Written By Jimmy Sweeney
President of CareerJimmy and Author of the new,
Job Interview "Secret"
It's easy to get overwhelmed by the holiday buzz–shopping, decorating, gift-wrapping, over-eating, and entertaining. To avoid going over the edge, take time for some rest and reflection. Think through your goals for the new year. Then make a list, and check it twice!
If finding new employment is on that list, remember that every great job starts with a great interview! So plan now to take stock of yourself, your presentation, your ability to express yourself, your standards for the company you work for. Use the week between Christmas and New Year's to take strategic steps to insure a bright future.
Interviews Don't Just Happen!
They begin and end with you–even though a man or woman is sitting across from you in an office. Keep in mind that today's hiring manager is more interested in who you are as a person than who you are as a professional. Something called 'behavior-based' interviewing is becoming the norm.
Employers are looking at a candidate's past performance as a predictor of future behavior. They are not only interested in your background and experience, but also in the way you treat others and how you interact with a team or department employees, and how you've handled sticky situations that called for logic and leadership.
Truth or Consequences
Following are some of the hard-edged questions and directives you might receive in a behavior-based interview.
1. Give me an example of a specific time you took charge of a situation that was out of control.
2. What goal have you set in a workplace and how did you achieve it?
3. How have you performed above and beyond the requirement of the job you held?
4. Provide an example of how you bailed yourself and others out of what appeared to be a hopeless situation.
5. What specifically have you done to alleviate a problem with a difficult co-worker or superior?
Expect to provide details, dialogue, and a description of what occurred and how it was resolved.
A New Year Without Fear
Give worry a good swift kick. Stand in front of a mirror and speak positive words to yourself. "You are a good manager." "You are the one people turn to in a tough situation." "Care more about people than problems." "Believe in yourself." "You are admired."
Next, jot down a few personal stories that illustrate situations and times when you successfully resolved conflict, stood up for the truth despite criticism, or used your creativity to negotiate a challenging relationship. Then go over the job description to get a feel for the requirements, standards, and expectations of the person who is hired. Picture yourself on the job, handling day-to-day operations, fielding calls, making decisions, and dealing with co-workers.
Finally, check your emotional pulse. If you're smiling and feeling comfortable and well suited to such a job, then go for it. If you feel stressful, confused, or overwhelmed, consider setting this opportunity aside and going for another one that is a better match for your skills and strengths.
Equipped with practical insight and emotional clarity such as this, you can walk into any interview and establish a good rapport with the hiring manager.
Afterwards, all that's left is the question only you can ask and answer for yourself. "Is this the job for me?"
Happy Holiday and happy job-hunting!
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Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new "Secret Career Document" job landing system. Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and writes a monthly article titled, "Job Search Secrets."
Visit our friends at Job Interview "Secret" and discover Jimmy Sweeney's breakthrough strategy that will have you standing out from the competition like a Harvard graduate at a local job fair… DURING your next job interview.
Showing posts with label Job Interview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Job Interview. Show all posts
December 24, 2009
October 5, 2009
A GREAT Job Interview Follow-up Letter Secret
Written By Jimmy Sweeney
President of CareerJimmy and Author of the new,
Job Interview "Secret"
You've just finished the interview you hoped to get and it went pretty well as far as you can tell. Now you must play the 'waiting game,' as the hiring manager makes his or her decision about offering you the job. However, you can be active even as you wait. Here's a secret most people don't know about—so keep it to yourself, okay?
A Gift That Continues to Give
Give the interviewer a 'gift.' No! Not a Starbucks card or a movie pass. In fact, if you're not careful such a gift might be considered a bribe, so of course you want to avoid that. However, you can give something of value that will be seen as a kind gesture from a person who has taken note of the employer's interests and hobbies.
You can pass on a 'gift of information'—an article from a magazine or newspaper, a reference to a certain web site, or a brochure or pamphlet––that focuses on something the hiring manager would welcome, use, and enjoy.
Thank You PLUS
For example, suppose you and the interviewer talked about your mutual interest in golf or dog training or skiing or chess. How nice it would be to include some printed information on one of these topics that reminds the hiring manager of your conversation and your thoughtfulness. This gift along with a short but friendly note of thanks for the interview would surely put your name and face in a prominent place in the interviewer's mind.
