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Early shift, late shift, night shift – shift work can take its toll on your body and mind. Irregular sleeping hours, changing eating habits and the challenge of balancing work, family and leisure time often cause stress. In order to remain productive in the long term and actively shape your professional life, it is crucial to develop healthy routines and strengthen your resilience.

In this article, you will learn how to protect your health, reduce stress and maintain your performance in the long term when working shifts.

1. Sleep while working shifts – find your rhythm

Probably the biggest sticking point in shift work is sleep. Those who constantly have to adjust their internal clock quickly suffer from fatigue, concentration problems and declining motivation.

Tips for restful sleep:

• Consistently darken your bedroom – roller blinds or sleep masks help you find peace and quiet even during the day.

• Stick to fixed bedtimes and wake-up times, as far as your work schedule allows. This will stabilise your sleep rhythm.

• Avoid caffeine, nicotine or heavy meals before going to bed. A light snack or a soothing tea are more suitable.

• Take short power naps of 20 to 30 minutes to recharge your batteries in between.

2. Nutrition: energy for long shifts

Irregular meals and night-time snacking are part of everyday life for many shift workers – and this can put strain on the stomach and circulation. A balanced diet not only increases your well-being, but also supports your long-term professional success.

How to stay strong while working shifts:

• Plan your meals in advance. Light, balanced meals with vegetables, whole grains and protein provide long-lasting energy.

• Avoid heavy fast food during night shifts – it makes you tired and impairs digestion.

• Reach for healthy snacks such as nuts, fruit or yoghurt when you feel peckish.

• Make sure you drink enough fluids, preferably water or unsweetened tea.

3. Rituals for relaxation and mental balance

Fixed routines help to stabilise the body and mind, especially when working irregular hours. They create structure where the shift schedule is constantly changing.

• Relaxation rituals: Breathing exercises, meditation or light stretching after work make it easier to transition into the rest phase.

• Incorporate exercise: Regular exercise not only improves fitness, but also strengthens the psyche – ideally a few hours before bedtime.

• Take short breaks: Treat yourself to short breaks in your everyday life, for example a walk or a conscious coffee break without your mobile phone.

4. Social stress: family, friends and leisure time in shift work

An often underestimated aspect of shift work is its impact on social life. While others have time in the evenings or at weekends, you may be on duty. This can be stressful – but with good planning, conflicts can be avoided.

How to stay balanced:

• Agree on fixed times for family and friends, even if these are not in the traditional evenings or weekends.

• Communicate openly with those around you about your shift schedule so that meetings can be better coordinated.

• Make conscious use of free mornings or afternoons for activities that are good for you – quality is key, not quantity.

Conclusion: Stay strong in shift work with structure and routines

Shift work brings many challenges – but with the right strategies for sleep, nutrition, relaxation and social balance, you can stay healthy and productive in the long term. The key is to develop routines that suit your rhythm and to plan conscious breaks.

Your health and well-being are important – as is a job that suits you. Discover our job vacancies and find positions that fit your lifestyle and strengths.

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Working with staffing agencies gives companies the opportunity to respond quickly and flexibly to personnel needs, overcome skill shortages, and implement important projects efficiently. But like any partnership, there are common pitfalls that can jeopardize success. In this article, we’ll show you the most frequent mistakes companies make when working with staffing agencies – and how you can avoid them to ensure a successful, long-term partnership.

Mistake #1: Poor Briefings and Unclear Requirements

One of the most common mistakes when working with staffing agencies is insufficient communication of requirements. If the briefing is too vague or inaccurate, the selected candidates may not meet the company’s expectations.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Create precise briefings: Provide clear, detailed information about the position, including the required technical qualifications and soft skills.

• Present your company culture: In addition to professional requirements, it’s crucial to provide the staffing agency with insights into your company culture. This helps identify candidates who fit both professionally and personally.

• Plan feedback loops: Regular communication during the selection process ensures that candidate choices remain aligned with your expectations.

Close and clear communication between your company and the staffing agency is essential to avoid misunderstandings and secure the right candidates.

