The Best Inspiring Quotes to Motivate You and Accelerate Your Job Search

 

5 Tips for Getting Hired in the AI Era

 By Dr. Ciera Graham-Graves

If you’ve been job hunting lately, you’ve probably noticed something: AI skills are popping up everywhere - and not just in tech roles. A recent report from Lightcast found that job postings requiring AI skills for non-computer science or information technology roles grew ninefold between 2022 and 2024, with over 80,000 postings seeking those skills. 

So, what does that mean for you? Well, employers aren’t just searching for people who can code or build models. They’re looking for well‑rounded candidates who can blend AI know‑how with soft skills that make teams thrive - such as strong communication, emotional intelligence and leadership. Instead of asking, “Do you know AI?” hiring managers increasingly want to know how you apply it, why you use it and what results it helps you deliver.

Strategies to Help You Stand Out

If you’re wondering how to stand out in a job market that’s evolving at warp speed, you’re not alone. And the good news is you don’t need to become an AI engineer to stay competitive. As a career coach who helps early and mid-career professionals shine in competitive spaces, I’ve got your back. Here are five smart, actionable tips to help you land a job in an AI-driven economy.

1. Build AI Skills Now That Align with Your Career Goals

Even if you're a new graduate, it’s important to continue learning and enhance your existing skills to stay competitive in the job market. The landscape of AI tools is vast. Start by thinking about the core responsibilities of your role and identifying tools that complement your field and help you work smarter.

Tools like Motion or Trello are great to use in project management roles as they provide opportunities to organize tasks and maximize productivity. Similarly, ChatGPT or Text Cortex can assist in content generation and help spur innovative ideas for creative strategies in marketing.

2. Demonstrate Your Impact

Listing skills or AI experience on a resume is one thing. Showing how you’ve used them to make a difference is what gets you noticed. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to answer situational or behavioral questions in real scenarios.

Perhaps you’ve used ChatGPT to draft a client proposal, saving your team hours, or leveraged Trello to coordinate a group project more efficiently. Hiring managers want to see that you understand when and how to use AI to improve outcomes, not just that you’ve heard of the tools.

3. Future-Proof Your Career by Understanding What’s Changing

AI is drastically changing the labor market, and some roles - such as clerical tasks or data analysis - are more vulnerable to automation.

But that doesn’t mean opportunities are disappearing. The World Economic Forum Report notes that even though some roles are going away, new jobs have emerged, specifically in fields such as data science. Other roles, such as teaching and healthcare, are evolving. For example, teachers can use AI tools to enhance student learning, while paramedics might want to think about how they can use AI to respond to emergencies and improve patient care.

Consider exploring hybrid roles where AI enhances human decision-making rather than replaces it. Additionally, stay curious by reading industry reports, attending webinars and following thought leaders to understand how your field is changing.

4. Highlight Your Soft Skills

Technical skills are essential in the age of AI, but AI will never replace soft skills like emotional intelligence, creativity, communication and adaptability. These “human” skills are essential in today’s workplace. For instance, high emotional intelligence is critical to managing change and crisis events.

To showcase soft skills, provide specific examples of how you’ve applied them both on your resume and in interviews. Be sure to connect the dots between your soft skills and the outcomes they helped achieve. Did you lead a team through a tough deadline? Navigate a conflict with empathy? Adapt quickly to a new tool or process? These stories help employers see your full potential.

5. Follow Industry Trends Beyond AI

While AI has shifted how many roles function, you should also be aware of other forces shaping your field. Marketers need to track changes in search engine optimization and social media algorithms. Health care grads might explore telemedicine, wearable tech or patient data privacy. Designers and creatives should follow shifts in UX/UI standards, accessibility and emerging platforms.

Likewise, if you don’t land a full-time role right away, consider freelancing or building a portfolio of work samples. This not only sharpens your skills but also gives you tangible proof of your value.

Searching for a job in an AI-competitive economy can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. By employing these tips and strategies, you can ensure you strategically learn new skills and showcase your value to secure the job of your dreams.

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About the Author: Dr. Ciera Graham-Graves

Guest writer Dr. Ciera Graham-Graves has 12 years of experience as a higher education administrator. She's a past career columnist for the Seattle Times and the Everett Herald, and a current editorial contributor to Career Contessa and Best Colleges.

