For Brevity's sake (OK being succinct is not my strength) I am going to break this one in half. You get Five today and you get five more on the next post. I bet the suspense is gonna kill you right? OK, here goes:
1. Round two
The easiest way to gauge short-term success is if the interviewer asks you to return for another round of interviews. If he wasn't interested, he would be evasive as whether or not you could expect to hear back from someone. The hiring manager does not want to waste any more time interviewing you if you are not a fit.
2. References please
Why would you be asked for references unless someone cared to learn more about you? A firm will not spend the time to do background checks and talk with references if you are out of the candidate pool.Provide specific, knowledgeable references and bring those to the interview.
3. Meet the team
It's a good sign when the hiring manager chooses to introduce you to the team on the spot, or mentions that there are some people she would like you to meet. If she wasn't interested, again, she wouldn't take the time in making acquaintances.
Leaders are protective of their team and will not risk introducing a candidate if they are not a potential fit to join the organization.Remember that the hiring manager may request feedback from the team on their first impressions of you, so be nice to anyone you meet.
4. What are the transition steps?
When a company is interested in you, you'll be asked things like the amount of time needed for a transition or what non-competes might be in place. If the hiring manager is interested in moving forward with an offer, they will typically ask what steps need to be taken for your departure from your current organization so that you can assume the new role.
5. Dollars and sense
Depending on what stage of the interview process you're in, it could be a good thing if you're asked about salary expectations. It demonstrates that the company might be willing to invest in you. Be careful, we will go over this later, but salary questions need to be handled cautiously. You can have the absolute best interview ever and be dead in the water if you answer this question incorrectly. The question comes in two forms: 'What are your salary expectations?' or 'What is your current compensation?' Arrive at any interview with current compensation details written down for your own reference -- if asked -- and have an idea of how you will answer this question.
These are the first five, I will get the next five posted soon.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Chill Dude...It's Only An Interview
I can think of only a few rituals that encase my body with adrenaline and sweat: splitting wood, court with the sunglasses wearing cop, having that dream where I'm still in high school and I've forgotten to wear pants again, and interviewing for a job.
A job interview is the perfect storm of anxiety for most job seekers. You're put through a battery of questions. You're expected to exude all of your good qualities without revealing your bad ones. You also need to get a feel for the company. Oh, and try to keep your nerves to a minimum -- a jittery candidate could suggest someone hiding something or not qualified for the job.
Basically, interviews are like first dates with a bigger impact for your W-2s. And those of you I have coached have told you this numerous times.
Few job seekers walk into an interview without a considerable amount of anxiety in their bellies. While you can't get rid of it all, you can learn how to control it so that you can give your best interview and get the job.
Start with homework
Your work begins once you have an interview scheduled. Hopefully you researched the company before applying for the job so you have some understanding of what the company does and stands for. But you still want more, and now is the time to dig deeper for relevant information.
It is importatnt to know the mission or vision statement of the organization. Read the annual report, especially the CEO or president's message. The more familiar you are with the organization, the more comfortable you will feel, especially at the end of the interview when the dreaded 'Do you have any questions for us?' question comes up. You can then pop off a question that the CEO/CFO posed during a recent press release and look like a superstar for your understanding of the companies position.
Anticipating that question and others is vital to your preparation. If you haven't thought about what the interviewer will ask you, you're liable to panic once you hear the question come out of his or her mouth. You'll be so concerned with how you'll answer that you might not even hear the entire question. A little planning can make the process easier, according to Helen Cooke, managing director for Cooke Consulting.
Have some great accomplishments prepared ahead of time. If you've practiced -- without overdoing it -- so that you have some direct and compelling stories ... you will walk in juiced up. Choose specific examples to include in your stories so that you can point to cases where you improved a situation or brought in revenue for your employer. Not only are quantifiable achievements easier for employers to appreciate, but they're also good talking points to have in your mind to keep you from panicking.
You can prepare all you want, but when the interview is only hours away, another set of nerves kicks in, kind of like butterflies on steroids. The best regimen is the night before the interview, get your interview clothes ready and putting all your important documents near the door so that you can just grab them and go. This will eliminate as many potential delays as possible and help ease your anxiety.Plan to rise even a little earlier than usual to prevent a nervous and rushed leaving the house and trip to the interview.
Although you might think staying cool depends on your preparation for questions and body language during the interview itself -- and it does -- the fewer distractions you have getting to the interview will put you in the right mood. If you're stuck in traffic, not sure where you're going and wearing a wrinkled shirt, your confidence level is going to be pretty low when you arrive.