Mistake #2: Unrealistic Expectations About Recruitment Speed

Companies often put staffing agencies under pressure to deliver results quickly. In practice, this can lead to compromises in candidate quality, especially for specialized or highly qualified positions.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Set realistic timelines: A qualified recruitment process takes time. Align your expectations with the requirements of the role and the current labor market.

• Account for talent shortages: In fields with limited qualified professionals, finding the ideal candidate may take longer. Honest discussions about the market and candidate availability help keep expectations realistic.

• Combine staffing models: Temporary staffing and direct recruitment can be combined to meet urgent needs without sacrificing quality.

Choosing a realistic timeframe ensures that the recruitment process is neither rushed nor unnecessarily delayed.

Mistake #3: Inadequate Integration of External Staff

A frequently underestimated aspect of working with staffing agencies is the integration of external staff. If temporary workers are not properly onboarded, inefficiencies and misunderstandings can arise.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Onboard external staff properly: Even temporary professionals should receive a structured introduction to your company. This boosts productivity and ensures faster integration into the team.

• Encourage collaboration: Foster teamwork between internal and external staff. Joint projects and regular meetings strengthen cooperation and mutual understanding.

• Collect regular feedback: Ongoing dialogue between your company and the staffing agency ensures that external employees fulfill their tasks effectively and that potential issues are addressed early.

Proper integration maximizes the potential of external staff and creates a productive work environment.

Mistake #4: Lack of Flexibility in Changing Requirements

In many companies, personnel requirements change quickly. If staffing agencies cannot respond flexibly, recruitment challenges are inevitable.

How to avoid this mistake:

• Be open to adjustments: Inform your staffing partner promptly when requirements change. Flexibility on both sides ensures quick and effective responses.

• Use different staffing models: Flexible workforce management allows you to respond rapidly to change—whether through temporary staffing or RPO—depending on what best suits your needs.

• Set clear priorities: When requirements shift, prioritization helps keep focus on the most important goals.

The ability to adapt quickly and flexibly is a key factor for a successful partnership.

Mistake #5: No Long-Term Partnership Perspective

Many companies view staffing agencies only as a short-term solution to urgent needs. This transactional approach often prevents them from realizing the full potential of the partnership.

How to avoid this mistake:

• See your staffing agency as a long-term partner: A strong relationship should go beyond one-off transactions. Treat your agency as a strategic partner that helps optimize your workforce strategy over time.

• Plan together: Collaborate with your staffing partner on a long-term workforce strategy that covers both immediate and future needs. Combining flexible solutions like temporary staffing with long-term planning can be highly effective.

• Promote ongoing dialogue: Continuous communication ensures the partnership remains strong and helps you respond quickly to new challenges.

Long-term partnerships lead to more sustainable results and continuously strengthen your workforce strategy.

Conclusion

Working with an experienced staffing agency provides companies with valuable support to meet personnel needs quickly and efficiently. To benefit fully from this partnership, it’s essential to avoid the mistakes outlined above and foster a clear, flexible, and long-term collaboration. With effective communication, realistic expectations, and a strategic partnership, companies can achieve their staffing goals and secure sustainable growth.

Get in touch today

Want to learn how your company can benefit from professional collaboration with an experienced staffing agency? Let’s talk – together we’ll develop a tailored solution for your workforce strategy.

In a constantly evolving job market, lifelong learning is more than just a trend – it’s a necessity. As industries rapidly transform and new technologies reshape the workplace, the demands on professionals are growing. For candidates and job seekers, continuous learning is the key to staying relevant, competitive, and future-ready.

But how can you keep learning while building a successful career? In this article, we explore why lifelong learning is essential and which methods are most effective.

Why Lifelong Learning Is Crucial for Career Success

In an age where automation and digitalization are redefining job roles, professionals must continually upgrade their skills to stay ahead. Here are a few reasons why continuous learning is not just an investment in your career, but also in your future:

1. Adapting to New Technologies
   The rise of technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), automation, and data analytics is transforming how work gets done. Those who regularly update their skillsets remain competitive – and open the door to new career opportunities.
   

2. Expanding Your Skillset
   Ongoing learning allows professionals to diversify their knowledge and capabilities. This not only broadens career options but also increases the chances of advancing into higher-level roles.
   

