Tis the season to job hunt

5 things that candidates should never say in an interview

1.       I don’t need to work- so why are you here? That believe it or not is an arrogant comment. What the candidate wanted to say is that they work for the pleasure of it but it came out as “I’m above it all” or I work for the pleasure, thrill or challenge.

2.       What does your company do? - You obviously did not do your homework. If you did not bother to take the time to learn about them, why should the employer take the time to learn about you?

3.       What’s the sick leave or sick days policy? – Nothing says red flag like this question. No employer wants someone who is going to work the system. Now, if you have a legitimate claim such as a sick child, you may want to find out what is covered but be discreet about it. With mounting health care costs, no one wants someone who will cost the company more than the average.

4.       Swearing your head off- what a turn off. So many candidates have made swearing a part of their daily life they don’t even realize that they are doing so. Swearing shows a lack of vocabulary. I suggest eliminating it altogether.

5.       You have to find me a job- No I don’t but I would like to. This is the candidate's responsibility and his/hers only. Nothing says desperate like this statement. Equally, don’t say “I’ll do anything”.  What you want to say is that you are flexible and open to change.

Also reflect carefully on the question “what are your weaknesses?” You will be asked that at some point in your interview process, be prepared to answer it thoughtfully and intelligently.

Happy selling

D

Managing your career when you have been 10+ years at the same company

10 reasons how LinkedIn can help you with your job search.

1.      It is the #1 social media tool for business

If you are in business and not on LinkedIn, it’s like you don’t exist. This is better than Facebook stalking. You see the person’s education and career history.

2.      You can research a perspective employer before the interview

As part of your research, you know where they went to school, where they worked and a bit about their personal interests.

3.      Employers are increasingly using LinkedIn to post jobs

It’s free for users to look at and apply to jobs.

4.      You get to see how an employer is connected to you and who else works or worked at the company.

You can do your own reference checking.

5.      You get visibility outside of your local area

Because LinkedIn is international, it exposes you to potential employers outside of your area.

6.      You can leverage your connections to get introduced to an employer

You can use who you know to get closer to that dream job, employer or gate keeper.

7.      You can join like-minded groups and get the word out

If you are an expert at something, consider joining a group and participating in discussions. This is a way to showcase your knowledge.

8.      Get and share recommendations

Need job references; get your past employers to write a recommendation on LinkedIn for all to see. Need I say more?

9.      Us the company’s LinkedIn corporate page to see who else works there and the relationship.

If you are trying to access a company, take a look at their corporate page to see how else you can connect with the hiring manager.

10.  Subtle way to look for a job or to be found.

So, you’re not looking for a job or you don’t want to make it public, LinkedIn is great if you are a passive candidate or don’t want to make it obvious.  If you are getting calls for recruiters and employers because of your LinkedIn profile, this will give you information on your marketability.

What am I doing incorrectly with my job search?

How to do references properly

How to do references properly

I call my fair share of references and I am surprised by how many are taken aback to hear from a recruiter. It is almost as if they were not expecting my call. Here are some quick tips to smooth the process:

1.       Line them up before you need them

2.       Call your reference prior to each position (job that you are being considered for)

3.       Explain the role to your reference

4.       Let your reference  know approximately when the company will be calling

5.       Managers: be prepared to give as references; managers, colleagues and subordinates

6.       Sales people: don’t be surprised if you are asked to provide a customer as a reference

7.       Don’t forget to call your reference back to give an update and to thank them

Taking care of this quick list can help move the job interview process along quickly.

Happy Selling

D

15 Rules to Make your Job Search Successful

15 Rules to Make your Job Search Successful

Rule 1: Always work your network before you need it.
Rule 2: Keep in mind that all relationships are give and take.
Rule 3: Knowledge is power; research the company, industries and execs.
Rule 4: Prepare a professional resume.
Rule 5: Solicit an outside opinion.
Rule 6: Make a list of your strengths and weaknesses.
Rule 7: Make a wish list; where you want to work and what you want to do.
Rule 8: Practice interviewing; what do you want them to know about you and your skills.
Rule 9: Focus on your strengths and what you can bring to the company
Rule 10: Work towards a win-win.
Rule 11: Be honest; with yourself and with the interviewer.
Rule 12: Block out negativity and bitterness.
Rule 13: Always be professional.
Rule 14: Remember you are the keeper of your career, manage it before it manages you.
Rule 15: Don’t forget to personally thank the people that helped you.

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