Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Tell Me About Yourself

"Tell me about yourself " is a common interview question that you want to be asked. The way you answer this question will help develop the impression the interviewer will have of you. Let's dissect this question.

Don't respond this way

You don't want to answer this question with one word adjectives. You don't want to reveal your age, marital status, or the number of children you have. Don't give false information.

Make sure

As with all interview questions make sure that you make good eye contact with the interviewer because this helps reveal your honesty.

Respond this way

State your name to the interviewer.
Discuss your qualifications and the positions you have held.
Project confidence and capture the interest of the interviewer.
Don't be shy because you want show that you are the best candidate for hire.

In closing

Review this interview question so that you will know how to respond if asked.
You want to be prepared but you do not want to sound rehearsed.




Tuesday, January 11, 2011

When Opportunity Knocks


Everyday people leave the workforce because they retire, are fired, quit, or are permanently downsized. This revolving cycle represents tomorrow's job opportunities. Will you be prepared to take advantage of the next job opportunity that comes your way?

When Opportunity Knocks you must be prepared to respond quickly. To ensure that you are ready you will need a well-written resume as I listed in my previous blog titled "Ingredients For A Successful Job Search". You will also need to be prepared to answer and ask interview questions . Asking questions at the interview allows you to investigate in advance to determine if the employer will be a good fit for you. I also recommend that you take time to familiarize yourself with your potential employer's website. Read and retain information that attracts you to the employer.

When Opportunity Knocks you are obligated to make the most of the opportunity. Prepare for your opportunity by making sure that you have proper interview attire. Focus on being neat and clean because you will be judged partially on how you present yourself. Remember like the cliche says you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

Lastly, When Opportunity Knocks you have to maintain a positive attitude. Holding on to the memories of past employment nightmares will keep you stagnant. Let those memories and feelings go, so that you can let employers meet the best you!

Friday, January 7, 2011

Ingredients For A Successful Job Search

1. Establish and maintain a positive attitude.
A positive attitude is important during any Job Search.

2. Gain control of you personal life.
You need to plan and organize your life so that finding employment is a priority.

3. Consistent Job Search activity.
Finding employment is NOT a part time job. Map out activities for everyday.

4. Network with the people you know.
Put your contacts to work by letting them know what type of job you are seeking.

5. Create an eye catching well-written resume.
Implement bullet points, keywords, and have your resume proofread.

6. Consistently review interview questions.
You can't wait until you have an interview to practice what you are going to say.

7. Evaluate your skills and gain new skills while you are seeking employment.
Improve your typing skills and your computer knowledge as you seek employment.

8. Seek volunteer opportunities.
Volunteer opportunities allow you to showcase your talents to the public.

9. Write down the information about all of your previous employers.
Gather all the information you will need as you complete job applications.

10. Always wear the proper attire to any Interview/Job Fair.
You always want to make a positive first impression.