Employer Benefits
Even if you don't get the job, you've taken a good and kind step toward another person. That will pay off in one way or the other.
1. It shows enthusiasm for the open position.
2. It displays your diligence and commitment.
3. It demonstrates that you paid attention to the interviewer and his or her interests.
4. It illustrates that you are a thoughtful and generous person with your time and energy.
And finally, such gifts sent periodically, help you keep in touch with your interviewer until the job is filled.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new "Secret Career Document" job landing system. Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and writes a monthly article titled, "Job Search Secrets."
Visit our friends at Job Interview "Secret" and discover Jimmy Sweeney's breakthrough strategy that will have you standing out from the competition like a Harvard graduate at a local job fair… DURING your next job interview.
President of CareerJimmy and Author of the new,
Job Interview "Secret"
You've just finished the interview you hoped to get and it went pretty well as far as you can tell. Now you must play the 'waiting game,' as the hiring manager makes his or her decision about offering you the job. However, you can be active even as you wait. Here's a secret most people don't know about—so keep it to yourself, okay?
A Gift That Continues to Give
Give the interviewer a 'gift.' No! Not a Starbucks card or a movie pass. In fact, if you're not careful such a gift might be considered a bribe, so of course you want to avoid that. However, you can give something of value that will be seen as a kind gesture from a person who has taken note of the employer's interests and hobbies.
You can pass on a 'gift of information'—an article from a magazine or newspaper, a reference to a certain web site, or a brochure or pamphlet––that focuses on something the hiring manager would welcome, use, and enjoy.
Thank You PLUS
For example, suppose you and the interviewer talked about your mutual interest in golf or dog training or skiing or chess. How nice it would be to include some printed information on one of these topics that reminds the hiring manager of your conversation and your thoughtfulness. This gift along with a short but friendly note of thanks for the interview would surely put your name and face in a prominent place in the interviewer's mind.
Employer Benefits
Even if you don't get the job, you've taken a good and kind step toward another person. That will pay off in one way or the other.
1. It shows enthusiasm for the open position.
2. It displays your diligence and commitment.
3. It demonstrates that you paid attention to the interviewer and his or her interests.
4. It illustrates that you are a thoughtful and generous person with your time and energy.
And finally, such gifts sent periodically, help you keep in touch with your interviewer until the job is filled.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new "Secret Career Document" job landing system. Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and writes a monthly article titled, "Job Search Secrets."
Visit our friends at Job Interview "Secret" and discover Jimmy Sweeney's breakthrough strategy that will have you standing out from the competition like a Harvard graduate at a local job fair… DURING your next job interview.
July 30, 2009
Interview Questions - Salary
In this post, you will find some of the possible job interview questions on salary and how to negotiate your salary to make a successfull job interview.
Interview Questions:
Interview Questions:
Salary Negotiation
June 29, 2009
Not-So-Secret "Secrets" For a Successful Job Interview
Written By Jimmy Sweeney
Job Interview "Secret"
Put your best foot forward.
Make a good first impression.
Look your interviewer in the eye.
Pretty standard fare, you might be thinking. You've heard these tips numerous times. But have you considered what they mean and how important they really are? If not, here are some reasons to do so for each one.
Not-So-Secret Secret #1: Put Your Best Foot Forward
The wording here is a bit odd. It implies that we have three or more feet. It would make more sense and be grammatically correct to say: "Put your better foot forward." But knowing what it means is what really matters: To start on a journey or task with purpose and gusto. In other words walk into your interview with a determined step, a smile on your face, a friendly handshake, and expectancy in your mind and heart. Be your best self and trust that your authenticity will compel the interviewer to take a good look at YOU, in person and on paper.