3. Boosting Job Satisfaction and Motivation
   Continuous learning builds confidence and motivation by preparing individuals for the challenges of a dynamic job market. The ability to learn and adapt is becoming a defining factor in long-term career success.
   

4. Increasing Job Security
   With jobs constantly evolving, professionals who proactively build new skills are better equipped to navigate change and secure their position in a shifting market.

Effective Methods for Lifelong Learning

Today, there are countless ways to keep learning – both online and offline. Here are some of the most effective approaches for job seekers and career starters:

1. Online Courses and Webinars
   Digital learning platforms have revolutionized education. Sites like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer high-quality courses on topics such as data analysis, project management, and marketing – accessible anytime, anywhere. This flexibility makes it easier to integrate learning into daily life.
   
   Tip: When choosing an online course, consider the credibility and recognition of the provider. Many courses offer certificates that can enhance your CV and demonstrate your commitment to growth.
   

2. Workshops and Seminars
   Hands-on learning formats like workshops and seminars are ideal for gaining deep insights into specific subjects. Participants benefit not only from expert instruction but also from networking opportunities with other professionals. Attending industry events regularly helps you stay informed about current trends and best practices.
   

3. Mentoring and Networking
   Learning from others is just as valuable. Mentoring programs allow you to grow under the guidance of experienced professionals and receive practical advice. Additionally, active networking can help you build essential skills and make meaningful career connections.
   

4. Self-Study and Industry Literature
   One of the most accessible forms of learning is self-study. Reading trade journals, books, or articles – or listening to podcasts and audiobooks – can help you stay up to date. Combined with online resources, self-study is a cost-effective way to expand your knowledge continuously.
   

5. Industry-Specific Certificates and Programs
   Many industries offer certification programs that allow professionals to validate their expertise. Examples include the PMP certification in project management or the Google Analytics certificate – both are effective ways to advance your career and stand out in the job market.

How Candidates Can Integrate Continuous Learning into Their Career

To make the most of lifelong learning, it’s important to actively incorporate it into your career planning. Here are a few practical tips to get started:

• Set Clear Learning Goals
  Identify which skills you want to develop over the coming months or years and create a learning plan. Clear goals keep your efforts focused and purposeful.
  

• Prioritize Relevant Training
  Choose courses and programs that align with your career goals. Avoid wasting time on content that doesn’t serve your professional development. Stay informed about industry trends and the skills most in demand in your field.
  

• Leverage Support from Recruitment Agencies
  Staffing firms like Trenkwalder Personaldienste GmbH don’t just offer job placements – they also support your upskilling and career development. With tailored advice and learning opportunities, you can work towards your goals more effectively.

Conclusion: Lifelong Learning as a Career Booster

Continuous learning is the key to long-term career success – especially in a fast-changing labor market. By staying curious and proactive, you can not only advance your career but also maintain your competitiveness in the years to come. Whether through online courses, workshops, or mentoring, there are countless ways to grow your skills and knowledge.

Trenkwalder supports you not only in your job search but also with a variety of learning resources to help you reach your professional goals. Ready to take the next step in your career? Visit our website for current job openings and career tips – and start your lifelong learning journey today.

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Sustainability in companies has long been more than just a trend – it is becoming a key factor for success. In human resources in particular, managers play a key role when it comes to not only communicating sustainable values, but also actively exemplifying them. But how can managers inspire their teams and successfully implement sustainable HR strategies? In this article, you will learn why sustainable leadership is essential for a green future – and how you, as a manager, can drive change.

Why sustainable leadership matters now

Companies face a variety of challenges: conserving resources, assuming social responsibility and creating attractive working conditions at the same time. Managers are both role models and bridge builders in this regard. By authentically living sustainability, they create a culture that motivates employees and retains them in the long term. This not only strengthens the employer brand, but also ensures business success.

Living sustainable values – authentically and credibly

Sustainable leadership means not only anchoring sustainability in guidelines, but also embodying it through one's own behaviour. This can look like this:

• Environmentally conscious behaviour in everyday life (e.g. resource-saving meetings, paperless working)

• Promoting diversity, equality and social responsibility within the team

• Open communication about sustainable goals and successes

Managers who exemplify these values create trust and credibility – an important key to getting employees excited about sustainability issues.