Article Source: https://www.pce.uw.edu/news-features/articles/landing-job-ai-competitive-economy

Sample Salary Negotiation Letter/ Email After a Job Offer

 Subject: Re: Job Offer for (Position Title)

Dear (Hiring Manager's Name),

Thank you so much for offering me the position of (Position Title) at (Company Name). I am very excited about the opportunity to join your company, contribute to the team's success and take on new responsibilities.

I would like to discuss the proposed starting salary before I accept the offer and join your team. After going through the details of my background, including (number) years of experience in (relevant field), my proven track record of (mention a specific accomplishment) and my extensive skills in (mention specific skills), I believe a salary of (Your Desired Salary) would be a more appropriate reflection of my market value and the responsibilities of this role.

I am confident that my contributions will make a significant impact, and I am eager to find a compensation package that will be suitable for both of us. 

Thank you again for this exciting opportunity. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address] 

Important Articles on Resume Writing, Cover Letter Writing & Job Interview Tips

Some Very Important Articles on Resume Writing, Cover Letter Writing & Job Interview Tips:

1. How To Format Your Resume

   https://www.perfectediting.com/how-to-format-your-resume.html

2. Don't Make These 8 Cover Letter Mistakes

   https://www.perfectediting.com/8-Cover-Letter-Mistakes.html

3. 10 Deadly But Often-Made Resume Blunders to Avoid

   https://www.perfectediting.com/resume-blunders-to-avoid.html

4. 6 Real-Life Examples of Cover Letter Blunders

   https://www.perfectediting.com/Real-Life-Examples-Cover-Letter-Blunders.html

5. HOW to Stand Out from the Crowd by ASKING for the Job During the Interview!

   https://www.perfectediting.com/interview-tips.html

6. Most Common Job Interview Mistakes

   https://www.perfectediting.com/job-interview-mistakes.html

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Articles (Published on Perfect Editing Solutions' website).

5 Things You Should Never Say in a Job Interview

 1. My last company's boss was really bad.

Never ever badmouth a former employer in an interview even if you 

really had a really bad boss. You need to be very careful about 

what you are saying especially when you are explaining why you have left 

your last company.

2. The answer to this question is on my resume.

If you are asked about a particular job or experience, answer clearly 

without mentioning that everything is given in your resume. A hiring manager 

wants to see your communication and social skills. So, use the opportunity to 

show your skills even if the required information is written on your resume. 

3. My next goal is to start my own business.

Most employers want to hire people who are willing to work for them for a long time.

If they know that you have a plan for starting your own business shortly then they 

probably won't offer you the job.

4. Do you want to see my references?

If an employer wants your references, he or she will ask for them.

5. I don't have any question to ask.

You should show interest in the company you have come to give job interview for.

Not having any question for the interviewer shows that you’re not interested in 

the company you want to work for. Prepare a list of important questions to ask the 

hiring manager so that the employer understands you are keen to join the company.

---Rumki Sen

Develop Excellent Communication Skills for Job Interviews

Communication is an integral part of any interview process and if you can develop the skills to communicate properly with the hiring manager, then you can be successful in getting the job you want with ease.

Talk Slowly

Talk slowly so that you can answer the interview questions with a calm mind even if you are feeling nervous. Don't panic. Your slow pace in talking will help you in dealing with the anxiety you are having  during the job interview.

Use the Right Words

Practise which words to use in a job interview to convey the message you want to as using the right words will help you in expressing yourself with greater clarity.

Ask the Interviewer Questions

In a job interview, it is not only the interviewers who ask questions to the job candidates. You can also ask the interviewers questions that are essential for you to know the company and the position you are giving interview for better. It is always a good idea to prepare a list of important questions that you want to ask during the job interview as this will give you a control over the flow of the interview.

Listen carefully

Communication involves both speaking and listening. So, make eye contact with the interviewer and listen to what he or she is saying. This will help you in understanding the questions properly and answering them perfectly.

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-- Rumki Sen

Tips for Group Discussions in Job Interviews

1.  No aggression in Group Discussions.

2. Develop excellent listening skills and listen carefully.

3. Dress professionally, sit up straight, make eye contact while speaking and listening, remain calm and never appear nervous.

4. Give others time to speak.

5. Even if there are disagreements, remain polite to respect other people's opinions.

6. Show confidence so that your group members take you seriously and listen to what you are saying.

How To Handle A Hostile and Difficult Job Interviewer

 1. Remain calm.

2. Be confident.

3. Be Patient.

4. Smile and do not lose temper.

5. Use the challenges given by the difficult job interviewer as opportunities to highlight your strengths. Have examples and results to show.