Not-So-Secret Secret #2: Make a Good First Impression
It has been said again and again that the first impression is the last impression. How can that be true? People judge one another by what they see and hear first. It stays with them, regardless of what happens next. So it's worth your time to express your true self rather than to try to impress with affectation and showmanship. Hiring managers are looking for authentic individuals who are honest, open-faced, quick to smile and shake hands firmly, ask intelligent questions, and speak openly about their qualifications for the job in question. Be positive and optimistic. Show your appreciation for the opportunity, get to the point of how you can benefit the company with your skill set, and avoid throwing verbal stones at previous employers or co-workers.
Not-So-Secret Secret #3: Look Your Interviewer in the Eye
You've probably heard the saying, "The eyes are the windows to the soul." And you know it's true when you encounter other people. Our eyes sometimes say more than our words. So when you're in an interview, look the hiring manager in the eye. Listen and focus on what he or she is saying. And when it's your turn to respond, hold your gaze and avoid distracting gestures such as playing with coins in your pocket or flicking your fingernails. One way to lose points fast is to look over the interviewer's shoulder or glance around the room or stare at the floor when you and he or she are engaged in conversation.
The next time you're preparing for a job interview, review these three not-so-secret secrets, put them into practice, and the wait for those three magic words, "WOW…You're Hired!"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the
brand new "Secret Career Document" job landing system.
Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and
writes a monthly article titled, "Job Search Secrets."
Create Your Own 'Secret Career Document' To Land
Any Job You Desire In The Next 27 Days…
Guaranteed. Click here to learn how!http://pes2004.wowhired.hop.clickbank.net
Job Interview "Secret"
Put your best foot forward.
Make a good first impression.
Look your interviewer in the eye.
Pretty standard fare, you might be thinking. You've heard these tips numerous times. But have you considered what they mean and how important they really are? If not, here are some reasons to do so for each one.
Not-So-Secret Secret #1: Put Your Best Foot Forward
The wording here is a bit odd. It implies that we have three or more feet. It would make more sense and be grammatically correct to say: "Put your better foot forward." But knowing what it means is what really matters: To start on a journey or task with purpose and gusto. In other words walk into your interview with a determined step, a smile on your face, a friendly handshake, and expectancy in your mind and heart. Be your best self and trust that your authenticity will compel the interviewer to take a good look at YOU, in person and on paper.
Not-So-Secret Secret #2: Make a Good First Impression
It has been said again and again that the first impression is the last impression. How can that be true? People judge one another by what they see and hear first. It stays with them, regardless of what happens next. So it's worth your time to express your true self rather than to try to impress with affectation and showmanship. Hiring managers are looking for authentic individuals who are honest, open-faced, quick to smile and shake hands firmly, ask intelligent questions, and speak openly about their qualifications for the job in question. Be positive and optimistic. Show your appreciation for the opportunity, get to the point of how you can benefit the company with your skill set, and avoid throwing verbal stones at previous employers or co-workers.
Not-So-Secret Secret #3: Look Your Interviewer in the Eye
You've probably heard the saying, "The eyes are the windows to the soul." And you know it's true when you encounter other people. Our eyes sometimes say more than our words. So when you're in an interview, look the hiring manager in the eye. Listen and focus on what he or she is saying. And when it's your turn to respond, hold your gaze and avoid distracting gestures such as playing with coins in your pocket or flicking your fingernails. One way to lose points fast is to look over the interviewer's shoulder or glance around the room or stare at the floor when you and he or she are engaged in conversation.
The next time you're preparing for a job interview, review these three not-so-secret secrets, put them into practice, and the wait for those three magic words, "WOW…You're Hired!"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the
brand new "Secret Career Document" job landing system.
Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and
writes a monthly article titled, "Job Search Secrets."
Create Your Own 'Secret Career Document' To Land
Any Job You Desire In The Next 27 Days…
Guaranteed. Click here to learn how!http://pes2004.wowhired.hop.clickbank.net
September 22, 2008
Your Job Interview "Manners" Matter!
Job Interview "Secret"
Manners are not only important at the dinner table (use your napkin, please), on the telephone (listen as well as speak), in a theater (refrain from talking during the performance), but also during a job interview. Yet many job seekers forget the importance of being polite. They jingle the change in their pocket, click their tongue, stare at the wall or at their lap, or cut in when the hiring manager is speaking.
