When I attend job fairs I'm dressed in my best. I am an employer looking for solid candidates with the right mix of skill sets and experience. I'm bringing my A-Game. I will carry myself much differently when I walk in and when I walk out than any other day in the office. I will speak in a language suited to my position and to the task at hand. I am more in-tune to my vocabulary, and my vernacular will be reflecting the audience I'm in.
Now, I do quite a few job fairs each year, especially in the Spring. I will look for the ones that are diversified and professional, but I won't rule out the ones that reach out to the jobless community who have larger and more pressing needs for employment. I actually enjoy these because I can relax and be myself more and there's less pressure to 'perform'. However, my expectations from one to the next are no different. I'm pretty sure it's the same no matter where you go.
I recently attened two job fairs aimed at helping low-income residents. I had two different experiences. One, I could tell, was giving cadidates the right expectations and guidelines, the other was not. However, dress code is common sense, people. Why would you come to any job fair with a backwards cap, underwear exposed and grease stains on your shirt? Don't think I intend to spend energy going into the details of what I can offer you. I'm waiting until you grab the free candy from my table and leave. I don't care if you have jeans on, they better fit, be clean and the right size. Your shirt better be appropriate and the best one you have in your closet. Clean up expecting to find a job! There's nothing wrong with heading up to the local Salvation Army or Goodwill to get a job fair outfit, either.
Also, keep in mind you're not at a flea market. Don't browse the tables and talk to the employers as if they're selling something. 'So, what do have that I want?' You better start over! We're there because we expect you to sell yourself to us. What can you offer us? It doesn't work the other way around. We have nothing to lose, you do. Greet the employers with a handshake and a smile, clean breath and very light cologne or perfume. Hand us a resume and tell us a little bit about yourself. Don't stand too close. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Chances are the employer standing behind the table loves what they do, believes in the company they're representing and will tell you anything you want to know. Don't just walk by like you're there for the free water bottle.
There seems to be a huge disconnect within the jobless community. There are those who 'had' a job, lost it and are steadily losing their dignity and their assets. They are hungry and they know the value of a good job. They're not comfortable being in debt, receiving assistance from the government or buying unhealthy food for their family because organic or fresh just isn't affordable. Marvin isn't their Facebook friend. They don't stand at the table, a hand on their hip, and say, 'I applied to your company and you never hired me. Why?' Well, let's be honest, someone else was better. Someone else applied, followed up, called, faxed a resume, etc. They also applied to multiple companies and even dressed to the nines for the interviews. Face it, someone else was better suited for the job. THAT is why you didn't hear anything. Think back and ask yourself, what could you have done better? Trust me, it wasn't them...it was you.
That brings up a good point. How do you find out what you did or didn't do in the interview that pushed them to choose someone else? You can always follow up with their HR representative, call the person who interviewed you or mail a letter asking for feedback. If you tell them you're looking for feedback for your own personal growth you may just get it. The next thing would be to fix what went wrong. Do you have nervous 'tells' that got on the interviewers nerves? Did you talk too much? Did you answer the questions properly? Did you use examples for your answers to make them personal? Did you dress appropriately? Did you check your phone in the interview? Did you answer questions with, 'I don't know.' or 'That's never happened to me before.' Did you freeze during the questions?
The bottom line, don't attend job fairs unless you're willing to put 100% effort into it. Be the best YOU that you can be and bring your A-Game! This is a great networking opportunity. Remember why you're there. If you love living in poverty with your spouse and children, receiving help from the local church and becoming more and more depressed and withdrawn, then don't read one more blog. The rest of you who care about your future, want to be a productive member of society and earn a living...please read and let me know if it helped you! And let me know when you land that job!
Sunday, May 6, 2012
Saturday, May 5, 2012
Leading Others Starts With Inspiration!
One of the biggest pitfalls we have is not realizing our true potential. It's tough to look into a mirror and judge the best and worst about yourself. You can pay someone to do that for you, usually someone in the medical profession, or take a career aptitude test, but is that really necessary? Sometimes it takes a pat on the back a few times. What does it take to get someone to tell you that you have (or don't have) what it takes?
I put together curriculum with my team to develop leaders starting at the entry level. There isn't a law against exposure to training outside the recommended timeline in someones career. Of course it depends on if there is sensitive information that can't be shared. In that case you eliminate that portion and work around it. What you're doing is empowering that individual to believe he/she is capable of (even) entertaining the idea that they have worth and opportunities they didn't know they had before.
Mentoring is something everyone should be doing at all times. It shouldn't just end when you leave the office, in fact, for many of us it doesn't. We go home to children. Are they not being mentored by us? We babysit, visit Grandchildren, teach Sunday School and even have our children's friends over to play. You're mentoring all the time. It comes more naturally off the clock, but don't let that stop you. Take someone under your wing. Become a career advisor. All you need to do is look for potential for learning; someone with intentions on promoting; anyone willing to gain more understanding and looking for someone to point them in the right direction.
First, don't forget who owns that direction. Don't make it about you. They don't want to BE you, they want to discover themselves in your shoes and through your eyes. Expose them to what you do,teach and then check for understanding. Plan and map out the learning and training together. Let them be part of the process and they will eventually start to own it. They need to make just as much of an effort as you do in teaching them. Lastly, make sure you have enough time and are up to the challenge.
