The first thirty seconds of the interview will ultimately determine if you get the job or not. Not only are first impressions crucial they are everything. If you have created a bad first impression you are sunk dead in the water. It would have been much better for your career and employment prospects if you had never shown up for the interview, called in sick so to say and stayed in bed at home for the day.
You have been screened into an interview because you have appeared qualified on paper. The employer uses the interview to learn whether or not you have the personal qualifications needed to fit into the organization. As well the interview process is used to confirm and further conform you work habits and work performance skills in action.
The first thirty seconds count most. People form basic opinions as well as basic assumptions about you within the first 30 seconds of meeting you. These opinions and assumptions may be conscious choices by the interviewer. In many cases this process in an unconscious one. The interviewer may never realize that they have determined basis assumptions of you - that determine you career path. It may never be acknowledged that these prejudices so to speak are even recognized as being held never mind acknowledged in conversation. The role of assumptions in our daily lives is integral.
If we did not make assumptions about people and places we encounter we would be spending most of our daily lives starting from scratch on everything in order to determine information, tactics and strategies.
The first thirty seconds do count. Interviewers will often say that they usually form strong opinions about applicant in the time it takes for the job seeker to walk across the room and say “Hello”.
How can you make those first impressions and those vital 30 seconds work for you as opposed for against you in your quest for that job or gainful employment or gainful advancement.
It comes down to 2 concepts. Preparation, presentation and attitude.
Prepare to be be prepared. Arrive on time with the essentials. Never arrive late or if an emergency arises phone ahead. Show that you are a person of honor, integrity and respectful toward others.
If the interview requires some preparation or tools plan ahead to either do the task or bring the equipment. Many a job interview is sunk even before the event when a potential job seeker does not bring a pen to fill out an application. Strike one. It is reasoned by many gatekeepers of the first step in the organizational hiring process that if a person cannot even prepare to bring a pen to fill out the application form then they are a person who cannot plan ahead for tasks and are a poor choice for employment at that place of work.
Second in the list of concepts is presentation. Dress well and appropriately. Be neat. Details count down to clean fingernails and clean and polished shoes. How to dress? Generally look at the industry and its employees. Do not overdress to impress the interviewer. If you are applying at an organization where people dress in a jacket and tie it is wise to dress as such or one step up. To come in an expensive tailored Armani suit may not be a wise idea.
Attitude after the previous two concepts are attended to can be the number one factor. Attitude is said to be the primary factor that influences an employer to hire. First of all concentrate on being likeable. Interviewers want to hire pleasant people whom others will enjoy working with on a daily basis.
To project that you are highly likeable it is best to be friendly, courteous and enthusiastic. Speak positively. Use positive body language. Smile.
It is best to project and air of pride and confidence. Act as though you thoroughly want and deserve the job – not as though you are desperate for the job.
Demonstrate enthusiasm. An applicant’s level of enthusiasm often influences the employer as much as any other interviewing. The applicant who demonstrates little enthusiasm for a job or even life will never be selected for employment positions.
It is best to demonstrate knowledge of and interest in the employer. Saying that “I really want this job” is not convincing and mature enough. Explain in the interview why you want the position and how that position fits into your career plans and ultimately benefits the employment organization. It may even be that the employer’s position or firm offer unique opportunities or training that are highly relevant to your career and personal growth.
Perform your best at every moment. It is not as if you are on parade or presenting a false show. Be sincere but remember that there is no such thing as “time out” during an interview. Even from the beginning treat even the receptionist courteously. You may want to enquire about his or her name and conduct basis small talk. In the end it can be said that you never really know who can ultimately help or hinder your job employment prospects and success.
Lastly remember that an interview and the interview process is a two way street. You should project a genuine and sincere interest in determining whether you and the employer can mutually benefit from your gainful employment.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Friday, April 27, 2007
10 Steps To Improve Your Job Chances 2007
Many companies and organizations do a significant amount of hiring during the first few months of the year. But most people make the mistake of firing off their resumes without putting any real thought into the important, and sometimes daunting task of finding a new job.
In the competitive job market of today it’s essential to stay up to date by finding new ways of marketing yourself and your valuable skills. Current statistics show that the average job search can be anywhere from two to an astounding ten months long. Here are ten steps to help quickly improve your chances of landing that perfect job in 2007.
1. Plan for Success
For any venture to be successful, including the search for a new job, proper planning is the first essential step. If you already know what your goals are both short and long-term, then planning your job search should be relatively simple. You should then know where you see yourself in a year as well as where you’d like to be in five years.
2. Be Realistic
If you’re considering changing careers completely, then you may need to sit down and review your qualifications. Perhaps you’ll need to take a few courses to brush up on your current skills or enroll in a class to learn a few new ones.