Nerves can throw you off. Your heart races, your palms perspire, your mouth goes dry. You may even forget what you want to say. But none of these experiences are reasons to forget your manners. To give yourself the 'edge' when it comes to sitting across from a potential employer, review the following polite practices and then go over them with a spouse or friend before the in-person meeting.
Arrive ahead of time. It may be fashionable to come late to a cocktail party but it's bad manners to walk into an interview after the agreed-upon time. Always arrive at least ten minutes early so you can freshen up, catch your breath, sit quietly in the lobby reviewing your notes.
Maintain good eye contact. You probably know what it's like to speak with someone who is shifty-eyed. You might wonder what he has up his sleeve or what she is hiding. Looking a man or woman in the eye when speaking is not only polite, it's good business practice. It assures the other person of your sincerity and genuine interest. And it will remind him or her to return the eye contact.
Listen well. Focus your mind and take in what the interviewer is saying. If you miss a detail or don't understand what is said, ask politely for it to be repeated. It may help to have a small notepad and pen in your hand. Jot down items that are of importance to you. You might even tell the interviewer ahead of time that you'll be taking notes because you don’t want to miss anything. That too, is a sign of good manners. You're letting the other person know that you're serious about the job in question.
Say thank you. At the close of the interview, be sure to shake hands and express in warm words how much you appreciate the time and the information you received. Remember, everyone likes to be acknowledged and thanked. Those who express gratitude will not be forgotten because it is so rare for people today to share genuine thanks. Then follow up with a thank you note in your handwriting. That will seal the deal and give you a good chance of winning a second interview—or even the job itself.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written by Jimmy Sweeney, the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new "Secret Career Document" job landing system.
Manners are not only important at the dinner table (use your napkin, please), on the telephone (listen as well as speak), in a theater (refrain from talking during the performance), but also during a job interview. Yet many job seekers forget the importance of being polite. They jingle the change in their pocket, click their tongue, stare at the wall or at their lap, or cut in when the hiring manager is speaking.
Nerves can throw you off. Your heart races, your palms perspire, your mouth goes dry. You may even forget what you want to say. But none of these experiences are reasons to forget your manners. To give yourself the 'edge' when it comes to sitting across from a potential employer, review the following polite practices and then go over them with a spouse or friend before the in-person meeting.
Arrive ahead of time. It may be fashionable to come late to a cocktail party but it's bad manners to walk into an interview after the agreed-upon time. Always arrive at least ten minutes early so you can freshen up, catch your breath, sit quietly in the lobby reviewing your notes.
Maintain good eye contact. You probably know what it's like to speak with someone who is shifty-eyed. You might wonder what he has up his sleeve or what she is hiding. Looking a man or woman in the eye when speaking is not only polite, it's good business practice. It assures the other person of your sincerity and genuine interest. And it will remind him or her to return the eye contact.
Listen well. Focus your mind and take in what the interviewer is saying. If you miss a detail or don't understand what is said, ask politely for it to be repeated. It may help to have a small notepad and pen in your hand. Jot down items that are of importance to you. You might even tell the interviewer ahead of time that you'll be taking notes because you don’t want to miss anything. That too, is a sign of good manners. You're letting the other person know that you're serious about the job in question.
Say thank you. At the close of the interview, be sure to shake hands and express in warm words how much you appreciate the time and the information you received. Remember, everyone likes to be acknowledged and thanked. Those who express gratitude will not be forgotten because it is so rare for people today to share genuine thanks. Then follow up with a thank you note in your handwriting. That will seal the deal and give you a good chance of winning a second interview—or even the job itself.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written by Jimmy Sweeney, the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new "Secret Career Document" job landing system.
May 13, 2008
Research the Company–Before the Interview
...by Jimmy Sweeney
Job Interview "Secret"
Suppose you're looking for a job as the manager of a retail stationery store. Or you have your eye on a position as an executive assistant in a law firm or a sales representative for a shoe manufacturer. Whatever profession attracts you, you will enhance your chance of landing the job you want if you research the company––before the interview. Decide now to learn as much as you can about the organization. Then show up on time for the interview, prepared and eager to talk specific details.
