Friday, November 2, 2012
BEING FLEXIBLE
Has it become hard to find a job in your field for example your trade might be a printer and as we all know the printing industry has fallen drastically over the past few years with the introduction of high speed printers in our homes and more and more companies offering low cost printing on-line. Newspaper sales have fallen due to the computer world and just about anything you want to read can be found online so why buy a newspaper, so it might be necessary to look at transferring your skills to other career paths. Write down your skills and look into where these would be useful. Here are a list of skills that I feel should be on every ones resume
Customer Service
Technical Skills
Writing Skills
Interpersonal Skills
Thursday, November 1, 2012
EDUCATION
Our world is moving so fast with regards to technology and if you don't keep yourself informed you risk the chance of being left behind. Most businesses rely on computers to run their business, and big companies will update their software frequently. This is why it is important to educate yourself on some of the latest packages out there, I am not saying you have to learn every computer package, but making yourself familiar with the more popular ones is a great investment in you future.
Communication in today's world is done electronically and it is becoming more sophisticated every day "not every year" Long before the electronic world you were guaranteed a job with a high school diploma or a GED, but unfortunately this is no long the case. Many companies are now wanting some form of college graduate and a Masters will give you that edge over other people. An employer will even go with a college graduate for the lowest paying job than someone who has a basic high school diploma.
A step in the right direction is to contact your local college find out what courses they offer that you feel would be suitable for the line of work you are wanting to pursue, many colleges do night classes which gives you the opportunity to work during the day and study at night. Education is a great investment and I encourage anyone to improve themselves.
Communication in today's world is done electronically and it is becoming more sophisticated every day "not every year" Long before the electronic world you were guaranteed a job with a high school diploma or a GED, but unfortunately this is no long the case. Many companies are now wanting some form of college graduate and a Masters will give you that edge over other people. An employer will even go with a college graduate for the lowest paying job than someone who has a basic high school diploma.
A step in the right direction is to contact your local college find out what courses they offer that you feel would be suitable for the line of work you are wanting to pursue, many colleges do night classes which gives you the opportunity to work during the day and study at night. Education is a great investment and I encourage anyone to improve themselves.
INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
If you have been on many interviews you will have noticed that you are asked the same questions over and over again or as we say "typical interview questions" so its important to have the right answers, you need to be ahead of the game at all times "you want to secure that job" Below is a list of some typical interview questions and answers.
Tell me a bit about yourself
you want to keep your answer tight do not wonder off in different directions, tell the interviewer your educational background and employment history, mention what you are excited about that is relevant to the position, this will give the interviewer a good impression of you and show them that you have thought about the question
Why have you chosen this company
This is a question where you have to do your research on the company and the position you are applying for before the interview, select a fact about the company that is suitable to your qualifications and experience and expand on it during the interview.
How long would you stay with the company
When applying for the job make sure you know what position the company is offering, if it is a temporary position make sure you let the interviewer know that you will stay until the temporary contract expires, the last thing an employer wants is to hire you and after a few days for you to leave. If the position is permanent mention the long service you held in other employment.
How do you work in a team environment
You want to show that you work well as part of a team, that you enjoy discussions and input on achieving the best possible solution for a project. You also want to let the interviewer know that you take instructions very well and are able to achieve the end result without having to be guided all the time. If you can add examples of working in a team from you previous positions explain them, but keep it short.
Liked or feared what best describes you
It is truly fine to answer the question with "neither of them" tell the interviewer you want respect above all else, this indicates that you are not afraid to lead a team.
Why should we hire you
Above all else focus on your strengths and what these strengths can bring to the company, mention your educational background and your employment experience, you can also say that you have enjoyed the interview very much and you feel that you would be a perfect fit for the company.
Do you have any questions
Never say NO to this question, saying no really shows a lack of interest in the company. Before the interview, come up with two questions to ask, also during the interview make a mental note on points the interviewer has mentioned that you would like them to expand upon.
Tell me a bit about yourself
you want to keep your answer tight do not wonder off in different directions, tell the interviewer your educational background and employment history, mention what you are excited about that is relevant to the position, this will give the interviewer a good impression of you and show them that you have thought about the question
Why have you chosen this company
This is a question where you have to do your research on the company and the position you are applying for before the interview, select a fact about the company that is suitable to your qualifications and experience and expand on it during the interview.
How long would you stay with the company
When applying for the job make sure you know what position the company is offering, if it is a temporary position make sure you let the interviewer know that you will stay until the temporary contract expires, the last thing an employer wants is to hire you and after a few days for you to leave. If the position is permanent mention the long service you held in other employment.
How do you work in a team environment
You want to show that you work well as part of a team, that you enjoy discussions and input on achieving the best possible solution for a project. You also want to let the interviewer know that you take instructions very well and are able to achieve the end result without having to be guided all the time. If you can add examples of working in a team from you previous positions explain them, but keep it short.
Liked or feared what best describes you
It is truly fine to answer the question with "neither of them" tell the interviewer you want respect above all else, this indicates that you are not afraid to lead a team.
Why should we hire you
Above all else focus on your strengths and what these strengths can bring to the company, mention your educational background and your employment experience, you can also say that you have enjoyed the interview very much and you feel that you would be a perfect fit for the company.
Do you have any questions
Never say NO to this question, saying no really shows a lack of interest in the company. Before the interview, come up with two questions to ask, also during the interview make a mental note on points the interviewer has mentioned that you would like them to expand upon.