During the interview
The most important part of staying calm during the interview comes with preparation. Of course you have to answer plenty of questions and worry about body language -- that never goes away. But if you've practiced your answers, thought about your posture and eye contact, and done your research on the company, the hard part's over. Now you're just answering questions that you've prepared for. The best way to prepare for this part is vidoe taping your self and a friend practicing with prepared interview questions and reviewing it afterwards.
Realize that a little nervousness is expected and that you only need to be calm enough to look competent and confident of your abilities.If you find yourself feeling overly anxious, stop to think a question over and take a few deep breaths. After all, the interviewer knows you're anxious and a hint of nerves shows that you care about the job.
For more relevant tips and ideas how to succesfully land that ideal dream job, check out what my colleagues Kevin Donlin and David Perry have put together in their new Guerilla Job Search DVD www.careerspro.com/program.htm You will find the above techniques and many more!
A job interview is the perfect storm of anxiety for most job seekers. You're put through a battery of questions. You're expected to exude all of your good qualities without revealing your bad ones. You also need to get a feel for the company. Oh, and try to keep your nerves to a minimum -- a jittery candidate could suggest someone hiding something or not qualified for the job.
Basically, interviews are like first dates with a bigger impact for your W-2s. And those of you I have coached have told you this numerous times.
Few job seekers walk into an interview without a considerable amount of anxiety in their bellies. While you can't get rid of it all, you can learn how to control it so that you can give your best interview and get the job.
Start with homework
Your work begins once you have an interview scheduled. Hopefully you researched the company before applying for the job so you have some understanding of what the company does and stands for. But you still want more, and now is the time to dig deeper for relevant information.
It is importatnt to know the mission or vision statement of the organization. Read the annual report, especially the CEO or president's message. The more familiar you are with the organization, the more comfortable you will feel, especially at the end of the interview when the dreaded 'Do you have any questions for us?' question comes up. You can then pop off a question that the CEO/CFO posed during a recent press release and look like a superstar for your understanding of the companies position.
Anticipating that question and others is vital to your preparation. If you haven't thought about what the interviewer will ask you, you're liable to panic once you hear the question come out of his or her mouth. You'll be so concerned with how you'll answer that you might not even hear the entire question. A little planning can make the process easier, according to Helen Cooke, managing director for Cooke Consulting.
Have some great accomplishments prepared ahead of time. If you've practiced -- without overdoing it -- so that you have some direct and compelling stories ... you will walk in juiced up. Choose specific examples to include in your stories so that you can point to cases where you improved a situation or brought in revenue for your employer. Not only are quantifiable achievements easier for employers to appreciate, but they're also good talking points to have in your mind to keep you from panicking.
You can prepare all you want, but when the interview is only hours away, another set of nerves kicks in, kind of like butterflies on steroids. The best regimen is the night before the interview, get your interview clothes ready and putting all your important documents near the door so that you can just grab them and go. This will eliminate as many potential delays as possible and help ease your anxiety.Plan to rise even a little earlier than usual to prevent a nervous and rushed leaving the house and trip to the interview.
Although you might think staying cool depends on your preparation for questions and body language during the interview itself -- and it does -- the fewer distractions you have getting to the interview will put you in the right mood. If you're stuck in traffic, not sure where you're going and wearing a wrinkled shirt, your confidence level is going to be pretty low when you arrive.
During the interview
The most important part of staying calm during the interview comes with preparation. Of course you have to answer plenty of questions and worry about body language -- that never goes away. But if you've practiced your answers, thought about your posture and eye contact, and done your research on the company, the hard part's over. Now you're just answering questions that you've prepared for. The best way to prepare for this part is vidoe taping your self and a friend practicing with prepared interview questions and reviewing it afterwards.
Realize that a little nervousness is expected and that you only need to be calm enough to look competent and confident of your abilities.If you find yourself feeling overly anxious, stop to think a question over and take a few deep breaths. After all, the interviewer knows you're anxious and a hint of nerves shows that you care about the job.
For more relevant tips and ideas how to succesfully land that ideal dream job, check out what my colleagues Kevin Donlin and David Perry have put together in their new Guerilla Job Search DVD www.careerspro.com/program.htm You will find the above techniques and many more!
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Remember Your Manners
Seems fairly redundant, after all you were most likely raised to say "Please" and "Thank You". But you would be astounded by how many candidates I have to coach to remember something as simple as a Thank You note after an interview.