3. Make a List and Check it Twice
Make a list of all of your recent achievements and figure out how to incorporate them into your resume or CV. Think of any special projects you may have been a part of or any other job-related success stories that you might have which can be summarized effectively in your resume and cover letters.
4. Toot Your Own Horn
Remember that employers want to know what you can do for them and how you’ll help to better their company. By providing what you’ve already done and not just what you intend on doing will help better your chances of beating out the competition.
5. Revamp that Resume/C.V
Now that you have a complete list of all of your achievements the next step is to add them to your resume in a way that will get you noticed. Keep in mind that the average recruiter or employer will spend under one minute glancing at your resume or CV, so it’s imperative that you make an impression quickly in order to land that interview. And it should go without saying that you must triple, even quadruple check spelling and grammar before sending anything to a prospective employer.
6. Scope out Your Prospects
Considering that we spend a large majority of our lives at work, it makes sense to find a job that you enjoy doing at a place you can be comfortable. By doing a little research to find the best companies that are suited to your needs, you’ll better your chances of finding the best work environment for you and your style.
7. Spread the Word
Social networking can be an excellent way of improving your chances of finding a job. Let everyone know you’re looking to make a career move and attend career fairs and trade shows as well.
8. Explore the Web
The internet is an extremely valuable resource when it comes to job hunting. Post your resume on the various job boards and stay in the know about what’s happening in your particular industry. Sign up to be notified via e-mail when jobs that interest you are posted.
9. Make Yourself Over, Not Just Your Resume
Dress to impress when you’re on interviews, and remember that this is one of those instances where less is more. By keeping make-up, jewelry and perfume or cologne to a minimum you’ll project a more professional image.
10. Take a Breather
Job hunting can be mentally exhausting so it’s easy to get burned out before you even get the new position. To make sure that doesn’t happen, allow your mind a break once in a while. Find ways to relax and participate in activities you enjoy. When you resume your search you’ll have a fresh outlook and a better perspective on things.
In the competitive job market of today it’s essential to stay up to date by finding new ways of marketing yourself and your valuable skills. Current statistics show that the average job search can be anywhere from two to an astounding ten months long. Here are ten steps to help quickly improve your chances of landing that perfect job in 2007.
1. Plan for Success
For any venture to be successful, including the search for a new job, proper planning is the first essential step. If you already know what your goals are both short and long-term, then planning your job search should be relatively simple. You should then know where you see yourself in a year as well as where you’d like to be in five years.
2. Be Realistic
If you’re considering changing careers completely, then you may need to sit down and review your qualifications. Perhaps you’ll need to take a few courses to brush up on your current skills or enroll in a class to learn a few new ones.
3. Make a List and Check it Twice
Make a list of all of your recent achievements and figure out how to incorporate them into your resume or CV. Think of any special projects you may have been a part of or any other job-related success stories that you might have which can be summarized effectively in your resume and cover letters.
4. Toot Your Own Horn
Remember that employers want to know what you can do for them and how you’ll help to better their company. By providing what you’ve already done and not just what you intend on doing will help better your chances of beating out the competition.
5. Revamp that Resume/C.V
Now that you have a complete list of all of your achievements the next step is to add them to your resume in a way that will get you noticed. Keep in mind that the average recruiter or employer will spend under one minute glancing at your resume or CV, so it’s imperative that you make an impression quickly in order to land that interview. And it should go without saying that you must triple, even quadruple check spelling and grammar before sending anything to a prospective employer.
6. Scope out Your Prospects
Considering that we spend a large majority of our lives at work, it makes sense to find a job that you enjoy doing at a place you can be comfortable. By doing a little research to find the best companies that are suited to your needs, you’ll better your chances of finding the best work environment for you and your style.
7. Spread the Word
Social networking can be an excellent way of improving your chances of finding a job. Let everyone know you’re looking to make a career move and attend career fairs and trade shows as well.
8. Explore the Web
The internet is an extremely valuable resource when it comes to job hunting. Post your resume on the various job boards and stay in the know about what’s happening in your particular industry. Sign up to be notified via e-mail when jobs that interest you are posted.
9. Make Yourself Over, Not Just Your Resume
Dress to impress when you’re on interviews, and remember that this is one of those instances where less is more. By keeping make-up, jewelry and perfume or cologne to a minimum you’ll project a more professional image.
10. Take a Breather
Job hunting can be mentally exhausting so it’s easy to get burned out before you even get the new position. To make sure that doesn’t happen, allow your mind a break once in a while. Find ways to relax and participate in activities you enjoy. When you resume your search you’ll have a fresh outlook and a better perspective on things.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
The First 30 Seconds Count The Most On Your Job Employment Interview
The first thirty seconds of the interview will ultimately determine if you get the job or not. Not only are first impressions crucial they are everything. If you have created a bad first impression you are sunk dead in the water. It would have been much better for your career and employment prospects if you had never shown up for the interview, called in sick so to say and stayed in bed at home for the day.
