating more immersive virtual interview experiences, AI is reshaping the way we connect with employers and seize career opportunities. By embracing these tools, job seekers can stay ahead of the curve and achieve their professional goals with confidence. Whether you’re new to AI or already familiar with it, incorporating these tools into your job search strategy can make the process more manageable and successful. With the right blend of technology and effort, landing your dream job is closer than you think.