In a competitive job market, just one wrong move during the application process can take you out of contention for the position you seek. Not sending a thank-you note after an employment interview is one of those wrong moves. In fact, no thank-you note may translate into "no, thank you" from an employer that was considering hiring you. A thank-you note is a chance for you to make a lasting, positive impression on a hiring manager who may have interviewed dozens of candidates.
Here are some tips for writing a winning thank-you note:
Keep it formal. After an interview, some job seekers use their cell phones or PDAs to send off a quick thank-you note to the hiring manager -- in "text speak." But hiring managers won't be impressed by "thx 4 ur time." Just as you wouldn't wear shorts and flip-flops to an interview, avoid such informal language, which could come off as unprofessional. Also, saying thanks so quickly after the interview makes it seem like you haven't given the meeting proper thought -- that you're sending the note as routine, not because you truly appreciate the opportunity. A better tactic is to send an e-mail message to thank the interviewer within 24 hours of the interview. Then, follow up with a letter sent through the regular mail.
Be specific. In your note, bring up points from the conversation you had with the hiring manager. For example, if a prospective employer stressed that the open position calls for knowledge of a particular software program, use the thank-you letter as an opportunity to remind the person that you've worked with the application on a range of projects.
Repeat yourself. While a lot of what you include in your thank-you note may seem repetitive, remember that a hiring manager who has interviewed a dozen candidates may not remember all the specifics about your skills and experience. Just like an advertising campaign for a consumer product, a certain amount of repetition is necessary to distinguish yourself from the competition.
Make it personal. If you discovered the hiring manager shares your passion for travel or mystery books, referring to this commonality could make your letter even more effective. Personalizing the note will remind him or her who you are and that you paid close attention during the interview.
Allay concerns. A thank-note is your chance to address any concerns the hiring manger expressed, especially if you were unable to do so in the interview. Perhaps the interviewer was worried about your lack of industry experience, and during the interview you forgot to mention a temporary position you had in the sector. You can bring it up in your note, along with a few points about how that experience contributed to your knowledge or interest in the field.
Don't stop at one. If you interviewed with more than one hiring manager, send a thank-you note to each person. Address every letter to a specific individual, even if you have to do some research to uncover the spelling of someone's name or locate his or her contact information. Also make sure the content of each letter differs; hiring managers often compare notes -- literally.
Add an extra. Perhaps during the interview you mentioned an article you recently read that's relevant to the firm's business. Send it with your note, along with a brief explanation of why you thought your contact would be interested in the information. Indeed, whether it's a news article or a link to an interesting Web site, you'll make yourself more memorable by demonstrating that you've gone beyond the basics.
Finally, keep in mind that sending a well-written thank-you note at other points in your job search can be advantageous. This communication shouldn't be limited solely to the employment interview. It's also worth sending a short letter of thanks to a contact who clued you in to a job lead, a former colleague who served as a reference or a manager who accepted your request for an informational interview. On the job hunt, the little things count. Displaying good manners can help you forge stronger relationships and ensure people are happy to lend a hand when you need their help again.
The fundamentals of the job search -- reaching out to employers and making a positive impression -- haven't changed. But the tools for doing so are different today than even just a few years ago. For more relevant tips and ideas how to succesfully land that ideal dream job, check out what my colleagues Kevin Donlin and David Perry have put together in their new Guerilla Job Search DVD www.careerspro.com/program.htm You will find the above techniques and many more!
In a competitive job market, just one wrong move during the application process can take you out of contention for the position you seek. Not sending a thank-you note after an employment interview is one of those wrong moves. In fact, no thank-you note may translate into "no, thank you" from an employer that was considering hiring you. A thank-you note is a chance for you to make a lasting, positive impression on a hiring manager who may have interviewed dozens of candidates.
Here are some tips for writing a winning thank-you note:
Keep it formal. After an interview, some job seekers use their cell phones or PDAs to send off a quick thank-you note to the hiring manager -- in "text speak." But hiring managers won't be impressed by "thx 4 ur time." Just as you wouldn't wear shorts and flip-flops to an interview, avoid such informal language, which could come off as unprofessional. Also, saying thanks so quickly after the interview makes it seem like you haven't given the meeting proper thought -- that you're sending the note as routine, not because you truly appreciate the opportunity. A better tactic is to send an e-mail message to thank the interviewer within 24 hours of the interview. Then, follow up with a letter sent through the regular mail.