Inspire and motivate teams to embrace sustainability

Sustainability is teamwork. Managers are called upon to actively involve and motivate their employees:

• Regular exchange on sustainability goals within the team

• Promotion of a green mindset through workshops or further training

• Recognition of sustainable commitment at all levels

This creates a shared sense of responsibility, which increases identification with the company and ensures greater innovative strength.

Actively support sustainable HR strategies

A sustainable corporate culture requires concrete measures that managers can promote:

• Integration of sustainability goals into employee appraisals and target agreements

• Support for flexible working models such as home office or job sharing to improve work-life balance

• Promotion of further training in the area of sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR)

• Use flexible employment models such as temporary work and recruitment to cover short-term personnel requirements in a resource-efficient manner

This allows sustainability to be practised in the HR department while responding flexibly to changing requirements.

Shaping change: managers as drivers of cultural change

Sustainability is an ongoing process that must be deeply embedded in corporate culture. Managers play a central role in this by exemplifying sustainable values and thus creating trust.

They help to break down resistance by communicating openly and explaining the benefits of sustainable measures in a way that is easy to understand. At the same time, they promote a culture in which new ways of thinking and sustainable initiatives can flourish.

In this way, managers actively drive change and ensure that sustainability is embedded in everyday business life.

Conclusion: Sustainable leadership as a competitive advantage

Companies that credibly live sustainable values through their managers clearly stand out from the competition. They attract committed, environmentally conscious talent, strengthen employee loyalty and secure their long-term success. Managers are the key to this – as role models, communicators and initiators.

Ready for a sustainable HR strategy that fits your company perfectly? Contact us now – together we will develop tailor-made solutions for your personnel planning.

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Endless to-do lists, full inboxes, constant availability – and just taking a deep breath in between? Hardly possible. Everyday work demands a lot from us, both professionally and mentally. But how can you keep a cool head even in stressful times – without burning out?

The answer lies in one key success factor: mental resilience. It not only helps you deal with pressure, but also shapes your career in a conscious and long-term way. In this article, you will learn how to build your inner strength in a targeted manner – and go through your working day with more composure and clarity.

Why resilience is so important in professional life

The demands on employees are increasing: multitasking, constant availability, project work in the home office – all of this requires mental strength. At the same time, there is a greater focus on work-life balance, because long-term performance is closely linked to mental health.

Well-developed resilience helps you

• to cope better with stress,

• to communicate more clearly,

• to view mistakes with greater composure,

• and to respond more flexibly to change.

This lays the foundation for a healthy and successful career.

5 ways to strengthen your mental resilience

1. Accept what you cannot change

Not every situation is controllable – and that is completely normal. Learning to accept the unchangeable and focusing instead on what is within your control strengthens your mental stability. This perspective reduces unnecessary pressure and creates more inner peace.

2. Consciously use your own strengths

Ask yourself regularly: What am I good at? What challenges have I already overcome? A clear view of your abilities strengthens self-confidence – and helps you approach new situations with more composure. It is particularly helpful to write down your successes or seek regular feedback.

3. Set boundaries – and take them seriously

Resilient people know how important breaks, relaxation and saying ‘no’ are. Pay attention to your sources of energy and consider where you want to use your strengths wisely – and where not. Setting healthy boundaries protects you from burnout and promotes long-term performance.

4. Build a supportive environment

Whether colleagues, friends or family: a stable social network is a crucial factor in resilience. Actively seek out interaction, ask for advice or just a sympathetic ear. Shared perspectives often help to put challenges into perspective and find new solutions.

5. Embed routines and self-care into your everyday life

Small habits can make a big difference: a daily walk, short mindfulness exercises or fixed working hours – all of these things create structure and balance. People who take good care of themselves are better able to cope with stress and stay centred even in a hectic work environment.

Conclusion: Resilience – your personal resource for a strong career

Mental resilience is not a panacea, but it is a crucial factor for your future career success. People who embrace challenges, are aware of their strengths and actively seek relaxation build a stable foundation for a sustainable and fulfilling career.

Ready for the next step? Discover our current job vacancies and shape your future with confidence and stability. Or get straight to the point with your professional strengths using our CV generator.

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