I trust everyone had a good Holiday.
I left off with my interview being pushed. After some finagling and a couple stressful moments I finally had my interview right before Christmas.
It went fairly well, but being realistic I don't think I'll get the job, for the lack of experience in that particular field. Which is fine.
It was pointed out that I have the mentality of "I have to get out!" Basically meaning I'm trying to find and take whatever job I can get to get out of the town I'm in. Which in reality if it's not the job or career path I'm really looking to go, maybe I should just relax a little bit and really look into the direction I'd like to go.
It's really hard to set goals when you just plain don't know what you want to do. I have an inkling of an idea, my problem is that I'm too wishy washy and easily swayed, then I doubt myself, and go back to doing nothing.
I've got myself figured out. :)
Showing posts with label Interview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Interview. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Friday, December 18, 2009
Disappointed
Alright, so my interview got pushed. The interviewer was sick, unfortunately, and didn't want to do the interview from home. We are rescheduling.
It was a little disappointing but things happen. I haven't heard from her yet but I imagine it'll be sometime next week.
I had a dream last night that she called my up and just hired me without an interview. It went something along the lines of, "Your resume is just fantastic. I don't even need to interview you. You're hired. When can you start?"
haha now if only. :)
It was a little disappointing but things happen. I haven't heard from her yet but I imagine it'll be sometime next week.
I had a dream last night that she called my up and just hired me without an interview. It went something along the lines of, "Your resume is just fantastic. I don't even need to interview you. You're hired. When can you start?"
haha now if only. :)
Thursday, December 17, 2009
New Interview
I have an interview today. Eek. It is a little nerve wracking I do have to say.
If I were to get this job that I am interviewing for it would do a few things for me. Move my life forward by:
a.) Getting me out of the place I've lived for the past 10 years
b.) Let me explore an entirely different industry which I think would be absolutely awesome.
c.) I would be able to afford an apartment!
I'm trying not to let my self get too excited for fear that I'm just going to end up babbling during the interview. I tend to do that when I'm nervous. It's worse when it's a phone interview. On the phone you can't read peoples reactions to what you're saying so you really can't tell if you're saying completely the wrong thing or doing well.
So at 11:45 a.m. I will be on the phone with a potential employer and am hoping all will go well and, fingers crossed, I will get this job.
If I were to get this job that I am interviewing for it would do a few things for me. Move my life forward by:
a.) Getting me out of the place I've lived for the past 10 years
b.) Let me explore an entirely different industry which I think would be absolutely awesome.
c.) I would be able to afford an apartment!
I'm trying not to let my self get too excited for fear that I'm just going to end up babbling during the interview. I tend to do that when I'm nervous. It's worse when it's a phone interview. On the phone you can't read peoples reactions to what you're saying so you really can't tell if you're saying completely the wrong thing or doing well.
So at 11:45 a.m. I will be on the phone with a potential employer and am hoping all will go well and, fingers crossed, I will get this job.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
How to Screw Up an Interview: Part 3
Here is the last installment of:
How to screw up on interview (unknown source) 13-18 of 18
13.) "During the interview, an alarm clock went off from the candidate's brief case. He took it out, shut it off, apologized and said he had to leave for another interview."
14.) " A telephone call came in for the job applicant. It was from his wife. His side of the conversation went like this: 'Which company? When do I start? What's the salary?' I said, 'I assume you're not interested in conducting the interview any further.' He promptly responded 'I am as long as you'll pay me more.' I didn't hire him, but later found out there was no other job offer. It was a scam to get a higher offer."
15.) His attache [case] opened when he picked it up and the contents spilled, revealing ladies' undergarments and assorted makeup and perfume." O_o
16.) "Candidate said he really didn't want to get a job, but the unemployment office needed proof that he was looking for one."
17.) "...asked who the lovely babe was, pointing to the picture on my desk. When I said it was my wife, he asked if she was home and wanted my phone number. I called security." (Seriously? What kind of idiot would ask something like that?)
18.) "Pointing to a black case he carried into my office, he said that if he was not hired, the bomb would go off. Disbelieving, I began to state why he would never be hired and that I was going to call the police. He the reached down to the case, flipped a switch and ran. No one was injured, but I did need to get a new desk."