Be specific. In your note, bring up points from the conversation you had with the hiring manager. For example, if a prospective employer stressed that the open position calls for knowledge of a particular software program, use the thank-you letter as an opportunity to remind the person that you've worked with the application on a range of projects.
Repeat yourself. While a lot of what you include in your thank-you note may seem repetitive, remember that a hiring manager who has interviewed a dozen candidates may not remember all the specifics about your skills and experience. Just like an advertising campaign for a consumer product, a certain amount of repetition is necessary to distinguish yourself from the competition.
Make it personal. If you discovered the hiring manager shares your passion for travel or mystery books, referring to this commonality could make your letter even more effective. Personalizing the note will remind him or her who you are and that you paid close attention during the interview.
Allay concerns. A thank-note is your chance to address any concerns the hiring manger expressed, especially if you were unable to do so in the interview. Perhaps the interviewer was worried about your lack of industry experience, and during the interview you forgot to mention a temporary position you had in the sector. You can bring it up in your note, along with a few points about how that experience contributed to your knowledge or interest in the field.
Don't stop at one. If you interviewed with more than one hiring manager, send a thank-you note to each person. Address every letter to a specific individual, even if you have to do some research to uncover the spelling of someone's name or locate his or her contact information. Also make sure the content of each letter differs; hiring managers often compare notes -- literally.
Add an extra. Perhaps during the interview you mentioned an article you recently read that's relevant to the firm's business. Send it with your note, along with a brief explanation of why you thought your contact would be interested in the information. Indeed, whether it's a news article or a link to an interesting Web site, you'll make yourself more memorable by demonstrating that you've gone beyond the basics.
Finally, keep in mind that sending a well-written thank-you note at other points in your job search can be advantageous. This communication shouldn't be limited solely to the employment interview. It's also worth sending a short letter of thanks to a contact who clued you in to a job lead, a former colleague who served as a reference or a manager who accepted your request for an informational interview. On the job hunt, the little things count. Displaying good manners can help you forge stronger relationships and ensure people are happy to lend a hand when you need their help again.
The fundamentals of the job search -- reaching out to employers and making a positive impression -- haven't changed. But the tools for doing so are different today than even just a few years ago. For more relevant tips and ideas how to succesfully land that ideal dream job, check out what my colleagues Kevin Donlin and David Perry have put together in their new Guerilla Job Search DVD www.careerspro.com/program.htm You will find the above techniques and many more!
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Out with Old School, New techniques that wont date your career search.
Monogrammed stationery.
A Rolodex filled with business cards.
The Sunday want ads.
These job search tools have all gone the way of the Olsmobile or the Pontiac. But are you still using tactics that are similarly slated for extinction?
Like all trends, those that define the job search change over time -- sometimes often, and sometimes dramatically. To give yourself the best possible chance of landing a new position, you need to use the most up-to-date approaches. And if you haven't launched a job hunt in several years, you could be behind the times.
Here are some job search tactics that are "in" and "out":
Out: Blanketing local employers with a résumé and cover letter addressed "To whom it may concern."
In: Researching prospective employers and applying to companies where your skills and interests match their needs. In a competitive job market, a generic résumé won't grab a hiring manager's attention. The best applications are highly targeted to the opportunity. That means not only researching the appropriate contact so you can address the hiring manager by name but also detailing how your skills and experience can meet the potential employer's exact needs.
Out: Stilted language in application materials (e.g., "Please find my résumé attached in response to the job posting ...").
In: More natural prose that provides a sense of your personality. Soft skills are more important than ever, and employers want to get a sense of your personality to ensure you will mesh well with existing staff members. So use your résumé and cover letter as a way to show the hiring manager who you are. But keep in mind that these documents should still remain professional -- you can get your personality across without resorting to shorthand, slang or "text speak."
Out: Using unusual résumé formats to hide employment gaps.
In: Filling potential gaps through volunteer or temporary work. Some job seekers have used functional résumés to downplay gaps in their work history. But this format -- in which the person's skills are listed at the top of the document, and the work history is truncated or omitted -- could raise red flags by making it seem like you have something to hide. Today's hiring managers realize that many talented people are out of work right now through no fault of their own, so don't think you need to hide a recent period of unemployment. Instead, demonstrate that you've remained professionally engaged while searching for a new position by taking on volunteer or temporary work.
Out: Overly detailed résumés.