The last thing we can do to someone else is squash potential. There's nothing I find more challenging than creating something from next to nothing. When I have someone who even shows a spark...just a spark of interest or potential they have my full attention. There will be times I will do the pursuing. There's that 'forced exposure' again. You'll have some people who catch on quickly to what their worth is and act on it. Then there are those who, for whatever reason (upbringing, past relationships or employers) need a nudge in the right direction. Once you get their buy-in...you're in!
Never quit on someone who's making an effort. You can always change directions, reinvent the map toward success and pick a different career. Never let them give up entirely. They have the desire, something highly coveted by employers, and you need to grow a replacement or at least prove your leadership skills. How else are you going to move up? The business end is one thing that can get you promoted, once there how will you grow people and be a leader without the ability to lead? It's going to be a short career if you can't lead. Learn it or step out of the way! Future leaders on the way to the top!
I put together curriculum with my team to develop leaders starting at the entry level. There isn't a law against exposure to training outside the recommended timeline in someones career. Of course it depends on if there is sensitive information that can't be shared. In that case you eliminate that portion and work around it. What you're doing is empowering that individual to believe he/she is capable of (even) entertaining the idea that they have worth and opportunities they didn't know they had before.
Mentoring is something everyone should be doing at all times. It shouldn't just end when you leave the office, in fact, for many of us it doesn't. We go home to children. Are they not being mentored by us? We babysit, visit Grandchildren, teach Sunday School and even have our children's friends over to play. You're mentoring all the time. It comes more naturally off the clock, but don't let that stop you. Take someone under your wing. Become a career advisor. All you need to do is look for potential for learning; someone with intentions on promoting; anyone willing to gain more understanding and looking for someone to point them in the right direction.
First, don't forget who owns that direction. Don't make it about you. They don't want to BE you, they want to discover themselves in your shoes and through your eyes. Expose them to what you do,teach and then check for understanding. Plan and map out the learning and training together. Let them be part of the process and they will eventually start to own it. They need to make just as much of an effort as you do in teaching them. Lastly, make sure you have enough time and are up to the challenge.
The last thing we can do to someone else is squash potential. There's nothing I find more challenging than creating something from next to nothing. When I have someone who even shows a spark...just a spark of interest or potential they have my full attention. There will be times I will do the pursuing. There's that 'forced exposure' again. You'll have some people who catch on quickly to what their worth is and act on it. Then there are those who, for whatever reason (upbringing, past relationships or employers) need a nudge in the right direction. Once you get their buy-in...you're in!
Never quit on someone who's making an effort. You can always change directions, reinvent the map toward success and pick a different career. Never let them give up entirely. They have the desire, something highly coveted by employers, and you need to grow a replacement or at least prove your leadership skills. How else are you going to move up? The business end is one thing that can get you promoted, once there how will you grow people and be a leader without the ability to lead? It's going to be a short career if you can't lead. Learn it or step out of the way! Future leaders on the way to the top!
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Do You Feel Challenged?
I'd like to talk to those of you who are employed. You fulfill the day in and day out, but you're stuck. How do you keep it interesting? When does the monotony end? You've seen someone at work actually 'thriving' at their job and they seem to love it. Why don't you feel that way about yours? You get solid performance evaluations. You get a pay raise every year, but yet, you feel like something's missing. That elusive, dangling carrot isn't out of your reach, it's no longer there. Here's how you get it back.
Not everyone is fond of Human Resource Managers. Take Toby from the office, for instance. He was hated, loathed, despised and not trusted. Now, it was about 100% emanating from Michael, but it was a magnified manifestation of the chill that runs up most people's spines when HR is nearby. That's OK. We have a purpose and we wouldn't have this job if we didn't love what we do. To briefly sum up my position it encompasses staffing, scheduling and people development. There are many other things I do on a daily, weekly and monthly basis but let's not get lost in the minutiae. I'm nothing without my employees. They drive my career.
I feel energized when a new supervisor walks in my office to talk about developing talent in their department, or better yet, in themselves. To walk through your job or career, on a daily basis, unchallenged by new processes or information would be a very boring and unsatisfying. I take a slightly aggressive approach when I see potential in employees who are performing well, or have seemed to master their skill level. There's nothing more disappointing than someone who learned their job and spend the next few years complaining about their pay, hours, lack of promotions available, and the like. These are the same people who, if you heard it from their manager, are passed by for promotion or merit raises due to their lack of motivation and disinterest in learning a new skill.
A few things that you, as an employee, are empowered to do is to develop your own potential. There are countless, inexpensive seminars that you can attend for an afternoon, a day, a weekend, etc. to increase your skill set in the workplace. You can take a Stephen Covey course; a Skillpath Seminar; read a book about becoming a better you in the workplace. Depending on the type of work that you do or career you have, there are resources out there for a incompetency that you have or have been told to develop. The main thing is to tell yourself, 'Ok. It's fine that I don't have skill in this area. I'm in charge of my worth. It's my job to fix it.' Then take the steps to do just that, then share that with your HR Manager (or Supervisor in your field).
So, what next? You read the book, or attended the seminar, and now you need to do something with it. The resource you used gave you the next steps, put them into practice at work. Draw up a plan of attack and set up a meeting with your Supervisor, Project Team, etc. You need to now get it in action. If you write a new law, get it voted in but never put it into practice you've just wasted the tax payers money. The same goes for your business. You don't want to waste what you've done to improve yourself. Teach someone or put a plan into action. Make it stick and make some changes.
