by Michael Petras
We all have shortcomings. Your job interview weakness could be the way you lost your last job, your age, a long period of unemployment, health issues, no college degree, anxiety, physical or emotional handicaps, a lack of self confidence, over explaining things, being too honest, being overqualified, not enough experience, or…simply an acute dislike for the whole stinking job interview process.
Perhaps you struggle with a personal appearance issue like weight, height, gray hair, no hair, too much hair in the wrong places…whatever.
Regardless of your fears or job interview weakness, they all fall within 2 broad categories:
- Things you have no control over.
- Things you can do something about.
Let’s address your specific job interview weakness within the 2nd category. But, before we go there, I want you to clearly see that a job interview rejection is a blessing and not a curse.
No one wants to be turned down for a job…especially one you are excited about. In fact, you may be experiencing a lot of turn downs lately, and your self confidence is just about totally shot.
Tip: Look at each job interview rejection as feedback. Try not to take it personally. The company is not rejecting you as a person. After all, you are not your job. Always try and get as much feedback as possible from those who interviewed you. Feedback is a gift.
True Story: Jon was a Product Engineer with a leading Automotive Tier 1 supplier. He lost his job in the wake of the recession. Jobs in his field were scarce. Despite a well written resume and countless hours of interview counseling and preparation, Jon always seemed to get the thumbs down after each and every job interview.
If you prepared a checklist of Jon’s strengths, the list would be long and distinguished. His resume was well written and he had no problems getting interviews. But, he wasn’t getting offers.
Jon decided to take action to figure out once and for all what job interview weakness was holding him back. So, he called his close friend, Matt, who just happened to be a Corporate HR Manager. Matt had interviewed, rejected, hired, and fired a lot of people over the years.
Jon asked Matt if he would meet with in person and do a mock interview. Most importantly, he asked Matt to please give him brutally honest feedback, no holds barred.
They met at Matt’s office instead of a restaurant or someone’s living room to make this mock interview more real. Jon asked Matt to ask him tough interview questions and then to please give him candid feedback.
Matt was happy to oblige.
Jon’s worst job interview weakness quickly became apparent. He talked too much…or as Matt put it, “You over explain things, Jon.”
Special Tip: One of the secrets to answering interview questions is keep your responses short and sweet…60 to 90 seconds max. If your interviewer needs or wants more information, they’ll ask you. Providing too much information, or talking in circles, puts you at risk of being rejected. The 2 reasons candidates tend to talk too much are nervousness and lack of preparation.
So, you’re probably asking yourself, how did Jon take this feedback? And, did it help?
Yes…most definitely.
Soon thereafter, Jon got an interview with a very stable, profitable company located near his extended family. Jon called his manager friend, Matt, and told him the good news. Matt suggested they meet again and do another mock interview. This time Jon nailed the interview.
And..he nailed the real job interview.
Despite being unemployed for several months, Jon was offered a position as a Product Engineer for 10% more than what he was earning at his last job. Six months later he got a raise. More importantly, he loves his job.
If your job interviews are resulting in no offers, or you feel like your job search has hit a brick wall, follow Jon’s example. Ask a trusted associate or friend to do a mock interview with you. You can provide the job interview questions. Ask your friend not to pull any punches. Simply tell it like it is. Then, work hard to turn this job interview weakness into a strength.
Tip: It’s not a good idea to ask your spouse or best friend to go through this with you. People who are too emotionally invested in you will either tell you how wonderful you are, or they will hand you your head by revealing to you your every flaw.
Not good.
Neither of these viewpoints will help you. Find someone who will be objective, open, and honest with you.
Professional Bio: Michael Petras is a veteran Executive Recruiter of 14 years and also spent 20 years in the Recreational Vehicle Industry as a Sales Director. He hired and trained over 50 sales professionals. Many of these individuals have since gone on to become Directors, Executives, and Presidents of companies both inside and outside the RV Industry. Mike conducts community workshops for job seekers and career changers on a volunteer basis. Visit his free website for more job interview tips and advice at: http://www.job-interview-wisdom.com.
Copyright 2009. Job-interview-wisdom.com. All rights reserved.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Petras
Popularity: 6% [?]
I’m always on the look-out for fresh job interviewing techniques that will help my readers get hired! The following interview tips by Peggy McKee will give you some new ways to set yourself above the crowd when you go to your job interview!
4 Impressive Job Interview Techniques to Get the Offer!
There are 4 job interview techniques that I talk about all the time (and encourage my candidates to use in their job interviews):
Compile a brag book
Have great references
Prepare well for the interview (research/do your homework)
Create a 30-60-90-day plan
Here are 4 examples of how some of my candidates used these techniques in their job interviews with their own personal spin and got fantastic job offers as a result. These were some truly great ideas, and I know they will help you.