I honestly hope they put an alert out on that last guy. Did he honestly think that he would get hired by threatening the interviewer? Slightly crazy if you ask me. My favorite part out of all this funny business will be coming up soon. Look for "Reply to a rejection letter." hehe.
How to screw up on interview (unknown source) 13-18 of 18
13.) "During the interview, an alarm clock went off from the candidate's brief case. He took it out, shut it off, apologized and said he had to leave for another interview."
14.) " A telephone call came in for the job applicant. It was from his wife. His side of the conversation went like this: 'Which company? When do I start? What's the salary?' I said, 'I assume you're not interested in conducting the interview any further.' He promptly responded 'I am as long as you'll pay me more.' I didn't hire him, but later found out there was no other job offer. It was a scam to get a higher offer."
15.) His attache [case] opened when he picked it up and the contents spilled, revealing ladies' undergarments and assorted makeup and perfume." O_o
16.) "Candidate said he really didn't want to get a job, but the unemployment office needed proof that he was looking for one."
17.) "...asked who the lovely babe was, pointing to the picture on my desk. When I said it was my wife, he asked if she was home and wanted my phone number. I called security." (Seriously? What kind of idiot would ask something like that?)
18.) "Pointing to a black case he carried into my office, he said that if he was not hired, the bomb would go off. Disbelieving, I began to state why he would never be hired and that I was going to call the police. He the reached down to the case, flipped a switch and ran. No one was injured, but I did need to get a new desk."
I honestly hope they put an alert out on that last guy. Did he honestly think that he would get hired by threatening the interviewer? Slightly crazy if you ask me. My favorite part out of all this funny business will be coming up soon. Look for "Reply to a rejection letter." hehe.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
How to Screw Up an Interview Part 2
Continuing from the last post more of
How to Screw Up an Interview (unknown source) 6-12 of 18
6. "Stated that, if he were hired, he would demonstrate his loyalty by having the corporate logo tattooed to his forearm."
7. "Interrupted to phone his therapist for advice an answering specific interview questions."
8. " When I asked him about his hobbies, he stood up and started tap dancing around my office."
9. "At the end of the interview, while I stood there dumbstruck, he went through my purse, took out a brush, brushed his hair, and left."
10. "...pulled out a Polaroid camera and snapped a flash picture of me. Said he collected photos of everyone who interviewed him."
11. "Said he wasn't interested because the position paid too much." (What? Seriously...)
12. "While I was on a long-distance phone call, the applicant took out a copy of Penthouse, and looked through the photos only, stopping longest at the centerfold."
Next post I'll finish these up. I really don't get the one about not wanting the position because it paid too much. That just baffles me.
How to Screw Up an Interview (unknown source) 6-12 of 18
6. "Stated that, if he were hired, he would demonstrate his loyalty by having the corporate logo tattooed to his forearm."
7. "Interrupted to phone his therapist for advice an answering specific interview questions."
8. " When I asked him about his hobbies, he stood up and started tap dancing around my office."
9. "At the end of the interview, while I stood there dumbstruck, he went through my purse, took out a brush, brushed his hair, and left."
10. "...pulled out a Polaroid camera and snapped a flash picture of me. Said he collected photos of everyone who interviewed him."
11. "Said he wasn't interested because the position paid too much." (What? Seriously...)
12. "While I was on a long-distance phone call, the applicant took out a copy of Penthouse, and looked through the photos only, stopping longest at the centerfold."
Next post I'll finish these up. I really don't get the one about not wanting the position because it paid too much. That just baffles me.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
How to Screw Up an Interview Part 1
Sorry for the lack of posts lately. I've been finding it harder to keep up with things now that I'm working 6 days a week. But here's some more funny stuff to keep you going while I'm trying to keep up with daily life. Here's Part of 1 of:
How to Screw Up an Interview (unknown source):
We've all been interview for jobs. And, we've all spent most of those interviews thinking about what not to do. Don't bite your nails. Don't fidget. Don't interrupt. Don't belch. If we did any of those don'ts, we knew we'd disqualify ourselves instantly. But some job applicants go light years beyond this. We surveyed top personnel executives of 100 major American corporations and asked for stories of unusual behavior by job applicants. The lowlights(1-5 of 18):
1. "...stretched out on the floor to fill out the job application."