In short, you own the problem when it's you. You are in charge of when to challenge yourself. The promise I see in people isn't going to last if I don't see them continuing to move in a forward direction. I lose interest after a while. I tend to make suggestions, point them in the right direction and maybe even assign a task or two. Even if that task is to improve their knowledge base, it's worth it to me to see them develop a new skill-set. This new skill-set can be unleashed and a new program might pop up. An idea they may have could become the next best practice in their department. You never know!
My challenge to you, as the new week starts tomorrow, is to try something new. Talk to someone about that next step and have a goal set in place. Be a part of the team and grow for the sake of the company or your department and teach other to do the same. Don't be like the guy standing around, unchallenged and disinterested in owning any potential. In fact, if you're reading this and thinking you'd like to take this challenge, really listen to the people who complain. Is it genuine and does it come from a solid source where the company has actually failed them? You may not know unless you truly 'know' this person and their work ethics. Can they be part of the solution and choose not to be? If that's the case, don't stop in their world for too long, you may never get out.
Be encouraged this week. Learn something new. Take on a new challenge. Ask for development resources. Be part of the solution. Develop a new skill. Think outside the box. Engage someone in a positive conversation about work. Walk away from bad influences. If you're the right fit for the job, make the job the right fit for you...change it up!
Not everyone is fond of Human Resource Managers. Take Toby from the office, for instance. He was hated, loathed, despised and not trusted. Now, it was about 100% emanating from Michael, but it was a magnified manifestation of the chill that runs up most people's spines when HR is nearby. That's OK. We have a purpose and we wouldn't have this job if we didn't love what we do. To briefly sum up my position it encompasses staffing, scheduling and people development. There are many other things I do on a daily, weekly and monthly basis but let's not get lost in the minutiae. I'm nothing without my employees. They drive my career.
I feel energized when a new supervisor walks in my office to talk about developing talent in their department, or better yet, in themselves. To walk through your job or career, on a daily basis, unchallenged by new processes or information would be a very boring and unsatisfying. I take a slightly aggressive approach when I see potential in employees who are performing well, or have seemed to master their skill level. There's nothing more disappointing than someone who learned their job and spend the next few years complaining about their pay, hours, lack of promotions available, and the like. These are the same people who, if you heard it from their manager, are passed by for promotion or merit raises due to their lack of motivation and disinterest in learning a new skill.
A few things that you, as an employee, are empowered to do is to develop your own potential. There are countless, inexpensive seminars that you can attend for an afternoon, a day, a weekend, etc. to increase your skill set in the workplace. You can take a Stephen Covey course; a Skillpath Seminar; read a book about becoming a better you in the workplace. Depending on the type of work that you do or career you have, there are resources out there for a incompetency that you have or have been told to develop. The main thing is to tell yourself, 'Ok. It's fine that I don't have skill in this area. I'm in charge of my worth. It's my job to fix it.' Then take the steps to do just that, then share that with your HR Manager (or Supervisor in your field).
So, what next? You read the book, or attended the seminar, and now you need to do something with it. The resource you used gave you the next steps, put them into practice at work. Draw up a plan of attack and set up a meeting with your Supervisor, Project Team, etc. You need to now get it in action. If you write a new law, get it voted in but never put it into practice you've just wasted the tax payers money. The same goes for your business. You don't want to waste what you've done to improve yourself. Teach someone or put a plan into action. Make it stick and make some changes.
In short, you own the problem when it's you. You are in charge of when to challenge yourself. The promise I see in people isn't going to last if I don't see them continuing to move in a forward direction. I lose interest after a while. I tend to make suggestions, point them in the right direction and maybe even assign a task or two. Even if that task is to improve their knowledge base, it's worth it to me to see them develop a new skill-set. This new skill-set can be unleashed and a new program might pop up. An idea they may have could become the next best practice in their department. You never know!
My challenge to you, as the new week starts tomorrow, is to try something new. Talk to someone about that next step and have a goal set in place. Be a part of the team and grow for the sake of the company or your department and teach other to do the same. Don't be like the guy standing around, unchallenged and disinterested in owning any potential. In fact, if you're reading this and thinking you'd like to take this challenge, really listen to the people who complain. Is it genuine and does it come from a solid source where the company has actually failed them? You may not know unless you truly 'know' this person and their work ethics. Can they be part of the solution and choose not to be? If that's the case, don't stop in their world for too long, you may never get out.
Be encouraged this week. Learn something new. Take on a new challenge. Ask for development resources. Be part of the solution. Develop a new skill. Think outside the box. Engage someone in a positive conversation about work. Walk away from bad influences. If you're the right fit for the job, make the job the right fit for you...change it up!
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
The Shining S.T.A.R. In Your Interview Isn't Just You
There are many things I'm learning about my company in my position and one thing is they pay attention to award winning ideas, celebrated authors and successful business models in the industry. Knowing this encourages me to have solid faith in the future of the company. They pay attention, make changes when appropriate and at time lead the industry in best practices.
In our advanced training courses we teach the universally recognized S.T.A.R. interviewing method. The basic acronym stands for: Situation-Task-Action-Result. For ever question you are asked during an interview you should follow the S.T.A.R. approach.