1. Brag book - One candidate compiled a brag book that was enormous. It was overwhelming with evidence of her successes. She took the whole thing with her to her interview, but instead of trying to show the hiring manager all of it, she took a yellow highlighter and highlighted about 10 specific pages, and that’s what she pointed to and talked about. All that hiring manager could think about was how she would do that with his products, and his clients, and how that would ring the cash register for his company. And she got the offer.
2. References - After the face-to-face interview, the hiring manager received an email within 30 minutes of the interview from the candidate’s former manager saying that this candidate was “all that” and more. It was great. It was written very well, and the timing was amazing. And he got the offer.
3. Interview Preparation - On her first interview for a sales rep position calling on a certain kind of physician, this candidate brought a list of those kinds of physicians in her state with a check mark beside those that she knew. That was impressive. But then, on the second interview, she brought in that same list and she had highlighted 25 of those physicians that she had actually spoken with personally in the last week to find out who they were using for this specific product, what they liked about it, what they didn’t like about it, and what they think are issues for the future. When she presented that to the hiring manager, he took her in to see the CEO. The CEO was blown away, and she had the offer before she got off the plane.
4. 30-60-90-day Plan - A candidate prepared a 30-60-90-day plan for a company notorious for its stringent hiring processes and demands of its candidates within the interview process. This candidate prepared a written plan that outlined what he would do to be successful in the first 90 days of employment with this company. This company was impressed, gave him high marks, and he’s off to the second interview with a significantly higher chance of receiving a job offer.
You can use these tips in job interviews to differentiate yourself. To be successful, you’ve got to set yourself apart.
Peggy McKee is the owner and chief recruiter for PHC Consulting, a recruiting firm providing top sales talent, sales management, marketing and service / support personnel to some of the most prominent high growth companies in the medical and laboratory products industry for over 10 years!
Check out her blog with advice and tips for candidates in medical sales at http://www.phcconsulting.com/WordPress
Peggy also has a website dedicated to providing job candidates in any area with practical and very effective tools, products, tips and tricks to be successful in this job market http://www.career-confidential.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peggy_McKee
Popularity: 6% [?]
Dressing professionally is very important when you go to a job interview. Even if the job you are applying for involves casual dress, you should dress a step above what is required on the job. The impression you make on the interviewer includes what you look like. If you appear to be unprofessional because of your choice of clothing, you could lose your chance at the job due to the interviewer’s first impression of you.
An article at Associated Content, entitled “How To Dress For a Job Interview,” makes an important point: Pay attention to your hair and facial hair! Make sure your hair is cut and styled attractively and conservatively, and make sure facial hair is trimmed. This is not the time to experiment with wild hair colors and hairdos! Another tip in the same article is to avoid wearing perfume or cologne. If your scent is overpowering or causes an allergic reaction, you’ve lost your chance for a successful job interview!
Click Here For Information on Finding Flexible Jobs.
Popularity: 7% [?]
Martjobs.com reports in an article about how the Government is Cracking Down on Hiring Illegal Workers. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has caused consternation among many U.S. employers by issuing Notices of Inspection (NOIs) to 652 businesses nationwide to determine whether or not they were complying with Employment Eligibility Verification (I-9) Form regulations.
Employers are required to complete and retain an Employment Eligibility Verification Form – also known as an “I-9 Form” – for each individual they hire for employment in the United States. This form requires employers to review and record the individual’s identity document or documents and determine whether the documents reasonably appear to be genuine and related to the individual.
This is good news for American citizens who are looking for work and have missed out on job opportunitiEmployment Eligibility Verification Formes due to the hiring of illegal aliens. There is so much competition already for most jobs that this move by the government may help the unemployed get a job more easily.
Popularity: 9% [?]
There is tough competition for jobs. Stand out from the other applicants by being super prepared for your job interview.
The October 29, 2009 L.A. Watts Times reports that there are about 6.3 job seekers competing for every open job. Because of this, those who get interviews must prepare and practice ahead of time to confidently answer the toughest interview questions.
The article mentions that career experts Daniel Porot and Frances Bolles Haynes have recently published a book, 101 Toughest Interview Questions: And Answers That Win the Job!
This book contains the best ways to answer questions that are almost certain to come your way as you are interviewing for your next job.
You might also want to check out the information in the following books that will prepare you to impress your interviewers.
Popularity: 13% [?]