You have been screened into an interview because you have appeared qualified on paper. The employer uses the interview to learn whether or not you have the personal qualifications needed to fit into the organization. As well the interview process is used to confirm and further conform you work habits and work performance skills in action.
The first thirty seconds count most. People form basic opinions as well as basic assumptions about you within the first 30 seconds of meeting you. These opinions and assumptions may be conscious choices by the interviewer. In many cases this process in an unconscious one. The interviewer may never realize that they have determined basis assumptions of you - that determine you career path. It may never be acknowledged that these prejudices so to speak are even recognized as being held never mind acknowledged in conversation. The role of assumptions in our daily lives is integral.
If we did not make assumptions about people and places we encounter we would be spending most of our daily lives starting from scratch on everything in order to determine information, tactics and strategies.
The first thirty seconds do count. Interviewers will often say that they usually form strong opinions about applicant in the time it takes for the job seeker to walk across the room and say “Hello”.
How can you make those first impressions and those vital 30 seconds work for you as opposed for against you in your quest for that job or gainful employment or gainful advancement.
It comes down to 2 concepts. Preparation, presentation and attitude.
Prepare to be be prepared. Arrive on time with the essentials. Never arrive late or if an emergency arises phone ahead. Show that you are a person of honor, integrity and respectful toward others.
If the interview requires some preparation or tools plan ahead to either do the task or bring the equipment. Many a job interview is sunk even before the event when a potential job seeker does not bring a pen to fill out an application. Strike one. It is reasoned by many gatekeepers of the first step in the organizational hiring process that if a person cannot even prepare to bring a pen to fill out the application form then they are a person who cannot plan ahead for tasks and are a poor choice for employment at that place of work.
Second in the list of concepts is presentation. Dress well and appropriately. Be neat. Details count down to clean fingernails and clean and polished shoes. How to dress? Generally look at the industry and its employees. Do not overdress to impress the interviewer. If you are applying at an organization where people dress in a jacket and tie it is wise to dress as such or one step up. To come in an expensive tailored Armani suit may not be a wise idea.
Attitude after the previous two concepts are attended to can be the number one factor. Attitude is said to be the primary factor that influences an employer to hire. First of all concentrate on being likeable. Interviewers want to hire pleasant people whom others will enjoy working with on a daily basis.
To project that you are highly likeable it is best to be friendly, courteous and enthusiastic. Speak positively. Use positive body language. Smile.
It is best to project and air of pride and confidence. Act as though you thoroughly want and deserve the job – not as though you are desperate for the job.
Demonstrate enthusiasm. An applicant’s level of enthusiasm often influences the employer as much as any other interviewing. The applicant who demonstrates little enthusiasm for a job or even life will never be selected for employment positions.
It is best to demonstrate knowledge of and interest in the employer. Saying that “I really want this job” is not convincing and mature enough. Explain in the interview why you want the position and how that position fits into your career plans and ultimately benefits the employment organization. It may even be that the employer’s position or firm offer unique opportunities or training that are highly relevant to your career and personal growth.
Perform your best at every moment. It is not as if you are on parade or presenting a false show. Be sincere but remember that there is no such thing as “time out” during an interview. Even from the beginning treat even the receptionist courteously. You may want to enquire about his or her name and conduct basis small talk. In the end it can be said that you never really know who can ultimately help or hinder your job employment prospects and success.
Lastly remember that an interview and the interview process is a two way street. You should project a genuine and sincere interest in determining whether you and the employer can mutually benefit from your gainful employment.
You have been screened into an interview because you have appeared qualified on paper. The employer uses the interview to learn whether or not you have the personal qualifications needed to fit into the organization. As well the interview process is used to confirm and further conform you work habits and work performance skills in action.
The first thirty seconds count most. People form basic opinions as well as basic assumptions about you within the first 30 seconds of meeting you. These opinions and assumptions may be conscious choices by the interviewer. In many cases this process in an unconscious one. The interviewer may never realize that they have determined basis assumptions of you - that determine you career path. It may never be acknowledged that these prejudices so to speak are even recognized as being held never mind acknowledged in conversation. The role of assumptions in our daily lives is integral.
If we did not make assumptions about people and places we encounter we would be spending most of our daily lives starting from scratch on everything in order to determine information, tactics and strategies.
The first thirty seconds do count. Interviewers will often say that they usually form strong opinions about applicant in the time it takes for the job seeker to walk across the room and say “Hello”.
How can you make those first impressions and those vital 30 seconds work for you as opposed for against you in your quest for that job or gainful employment or gainful advancement.
It comes down to 2 concepts. Preparation, presentation and attitude.