I'll give you an example. When you're in an interview you are most likely going to be asked, 'Tell me about a time when you faced a difficult task where you didn't have very many resources provided to you to get the job done.' There may not be much more said than that and your response should be in the following format:
'While I was working at Fox Corp. I was asked to conduct a business meeting and present a statistic analysis for a team I wasn't a member of while a colleague was on leave of absence. I had two weeks until the meeting. The challenge was a difficult one since my current team and my colleague's team work on very different projects. I immediately called a meeting with the team I would be presenting with and we collectively made a list of the necessary resources. I put each of the team members in charge of collecting various data. I made a timeline of when everything needed to be completed and passed this off to the team. We met frequently during those two weeks to put the presentation together. The three days before the meeting the draft was completed and presented to the team. A few adjustments were needed and the final presentation was ready to be delivered. Not only did we meet the deadline but we delivered a very successful analysis of a department I had never worked in before. I was very proud of the team.'
It's very simple. You should have a full answer to every question. In adding how you felt about the outcome will give them the answer to the next question they may ask, 'How did you feel about the result of the project?'
Many times when you don't answer each question in full or provide very little detail they will ask probing questions. Don't let them get to that point. Research common interview questions like these below:
1. Tell me a little about yourself.
2. What brings you to our company?
3. What do you know about the position you're applying for?
4. If your previous co-workers were here, what would they say about you? (My favorite question!)
5. What is your greatest strength/weakness?
6. How do you handle a fast paced environment?
7. How was your attendance at your previous job?
8. What makes you feel you're the best person for the job?
9. What unique skill set do you bring to the company?
10. What starting salary are you looking for?
Practice the above questions using the S.T.A.R. approach. You can make the mistake of one word answers, or you can expand each one so that you're engaging them. If they ask about salary, don't just say, '50k, nothing less.' Start with what you offer or bring to the table for their company. Sell them on what your worth and why. They'll pay if you deserve it. Above all else, practice, practice, practice! Type it out, read it aloud and make it stick. Avoid the silent pauses, short answers and skipped questions. If you need them to reread the question that's OK. Ask, 'Can you repeat that question?' Everyone gets nervous and the employer understands that, and probably expects it. Just take your time and you'll do fine if you're prepared. Good luck!
In our advanced training courses we teach the universally recognized S.T.A.R. interviewing method. The basic acronym stands for: Situation-Task-Action-Result. For ever question you are asked during an interview you should follow the S.T.A.R. approach.
I'll give you an example. When you're in an interview you are most likely going to be asked, 'Tell me about a time when you faced a difficult task where you didn't have very many resources provided to you to get the job done.' There may not be much more said than that and your response should be in the following format:
'While I was working at Fox Corp. I was asked to conduct a business meeting and present a statistic analysis for a team I wasn't a member of while a colleague was on leave of absence. I had two weeks until the meeting. The challenge was a difficult one since my current team and my colleague's team work on very different projects. I immediately called a meeting with the team I would be presenting with and we collectively made a list of the necessary resources. I put each of the team members in charge of collecting various data. I made a timeline of when everything needed to be completed and passed this off to the team. We met frequently during those two weeks to put the presentation together. The three days before the meeting the draft was completed and presented to the team. A few adjustments were needed and the final presentation was ready to be delivered. Not only did we meet the deadline but we delivered a very successful analysis of a department I had never worked in before. I was very proud of the team.'
It's very simple. You should have a full answer to every question. In adding how you felt about the outcome will give them the answer to the next question they may ask, 'How did you feel about the result of the project?'
Many times when you don't answer each question in full or provide very little detail they will ask probing questions. Don't let them get to that point. Research common interview questions like these below:
1. Tell me a little about yourself.
2. What brings you to our company?
3. What do you know about the position you're applying for?
4. If your previous co-workers were here, what would they say about you? (My favorite question!)
5. What is your greatest strength/weakness?
6. How do you handle a fast paced environment?
7. How was your attendance at your previous job?
8. What makes you feel you're the best person for the job?
9. What unique skill set do you bring to the company?
10. What starting salary are you looking for?
Practice the above questions using the S.T.A.R. approach. You can make the mistake of one word answers, or you can expand each one so that you're engaging them. If they ask about salary, don't just say, '50k, nothing less.' Start with what you offer or bring to the table for their company. Sell them on what your worth and why. They'll pay if you deserve it. Above all else, practice, practice, practice! Type it out, read it aloud and make it stick. Avoid the silent pauses, short answers and skipped questions. If you need them to reread the question that's OK. Ask, 'Can you repeat that question?' Everyone gets nervous and the employer understands that, and probably expects it. Just take your time and you'll do fine if you're prepared. Good luck!
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
How bad do you want it? Really.
One of the essential steps in job seeking is follow up. Knowing how and when to follow up is something I noticed applicants spend a lot of time doing. Some do it right, while the majority spend more time than necessary. How do you know you're spending this time effectively or exerting energy that could be used to actually impact your search?
Back in the 'old days' (without dating myself let's just say between the 60's until the 90's) you would apply in person, shake someones hand and even ask for an interview on the spot. You could walk into just about any place of business and have a real conversation. That was until 9-11 and Middle East came into the picture. The process has changed.
Don't get me wrong, meeting applicants is something I do, but primarily at job fairs. I can chat it up with the best of them. I know a lot about the company and I can sell it. What I don't have time to do is to walk out of my office for a handshake and some conversation with every applicant who walks in. It's unfortunate but that's the job. From what I'm told, it's the same thing everywhere you apply. There's a huge lack of human interaction. Let's talk about breaking through that barrier.