2. "She wore a Walkman and said she could listen to me and the music at the same time."
3. "A balding cadidate abruptly excused himself. Returned to the office a few minutes later, wearing a hairpiece."
4. "...asked to see interviewer's resume to see if the personnel executive was qualified to judge the candidate."
5. "...announced she hadn't had lunch and proceeded to eat a hamburger and french fries in the interviewer's office, wiping the ketchup on her sleeve."
These only keep getting better. It's amazing what some people even think would be OK to do at an interview. Or maybe they're just not thinking at all.
How to Screw Up an Interview (unknown source):
We've all been interview for jobs. And, we've all spent most of those interviews thinking about what not to do. Don't bite your nails. Don't fidget. Don't interrupt. Don't belch. If we did any of those don'ts, we knew we'd disqualify ourselves instantly. But some job applicants go light years beyond this. We surveyed top personnel executives of 100 major American corporations and asked for stories of unusual behavior by job applicants. The lowlights(1-5 of 18):
1. "...stretched out on the floor to fill out the job application."
2. "She wore a Walkman and said she could listen to me and the music at the same time."
3. "A balding cadidate abruptly excused himself. Returned to the office a few minutes later, wearing a hairpiece."
4. "...asked to see interviewer's resume to see if the personnel executive was qualified to judge the candidate."
5. "...announced she hadn't had lunch and proceeded to eat a hamburger and french fries in the interviewer's office, wiping the ketchup on her sleeve."
These only keep getting better. It's amazing what some people even think would be OK to do at an interview. Or maybe they're just not thinking at all.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Interviewing the Employer
One thing that I've learned through the process of interviewing, a possible future employer loves it when the interviewee is prepared. One of the best ways to show off that you actually want the job is to prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer.
Again I don't know what the source for this info is. I'll credit it properly when I find out. I've edited it slightly.
The placement interview is your opportunity to learn ore about the position, the business, and the department you're considering. You're not just looking for the business that will have you, you're looking for a good fit; a program that fits in with your philosophy and will meet you needs.
Most interviews will provide an opportunity for you to ask questions. If you don't have any questions, it may look as if you don't care/haven't prepared, or are not discriminate in your job search. Before heading to an interview, write down a list of some things you would honestly want to know about the business or position. Decide which things would be appropriate to ask during an interview and work to phrase your questions carefully.
Possible Questions:
1. Can you tell me a little more about the staff structure in your program?
2. Why is this position open? (I got big points for asking this one, this also gives you more info on whether you're replacing someone and possibly why, or if it's a new position)
3. How often has this position been filled in the past five years? What were the main reasons?
4. What would you like done differently by the next person who fills this position? (Another good one)
5. What kind of staff development program do you offer?
6. What can you tell me about the community of______?
7. In what ways is your program growing?
8. What significant changes do you foresee in the near future?
9. What are some of the more difficult problems one would have to face in this position?
10. What opportunities might I have for committee involvement?
11. What advancement opportunities are available for the person who is successful in this position, and within what time frame?
12. What challenges are currently facing your department/institution?
13. What kind of training would I be given for this position?
14. What qualities are you looking for in a candidate?
15. What initially attracted you to this company?
16. What are the things you like most about working here? What are some things you would change?
17. What type of support does this position receive in terms of staff, finances, etc?
18. What is the next step after this position?
19. Can you tell me about the hiring time line for this position? (This one is appropriate for any type of interview. Make sure you know when is an appropriate time to call if you don't hear back from the company.)
Pick a handful that are the most appropriate for the position you're applying to. You may find that some of the questions cross each other or that the interviewer already answered with question through another one.
Remember, people love to talk about themselves. It's what they know best. Showing interest in the interviewer as well as the company is very important in trying to make the best impression.
Again I don't know what the source for this info is. I'll credit it properly when I find out. I've edited it slightly.