In: Streamlined résumés that list relevant accomplishments. Hiring managers don't have much time to devote to your résumé, so you need to make a positive impression right away. The best way to do so is to cut out unnecessary information from your document -- for example, accomplishments from a job you held two decades ago, the clubs you belonged to in college (unless you're a recent graduate) or that your references are available upon request. Focus on the skills you have that match the employer's requirements and, in particular, bottom-line contributions you've made in previous roles.
Out: A narrow focus in your job search.
In: A broad view of how your skills might be useful in various roles. In today's job market, you may need to be creative to land a new position. Think about the skills you possess and how they could be applied in new ways or in an entirely new position or field. For example, your experience spearheading a product launch could position you for a role as a project manager.
Out: Networking occasionally.
In: Networking constantly using tools such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter, as well as in person. The best way to find a job remains through word of mouth. And, in the recession, a lead or referral from a contact can give you the edge you need to land a new position. Online networking Web sites make it easy for you to keep in touch with members of your network, but keep in mind that face-to-face interaction is still important. Offer to treat people to coffee on occasion to catch up and talk about your search.
Out: A set reference list.
In: A customized reference list for each opportunity. Like your résumé and cover letter, your reference list should be fluid and targeted to the opportunity. When providing this information to a prospective employer, think of who can speak best about your most relevant skills for that position, not who has the most impressive job titles. For example, if you are interviewing for a management position, have the hiring manager reach out to individuals you've supervised in the past.
Out: Ending the interview by asking when they'll be contacting you.
In: Ending the interview by asking for the job on a trial basis. It never hurts to be proactive. If you think the employment interview has gone well, don't be afraid to ask if you can prove yourself on a temporary basis. You'll demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job and desire to hit the ground running.
The fundamentals of the job search -- reaching out to employers and making a positive impression -- haven't changed. But the tools for doing so are different today than even just a few years ago. For more relevant tips and ideas how to succesfully land that ideal dream job, check out what my colleagues Kevin Donlin and David Perry have put together in their new Guerilla Job Search DVD www.careerspro.com/program.htm You will find the above techniques and many more!
A Rolodex filled with business cards.
The Sunday want ads.
These job search tools have all gone the way of the Olsmobile or the Pontiac. But are you still using tactics that are similarly slated for extinction?
Like all trends, those that define the job search change over time -- sometimes often, and sometimes dramatically. To give yourself the best possible chance of landing a new position, you need to use the most up-to-date approaches. And if you haven't launched a job hunt in several years, you could be behind the times.
Here are some job search tactics that are "in" and "out":
Out: Blanketing local employers with a résumé and cover letter addressed "To whom it may concern."
In: Researching prospective employers and applying to companies where your skills and interests match their needs. In a competitive job market, a generic résumé won't grab a hiring manager's attention. The best applications are highly targeted to the opportunity. That means not only researching the appropriate contact so you can address the hiring manager by name but also detailing how your skills and experience can meet the potential employer's exact needs.
Out: Stilted language in application materials (e.g., "Please find my résumé attached in response to the job posting ...").
In: More natural prose that provides a sense of your personality. Soft skills are more important than ever, and employers want to get a sense of your personality to ensure you will mesh well with existing staff members. So use your résumé and cover letter as a way to show the hiring manager who you are. But keep in mind that these documents should still remain professional -- you can get your personality across without resorting to shorthand, slang or "text speak."
Out: Using unusual résumé formats to hide employment gaps.
In: Filling potential gaps through volunteer or temporary work. Some job seekers have used functional résumés to downplay gaps in their work history. But this format -- in which the person's skills are listed at the top of the document, and the work history is truncated or omitted -- could raise red flags by making it seem like you have something to hide. Today's hiring managers realize that many talented people are out of work right now through no fault of their own, so don't think you need to hide a recent period of unemployment. Instead, demonstrate that you've remained professionally engaged while searching for a new position by taking on volunteer or temporary work.
Out: Overly detailed résumés.
In: Streamlined résumés that list relevant accomplishments. Hiring managers don't have much time to devote to your résumé, so you need to make a positive impression right away. The best way to do so is to cut out unnecessary information from your document -- for example, accomplishments from a job you held two decades ago, the clubs you belonged to in college (unless you're a recent graduate) or that your references are available upon request. Focus on the skills you have that match the employer's requirements and, in particular, bottom-line contributions you've made in previous roles.
Out: A narrow focus in your job search.