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5 Positive Thoughts You Should Have Before Appearing for a Job Interview

1. I am calm and confident; I know I can face any question now.

2. I am an ideal candidate for this position.

3. I love job interviews and my positive attitude is my strength.

4. I always speak the truth. My honesty impresses the interviewers.

5. I always maintain eye contact with the interviewers and my confident
smile will show my eagerness to work for the company.
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Tips for Interviewing People With Physical or Intellectual Disability

1. Always speak directly to the person with disability instead of using a companion or an interpreter.

2. If you want to offer any help, please wait to see whether the person with disability is willing to accept your help. Provide the necessary assistance only if your offer is accepted.

3. Be patient and wait for the person with disability to finish what he or she is saying.

4. If you fail to understand what the person has answered to a particular question you have asked, don't pretend you have understood. Instead, repeat your question and allow the person to respond again.

5. Don't shout. Use a normal tone of voice while interacting with the person with disability.

6. Don't touch, lean on or move a wheelchair without permission.
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How to Answer Interview Question on Why You Left Your Job

You may answer in any of the following ways:

1. Looking for better career prospects, professional growth and work opportunities.

2. I wanted to take on new responsibilities that this role and company couldn’t offer.

3. I was hired for a particular role, but I was no longer being given the opportunity
   to do the work I was interested in.

4. Want a change in career direction.

5. I was no longer enjoying my work.

6. I didn’t feel the job was using my abilities to the fullest or challenging me enough.

7. I resigned from my last job to take care of a family issue. The issue is resolved, so I am able to
   work full time again without any problem.

Always be positive while explaining your reasons for leaving a job:

• Never badmouth, especially if you were fired.
• Don’t make it sound like money is the only thing you care about.
• Don’t say you had a fight with a colleague or your previous boss. Don’t try to blame him/her for it.

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How Long Should You Wait for a Job Offer?

The average time from interview to job offer is 2-4 weeks, depending on the company.
If the company has completed the interview phase, it may be having trouble to make a final decision.
Perhaps there were two well-qualified candidates and the interview team could not decide who the job should be offered to.

The time from job offer to acceptance is also about two weeks. However, this is the average for one
sector of the job market. For others, offers are received within 2 days of job interviewing.
Sometimes again, the hiring process is dragged onto for weeks, and even for months.

Why is it Important to Smile During an Interview?

“A smile is a curve that sets everything straight – even your career!”

Whether you are a model, dentist, teacher or painter, a genuine smile can take you very far in life.

A smile is a symbol of well-being and self-confidence, both in your personal as well as professional life.  And the power of a warm smile is often underestimated during the process of a job interview. However, it is a very integral part of positive body language - which is again very important during an interview. Employers are always looking for someone who can gel easily with a team, and create a happy and positive work environment, thus boosting the company’s productivity.

Here’s why you shouldn’t forget to smile at your job interview:

1. for a good first impression

It is a fact that it only takes about 6-7 seconds for an average person to form an opinion about someone, when they are meeting for the first time. And when it comes to interviews, a good first impression can lead to better things in future.

So along with the all the interview preparation you do, a smile can instantly help you leave a good impression on your recruiter, right at the very beginning. You would come across as an amiable and enthusiastic person, who is easy to talk to – something that recruiters are always looking for, in a candidate.

2. Shows your confidence

Imagine a situation where, you are at your workplace, and you need some help with the work that has been assigned to you. You look over at your colleagues and see one with a frowning face, and another with a smiling one. Who would you approach for help? Obviously the smiling one!

Remember that recruiters are always on the lookout for those smiling colleagues, not the frowning ones. Nothing reveals the best things about your personality better than a smile. A genuine smile will always instil trust, exude confidence and at the same time convince people around you that you are approachable. All these qualities are highly desirable in an employee. Hence, it is important that you showcase these qualities right from the start.

3. Lets you recover from your mistakes

Studies reveal that if you smile after committing a small social mistake, it can actually help you to take control of the situation and rectify it. An embarrassed or sheepish smile is a sign that you realized you’ve made a mistake, accepted it and are ready to move on.

You may make a mistake during an interview process, probably due to nervousness, and the best thing to do for handling such a situation, is to shrug it off with a smile and rectify the mistake. This is a much better option compared to ignoring or denying the problem, and going back with regrets.