At some point most teenagers want to get a part-time or seasonal job. If you are a teen who is about to have a job interview, these job interview tips will help you. Perhaps no one has ever taught you the correct way to prepare for and approach a job interview.
It is just as important for teens to prepare adequately and to present themselves well at an interview as it is for adults. There is a lot of competition for jobs. A lot of employers have cut back on hiring, resulting in there being fewer jobs for teens available than there were a year ago. Also, a lot of adults who have lost jobs and have run out of unemployment benefits are competing with you for jobs that used to mainly have teen applicants. You want to stand out as an applicant.
The first impression you make when you walk through the door for your interview is very important. You must dress neatly and professionally. Even if the job itself allows workers to work in jeans, don’t wear jeans or a T shirt to your job interview. Wear some nicely ironed khakis or dress pants, and a top or shirt that looks suitable for a well dressed employee. A suit jacket, sports jacket, or sweater can be a nice addition. Don’t wear your sneakers or flip flops. You are not going to a sports or entertainment event. You are presenting yourself as a high quality employment candidate who has good judgment.
Make sure your cell phone is turned off during your interview, and by all means don’t talk on your phone, text, or listen to music, while you are on the premises for your interview.
When you approach the interviewer, reach out to shake his or her hand and wait to sit until you are invited to do so. Smile warmly and let the interviewer know you are grateful for a chance to interview for a job with this company.
Prepare ahead of time for potential questions and practice how you will answer them. Reading through other posts on this site may help you prepare. Answer confidently. Know what your strengths and skills are and be ready to explain how they will benefit the employer. Ahead of time, learn as much as you can about the position and the company so you talk intelligently about how you will fit into the job. If you have not previously submitted a job application or resume, bring one along to hand to the interviewer.
If you have never had a job before, it’s fine to say this, emphasizing that you feel that this company is a great place to work and gain valuable experience. Talk about volunteer work, school activities, team activities, etc., that have taught you valuable skills and principles which you can apply to this job. If you have held a job before, don’t badmouth it! Tell what you learned while working there and how the job prepared you to be a great employee in this new setting.
The videos below will humorously show you what NOT to do as a teenage applicant for a job!
If you need some help with ideas for the types of jobs that are available for teens, watch this newscast by teen reporter Jeremy Stroup.
Popularity: 25% [?]
Although the following article isn’t specifically about job interviews, it contains valuable information for job searchers. Therefore I decided to include it on this blog. Read and take heed!
Job Search Rip Offs - How to Avoid Them!
by Charles Moldenhauer
How can you get help with your job search yet steer clear of services that over-promise, overcharge and under deliver?
The New York Times and other major publications have reported on “recruiting” services that advertise nonexistent six-figure jobs in order to lure in unsuspecting job seekers. Then they pitch resume rewrites and promise “unpublished jobs” or propose blind mailing programs. Other scams are resume writing services, sometimes using offshore non-English speaking writers who do not have the background to write about you or use the subtle language cues necessary at all level and all occupations.
Each of these might take your money and leave you worse off than when you started. Here’s an overview to help you understand today’s job search reality and the challenges:
· You must use several methods not just contacts, career sites or blind mailings to companies. The effort must be guided by a plan and that means carefully structured from an understanding of you. · Avoid getting “Ripped Off,” find and use a specialized job coach to get your next job. Out of 500 plus career or job board sites there are probably only 1 to 2 that you should use.
· Many private companies often owned by private equity firms are not on many lists of companies and often are the best sources for jobs.
· Every resume and cover letter must be highly targeted. It takes time to do them the right way, and they must be used to build your online presence
· The harsh truth is in today’s stressful job market you need to be ready to adjust your strategy and approach to changing opportunities.
To avoid these “rip-off” services you need to understand and do three things:
1. Get coached on best current job search methods, sources and positioning
2. Target your presence CAREFULLY via linking means, marketing and research
3. Tirelessly work to find and go after possible jobs. Probably 5-6 hours a day.
This is the best way to avoid services that often promise to market you to lists of companies and do such things as helping to instantly rewrite your resume. They prey on anxious job seekers by offering fake or not available jobs on Internet sites, and then contacting people offering a complete service for thousands of dollars. There is no question that some of these services do add value. However, many do not care to gain enough insight into your own situation, or have only one limited course of action for a short duration.
Once you understand today’s job search world you will see what you do must be very carefully tailored. You must use a number of sources to find, isolate and close a possible job. You must also use various methods depending on your exact requirements. You will also need to work extra hard to be successful.
Highly Specialized Job Coach
Job search coaching from professionals with integrity is the best form of help. Look for coaches highly specialized in job searches, willing to work with you weekly, completely aware of the current job environment and resources, and confident enough to have you pay as you make progress. The right job search coach can make your effort more productive and help you avoid getting Ripped Off.