You need the right tools to crack through this barrier. This is the hardest part of looking for a job, the ground work. And by ground work I mean every bit of energy you put into finding that job up until the day you're hired.
It begins with unemployment. That's unfortunate, but very real and it contains the perfect ingredients for drive, determination and desperation. People who are in this situation, and have something to lose (a car, college tuition, childcare, food on the table, etc.) will do anything to find that next job. What they don't do is stick with it. Eventually, they get behind in the bills and it becomes a bigger mess than what they started with so they give up. It definitely takes stamina. This is the missing key ingredient.
The strategy that needs to be set into motion is within you and it takes a lot of planning. If you want it bad enough you'll take the time to map it out. Here are just a few steps to planning your job hunt:
1. Do not limit your potential. Know your worth! You have experience, and now you have time. Sit at a computer and start listing your skills. If you have to ask family, friends or past co-workers do it! Depending on your upbringing and self-esteem this might be hard. Evaluating ourselves isn't something we're use to doing. Get it all out on paper and get ready for the next step.
2. Learn how to build a resume. If you have to take an online course, learn from an article about it from a website or book, pay a high school or college student to teach you (there's no shame in that), or get one done professionally...do it. You will need it. Keep it simple and specific to the job you're applying to (we covered that in a previous post) don't list every job you've ever had on one. Have 3 or 4 on hand. If you can't attach one to an online application or paperclip it to paper application (I actually don't know if these exist anymore) take one to your interview.
3. Go to job fairs! This is networking. Connect with organizations that assist people in finding jobs. They know where the job fairs are going to be and the ones that suit you. There are corporate job fairs that head hunt for executives and there are your average job fairs where Staples, Frito Lay, and the Army are seeking entry level candidates. These are most often free to the public or charge a small fee. The companies pay a hefty fee for getting a booth so don't think they're in it for a day away from the office. They're looking for employees. If you meet someone at the job fair get a name, introduce yourself and make a very brief connection. Please keep in mind we stand there from 4-8 hours talking non-stop on heels, most of the time. Don't waste their time. Arrive early and bring a smile!
4. What to wear when you go in to apply. I know we covered this, too, in a previous post but I can't talk about it enough. When you enter an environment you can see yourself working, do you imagine you have shorts and bikini top? Are you sporting a dirty hoodie and saggy jeans that show your underwear? No. You dress at least business casual in a way that fits the dress code. You know the dress code because you've done your research, shopped there or visited prior to coming out. Make sure you do this and you won't be under or over dressed. You may find yourself sitting across from the HR Manager wanting to do an on the spot interview. This is most likely not going to happen, but you never know.
5. Making calls to follow up is important. Call once and leave a message that you've met 'so-in-so' at a job fair. Yes, name drop! This will catch their attention. Let them know this is a follow up call, that you appreciate the opportunity, where you can be reached (leave a valid phone number where you can be reached) and say your name clearly and even spell it if it's tough to pronounce. Keep in mind if they're just screening their voice mail because they get 100 a day make it quick and leave an impression. Follow up on that call one week later and then move on. You can mail a follow up letter with your resume as well. I've gotten a few of these, they're rare, but they caught my attention. And guess what? I called them.
6. Don't show up unannounced and 'demand to see the hiring manager' because I can tell you one thing right now, they will remember who you are and you could black list yourself from interviewing. This leaves the wrong impression every single time. You can be too aggressive. I have compassion for desperation in times like this, I do, trust me! However, this shows a part of your personality that we don't want on our team.
Last tip before bed...
7. You should be targeting more than one employer at a time. This is part of the hard work we've been talking about and it demands follow through and effort. You have a list of your skills and your resumes. You should be filling out applications all over. Determine how far you can drive, reasonably, and how long your day will be from leaving the house until you come home. How much will gas cost? Do you need to buy a new wardrobe? Does it require use of your own vehicle? Is it commission and can you afford that? Stay realistic at all times!
Remember, (even at a meet and greet) fresh breath , clean clothes and a firm (dry) handshake is always appropriate and welcome. Let me know how things are going and if you have any questions. Now, go! Keep the momentum going until you land that job!
Back in the 'old days' (without dating myself let's just say between the 60's until the 90's) you would apply in person, shake someones hand and even ask for an interview on the spot. You could walk into just about any place of business and have a real conversation. That was until 9-11 and Middle East came into the picture. The process has changed.
Don't get me wrong, meeting applicants is something I do, but primarily at job fairs. I can chat it up with the best of them. I know a lot about the company and I can sell it. What I don't have time to do is to walk out of my office for a handshake and some conversation with every applicant who walks in. It's unfortunate but that's the job. From what I'm told, it's the same thing everywhere you apply. There's a huge lack of human interaction. Let's talk about breaking through that barrier.
You need the right tools to crack through this barrier. This is the hardest part of looking for a job, the ground work. And by ground work I mean every bit of energy you put into finding that job up until the day you're hired.
It begins with unemployment. That's unfortunate, but very real and it contains the perfect ingredients for drive, determination and desperation. People who are in this situation, and have something to lose (a car, college tuition, childcare, food on the table, etc.) will do anything to find that next job. What they don't do is stick with it. Eventually, they get behind in the bills and it becomes a bigger mess than what they started with so they give up. It definitely takes stamina. This is the missing key ingredient.