4. For a desirable and pleasant environment

Have you noticed the fact that you tend to get happy when you see people around you smile, even if you are meeting them for the first time? A smile is very contagious, and majority of people will smile back at you if you greet them with one. Smiling is also known to reinforce and promote happy feelings of pleasure and joy.

Therefore, if you want to enjoy your interview and create a lighter atmosphere in the process, make sure you smile when you meet the interviewer.

5. Smile in telephonic interviews

Interviews are not always face-to-face; they could be telephonic as well. Interview platforms like
interviewfox.com, allow you to schedule and take telephonic pre-screening interviews and create an audio profile as well.

Just because the interviewer can’t see you in a telephonic interview, don’t forget to smile! The sound of your smile reaches the interviewer through your voice. Smiling not only makes you sound confident and excited, but also takes away your nervousness and makes you feel better. You will be more attentive and engaged during the whole process, making your recruiter convinced that you are the best candidate for the job.

Beware of the Fake Smile

“Fake a frown, you hurt others. Fake a smile, you hurt yourself.”

A genuine and positive smile is important as it can prove to be a very big advantage during an interview. However, what is more important is that you do not force or fake a smile during the process.

People can easily recognise a fake smile, especially an interviewer who is well aware of the different body languages and behaviour of candidates. A fake or a forced smile is often associated with hiding your true self, by not letting the world know what you truly are. This can have a negative effect and you may come across as an insincere and dishonest person. In some situations, it can also make the interviewer feel uncomfortable, and you may lose the job opportunity even before realising where you went wrong.

Remember:

You can practice introducing yourself or answering questions in front of a mirror, with a smile, to make sure that you are not overdoing it.

Smiling will mean showing your teeth. So if you have eaten anything just before an interview, check that there are not remnants of food stuck in the teeth that can lead to an awkward moment later!

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Article Source: https://www.interviewfox.com       
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How to master a Skype interview

Job interviews over Skype are becoming increasingly common. You might be able to see one another, but a virtual interview over the internet is not the same as one face to face and you need to prepare accordingly.

Here are some considerations to help you embrace technology and master a Skype interview.

Dress professionally
Should you still dress as if you are in a face-to-face interview? Yes – general interview etiquette still applies. “The dynamics are different, with body language being the main barrier, so it is vital to make a good impression based on your dress and surroundings,” says Matthew Roberts, CEO at NonExecutiveDirectors.com, a network site for employers.

Don’t be tempted just to dress smartly from the waist-up, assuming that’s all the interviewer will see, warns Graham Oates, CEO of Norrie Johnston Recruitment. “I’ve been in plenty of Skype interview situations where the candidate has had to stand up.” Being in formal dress will also help you to feel like it is a formal interview and put you in the right frame of mind, he adds.

Pick your backdrop wisely
How much attention will be paid to where you are sitting for the interview? The safe rule of thumb is to assume that a lot of attention will be given to your surroundings – so set up well in advance and take time to look at how the interviewer will see you.

“Find a neutral, tidy spot if possible. Mess, pot plants or food may subconsciously impact an interviewer’s view of the meeting and reflect badly on you,” says Jonathan Bennet, a director at Capita Resourcing. His advice is to set yourself up so the interviewer can see your face, hair, shoulders and upper torso. Consider the lighting and how you are sat too. “They don’t want a giant, poorly lit face talking at them for an hour.” Also, make sure you are in a quiet room which will not be interrupted.

Get to grips with the technology beforehand
Before you begin, make sure you’ve got to grips with the technology to avoid any last minute panic, especially if you haven’t used Skype before. “Set up a practice interview with a friend to make sure you are happy with how you come across on screen as well as being able to confidently use the system,” suggests Roberts. Check your microphone is properly set, your voice is audible, the picture quality is good and that you are in a spot with a strong internet connection.

But if technology fails midway through, don’t panic, says David Cairncross, director at Hays. “If a problem with your technology throws you off during your interview, just remain professional,” he says. The interviewer will be aware that some things are out of your control, should anything happen start the call again to regain a connection, and quickly make contact to update the interviewer so you can continue as soon as possible.

Don’t be late
“You wouldn’t dream of turning up late for a face-to-face interview, so having to delay one over Skype because you haven’t done your technical groundwork is inexcusable,” says Oates. Call and get it all setup a few minutes early to avoid any awkwardness. Equally, have your notes ready and a glass of water to hand so you aren’t fiddling with papers or getting a dry mouth once you make a start.

Remember body language
Skype interviews leave little room for those informal interactions you might have on the walk from reception or the ride in the lift - so it is important your eye contact and facial expressions are not compromised by the technology either.