Costs, insights and FREE content are available from Charles Moldenhauer. Contact him at: http://www.executivejobcoach
Ask the author, Charles Moldenhauer, via email at:
executivejobcoach@gmail.com
646 943 0250
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Charles_Moldenhauer
Popularity: 16% [?]
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So, you’ve submitted a killer resume. You’re ahead of the pack and have just received a call for an interview. What do you do next?
The interview is the most stressful and important part of job hunting. This is where the employers make a decision based on his or her impression of whether to hire you for the job. You will want to do your best. Flub it here, and all your efforts to get the interview in the first place go down the drain. The following job interview tips will help you prepare.
1. Make a Great First Impression
Always dress in your best for the interview. Your attire should be appropriate. No matter what the company may require for their employees’ dress code, job applicants should wear conservative business attire. This is not a time to try to look sexy or to dress with the latest fashion flair. Look business-like, and you’ll make a great first impression.
2. Do Some Research
One of the best ways to make a good impression on your interviewer is to do a little research on the company you are applying for. This will equip you with material to answer some of the questions the interviewer will ask. One of the main questions will be, “How will your skills benefit the company?” If you know a thing or two about the company, you will find it a lot easier to answer this question. Plus, dropping a few tidbits revealing how much you understand the company’s mission, services, products, management team, etc., will go a long way in impressing the interviewer. He or she will see that you took the time to do your research and to learn what you could.
3. Watch Your Body Language
Many interviewers are well versed in body language. Throughout the interview, they will be looking for hints about your personality from the way you act, talk, and move. Use your body language so that at least it communicate openness, a relaxed attitude, and honesty. Avoid telling lies or embellishing your answers. Experienced interviewers will notice this in an instant. Always keep your palms open and avoid crossing your legs or your arms together. Do not be afraid to make eye contact while speaking; just make sure that you do not come across as intimidating.
4. Show Confidence
Walk in with a purpose. Answer without nervousness showing. Try not to be too self-conscious. Make sure you are confident in what you say. If you hit a snag and find yourself in a compromising situation, make sure you handle the situation confidently – even when saying that you do not know an answer to a question. Confidence reflects competence. Employers always look for competent people to fill their ranks.
5. Be Prepared for Interview Questions.
If you research common interview questions and practice the answers ahead of time, you’ll make a much better impression than if you wing it.
6. Say Thank You
At the end of the interview, thank the person who interviewed you and tell him or her that you’ll look forward to hearing from them soon. Later send a note or email to thank them for the interview and express your interest in the job.
So you’re all set! Have a great interview!
Popularity: 16% [?]
Going for a job interview can really be stressful unless you have practiced answering interview questions ahead of time. By researching job interview questions, taking time to formulate great answers, and practicing giving the answers smoothly, you will relieve the stressful feelings that could stand in the way of coming across as a competent job candidate.
Some interview questions may seem pretty simple, such as, “Why would you like to work for our company?” But you will make a better impression if you have researched the company and the type of job ahead of time and can word your answer to include how you can benefit the company rather than how the job would benefit you.
Beware of “Bitterness Check” questions. When you are applying for a job, your job experience will be an important factor. The interviewer will likely ask, “Why did you leave your last job?” or “Why are you considering leaving your current job?” Never let your emotions get in the way and say something that would sound like you are bitter. Don’t talk against your ex-boss or complain about your job. If bitterness toward a past job or employer is detected, it may lead the interviewer to conclude that you might turn against their company and talk negatively about it as well.
Also watch out for questions that make you appear to have flaws. If someone asks you “What is your biggest weakness?” you have to stress that you are not considering your self to be weak, but you accept the fact that you have skills and abilities that you working to improve so that you will be an even more valuable employee.
In answering job interview questions, be prepared for tricky questions that could catch you off guard if you have not thought them through ahead of time. Come up with positive ways to answer them by giving examples of how you have competently solved problems and handled difficult situations in your former employment. Some of the questions you may be asked are as follows:
-
- Have you ever had problems with a supervisor or a coworker? Describe the
situation for me. How did you handle these problems?Describe some times when you were not very satisfied with your own performance.
What did you do about it?Give me an example of a problem you faced on the job, and how you solved it.
Give me an example of an important goal you had to set and tell me about your
progress in reaching that goal. What steps did you take?What was your role in your department’s most recent success?
For more examples of questions and information on forming the best possible answers to job interview questions, see http://jobinterview.finance-relief.net/jobquestions.html
Popularity: 14% [?]
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