Prepare to be be prepared. Arrive on time with the essentials. Never arrive late or if an emergency arises phone ahead. Show that you are a person of honor, integrity and respectful toward others.
If the interview requires some preparation or tools plan ahead to either do the task or bring the equipment. Many a job interview is sunk even before the event when a potential job seeker does not bring a pen to fill out an application. Strike one. It is reasoned by many gatekeepers of the first step in the organizational hiring process that if a person cannot even prepare to bring a pen to fill out the application form then they are a person who cannot plan ahead for tasks and are a poor choice for employment at that place of work.
Second in the list of concepts is presentation. Dress well and appropriately. Be neat. Details count down to clean fingernails and clean and polished shoes. How to dress? Generally look at the industry and its employees. Do not overdress to impress the interviewer. If you are applying at an organization where people dress in a jacket and tie it is wise to dress as such or one step up. To come in an expensive tailored Armani suit may not be a wise idea.
Attitude after the previous two concepts are attended to can be the number one factor. Attitude is said to be the primary factor that influences an employer to hire. First of all concentrate on being likeable. Interviewers want to hire pleasant people whom others will enjoy working with on a daily basis.
To project that you are highly likeable it is best to be friendly, courteous and enthusiastic. Speak positively. Use positive body language. Smile.
It is best to project and air of pride and confidence. Act as though you thoroughly want and deserve the job – not as though you are desperate for the job.
Demonstrate enthusiasm. An applicant’s level of enthusiasm often influences the employer as much as any other interviewing. The applicant who demonstrates little enthusiasm for a job or even life will never be selected for employment positions.
It is best to demonstrate knowledge of and interest in the employer. Saying that “I really want this job” is not convincing and mature enough. Explain in the interview why you want the position and how that position fits into your career plans and ultimately benefits the employment organization. It may even be that the employer’s position or firm offer unique opportunities or training that are highly relevant to your career and personal growth.
Perform your best at every moment. It is not as if you are on parade or presenting a false show. Be sincere but remember that there is no such thing as “time out” during an interview. Even from the beginning treat even the receptionist courteously. You may want to enquire about his or her name and conduct basis small talk. In the end it can be said that you never really know who can ultimately help or hinder your job employment prospects and success.
Lastly remember that an interview and the interview process is a two way street. You should project a genuine and sincere interest in determining whether you and the employer can mutually benefit from your gainful employment.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Learn How to Successfully Search for a New Career
Love What You do and You Will Succeed
In Barbara Sher's, Wishcraft: How to get what you Really Want, she states one of the foundations of success is enjoying what you do. If you are not quite sure where your interests or passions are, think about the games that you played as a child. Did you play teacher, doctor, or cops and robbers? Did you enjoy directing and coordinating the activities of the group, or did you enjoy playing alone? Think back to what you enjoyed to start your career search for your future.
Career Assessment is a Valuable Tool for Career Success
If you have difficulty finding your talents and interests, career assessment tests are valuable tools to help you discover your hidden abilities. Most colleges and universities have guidance counselors that can administer and evaluate the testing for you. You can also do career assessments online. There are numerous Web sites that offer free testing. You can take several tests to see if a pattern emerges across the different evaluations on what career best suits you.
Evaluate Your Lifestyle
You should consider what your lifestyle needs are. Do you need full-time or part-time work? Do you like an 8 to 5 or prefer flexibility in your schedule? Are you most productive at an office or at home? Success in your new career can be determined by how compatible your work is with your lifestyle.
Talk to Others
Professionals doing the job are the best source of knowledge and insight into the new career you are contemplating. Ask those in the profession about their jobs and get their feedback. Setting up informational interviews is a great way to get a feel for an industry.
Walk the Talk
After twenty years as an accountant, I wanted to do something more. As a "people" person, I didn't like the alienation of crunching numbers all day. I was also bored. However, I was nervous about giving up proficiency in a field and starting over. When I became Controller at a mortgage company, I watched the loan officers, and I liked what I saw. Loan officers helped people, controlled their own schedules, and were constantly challenged by new scenarios. So, I decided to become a loan officer and have enjoyed it ever-since.
You can make the change too. Take stock of your skills, your interests, and your dreams and move toward a more promising future. A promising career is only a "wish" and some "assessing" away.
Sources
Sher, Barbara. Wishcraft: How to get What you Really Want. Ballantine Books; New York, NY, 1979.
In Barbara Sher's, Wishcraft: How to get what you Really Want, she states one of the foundations of success is enjoying what you do. If you are not quite sure where your interests or passions are, think about the games that you played as a child. Did you play teacher, doctor, or cops and robbers? Did you enjoy directing and coordinating the activities of the group, or did you enjoy playing alone? Think back to what you enjoyed to start your career search for your future.