“Remember to look at the camera – not the screen – that way the interviewer will feel you are maintaining eye contact,” says Oates. “Remember to smile and have an engaged and pleasant facial expression. Try to forget you are talking to a computer screen and imagine the interviewer being physically in the room with you.”
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Author: Kirstie Brewer

11 Answers You Should Have Ready Before Any Job Interview

For any job interview, the overarching point you want to get across is why the prospective employer should hire you. The interview is your sales pitch that you are the ideal candidate for the job at hand. It is also a get-to-know-you conversation to show the company staff that they would enjoy working with you. So make your case and be likeable! Here are 11 questions to practice:

How much do you make?

This won’t be your opening question but you can count on compensation coming up early in the discussion. The company doesn’t want to waste its time if it turns out they can’t afford you. If you currently make more than the role advertises (for example, you are making a career change from a high-paying job) then focus on what you’re targeting for this role, so you can let them know that, yes, they can afford you. If you have been underpaid and don’t want the company to think they can get you cheaply, also focus on what you’re targeting for the role so that you keep the focus on the role at hand and not your low compensation. But you want to have something to say confidently and directly when the money talk comes up – don’t just wing it.

Tell me about yourself.

This also might be phrased as “Walk me through your resume” or “Walk me through your career” or simply “Why should I hire you?” It’s a common opening question where you get to summarize your background in order to point out the most relevant skills, expertise and accomplishments that make you the best hire. That second part is key – you want to highlight the relevant aspects of your background. You’re not just talking about yourself in general – that’s a date, not an interview.

What is your biggest strength?

Ideally you have already enumerated your strengths as you introduce yourself. But you may get a pointed question that asks you to choose one (or more) to specifically focus on. Pick your most relevant strength(s) for the job. Then give a specific example for each so that the interviewer can see exactly how your strength manifests itself in the workplace.

What is your biggest weakness?

On the flip side, you may get asked about your weaknesses. Here you pick a weakness that is NOT relevant to the job so that it’s clear it won’t impede your ability to perform. You also want to give a specific example to make crystal clear to the interviewer what you mean by your weakness, so that the interviewer isn’t left to imagine and possibly over exaggerate how bad the weakness might be.

What is your biggest accomplishment (or biggest mistake)?

Related to the strength/ weakness line of questioning, you may be asked for an accomplishment, or on the flip side, a mistake. While the strength or weakness is a quality or a skill, the accomplishment or mistake is an outcome that happened. Despite the subtle difference, this type of question should be handled similarly – pick an accomplishment relevant to the job and pick a mistake that isn’t so critical.

Give me an example of __________ (where BLANK is a key function of the potential job)

This line of questioning draws directly from the job description for the role you’re interviewing for. If a key part of the role is direct marketing, the employer may ask for an example of a successful email campaign. If the job requires managing a team, the employer may ask about your management experience and style. Go line-by-line through the job description and be prepared to give an example for each and every requirement.

Why do you want this job?

In addition to whether or not you can do the job, the employer will want to know that you want to do the job. Your motivation is very much under scrutiny in the interview process so you should have a genuine and excited response for why you want this job.

Why did you leave your last job?

Another way to gauge your motivation is by looking at past transitions. Why did you leave other jobs? Why did you make the career choices that you made? You will most probably be asked about your most recent job, but you may also be asked about every career decision you made. The interviewer is looking for what draws you toward and away from different opportunities.

What do you know about our company?

Yet another way to gauge motivation is by looking at how much preparation you did into learning about the company. When I recruited for a magazine publisher, I would ask candidates to list their favorite magazines that we published. I wanted to see how well they knew our products. If your interest is genuine you will know about the company and its industry, so the only right answer to this question is A LOT (and then proceed to share).

Where else are you looking?

Finally, motivation and genuine interest can also be gauged by how seriously you’re focused on the company’s industry and competitors. If you’re interviewing at a bank, but also a manufacturer and a leisure company and an energy company…, then your interests are all over the place. If you are pursuing diverse types of jobs, keep it to yourself lest you seem scattered and undecided. Let the employer know that you have eyes only for the role at hand.

What questions do you have for me?

The interview is a two-way conversation. This is your chance to learn more about the company and the role. Prepare thoughtful questions in advance. Having questions shows that you’re interested and curious. Having intelligent questions shows that you’re prepared and ready to talk business.