The placement interview is your opportunity to learn ore about the position, the business, and the department you're considering. You're not just looking for the business that will have you, you're looking for a good fit; a program that fits in with your philosophy and will meet you needs.
Most interviews will provide an opportunity for you to ask questions. If you don't have any questions, it may look as if you don't care/haven't prepared, or are not discriminate in your job search. Before heading to an interview, write down a list of some things you would honestly want to know about the business or position. Decide which things would be appropriate to ask during an interview and work to phrase your questions carefully.
Possible Questions:
1. Can you tell me a little more about the staff structure in your program?
2. Why is this position open? (I got big points for asking this one, this also gives you more info on whether you're replacing someone and possibly why, or if it's a new position)
3. How often has this position been filled in the past five years? What were the main reasons?
4. What would you like done differently by the next person who fills this position? (Another good one)
5. What kind of staff development program do you offer?
6. What can you tell me about the community of______?
7. In what ways is your program growing?
8. What significant changes do you foresee in the near future?
9. What are some of the more difficult problems one would have to face in this position?
10. What opportunities might I have for committee involvement?
11. What advancement opportunities are available for the person who is successful in this position, and within what time frame?
12. What challenges are currently facing your department/institution?
13. What kind of training would I be given for this position?
14. What qualities are you looking for in a candidate?
15. What initially attracted you to this company?
16. What are the things you like most about working here? What are some things you would change?
17. What type of support does this position receive in terms of staff, finances, etc?
18. What is the next step after this position?
19. Can you tell me about the hiring time line for this position? (This one is appropriate for any type of interview. Make sure you know when is an appropriate time to call if you don't hear back from the company.)
Pick a handful that are the most appropriate for the position you're applying to. You may find that some of the questions cross each other or that the interviewer already answered with question through another one.
Remember, people love to talk about themselves. It's what they know best. Showing interest in the interviewer as well as the company is very important in trying to make the best impression.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Types of Interviews
Here's an idea of what different interviews you may encounter on your way to the top. The source that these are from, which is an OPE(?) source, only has three listed. (This was also given to me from Idonas). I think this is more geared towards people trying to get a job on a College campus, but it can still be translated into other fields as well.
Conference Interviews
Initial interview(s) which are used to screen. The goal is to get an offer to come to the campus (business). The interview usually lasts around 30 minutes and will take place at a small table (or room), with 1-2 representatives from the school. Could be in a large ballroom with up to 100 tables in one section, where other interviews are also being conducted just a few feet away.
Telephone Interviews
May proceed, replace, or follow-up a conference interview. This may be a conference call with 3-5 staff members from the office in which you hope to work. These can be as short as 20 minutes or over an hour depending on the search process.
Campus Interviews
Can last all day. You may be getting evaluated during meals and travel to/from the airport/bus/train. The process will usually consist of a series of interviews with different individuals or groups throughout the day. Students, staff and people from other offices may interview you. You may be asked to make a presentation. (If the interview is out-of-town, you want to arrange to arrive a day early or stay an extra day if possible to get a chance to explore the area and campus.)
One type not mentioned in this source is a Group Interview. Same concept as the Conference Interview, except a group of people will be interviewed for the same position, at the same time, by the same people as you.
Each type of interview is a little different, but requires similar preparation.
Be well organized and be prepared to sell yourself and your skills. Be confident in what you know and make sure that it shows. It's very difficult to stand out from the crowd and selling your best assets is one of the ways to make your possible future employer notice you.
Conference Interviews
Initial interview(s) which are used to screen. The goal is to get an offer to come to the campus (business). The interview usually lasts around 30 minutes and will take place at a small table (or room), with 1-2 representatives from the school. Could be in a large ballroom with up to 100 tables in one section, where other interviews are also being conducted just a few feet away.
Telephone Interviews
May proceed, replace, or follow-up a conference interview. This may be a conference call with 3-5 staff members from the office in which you hope to work. These can be as short as 20 minutes or over an hour depending on the search process.
Campus Interviews
Can last all day. You may be getting evaluated during meals and travel to/from the airport/bus/train. The process will usually consist of a series of interviews with different individuals or groups throughout the day. Students, staff and people from other offices may interview you. You may be asked to make a presentation. (If the interview is out-of-town, you want to arrange to arrive a day early or stay an extra day if possible to get a chance to explore the area and campus.)