In: A broad view of how your skills might be useful in various roles. In today's job market, you may need to be creative to land a new position. Think about the skills you possess and how they could be applied in new ways or in an entirely new position or field. For example, your experience spearheading a product launch could position you for a role as a project manager.
Out: Networking occasionally.
In: Networking constantly using tools such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter, as well as in person. The best way to find a job remains through word of mouth. And, in the recession, a lead or referral from a contact can give you the edge you need to land a new position. Online networking Web sites make it easy for you to keep in touch with members of your network, but keep in mind that face-to-face interaction is still important. Offer to treat people to coffee on occasion to catch up and talk about your search.
Out: A set reference list.
In: A customized reference list for each opportunity. Like your résumé and cover letter, your reference list should be fluid and targeted to the opportunity. When providing this information to a prospective employer, think of who can speak best about your most relevant skills for that position, not who has the most impressive job titles. For example, if you are interviewing for a management position, have the hiring manager reach out to individuals you've supervised in the past.
Out: Ending the interview by asking when they'll be contacting you.
In: Ending the interview by asking for the job on a trial basis. It never hurts to be proactive. If you think the employment interview has gone well, don't be afraid to ask if you can prove yourself on a temporary basis. You'll demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job and desire to hit the ground running.
The fundamentals of the job search -- reaching out to employers and making a positive impression -- haven't changed. But the tools for doing so are different today than even just a few years ago. For more relevant tips and ideas how to succesfully land that ideal dream job, check out what my colleagues Kevin Donlin and David Perry have put together in their new Guerilla Job Search DVD www.careerspro.com/program.htm You will find the above techniques and many more!
Friday, April 17, 2009
No Degree? A couple Tips
If you don't have a degree and you're looking for ways to land a job in spite of it, here are some tips on how you can sell your experience, regardless of your education.
1. Be a problem solver "Millions [of people] graduate with vague degrees that only attest to one's ability to read books and take tests, but not necessarily solve problems," Murphy says. "Industry experience conveys that you can solve problems for an employer right away or with little learning curve. Examine your experience and spell out how you helped solve problems, any problems. Competitors with degrees won't be able to compare."
2. Tell your 'Rocky' story"Not having an impressive academic pedigree -- or any degree at all -- can be a plus if you've found a way to succeed to this point without one. The more you can demonstrate a history of success relative to more pedigreed peers the better. You can paint yourself as a self-made professional, as compared with the silver-spoon Ivy Leaguer who had all the odds in their favor.
3. Be open to education,Many companies have favorable back-to-school plans for their employees. If you're speaking with a prospective employer that places a large emphasis on you might want to indicate a desire to take advantage of their plan. Demonstrating a desire to make up any gaps in your résumé while on the job might just tip the scales in your favor."
4. Don't make it a big deal. If it is an impediment to you, then you are going to reflect that when you talk with the company. There are really very few companies where the degree will stop [someone] from hiring a person if they are the best out there.
5. Focus on achievements over education. If you don't have a degree, it's very important for you to shine in every other aspect of your résumé.Don't settle for a list of tasks, but really demonstrate how you can do the job better than anyone else can. The best way is to do this is by providing concrete evidence of how you have excelled at similar tasks in the past through accomplishments."
6. For the interview, prepare several stories of success that showcase how you have accomplished tasks similar to others who possess a degree. If you are a sales professional for example, focus on how you exceeded your sales targets and have done as well as or better than your colleagues. If you are an accountant, prove how you have uncovered errors and recouped money for the company -- despite the fact that you didn't formally study accounting. If you are a high school graduate competing against a recent college graduate, talk about the experience you have garnered injobs you had while others your age were at college.
7. Create a combination résumé, The most important task is to market your key skills and accomplishments to the employer by creating a résumé that focuses on your contributions to your previous employers and your experience that is most relevant to the position for which you are applying. By creating a combination résumé that lists your relevant skills and experience first, you are sure to capture the hiring manager's attention. You initially want the employer to be able to fold your document in half and just by reading the top portion they know you are someone they should contact to schedule an interview. Does that top portion list education? Not necessarily.
For more resume and interview tips Check out the world's *only* Guerrilla Job Search System caught on video -- www.careerspro.com/program.htm
I've watched the DVD done by my colleagues David Perry and Kevin Donlin, and I can tell you it can absolutely help you find a job faster in this economy.