Career Assessment is a Valuable Tool for Career Success
If you have difficulty finding your talents and interests, career assessment tests are valuable tools to help you discover your hidden abilities. Most colleges and universities have guidance counselors that can administer and evaluate the testing for you. You can also do career assessments online. There are numerous Web sites that offer free testing. You can take several tests to see if a pattern emerges across the different evaluations on what career best suits you.
Evaluate Your Lifestyle
You should consider what your lifestyle needs are. Do you need full-time or part-time work? Do you like an 8 to 5 or prefer flexibility in your schedule? Are you most productive at an office or at home? Success in your new career can be determined by how compatible your work is with your lifestyle.
Talk to Others
Professionals doing the job are the best source of knowledge and insight into the new career you are contemplating. Ask those in the profession about their jobs and get their feedback. Setting up informational interviews is a great way to get a feel for an industry.
Walk the Talk
After twenty years as an accountant, I wanted to do something more. As a "people" person, I didn't like the alienation of crunching numbers all day. I was also bored. However, I was nervous about giving up proficiency in a field and starting over. When I became Controller at a mortgage company, I watched the loan officers, and I liked what I saw. Loan officers helped people, controlled their own schedules, and were constantly challenged by new scenarios. So, I decided to become a loan officer and have enjoyed it ever-since.
You can make the change too. Take stock of your skills, your interests, and your dreams and move toward a more promising future. A promising career is only a "wish" and some "assessing" away.
Sources
Sher, Barbara. Wishcraft: How to get What you Really Want. Ballantine Books; New York, NY, 1979.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Key to Success: Passion for Your Career
An important key to success is developing passion for your career. This means thriving in your work, not just surviving. When you have that extra spark that generates enthusiasm, others see it and want to be part of it. You become a leader who is sought after and valued because of your positive attitude.
But what if you don’t have that passion going for you in your current job? Or what if you used to have it but it has faded away over the years? There are some simple steps you can follow to develop or renew your career zeal as part of your leadership development.
Step 1 – Self Assessment
The first step is to do some in depth self assessment. Think about things that you really like to do and explore why those things generate such passion for you. Go beyond the activity itself and focus on the underlying reason why that activity is so appealing. For example, do you like the chance to be creative? Do you enjoy the variety, or perhaps the challenge? Do you thrive on the detail and complexity? Or do you like the rush of excitement and need for problem solving?
Now take your list of characteristics that make you feel passionate and match them up with the attributes of your job. Take a fresh look at your job and look for areas where your passions already exist so you can build on them. Think about which of the bad parts you can change and which ones you can’t change. Look for ways to infuse the bad parts with the attributes you find so invigorating.
Step 2 – Take Action
It may be tempting to just sit back and wait for things to get better, but if you do that you will end up stuck right where you are right now. Take steps to make improvements, even if those steps seem small or insignificant. Just the act of doing something is invigorating, which moves you away from being a victim and into a positive frame of mind.
For example, do you hate doing paperwork but love working directly with customers? Maybe there is a way to share some of the burden of that paperwork, or even swap responsibilities with someone who likes paperwork but is not as enthusiastic about customer contact. Don’t assume something is not possible – brainstorm, think of options, and ask someone else for their ideas.
Step 3 – Take In Energy
Think about things that you find energizing and make a point of including them in your life. Your job inevitably consumes energy, so it is important that you replace it somehow. The best way to do this is to add some variety to your life and find something fun to expand your horizons.
Examples of ways you might energize yourself include:
· Exercise
· Try something new
· Read a book just for fun
· Change the decorations in your office or cubicle
· Volunteer your time
· Go to lunch with someone you don’t know
· Take on a new responsibility at work
· Spend time with your mentor
· Make changes to your work schedule
· Take a personal day off to just relax
· Meditate
· Join a club or professional organization
· Write a letter
· Write in your journal or diary
· Commit a random act of kindness
· Surprise someone
Everybody gains positive energy in different ways, so think about what works best for you and add it to your leadership development plan. Even a little bit of something positive can go a long way toward reinvigorating your excitement and passion.
But what if you don’t have that passion going for you in your current job? Or what if you used to have it but it has faded away over the years? There are some simple steps you can follow to develop or renew your career zeal as part of your leadership development.
Step 1 – Self Assessment
The first step is to do some in depth self assessment. Think about things that you really like to do and explore why those things generate such passion for you. Go beyond the activity itself and focus on the underlying reason why that activity is so appealing. For example, do you like the chance to be creative? Do you enjoy the variety, or perhaps the challenge? Do you thrive on the detail and complexity? Or do you like the rush of excitement and need for problem solving?
Now take your list of characteristics that make you feel passionate and match them up with the attributes of your job. Take a fresh look at your job and look for areas where your passions already exist so you can build on them. Think about which of the bad parts you can change and which ones you can’t change. Look for ways to infuse the bad parts with the attributes you find so invigorating.