One type not mentioned in this source is a Group Interview. Same concept as the Conference Interview, except a group of people will be interviewed for the same position, at the same time, by the same people as you.
Each type of interview is a little different, but requires similar preparation.
Be well organized and be prepared to sell yourself and your skills. Be confident in what you know and make sure that it shows. It's very difficult to stand out from the crowd and selling your best assets is one of the ways to make your possible future employer notice you.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Keys to Successful Interviewing Part 3
So you were lucky enough to land an interview, you did all the right things. Now you're waiting and chewing your nails waiting for them to call you back..
Keys to Successful Interviewing (Info compiled by John Denio, Bryant University '04)
After the Interview
Follow-Up: Your Personal Assessment
-How do you think the interview went?
-What did you forget to ask?
-What do you want to stress next time?
-What did you learn about the employer?
Follow-Up With the Interviewer
-Send a note of thanks
-Express your interest in the position and the organization
-Reiterate your hope to hear from his/her organization soon
-Contact the interviewer again if there is no response within the agreed time
-Persistence pays off, but don't be a pest
Be on top of things. It's important to keep yourself in the employer's mind, especially if you're one of the first interviewees and there's a lot of candidates.
Don't give up hope. It's a very tough process. It's pretty disappointing if you even make it to a 2nd interview and end up with a "No." Just keep trying.
Another tip: If you don't get the job you can try calling the interviewer and asking them what they thought of the interview and what you could improve on for your next interviews. They'll know why they didn't hire you and be able to give you some pointers.
Keys to Successful Interviewing (Info compiled by John Denio, Bryant University '04)
After the Interview
Follow-Up: Your Personal Assessment
-How do you think the interview went?
-What did you forget to ask?
-What do you want to stress next time?
-What did you learn about the employer?
Follow-Up With the Interviewer
-Send a note of thanks
-Express your interest in the position and the organization
-Reiterate your hope to hear from his/her organization soon
-Contact the interviewer again if there is no response within the agreed time
-Persistence pays off, but don't be a pest
Be on top of things. It's important to keep yourself in the employer's mind, especially if you're one of the first interviewees and there's a lot of candidates.
Don't give up hope. It's a very tough process. It's pretty disappointing if you even make it to a 2nd interview and end up with a "No." Just keep trying.
Another tip: If you don't get the job you can try calling the interviewer and asking them what they thought of the interview and what you could improve on for your next interviews. They'll know why they didn't hire you and be able to give you some pointers.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Keys to Successful Interviewing Part 2/First Day on the Job
Today was my first day temping. Whew. I went in at 8:30 this morning and filled out an application then got the run through of my duties. At first it was pretty overwhelming. But after I got back from lunch it went a little better.
My fine moment of the day is when I answered the phone. "hello. oh uh buh wait, Faculty Administration!" haha but luckily it was someone I knew and they knew I was new. Everyone was very nice and accommodating. So Hurrah! for a very successful first day at my new job :)
Now on to Keys to Successful Interviewing Part 2! (Info compiled by John Denio, Bryant University '04)
The Interview
Before the Interview:
-Take copies of your resume, list of references and your notes.
-Be on time, early is even better.
-Know the interviewer's name (how to spell and pronounce it) and title.
-Remember to be courteous to all personnel you meet. Good manners make a good impression
During the Interview
-Begin on a positive note, firm handshake, smile, and eye contact
-Be aware of your non-verbal attitudes, alert posture, eye contact, facial expressions, body language, and demeanor
-Allow the interviewer to lead the interview
-Be responsive to interviewer's questions; avoid short answers. The interviewer wants to know about you
-Be sure to bring up your assets and skills. Sell your strong points
-Wait for the interviewer to discuss salary and benefits
-Let your interest and enthusiasm show!