The strategy that needs to be set into motion is within you and it takes a lot of planning. If you want it bad enough you'll take the time to map it out. Here are just a few steps to planning your job hunt:
1. Do not limit your potential. Know your worth! You have experience, and now you have time. Sit at a computer and start listing your skills. If you have to ask family, friends or past co-workers do it! Depending on your upbringing and self-esteem this might be hard. Evaluating ourselves isn't something we're use to doing. Get it all out on paper and get ready for the next step.
2. Learn how to build a resume. If you have to take an online course, learn from an article about it from a website or book, pay a high school or college student to teach you (there's no shame in that), or get one done professionally...do it. You will need it. Keep it simple and specific to the job you're applying to (we covered that in a previous post) don't list every job you've ever had on one. Have 3 or 4 on hand. If you can't attach one to an online application or paperclip it to paper application (I actually don't know if these exist anymore) take one to your interview.
3. Go to job fairs! This is networking. Connect with organizations that assist people in finding jobs. They know where the job fairs are going to be and the ones that suit you. There are corporate job fairs that head hunt for executives and there are your average job fairs where Staples, Frito Lay, and the Army are seeking entry level candidates. These are most often free to the public or charge a small fee. The companies pay a hefty fee for getting a booth so don't think they're in it for a day away from the office. They're looking for employees. If you meet someone at the job fair get a name, introduce yourself and make a very brief connection. Please keep in mind we stand there from 4-8 hours talking non-stop on heels, most of the time. Don't waste their time. Arrive early and bring a smile!
4. What to wear when you go in to apply. I know we covered this, too, in a previous post but I can't talk about it enough. When you enter an environment you can see yourself working, do you imagine you have shorts and bikini top? Are you sporting a dirty hoodie and saggy jeans that show your underwear? No. You dress at least business casual in a way that fits the dress code. You know the dress code because you've done your research, shopped there or visited prior to coming out. Make sure you do this and you won't be under or over dressed. You may find yourself sitting across from the HR Manager wanting to do an on the spot interview. This is most likely not going to happen, but you never know.
5. Making calls to follow up is important. Call once and leave a message that you've met 'so-in-so' at a job fair. Yes, name drop! This will catch their attention. Let them know this is a follow up call, that you appreciate the opportunity, where you can be reached (leave a valid phone number where you can be reached) and say your name clearly and even spell it if it's tough to pronounce. Keep in mind if they're just screening their voice mail because they get 100 a day make it quick and leave an impression. Follow up on that call one week later and then move on. You can mail a follow up letter with your resume as well. I've gotten a few of these, they're rare, but they caught my attention. And guess what? I called them.
6. Don't show up unannounced and 'demand to see the hiring manager' because I can tell you one thing right now, they will remember who you are and you could black list yourself from interviewing. This leaves the wrong impression every single time. You can be too aggressive. I have compassion for desperation in times like this, I do, trust me! However, this shows a part of your personality that we don't want on our team.
Last tip before bed...
7. You should be targeting more than one employer at a time. This is part of the hard work we've been talking about and it demands follow through and effort. You have a list of your skills and your resumes. You should be filling out applications all over. Determine how far you can drive, reasonably, and how long your day will be from leaving the house until you come home. How much will gas cost? Do you need to buy a new wardrobe? Does it require use of your own vehicle? Is it commission and can you afford that? Stay realistic at all times!
Remember, (even at a meet and greet) fresh breath , clean clothes and a firm (dry) handshake is always appropriate and welcome. Let me know how things are going and if you have any questions. Now, go! Keep the momentum going until you land that job!
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Losing Your Obsession With Work
So you have your career and everything is going great. Let me be the first one to congratulate you and say, 'Job well done!' It's amazing how good it feels, isn't it? You have stability, happiness at last in a field you are fit for and peace of mind knowing you've reached the top...for now at least.
What happens when you've been 'all about the job' for too long? It's OK, right? You're happy and successful. You feel great. Until someone approaches you with this, 'I need to talk to you about something. I'm concerned that you're becoming another person that I don't know. We use to hang out more. We use to laugh and share stories about family, kids and life. That seems to be gone now. It's getting to the point that I don't enjoy our time. It makes me uncomfortable.'
Well, I had that talk with a friend the other day. It's what having a career does to you if you let it. In my opinion you have a lot to gain and a lot to lose. You have to try to find balance. If you take work home with you or if you take home to work you don't have that balance.
Success comes in so many forms, doesn't it? Sometimes in massive, obvious ways like winning a contest or a pennant in sports. Sometimes it comes in small, unnoticeable ways like potty training your child or learning to play an instrument. Whatever it is it changes your life whether in big or small ways. How much you let it affect you is up to you.
I spoke with a friend this weekend about how much her career has changed her personality. I'm not sure if it's the job or the stress that came with it. There are times where she's much more stressed than usual, but she's incredibly happy in what she does. There are parts of the job that require her to be more direct, have all the answers and continually perform at a high level of success. There is room for error, but taking that error and turning it into success is part of her job. She has a tough job. No doubt a job like hers had some affect on her personality. In her case it takes her longer to 'come down' after a long day. It's harder to sit at home and unwind with family and friends and talk about life. She admitted she finds other people's lives a bit boring. She finds intellectual stimulation in her career. She's always wanted to be successful at what she does and in that she finds joy. What's wrong with that?