Step 2 – Take Action
It may be tempting to just sit back and wait for things to get better, but if you do that you will end up stuck right where you are right now. Take steps to make improvements, even if those steps seem small or insignificant. Just the act of doing something is invigorating, which moves you away from being a victim and into a positive frame of mind.
For example, do you hate doing paperwork but love working directly with customers? Maybe there is a way to share some of the burden of that paperwork, or even swap responsibilities with someone who likes paperwork but is not as enthusiastic about customer contact. Don’t assume something is not possible – brainstorm, think of options, and ask someone else for their ideas.
Step 3 – Take In Energy
Think about things that you find energizing and make a point of including them in your life. Your job inevitably consumes energy, so it is important that you replace it somehow. The best way to do this is to add some variety to your life and find something fun to expand your horizons.
Examples of ways you might energize yourself include:
· Exercise
· Try something new
· Read a book just for fun
· Change the decorations in your office or cubicle
· Volunteer your time
· Go to lunch with someone you don’t know
· Take on a new responsibility at work
· Spend time with your mentor
· Make changes to your work schedule
· Take a personal day off to just relax
· Meditate
· Join a club or professional organization
· Write a letter
· Write in your journal or diary
· Commit a random act of kindness
· Surprise someone
Everybody gains positive energy in different ways, so think about what works best for you and add it to your leadership development plan. Even a little bit of something positive can go a long way toward reinvigorating your excitement and passion.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Get that job you’ve always wanted with a great resume.
If you’re looking for a job in this increasingly competitive job market your best chance of securing that job is via a great resume. Remember that a number of jobs are being outsourced so the remaining choice jobs are even harder to come by. The more you can convince an employer that you are the perfect candidate for the position the easier it will be for you to land the job of your dreams.
The first thing you might ask is: “What is a resume?” A resume is a document that informs your potential employer of your experiences, and accomplishments in the best possible light. It also lets your potential employer know what it is you are looking for and what your expectations are as well. It can also state any personal attributes that may impact in a positive manner on your job performance. Examples of this would be an ability to work under stress, punctuality, ability to communicate well with others.
It helps to know in advance what your prospective employer is looking for in an employee. Some of the key qualities are a willingness to share information and ideas. Another is one’s ability to work within a team. Responsiveness to change is important in that it demonstrates a degree of flexibility in the work environment. It also demonstrates a willingness to take risks with new ideas and products.
The first item in your resume is the cover letter. This is the introduction to your personal resume and must be interesting enough to entice the potential employer to proceed further. First address the cover letter to a specific person in charge of resource management. The paper and fonts used should be basic and not distract from the content of the resume. Use the “KISS” principle by keeping your cover letter short and to the point. In your opening you should list why you are writing. Then in the next paragraph ask for the job you are interested in obtaining and explain why you are the best person for the job. Then thank the reader for their time and make sure you leave your phone number and/or e-mail address so that the employer may contact you if any questions arise.
In the resume itself you should list your job descriptions in a chronological order starting with the most recent job descriptions first and then moving backwards. List any technical knowledge first, in an organized manner. Use action verbs and portray yourself as a “go-getter”. Leave out unnecessary personal information. Be concise.
The most common mistakes to avoid are being too verbose. One page should suffice. Do not use fancy paper or fonts, they detract from the content of the resume. Outdated or useless information will also detract from the resume. The most common error of all is selling yourself short. Let the employer know how truly valuable you are.
With these tips you should be able to increase your chances of obtaining that job you want.
The first thing you might ask is: “What is a resume?” A resume is a document that informs your potential employer of your experiences, and accomplishments in the best possible light. It also lets your potential employer know what it is you are looking for and what your expectations are as well. It can also state any personal attributes that may impact in a positive manner on your job performance. Examples of this would be an ability to work under stress, punctuality, ability to communicate well with others.
It helps to know in advance what your prospective employer is looking for in an employee. Some of the key qualities are a willingness to share information and ideas. Another is one’s ability to work within a team. Responsiveness to change is important in that it demonstrates a degree of flexibility in the work environment. It also demonstrates a willingness to take risks with new ideas and products.
The first item in your resume is the cover letter. This is the introduction to your personal resume and must be interesting enough to entice the potential employer to proceed further. First address the cover letter to a specific person in charge of resource management. The paper and fonts used should be basic and not distract from the content of the resume. Use the “KISS” principle by keeping your cover letter short and to the point. In your opening you should list why you are writing. Then in the next paragraph ask for the job you are interested in obtaining and explain why you are the best person for the job. Then thank the reader for their time and make sure you leave your phone number and/or e-mail address so that the employer may contact you if any questions arise.