In addition to general interview questions, you may be asked specific technical questions or case-based questions (the case style of interviewing is most popular with management consulting roles, though other industries use this line of questioning as well). Research the company in advance – what types of interviews do they conduct? Will you be taking a technical test? I have recruited for companies that gave coding tests or analytical tests or asked for writing samples. Prepare for all types of interviews you might encounter.
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Author: CAROLINE CENIZA-LEVINE

These 16 Job Interview Behaviors Are a Huge Turnoff (and Will Negatively Affect Your Chances of Being Hired)

Statistics show that on average every corporate job opening attracts 250 resumes. This makes interviews more important than ever.

We all know the importance of the job interview for getting hired. You can have a stellar résumé, a great record of employment, and terrific references, but if you blow the interview, chances are you're not going to get the job.

According to statistics compiled by Glassdoor for Employers, every corporate job opening, on average, attracts 250 résumés. But only four to six of these people will be called for an interview, and only one of those will be offered a job.

In a recent post, job search site Simply Hiredrevealed the results of its survey of more than 850 hiring managers -- men and women in the U.S. who have interviewed and hired employees as a part of their job, currently or in the past. In this particular survey, the hiring managers were asked what application and interview behaviors they viewed most negatively in job candidates.

Here are the top 16 behaviors that every job applicant should be sure to avoid to make the best impression possible -- and hopefully land the job of their dreams:

• Arriving late to an interview (93%)
• Whining (92%)
• Showing lack of preparation (89%)
• Bad-mouthing a former boss (88%)
• Making grammar or spelling mistakes on a cover letter (86%)
• Using poor grammar in an interview (84%)
• Having unrealistic compensation requirements (84%)
• Being underqualified (80%)
• Answering questions incorrectly (77%)
• Lacking eye contact in an interview (76%)
• Bragging (73%)
• Lacking a résumé copy at an interview (65%)
• Rambling (63%)
• Dressing casually for an interview (59%)
• Using a gimmick (sending baked goods, gifts, etc.) (56%)
• Talking about other interviews (55%)

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Author: Peter Economy, The Leadership Guy.

10 Ridiculously Smart Questions You Should Ask in a Job interview

In a crowded job market, the last thing you want in a job interview to be is forgettable.

Yet people do it every day with this one mistake: not asking any questions in a job interview.

The mistake is understandable. You’ve been so busy preparing to answer questions, that you’re forgetting to show the curiosity that lets interviewers see what you really want to know. After all, even if every single one of your responses are flawless and on point, by not asking a question or two of your interviewer you run the risk of coming across as generic.

On the other hand, you don’t want to ask terrible questions. That’s even worse.

Here’s how to show the person interviewing you how you’re different and why you stand apart from the rest.

Why did you join the company?

Mark Phillips, who runs a top office for Sanford Rose Associates, one of the largest recruiting networks in the U.S. had a simple question that could be quite complicated. If the interviewer tells you it was because of vacation days or benefits, chances are good that there isn’t all that much below the surface. If, however, they tell you about the creativity or integrity of the brand, you know you’re potentially going to work for a winner.

How does this role further your company’s mission?

Kelly Lavin, chief talent officer for newly launched Canvas, the first text-based interviewing platform suggests you ask this because “While job duties and company culture are important to understand, determining why a company and role exists is just as, if not more, important.” It will also allow you to better understand if you “align with the company’s mission and will feel a sense of purpose in your new role.”

Tell me about your most successful employees.  What do they do differently?

Believe it or not, this one is almost a trick question for potential employers Lavin says. “The answer to this question will help a candidate understand how a company defines success and what specific behaviors can lead to that success.” In one fell swoop you’ll find out what success means to this company and how you can better achieve it.

What do you expect someone in this position to accomplish in the first 60-90 days?

University of Richmond Career Advisor Anna Young says, “Great candidates hit the ground running, find out how you will be expected to jump in and start contributing to the organization from day one.” And in case you’re wondering, it’s fine to modify the question for an internship and ask about expectations for the first few weeks.

What, if anything, in my background gives you pause?

Roberta Matuson, President of Matuson Consulting, says this is pretty much the one must ask question job seekers should ask in an interview. She says “By asking this question, you’ll be able to overcome any objections the interviewer might have before you leave the room.” And if you’re smart, you can find a way to combat any preconceived notions by addressing them in a follow up note.

What is the turnover in your company, in the executive suite and in the department, I am interviewing for?

