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.