In the resume itself you should list your job descriptions in a chronological order starting with the most recent job descriptions first and then moving backwards. List any technical knowledge first, in an organized manner. Use action verbs and portray yourself as a “go-getter”. Leave out unnecessary personal information. Be concise.
The most common mistakes to avoid are being too verbose. One page should suffice. Do not use fancy paper or fonts, they detract from the content of the resume. Outdated or useless information will also detract from the resume. The most common error of all is selling yourself short. Let the employer know how truly valuable you are.
With these tips you should be able to increase your chances of obtaining that job you want.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
5 tips for acing any job interview
Job interviews are a right of passage for young adults and a real pain in the you know what for everyone else. They are preceded by stress, nervousness and uncertainty. The problem is that your prospective employer is looking for certain things out of you and you have no idea what they are. For all you know, they're looking for a supremely flexible person that can wing certain things and you present yourself as a regimented go getter that will follow company policy to the letter. You're never going to know for sure but here are 5 tips to help you ace any job interview.
Study the prospective company
You want to make sure you know the company that you're interviewing for as thoroughly as possible. When did they come into business? How did they grown into what they are now? Most importantly, where do they see themselves going? If you know these things, you'll be better able to articulate how you fit into their plans.
Know the position you're interviewing for
You'll want to know the ins and outs of the position you're up for. For instance, if you're interviewing for a secretarial position, touch up on your typing and let them know that you are skilled at it. If you're a traveling salesman, let your prospective employer know that you enjoy being on the road and meeting new people. This will apply to any field. Make sure you're interviewer knows that you're aware of the requirements of the job and you're up to the task.
Keep a light touch
I can't tell you how many times I've heard from employers that the person they were considering hiring had all the right qualifications, had all the skills necessary to fill a position, but they just couldn't picture working with this person. That's right, its not something you'll hear spoken about, but employers are human beings too and they want to work with someone they like. So although you want to convey that you're knowledgeable and capable, make sure your interviewer knows that you're not a stick in the mud. If you keep a sense of humor and allow yourself to smile and laugh a little, you're a step ahead of most people.
Stress the unique benefits you bring to the job
We all have different life experiences that lead us to where we're at. You need to figure a way to incorporate your life experiences into an asset for your prospective company and they convey that to your interviewer. Maybe you worked at a fast food restaurant and the law firm you're interviewing for is involved in litigation against a local fast food chain. Anything you can bring to the table that makes you a unique asset to this company will help your chances.
For God's sake, dress appropriately
There truly is no second chance to make a first impression. This doesn't mean you have to don formal wear for your interview but it does mean that you have to dress according to the job you're looking for. A suit will not work if you're interviewing to be the foreman at a construction company. Likewise, constructions boots won't work if you're interviewing at a law firm. If you're interviewing for a marketing position, learn the lay of the land. Do they dress casual? Maybe khakis and a Polo shirt are appropriate. Are they more buttoned down, you may want to wear a suit and tie/
What it really comes down to is doing your due diligence. You've heard it a million times in all areas of business and it applies here too. You need to put a little work in beforehand so you know what you're walking into. Always remember what Sun Tzu said in The Art of War, "Every battle is won before it is ever fought."
Study the prospective company
You want to make sure you know the company that you're interviewing for as thoroughly as possible. When did they come into business? How did they grown into what they are now? Most importantly, where do they see themselves going? If you know these things, you'll be better able to articulate how you fit into their plans.
Know the position you're interviewing for
You'll want to know the ins and outs of the position you're up for. For instance, if you're interviewing for a secretarial position, touch up on your typing and let them know that you are skilled at it. If you're a traveling salesman, let your prospective employer know that you enjoy being on the road and meeting new people. This will apply to any field. Make sure you're interviewer knows that you're aware of the requirements of the job and you're up to the task.
Keep a light touch
I can't tell you how many times I've heard from employers that the person they were considering hiring had all the right qualifications, had all the skills necessary to fill a position, but they just couldn't picture working with this person. That's right, its not something you'll hear spoken about, but employers are human beings too and they want to work with someone they like. So although you want to convey that you're knowledgeable and capable, make sure your interviewer knows that you're not a stick in the mud. If you keep a sense of humor and allow yourself to smile and laugh a little, you're a step ahead of most people.
Stress the unique benefits you bring to the job
We all have different life experiences that lead us to where we're at. You need to figure a way to incorporate your life experiences into an asset for your prospective company and they convey that to your interviewer. Maybe you worked at a fast food restaurant and the law firm you're interviewing for is involved in litigation against a local fast food chain. Anything you can bring to the table that makes you a unique asset to this company will help your chances.