Dave Arnold President at Arnold Partners says as a leading independent CFO search consultant for technology companies, he’s had 100’s of people go out to interview with clients, and he thinks that’s a question worth asking. While people no longer expect to stay at any given job for decades or more, it’s nice to know how long you can expect to stick around if given the opportunity. If the interviewer grows uncomfortable or shares the fact that turnaround at their company is higher than Dancing with the Stars, you might want to think twice before accepting the position.

What are the opportunities for growth and advancement?

Young says, “This can help you to understand the structure of the organization and if there are opportunities to move up and advance your career.” It’s also a great way of finding out about different ways to progress or move into different roles “Also, it could help you to learn if they offered continued training or professional development for employees.”

If you had a chance to interview for your company again (knowing what you know now), what questions would you ask next time? 

Ashley White, executive director for Human Resources for APQC, a member-based non-profit that produces benchmarking and best practice research suggested this toughie.

This one is slightly sneaky because it also allows you to surreptitiously monitor the interviewer’s hidden signals. Do they suddenly look uncomfortable before spouting the company line? Do they greet this with a giant grin? You might have more answers to this question by what they don’t say, than even by what they do share.

What haven’t I asked that most candidates ask?

Phillips also suggested asking this question, which sets you apart immediately. On the one hand, you’re lumping all the other applicants together and showing a level of confidence; on the other hand, you’re gaining insight into your potential competitors: they asked this, but it never even occurred to me.

One last thing: so that you don’t spend the coming days or weeks on pins and needles, it’s always a good idea to ask this next question.

What are the next steps in this process?

Young says, “If they haven’t already shared this information, it’s important to ask about their timeline so you’re aware of when you could be notified of a second interview, or a potential offer.”

What to ask yourself 

Shannon Breuer, President at Wiley Group was once one of 800 laid off at her former job, Shannon now draws on her own personal experience to provide clients with career coaching and transition services. She offers a list of questions you should ask yourself before an interview, and if needed – you can flip them and ask the interviewer.

• What level of work-life balance do you wish to enjoy? 
• How casual do you like to dress? 
• Is your ideal employer an up-and-coming small business, or a century-old corporation with time-tested values and a clear path for future promotions? 
• Do you like the management style of the leadership team? 
• What are the company initiatives you can stand behind?

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Author:  Rachel Weingarten is a marketing & brand strategist and president of 729.marketing. She's a pop culture and trends analyst who frequently writes about business and style and the business of style. Rachel's a sometimes professor, teaching personal branding on the graduate and undergraduate levels.

How would you answer the question "Are you smart" on the job interview?

I would answer with the following:

I'm smart enough to know that raw intelligence alone isn't enough to solve anything serious.  Other things matter just as much, if not more so.  In particular:

• Learning is about acquiring knowledge and wisdom from others. Wisdom and knowledge gives you the background necessary to find connections between seemingly unrelated concepts -- that is where the true breakthroughs often happen. As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said: "Every man I meet is in some way my superior, and in that I learn from him."  (apologies for the quote not being gender neutral)
• Collaboration is about harnessing diverse skill sets so that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.  Any serious project requires a serious collaboration.
• Perseverance is about not giving up when the going gets tough.  No one is smart or wise enough to anticipate all the problems that the world might throw at you.  Smarts without the will to succeed generally doesn't result in much.

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Author: Yisong Yue, Machine Learning Professor @Caltech

5 Tips for Job Seekers Jumping In After a Long Employment Gap

Not everyone is meant to work 40, 50, or 60 straight years. Not everyone gets a job at twenty and very few people get through their entire career without taking a short break, voluntary or not. We retire early, go on an extended maternity leave, join the Peace Corps, or any number of other things between jobs. And, that’s totally fine.

Problems arise when you’re headed back into the job market after a gap in employment. Things have changed. The economy is different, industries have shifted, and the job search is more challenging and competitive than ever.

Jumping back into the job search can be an overwhelming, scary experience, but you can do something about it.

Check out these 5 tips for job seekers jumping in after a long employment gap:

Learn

Unless you work in medieval map restoration, your industry is constantly changing. Companies fall in and out of favor, profits fluctuate, and processes change all the time. Do some research and learn where your unique skills and experience fit best, and how they create a competitive advantage for you in the job hunt.

Websites like LinkedIn, GlassDoor, and company websites can help you gauge how things have changed since you last worked.

Assess

The job search requires a great deal of self-evaluation. As a worker, who are you? What do you have to offer prospective employers? Why do you want to work in this industry?