1. Be a problem solver "Millions [of people] graduate with vague degrees that only attest to one's ability to read books and take tests, but not necessarily solve problems," Murphy says. "Industry experience conveys that you can solve problems for an employer right away or with little learning curve. Examine your experience and spell out how you helped solve problems, any problems. Competitors with degrees won't be able to compare."
2. Tell your 'Rocky' story"Not having an impressive academic pedigree -- or any degree at all -- can be a plus if you've found a way to succeed to this point without one. The more you can demonstrate a history of success relative to more pedigreed peers the better. You can paint yourself as a self-made professional, as compared with the silver-spoon Ivy Leaguer who had all the odds in their favor.
3. Be open to education,Many companies have favorable back-to-school plans for their employees. If you're speaking with a prospective employer that places a large emphasis on you might want to indicate a desire to take advantage of their plan. Demonstrating a desire to make up any gaps in your résumé while on the job might just tip the scales in your favor."
4. Don't make it a big deal. If it is an impediment to you, then you are going to reflect that when you talk with the company. There are really very few companies where the degree will stop [someone] from hiring a person if they are the best out there.
5. Focus on achievements over education. If you don't have a degree, it's very important for you to shine in every other aspect of your résumé.Don't settle for a list of tasks, but really demonstrate how you can do the job better than anyone else can. The best way is to do this is by providing concrete evidence of how you have excelled at similar tasks in the past through accomplishments."
6. For the interview, prepare several stories of success that showcase how you have accomplished tasks similar to others who possess a degree. If you are a sales professional for example, focus on how you exceeded your sales targets and have done as well as or better than your colleagues. If you are an accountant, prove how you have uncovered errors and recouped money for the company -- despite the fact that you didn't formally study accounting. If you are a high school graduate competing against a recent college graduate, talk about the experience you have garnered injobs you had while others your age were at college.
7. Create a combination résumé, The most important task is to market your key skills and accomplishments to the employer by creating a résumé that focuses on your contributions to your previous employers and your experience that is most relevant to the position for which you are applying. By creating a combination résumé that lists your relevant skills and experience first, you are sure to capture the hiring manager's attention. You initially want the employer to be able to fold your document in half and just by reading the top portion they know you are someone they should contact to schedule an interview. Does that top portion list education? Not necessarily.
For more resume and interview tips Check out the world's *only* Guerrilla Job Search System caught on video -- www.careerspro.com/program.htm
I've watched the DVD done by my colleagues David Perry and Kevin Donlin, and I can tell you it can absolutely help you find a job faster in this economy.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
WORK
It's such an important part of our lives. And not just because of the money. Work gives life meaning. Purpose. It contributes to our sense of worth...our self-concept...even our mental and physical health. Work helps keep us centered-grounded-and that's so valuable during these times of chaotic change. But here's the paradox. The only way our work can carry this kind of positive, steadying influence on our day-to-day lives is for us to keep changing our approach to the job. As the world evolves, so must we.
Our work will slowly destroy us if we don't update our methods and mindsets. Imagine if we had quit evolving at the invention of the wheel! We are gifted with a great capacity for change, it is that ability to adapt that is the solution to our future. Our instincts towards exploring, innovating, pioneering are excellent tools in today's changing career climate. These powerful resources, together with our ability to manage our actions, position us to take advantage of the rich and amazing array of opportunities the next millennium will bring.
Change will continue to accelerate., technology will see to that and our world will become even more complex. But we are bigger than the challenges we face. The one inescapable requirement for success is that we ourselves must change. Born into one era, we must build our careers in another. Quite naturally, this calls for new behavior, New thinking, And maybe a little more nerve. Reluctance and fear are the number one stifling roadblock to any successful job search. In order to excel we must take risks, in today's job economy the old saying "nothing risked, nothing gained" has never been truer.
Check out the world's *only* Guerrilla Job Search System caught on video -- www.careerspro.com/program.htm I've watched the DVD done by my colleagues David Perry and Kevin Donlin, and I can tell you it can absolutely help you find a job faster in this economy.
It's such an important part of our lives. And not just because of the money. Work gives life meaning. Purpose. It contributes to our sense of worth...our self-concept...even our mental and physical health. Work helps keep us centered-grounded-and that's so valuable during these times of chaotic change. But here's the paradox. The only way our work can carry this kind of positive, steadying influence on our day-to-day lives is for us to keep changing our approach to the job. As the world evolves, so must we.