HOW to do your research
1. Visit the company's web site for a description, purpose statement, and details about the organization and its mission. Also do a Google or Yahoo search for articles and reviews about the firm you're targeting.
2. Consult the Thomas Register of American Manufacturers or other source available at your public library.
3. Make a list of items you want to know about, including: benefits, history, advancement opportunities, financial status, leadership, community involvement, strategic plans/goals.
4. Call the human resources department of the company for which you'll be
interviewed and ask for company brochures, new employee packets, etc.
5. Consult publications such as Forbes, Fortune, Business Week, Wall Street Journal and others for their 'best of' and 'worst of' lists that provide unbiased
information about a variety of companies.
The better prepared you are the more confident you'll feel while talking with the hiring manager––and the better he or she will feel about you for having taken the time to learn about the company.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new "Secret Career Document" job landing system.
Job Interview "Secret"
Suppose you're looking for a job as the manager of a retail stationery store. Or you have your eye on a position as an executive assistant in a law firm or a sales representative for a shoe manufacturer. Whatever profession attracts you, you will enhance your chance of landing the job you want if you research the company––before the interview. Decide now to learn as much as you can about the organization. Then show up on time for the interview, prepared and eager to talk specific details.
HOW to do your research
1. Visit the company's web site for a description, purpose statement, and details about the organization and its mission. Also do a Google or Yahoo search for articles and reviews about the firm you're targeting.
2. Consult the Thomas Register of American Manufacturers or other source available at your public library.
3. Make a list of items you want to know about, including: benefits, history, advancement opportunities, financial status, leadership, community involvement, strategic plans/goals.
4. Call the human resources department of the company for which you'll be
interviewed and ask for company brochures, new employee packets, etc.
5. Consult publications such as Forbes, Fortune, Business Week, Wall Street Journal and others for their 'best of' and 'worst of' lists that provide unbiased
information about a variety of companies.
The better prepared you are the more confident you'll feel while talking with the hiring manager––and the better he or she will feel about you for having taken the time to learn about the company.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new "Secret Career Document" job landing system.
March 25, 2008
You've Landed The Job Interview! … Now What?
...by Jimmy Sweeney
Job Interview "Secret"
Congratulations, you've landed an interview for a position you'd love. You're eager to make a good impression. You hope to be offered the job. To get the result you want, be sure to ask questions––during the interview. Plan ahead. Think about what you'd like to know. Then jot down a list of questions on those topics. Here are some examples:
1. May I give you an example of something I believe I can to bring to your company if given the opportunity to fill this position?
2. What are the main qualifications you're looking for in the person you'll chose to hire?
3. When do you expect to hire a person for this job?
How To "Close" The Interview
Once the interview is over, wrap up your time with a friendly closure.
1. Express your thanks.
2. Exchange business cards.
3. Offer to provide more information, if needed.
4. Look the hiring manager in the eye and shake hands firmly.
5. Ask for the opportunity to fill this position.
6. Follow up with a written thank you note.
Be clear. Be calm. Be courteous. The more professional and prepared you are when you go into an interview, the greater your chance of achieving your goal––a job offer!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new "Secret Career Document" job landing system.
Job Interview "Secret"
Congratulations, you've landed an interview for a position you'd love. You're eager to make a good impression. You hope to be offered the job. To get the result you want, be sure to ask questions––during the interview. Plan ahead. Think about what you'd like to know. Then jot down a list of questions on those topics. Here are some examples:
1. May I give you an example of something I believe I can to bring to your company if given the opportunity to fill this position?
2. What are the main qualifications you're looking for in the person you'll chose to hire?
3. When do you expect to hire a person for this job?
How To "Close" The Interview
Once the interview is over, wrap up your time with a friendly closure.
1. Express your thanks.
2. Exchange business cards.
3. Offer to provide more information, if needed.
4. Look the hiring manager in the eye and shake hands firmly.
5. Ask for the opportunity to fill this position.
6. Follow up with a written thank you note.
Be clear. Be calm. Be courteous. The more professional and prepared you are when you go into an interview, the greater your chance of achieving your goal––a job offer!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new "Secret Career Document" job landing system.
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