For God's sake, dress appropriately
There truly is no second chance to make a first impression. This doesn't mean you have to don formal wear for your interview but it does mean that you have to dress according to the job you're looking for. A suit will not work if you're interviewing to be the foreman at a construction company. Likewise, constructions boots won't work if you're interviewing at a law firm. If you're interviewing for a marketing position, learn the lay of the land. Do they dress casual? Maybe khakis and a Polo shirt are appropriate. Are they more buttoned down, you may want to wear a suit and tie/
What it really comes down to is doing your due diligence. You've heard it a million times in all areas of business and it applies here too. You need to put a little work in beforehand so you know what you're walking into. Always remember what Sun Tzu said in The Art of War, "Every battle is won before it is ever fought."
Monday, April 2, 2007
Five Ways To Get The Job Of Your Dreams
Are you frustrated with your current job and ready to either move up or move on? Maybe you feel it's time to look for a new job with higher pay, better benefits, and a lot more job satisfaction. And, quite possibly, you've been downsized, let go, or fired and need a good job fast.
Chances are, you've experienced one or all of these situations. You may be looking for a new job now. If so, you can benefit from these five simple tips to help you find and land the job of your dreams.
I learned these strategies during my 25 years as CEO of a large staffing firm. During that time, then later as a career coach, I worked with every kind of person, job, success story, and horror story you can imagine. From those years I gleaned these five top ways to get the kind of work you want.
1. Take ACTION! Those two short words are the key to the treasure. Most people don't get the job they deserve because they're too overworked, too tired, too discouraged, or not motivated enough to jump up and get their job search going. Don't sit there -- get moving, NOW!
2. Toot your own horn to draw attention to your abilities, ideas, and accomplishments. This is particularly true for people trying to move up in their current organization. Too often we play down our accomplishments and wind up getting ignored at promotion time. Make sure you tactfully point out your skills, good ideas, and big wins to the boss.
3. Go the extra mile. If you're looking for a new job, don't simply stop with a resume and a cover letter. Offer to help the employer with ideas via email, make yourself available 24/7 by cell phone, or offer to stop by the employer's office at his or her convenience.
4. Stand OUT from the crowd. Anything you can do to separate yourself from all the other applicants will put you miles ahead. You might write a different kind of resume, have your application package delivered by singing courier, put your ideas on DVD video, or create a web site specifically to answer questions related to the job you are applying for.
Let your imagination go to work on this. Consider the industry you're in, the personality of the boss you're talking to, and what creative strategy could best bring attention to your unusual abilities.
5. Be a leader. When you work to stand out from the crowd, you look like a leader to employers. Every employer needs people who are self-motivated, who can work well with others, who can solve problems, save money, increase production, and keep going without a lot of maintenance. Take strides to show you're that kind of person, a leader who the employer can rely on to make good things happen.
Use these 5 simple strategies to get the job of your dreams or move up in your current position. By making yourself more visible and drawing attention to your best attributes, you greatly increase your chances of getting the recognition you may have been missing.
Chances are, you've experienced one or all of these situations. You may be looking for a new job now. If so, you can benefit from these five simple tips to help you find and land the job of your dreams.
I learned these strategies during my 25 years as CEO of a large staffing firm. During that time, then later as a career coach, I worked with every kind of person, job, success story, and horror story you can imagine. From those years I gleaned these five top ways to get the kind of work you want.
1. Take ACTION! Those two short words are the key to the treasure. Most people don't get the job they deserve because they're too overworked, too tired, too discouraged, or not motivated enough to jump up and get their job search going. Don't sit there -- get moving, NOW!
2. Toot your own horn to draw attention to your abilities, ideas, and accomplishments. This is particularly true for people trying to move up in their current organization. Too often we play down our accomplishments and wind up getting ignored at promotion time. Make sure you tactfully point out your skills, good ideas, and big wins to the boss.
3. Go the extra mile. If you're looking for a new job, don't simply stop with a resume and a cover letter. Offer to help the employer with ideas via email, make yourself available 24/7 by cell phone, or offer to stop by the employer's office at his or her convenience.
4. Stand OUT from the crowd. Anything you can do to separate yourself from all the other applicants will put you miles ahead. You might write a different kind of resume, have your application package delivered by singing courier, put your ideas on DVD video, or create a web site specifically to answer questions related to the job you are applying for.
Let your imagination go to work on this. Consider the industry you're in, the personality of the boss you're talking to, and what creative strategy could best bring attention to your unusual abilities.
5. Be a leader. When you work to stand out from the crowd, you look like a leader to employers. Every employer needs people who are self-motivated, who can work well with others, who can solve problems, save money, increase production, and keep going without a lot of maintenance. Take strides to show you're that kind of person, a leader who the employer can rely on to make good things happen.
Use these 5 simple strategies to get the job of your dreams or move up in your current position. By making yourself more visible and drawing attention to your best attributes, you greatly increase your chances of getting the recognition you may have been missing.
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