Our work will slowly destroy us if we don't update our methods and mindsets. Imagine if we had quit evolving at the invention of the wheel! We are gifted with a great capacity for change, it is that ability to adapt that is the solution to our future. Our instincts towards exploring, innovating, pioneering are excellent tools in today's changing career climate. These powerful resources, together with our ability to manage our actions, position us to take advantage of the rich and amazing array of opportunities the next millennium will bring.
Change will continue to accelerate., technology will see to that and our world will become even more complex. But we are bigger than the challenges we face. The one inescapable requirement for success is that we ourselves must change. Born into one era, we must build our careers in another. Quite naturally, this calls for new behavior, New thinking, And maybe a little more nerve. Reluctance and fear are the number one stifling roadblock to any successful job search. In order to excel we must take risks, in today's job economy the old saying "nothing risked, nothing gained" has never been truer.
Check out the world's *only* Guerrilla Job Search System caught on video -- www.careerspro.com/program.htm I've watched the DVD done by my colleagues David Perry and Kevin Donlin, and I can tell you it can absolutely help you find a job faster in this economy.
Monday, April 6, 2009
So, tell me about yourself ?
This is the most often the lead-off question in any initial interview. Of the thousands of job seekers I have interviewed, it is almost unanimous in that people have found this to be the most difficult question to answer. In baseball, there is a number 1 batting (lead-off) position and the player in the lead off spot is expected to at least get on base, any base. While the "so tell me about yourself "question is typically viewed by some job seekers as a mere formality; an icebreaker if you will, you better at least hit a single or you'll be relegated to the bench and sent packing in short order. It's that important !Seasoned hiring authorities will always ask this question almost immediately. Making a good first impression with an organized, smooth, well scripted and concise answer will set the tone for a positive interview experience. The should be answered in a minute and a half to two minutes maximum. The interviewer is not looking for dissertation but rather a thumbnail sketch of your experience and education. Unless you are a recent college grad, what is the interviewer looking for here ?• A brief introduction. Your education, where your work history and your job titles at each employer (even though your resume already states those facts do it anyway) and what led you into your profession would be a good opening.• Major accomplishments that would be of interest to that particular employer.• Prominent strengths as confirmed by those major accomplishments.• How you see yourself progressing within that organization assuming of course you are not knowingly applying for a dead in job.Remember, a "maximum" of two minutes ! If you do keep it succinct but interesting from the employers point of view, you'll leave the interviewer just salivating to ask you to get into more detail on the points you've momentarily touched on. You'll notice I did not mention anything about openly discussing your personal life. I did that on purpose. Suggestion: Thoroughly plan out your point-by-point answer. Now, record and listen to your response focusing in on relevant content, tone of voice and over all delivery. Practice, practice, practice until you get it just right ! Don't hit a single; the bases are loaded, there are two outs and you're in a clutch game situation here. You'll hit a homerun if you have invested the time.
This is the most often the lead-off question in any initial interview. Of the thousands of job seekers I have interviewed, it is almost unanimous in that people have found this to be the most difficult question to answer. In baseball, there is a number 1 batting (lead-off) position and the player in the lead off spot is expected to at least get on base, any base. While the "so tell me about yourself "question is typically viewed by some job seekers as a mere formality; an icebreaker if you will, you better at least hit a single or you'll be relegated to the bench and sent packing in short order. It's that important !Seasoned hiring authorities will always ask this question almost immediately. Making a good first impression with an organized, smooth, well scripted and concise answer will set the tone for a positive interview experience. The should be answered in a minute and a half to two minutes maximum. The interviewer is not looking for dissertation but rather a thumbnail sketch of your experience and education. Unless you are a recent college grad, what is the interviewer looking for here ?• A brief introduction. Your education, where your work history and your job titles at each employer (even though your resume already states those facts do it anyway) and what led you into your profession would be a good opening.• Major accomplishments that would be of interest to that particular employer.• Prominent strengths as confirmed by those major accomplishments.• How you see yourself progressing within that organization assuming of course you are not knowingly applying for a dead in job.Remember, a "maximum" of two minutes ! If you do keep it succinct but interesting from the employers point of view, you'll leave the interviewer just salivating to ask you to get into more detail on the points you've momentarily touched on. You'll notice I did not mention anything about openly discussing your personal life. I did that on purpose. Suggestion: Thoroughly plan out your point-by-point answer. Now, record and listen to your response focusing in on relevant content, tone of voice and over all delivery. Practice, practice, practice until you get it just right ! Don't hit a single; the bases are loaded, there are two outs and you're in a clutch game situation here. You'll hit a homerun if you have invested the time.
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