We talked about how she finds time to unwind and she doesn't do much of anything. She does work long hours, mind you, but I encouraged her to find a way to peacefully unwind. Working as hard as she does and the stressful demands of her job causes her to sit at home and do nothing, or turn off all devices in the house and cook dinner for her family. I can understand that. My favorite way to unwind is to talk to my husband about work until dinner, eat dinner and go to bed after vegging in front of the T.V. No joke. I, too, need a hobby! I told you I could relate.
Truth is, it's our responsibility to the loved ones around us to adapt when we get home. We can always bore people to tears with our work stories until family stops calling and friends 'defriend' us on Facebook. (Oh, how Americans hate that!) So here's a bit of advice:
1. Don't share work stories with friends when they ask, 'So, how's work going?' Just say 'Fine' and talk about what a blessing it is to be with them and not at work. Now is not the time to tell them your daily struggles, how a project is going and when you get your bonus.
2. Find a hobby. I've set the date for my hobby that is outside of my usual Spring yard work that I enjoy. This hobby will last throughout the year. I've put my husband in charge of keeping me on schedule once the busy season, for me, is over.
3. Reach out more. Regain some lost friendships. Join a social network where you can catch up on what everyone else is doing to keep from being so isolated. I quit Facebook because I got irritated how obligated I felt to an Internet website (which I still do), but now it keeps me from isolating myself.
4. Plan mini-vacations and excursions. Take a drive and find new places on your days off. There's nothing hard about this at all. Just grab the keys and find an antique store or a new mall. Drive an hour away to the middle of know where and take pictures.
5. Exercise cures just about everything. I plan on getting out more in May (again, I'm less busy then) just to get my blood pumping. Join a gym or better yet, jump on your bike and just go.
In the end it'll be worth it. You can't keep yourself in a closet and close the world off and focus on work only. That's not the way it's supposed to be. You need interaction with real people, even if it's on Facebook.
My friend took my advice fairly well. She has one of those personalities where she can 'become' the job. Now that she's aware of what other see it'll be easier for her to focus on life that is happening around her. This time she can join in and live life to it's fullest.
What happens when you've been 'all about the job' for too long? It's OK, right? You're happy and successful. You feel great. Until someone approaches you with this, 'I need to talk to you about something. I'm concerned that you're becoming another person that I don't know. We use to hang out more. We use to laugh and share stories about family, kids and life. That seems to be gone now. It's getting to the point that I don't enjoy our time. It makes me uncomfortable.'
Well, I had that talk with a friend the other day. It's what having a career does to you if you let it. In my opinion you have a lot to gain and a lot to lose. You have to try to find balance. If you take work home with you or if you take home to work you don't have that balance.
Success comes in so many forms, doesn't it? Sometimes in massive, obvious ways like winning a contest or a pennant in sports. Sometimes it comes in small, unnoticeable ways like potty training your child or learning to play an instrument. Whatever it is it changes your life whether in big or small ways. How much you let it affect you is up to you.
I spoke with a friend this weekend about how much her career has changed her personality. I'm not sure if it's the job or the stress that came with it. There are times where she's much more stressed than usual, but she's incredibly happy in what she does. There are parts of the job that require her to be more direct, have all the answers and continually perform at a high level of success. There is room for error, but taking that error and turning it into success is part of her job. She has a tough job. No doubt a job like hers had some affect on her personality. In her case it takes her longer to 'come down' after a long day. It's harder to sit at home and unwind with family and friends and talk about life. She admitted she finds other people's lives a bit boring. She finds intellectual stimulation in her career. She's always wanted to be successful at what she does and in that she finds joy. What's wrong with that?
We talked about how she finds time to unwind and she doesn't do much of anything. She does work long hours, mind you, but I encouraged her to find a way to peacefully unwind. Working as hard as she does and the stressful demands of her job causes her to sit at home and do nothing, or turn off all devices in the house and cook dinner for her family. I can understand that. My favorite way to unwind is to talk to my husband about work until dinner, eat dinner and go to bed after vegging in front of the T.V. No joke. I, too, need a hobby! I told you I could relate.
Truth is, it's our responsibility to the loved ones around us to adapt when we get home. We can always bore people to tears with our work stories until family stops calling and friends 'defriend' us on Facebook. (Oh, how Americans hate that!) So here's a bit of advice:
1. Don't share work stories with friends when they ask, 'So, how's work going?' Just say 'Fine' and talk about what a blessing it is to be with them and not at work. Now is not the time to tell them your daily struggles, how a project is going and when you get your bonus.
2. Find a hobby. I've set the date for my hobby that is outside of my usual Spring yard work that I enjoy. This hobby will last throughout the year. I've put my husband in charge of keeping me on schedule once the busy season, for me, is over.
3. Reach out more. Regain some lost friendships. Join a social network where you can catch up on what everyone else is doing to keep from being so isolated. I quit Facebook because I got irritated how obligated I felt to an Internet website (which I still do), but now it keeps me from isolating myself.
4. Plan mini-vacations and excursions. Take a drive and find new places on your days off. There's nothing hard about this at all. Just grab the keys and find an antique store or a new mall. Drive an hour away to the middle of know where and take pictures.
5. Exercise cures just about everything. I plan on getting out more in May (again, I'm less busy then) just to get my blood pumping. Join a gym or better yet, jump on your bike and just go.
In the end it'll be worth it. You can't keep yourself in a closet and close the world off and focus on work only. That's not the way it's supposed to be. You need interaction with real people, even if it's on Facebook.