SENDING YOUR RESUME
At sometime during your job search you will have to send your resume via email, most companies supply a certain address to forward resumes to. Always make sure you use a professional email address, you don't want your resume to be send from an offensive address. You may have to set up a new email account this is very easy to do through GMail.
Always try and attach your resume as a PDF unless the company is asking for a certain format this will make sure the format of your resume is kept as you designed it. Most people at home use "word" but don't worry a word document can be changed into a PDF by simply using a converter.
When faxing your resume always make sure you use a cover sheet indicating who the resume is for and your contact details and the position you are applying for. I know most people don't have a fax machine at home, but don't panic your public library or copy shop will be happy to send it for you.
Some companies will want you to mail your resume to them always send it in a large envelope "never fold your resume" make sure you write clearly on the envelope.
Always try and attach your resume as a PDF unless the company is asking for a certain format this will make sure the format of your resume is kept as you designed it. Most people at home use "word" but don't worry a word document can be changed into a PDF by simply using a converter.
When faxing your resume always make sure you use a cover sheet indicating who the resume is for and your contact details and the position you are applying for. I know most people don't have a fax machine at home, but don't panic your public library or copy shop will be happy to send it for you.
Some companies will want you to mail your resume to them always send it in a large envelope "never fold your resume" make sure you write clearly on the envelope.
SOCIAL MEDIA
SOCIAL MEDIA
Do you use Social Media to find people - for example "Facebook and Twitter", I am sure whether it be a family member or an old school friend at one time or other you have searched someones name online. Over the years I have searched for people online who have applied for a position with my company and on some occasions I have found things that have caused people to loose the chance of a second interview or even a job offer. You have to be very careful what you put on your Social Media page you want nothing to effect you from landing the perfect job.
Some tips to follow
1. Always opt for the highest privacy settings available on your media page
2. Remove any harsh words said about your boss, work colleagues or even friends
3. Remove any pictures that could be seen as inappropriate of you
4. If you have been tagged in a photo that appears to show a very unflattering side of you remove it.
Do you use Social Media to find people - for example "Facebook and Twitter", I am sure whether it be a family member or an old school friend at one time or other you have searched someones name online. Over the years I have searched for people online who have applied for a position with my company and on some occasions I have found things that have caused people to loose the chance of a second interview or even a job offer. You have to be very careful what you put on your Social Media page you want nothing to effect you from landing the perfect job.
1. Always opt for the highest privacy settings available on your media page
2. Remove any harsh words said about your boss, work colleagues or even friends
3. Remove any pictures that could be seen as inappropriate of you
4. If you have been tagged in a photo that appears to show a very unflattering side of you remove it.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
DRESS TO IMPRESS
DRESS CODE
First impressions count to a potential employer. The first thing they are going to see when you walk through the door is what you are wearing. It is very important to dress professionally regardless of the position you are interviewing for. I have conducted many interviews over the years and I have to say "dress to impress" went a long way with me considering the person for the position. A shirt and tie for a man is going to give a greater impact than jeans and a basic t-shirt.
For a lady a suit shows you are professional teamed with a matching blouse and simple shoes. Limit the jewelry you wear, lots of rings and drop earrings are not suitable for an interview process. Keep your makeup light, you don't wont to appear like a clown. Follow these basic steps and you are on your way.
First impressions count to a potential employer. The first thing they are going to see when you walk through the door is what you are wearing. It is very important to dress professionally regardless of the position you are interviewing for. I have conducted many interviews over the years and I have to say "dress to impress" went a long way with me considering the person for the position. A shirt and tie for a man is going to give a greater impact than jeans and a basic t-shirt.
For a lady a suit shows you are professional teamed with a matching blouse and simple shoes. Limit the jewelry you wear, lots of rings and drop earrings are not suitable for an interview process. Keep your makeup light, you don't wont to appear like a clown. Follow these basic steps and you are on your way.
GET IT RIGHT
PRACTICE INTERVIEWING
Talking on the phone with a stranger is not very easy to some people, so a good idea is to have a friend or family member set up a mock interview with you, even record yourself, this will let you know how you sound over the phone and build your confidence, also rehearse answers to the typical questions you will be asked. Don't forget to speak clearly and avoid words such as okay and right these are not professional when interviewing over the phone.
WHILE ON THE PHONE
Even though the interviewer is unable to see you there are a few things you should and shouldn't do
1. Don't chew gum
2. Don't smoke
3. Don't eat or drink (although a glass of water is handy to wet your mouth)
4. Smile - yes smile, smiling on the phone will give a positive feedback to the interviewer
5. Use the interviewers name - do not call them by their first name unless they have asked you to
6. Speak slowly, it is fine to take a moment to gather your thoughts
7. Always thank the interviewer for the opportunity of the telephone interview and ask if it would be possible to set up a face to face interview
Talking on the phone with a stranger is not very easy to some people, so a good idea is to have a friend or family member set up a mock interview with you, even record yourself, this will let you know how you sound over the phone and build your confidence, also rehearse answers to the typical questions you will be asked. Don't forget to speak clearly and avoid words such as okay and right these are not professional when interviewing over the phone.
WHILE ON THE PHONE
Even though the interviewer is unable to see you there are a few things you should and shouldn't do
1. Don't chew gum
2. Don't smoke
3. Don't eat or drink (although a glass of water is handy to wet your mouth)
4. Smile - yes smile, smiling on the phone will give a positive feedback to the interviewer
5. Use the interviewers name - do not call them by their first name unless they have asked you to
6. Speak slowly, it is fine to take a moment to gather your thoughts
7. Always thank the interviewer for the opportunity of the telephone interview and ask if it would be possible to set up a face to face interview
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