Closing the Interview
-Take the cue from the interviewer; do not prolong the leave-taking
-Ask what the next step will be in the employment process for this job
-Thank the interviewer for his/her time
-Close on a positive note, firm handshake, smile, and eye contact
That it's for during the interview. The only thing I would add to this is that you should have prepared questions for the interviewer, and hopefully they'll ask you if you have any. If they don't, towards the end of the interview say that you have some questions for them if they don't mind. I'll get more into what kind of question on another post. Look for the After the Interview points next post.
Have a great day :)
My fine moment of the day is when I answered the phone. "hello. oh uh buh wait, Faculty Administration!" haha but luckily it was someone I knew and they knew I was new. Everyone was very nice and accommodating. So Hurrah! for a very successful first day at my new job :)
Now on to Keys to Successful Interviewing Part 2! (Info compiled by John Denio, Bryant University '04)
The Interview
Before the Interview:
-Take copies of your resume, list of references and your notes.
-Be on time, early is even better.
-Know the interviewer's name (how to spell and pronounce it) and title.
-Remember to be courteous to all personnel you meet. Good manners make a good impression
During the Interview
-Begin on a positive note, firm handshake, smile, and eye contact
-Be aware of your non-verbal attitudes, alert posture, eye contact, facial expressions, body language, and demeanor
-Allow the interviewer to lead the interview
-Be responsive to interviewer's questions; avoid short answers. The interviewer wants to know about you
-Be sure to bring up your assets and skills. Sell your strong points
-Wait for the interviewer to discuss salary and benefits
-Let your interest and enthusiasm show!
Closing the Interview
-Take the cue from the interviewer; do not prolong the leave-taking
-Ask what the next step will be in the employment process for this job
-Thank the interviewer for his/her time
-Close on a positive note, firm handshake, smile, and eye contact
That it's for during the interview. The only thing I would add to this is that you should have prepared questions for the interviewer, and hopefully they'll ask you if you have any. If they don't, towards the end of the interview say that you have some questions for them if they don't mind. I'll get more into what kind of question on another post. Look for the After the Interview points next post.
Have a great day :)
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Keys to Successful Interviewing Part 1
I'm thanking Idonas again for the next few posts. He has been a great help in giving me tips and trying to help me find a job. He was my boss when I worked for my college, which sadly I can't do anymore since it was only a summer position. He gave me a couple sheets on interviewing tips. Here is part 1 (all the information is compiled by John Denio, Bryant University '04):
In Advance:
Assess yourself regarding:
-educations (relevant courses; skills you gained)
-work experience (paid, full-time, part-time, volunteer, internships)
-extracurricular activities
-transferable skills (from school to work and from one job to another)
-geographic preference
-salary needs (acceptable range)
-successes/accomplishments
-leadership examples (positions, committees...)
Assess the Organization or Institution:
-size, location
-reputation, standing, services provided
-training and benefits available
-financial status
-how your skills would contribute to its operation
-your reasons for wanting to work there
Organize Yourself:
-Prepare a dynamic one to two page resume
-Request letters of recommendation from faculty and staff members. Ask permission to use their names as references
-Prepare two to three questions regarding experience, career goals, strengths, weaknesses, and awareness of position and organization.
-Know where the interview will be held and how to get there.
-Decide on your interview wardrobe. Appearance should reflect conservative good taste.
That's part one. Stop back again for tips on the actual interview
In Advance:
Assess yourself regarding:
-educations (relevant courses; skills you gained)
-work experience (paid, full-time, part-time, volunteer, internships)
-extracurricular activities
-transferable skills (from school to work and from one job to another)
-geographic preference
-salary needs (acceptable range)
-successes/accomplishments
-leadership examples (positions, committees...)
Assess the Organization or Institution:
-size, location
-reputation, standing, services provided
-training and benefits available
-financial status
-how your skills would contribute to its operation
-your reasons for wanting to work there
Organize Yourself:
-Prepare a dynamic one to two page resume
-Request letters of recommendation from faculty and staff members. Ask permission to use their names as references
-Prepare two to three questions regarding experience, career goals, strengths, weaknesses, and awareness of position and organization.
-Know where the interview will be held and how to get there.
-Decide on your interview wardrobe. Appearance should reflect conservative good taste.
That's part one. Stop back again for tips on the actual interview
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