My friend took my advice fairly well. She has one of those personalities where she can 'become' the job. Now that she's aware of what other see it'll be easier for her to focus on life that is happening around her. This time she can join in and live life to it's fullest.
Friday, April 13, 2012
Pay attention and maybe you'll learn something!
Today I was looking at some applications, doing some interviews and and weeding through resumes and the longer I did this the more irritated I got. First of all, the applicant knows everything. The interviewee has all the answers. The resume reads like a 'Who's Who' of Jobs R Us. What's wrong with this picture? The truth? You show up to the interview with a lot of jobs and no real experience, a blank stare during tough questions and no aptitude for staying power.
When you were in High School or College you learned about the basics of self-representation. This would've been in the form of 'How to...' interview, write a resume, apply for the right job (that you're qualified for, that is) and have the skills that go with it. I'm assuming half of Jobless America slept through that class.
Here's what we need to cover.
1. You aren't as qualified as you think. You have something to learn. Even if this isn't true (which you know it is) you need to let the potential employer know that you are willing to learn! We love to hear that and that you bring an open mind to the position. Narcissism is thrown out the window. When you apply for a job, don't apply for everything they have available. You will be called out on that eventually. When I look at an application and they've applied for 12 different positions I'm immediately leery. Apply for what you're qualified for the most. You can always mention you're open to additional responsibilities, positions, etc. You're up for the challenge.
2. We don't need to know how many jobs you've had. Now, before you get indignant, I realize how many of you have been out of work, picking up jobs when they came available and something better comes along you move on. That's admirable, but, I don't need to know how many jobs you've had. Just tell me about the ones that are significant to why you're applying to my company. When you type up a resume don't just stop at one. You need multiple resumes that speak to the various markets you're applying to, not one resume with your entire work history on it.
3. Your availability is part of the reason why they hired you. If you tell them you're open for any shift, you're open for any shift. You're the one who applied for the job. The first time you change it you've damaged your credibility (unless for health or financial reasons). They hired the 'You' they met in the interview, not the 'You' they got who showed up with a list of, 'I know I said this in the interview, but...' Stay true to the 'You' they hired!
4. Wake up and do some research! Get on a computer and read up on the company you're apply to and have some questions of your own. Read up on the position that you're apply for and parlay that into your interview. Don't just sit there with a blank stare on your face or (God forbid) not have an answer for a question. You know that they'll ask you about yourself and you know you best. The interviews usually begin with that question. They may ask, 'What brought you here?' or 'What do you know about the company?' They'll ask, 'What makes you feel you're the best candidate for the position?' These are freebies. Take the time to type out your answers and read them over and over. You can search for common interview questions online. Type in 'Common Sales Manager Interview Questions'. STUDY!!!
That's enough for now. Remember, sell yourself! You are the best candidate for the job, but you came to the company looking for a challenge. Prove it! Get the job and bring YOU to the table! You have a lot to offer. Find your value and self-worth. Market yourself for the right job and prepare. You can't lose! Good luck!
When you were in High School or College you learned about the basics of self-representation. This would've been in the form of 'How to...' interview, write a resume, apply for the right job (that you're qualified for, that is) and have the skills that go with it. I'm assuming half of Jobless America slept through that class.
Here's what we need to cover.
1. You aren't as qualified as you think. You have something to learn. Even if this isn't true (which you know it is) you need to let the potential employer know that you are willing to learn! We love to hear that and that you bring an open mind to the position. Narcissism is thrown out the window. When you apply for a job, don't apply for everything they have available. You will be called out on that eventually. When I look at an application and they've applied for 12 different positions I'm immediately leery. Apply for what you're qualified for the most. You can always mention you're open to additional responsibilities, positions, etc. You're up for the challenge.
2. We don't need to know how many jobs you've had. Now, before you get indignant, I realize how many of you have been out of work, picking up jobs when they came available and something better comes along you move on. That's admirable, but, I don't need to know how many jobs you've had. Just tell me about the ones that are significant to why you're applying to my company. When you type up a resume don't just stop at one. You need multiple resumes that speak to the various markets you're applying to, not one resume with your entire work history on it.
3. Your availability is part of the reason why they hired you. If you tell them you're open for any shift, you're open for any shift. You're the one who applied for the job. The first time you change it you've damaged your credibility (unless for health or financial reasons). They hired the 'You' they met in the interview, not the 'You' they got who showed up with a list of, 'I know I said this in the interview, but...' Stay true to the 'You' they hired!
4. Wake up and do some research! Get on a computer and read up on the company you're apply to and have some questions of your own. Read up on the position that you're apply for and parlay that into your interview. Don't just sit there with a blank stare on your face or (God forbid) not have an answer for a question. You know that they'll ask you about yourself and you know you best. The interviews usually begin with that question. They may ask, 'What brought you here?' or 'What do you know about the company?' They'll ask, 'What makes you feel you're the best candidate for the position?' These are freebies. Take the time to type out your answers and read them over and over. You can search for common interview questions online. Type in 'Common Sales Manager Interview Questions'. STUDY!!!
That's enough for now. Remember, sell yourself! You are the best candidate for the job, but you came to the company looking for a challenge. Prove it! Get the job and bring YOU to the table! You have a lot to offer. Find your value and self-worth. Market yourself for the right job and prepare. You can't lose! Good luck!
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