If it’s been a while since you worked, how has the industry changed? Figure out what skills make you a competitive applicant and which ones are irrelevant. Don’t be too hard on yourself, but honesty is key.

Re-build

If you haven’t been job seeking in more than a month or two, you’ll need to rebuild your job search tool kit. Look at your resume, your portfolio, personal website, and even your professional wardrobe.

Some things may stay the same, but you’ll find you might need to completely re-haul others.

Join the conversation

Not too long ago, the hiring process was rigid and regimented. Job seeker submits an application, hiring manager processes it, an interview happens, and a job pops out. Thanks to today’s technology, this process has loosened considerably. Job seekers can connect with their peers and important people in the industry to score job leads and advice.

If you haven’t already, join one or more social media site(s) (we suggest Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and/or the top discussion board forums for your profession). Make connections with people in your industry. Join a conversation and you could be talking to your next boss!

Start off slow

Just like running a marathon, sculpting a pot, or writing a novel, start things off slow and steady. If you’ve been out of work for a while, you don’t want to overwhelm yourself with everything at once. Make a list of all the things you need to do in your job search and consistently knock one or two off the list every day.

Once you get back in the swing of things, you’ll find that you don’t need a list anymore, and you won’t be burnt out either.

What do you think? What other steps should job seekers take after a long employment gap? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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About the Author

Tony Morrison is the Vice President of Business Development at Cachinko, a unique professional community where social networking and job opportunities come together. His roles include sales, marketing, and business development. He is passionate about building B2B and B2C client relationships and brings this passion to Cachinko where he focuses on helping job seekers to find their ideal job and employers to find, attract, and engage their next rock star candidates.

3 Interview Tips From Recruiters

If you are about to have an interview, then you need to prepare yourself ahead of time and know exactly what to do to show the best side of you to the interviewer. You could get some solid advice while working with technical recruiters, but it is also useful to do some research to find out what hiring managers really want.

Knowing what hiring managers want or at least determining what they want job seekers to know is not easy, which is why we have compiled three interview tips from recruiters themselves.

1. Come Prepared

One of the most important interview tips that interviewers can provide is to come prepared. If you’re already taking the time to do your research, then you’re on the right track. It’s important to impress a hiring manager by demonstrating your preparedness for the interview and for the job.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to construct a script beforehand and then present it to the interviewer; that would seem far too robotic. Rather, what you should be doing is researching interview tips, roleplaying common interview questions, and researching the company to which you are applying.

Memorize a couple of details about the company and figure out what the hiring manager wants from an employee based on the company’s needs and the job description. Doing your homework will show the interviewer you’re well-prepared and ready to take on the role of an employee for the company.

Demonstrating how prepared you are for the interview will also reveal a lot of positive aspects about your work ethic and your passion about getting the job.

2. Appearance Does Matter

There have been countless debates on how important appearance really is, but all hiring managers can agree on one thing: appearance does matter. Therefore, one of the most essential interview tips from recruiters is to appear clean, well-groomed, and sophisticated.

This doesn’t mean you have to wear your most expensive outfit, but it does mean you have to dress in a way that demonstrates your professionalism. You’re being interviewed for the potential to enter a professional environment so you must be able to show that you belong in such an environment. Even though you don’t want to be too fancy, you have to understand that it’s always better to be overdressed than to be underdressed.

Additionally, your body language during an interview is part of your appearance and the way you carry yourself. Therefore, you have to be mindful of how your body language makes you appear. Avoid bad posture or nervous tics as much as you can; instead, keep your back straight while maintaining steady eye contact with your interviewer.

3. Leave a Lasting Impression

Your ultimate goal during an interview is to leave a lasting impression upon the employer.

There are several ways to accomplish this: Showcase your skills and experience, emphasize your passion for the job, and, most importantly, let your personality shine. Interviews may seem like they are an opportunity for showing off your skills and talents, but they are also the crucial moment in which hiring managers decide whether or not you are a good fit for the company.

Hiring managers are constantly asking themselves whether you would blend into their company’s culture. Therefore, you must recognize the company’s vibe and emphasize your ability to be sociable and confident in such an environment. You want to leave the interviewer with a sense that you have made a strong first impression and that your personality is on par with your qualifications.
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Author: George Hoadley brings 11 years of experience in management to his role as the Branch Manager of Design Group Staffing in Vancouver. With a LinkedIn Recruiter Certification, his areas of expertise are construction management, engineering, project management, estimating, and operations.