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Last Online: 21st September 2009 Join Date: Mon May 2005 |  Re: How to nail a job interview... -
2nd March 2006
here is a nice article about 10 rules for job hunting :
By Mary Lorenz, CareerBuilder.com
Gina is dressed in an expensive, new -- and slightly itchy -- suit, hoping that the mint she almost choked on is masking the smell from the chili she unwisely chose to eat at lunch and willing the sweat glands in her palms to behave until she at least has shaken hands.
Will is also wearing a new suit. He's simultaneously trying to cover up the stain from the coffee he just spilled on himself, generate what he hopes is intelligent conversation and maintain eye contact.
One of these people is on a first date, the other is at a job interview, but which is which? In both instances, each was trying to impress and get to know someone else, figure out what the other person had to offer, and ultimately decide if he or she wanted to commit to that person on a long-term basis. Both the date and the job interview can generate feelings of excitement and nervousness, and their outcomes can mean the difference between starting from scratch or living happily ever after.
Ten years ago, Ellen Fein and Sherrie Schneider co-wrote the best-selling book "The Rules," a guide based on the authors' own experiences to help women find and keep "Mr. Right," and have since written various other versions of the book. Sure, it's not the most feminism-forward piece of literature, and its "success" rate is unknown, but when applied to the job search, "The Rules" actually includes good (gender-neutral) advice for the job seeker.
Here, the Top 10 Rules, as listed on Fein and Schneider's Web site, and how you can apply them to your job search.
Rule No.1: Be a creature unlike any other.
This Rule entails adapting a sense of confidence that others around you will notice. As a job seeker, you certainly want to stand out among the competition, and one of the easiest ways you can get a potential employer to notice you is through your attitude. The authors also recommend pausing in between sentences (to avoid babbling out of nervousness), listening intently and standing up straight, all things that will also help job candidates convey poise and professionalism in an interview.
Rule No. 2: Show up to dances, parties and social events even if you do not feel like it.
This Rule emphasizes one of the most valuable steps in job-searching: networking. It's hard to find The One if you're sitting at home in front of a computer. Make an effort to meet new people and try new things, and you may just meet someone who knows of a job that's perfect for you.
Rule No. 3: Don't waste time on a fantasy relationship.
Be realistic in your job search. If you're not getting any responses, look at the types of jobs to which you're applying. Are you shooting too high, too soon? Of course you should apply for the job you want, but be aware of what you are and are not qualified for. If your dream is to be the editor-in-chief of a large metropolitan newspaper, you will probably need more experience than copy editor for your neighborhood newsletter.
Rule No. 4: On all nonbusiness e-mails, responding once for every four of his e-mails is a good rule of thumb.
Remember, you never know who has access to your e-mail, so keep all romance off the screen and save it for Saturday nights. Romance aside, this Rule is simply good workplace advice for keeping that job once you finally do get it.
Rule No. 5: On the first three dates, we don't have sex with a man or have him stay at our place overnight.
At least when one replaces the word "date" with "interview" and "man" with "interviewer," Rule No. 5 is definitely one to live by.
Rule No. 6: When placing your [personal] ad, remember that every man has a type, a voice or a look he likes.
Think of your cover letter as your personal ad, because in many ways it is your chance to make yourself sound attractive to employers. Tailor it to the wants and needs of the employer and the specific position for which you're applying. You may be the best darn dart-player in all of Hancock County, but leave it out of your cover letter if it isn't relevant to the type of job you're seeking.
Rule No. 7: If he doesn't call, he is not interested. Period.
Show interest, but don't waste time on a company that's just not responsive. When it comes to job hunting, it's okay and often necessary to make the first move. You should always follow up a résumé with a call a few days later and send a thank-you note after an interview. But while it pays to be persistent, but don't be annoying. If weeks pass by and you've still gotten no response, take a hint from this Rule and move on.
Rule No. 8: Close the deal.
The Rules are to a marriage proposal what these rules are to a job offer. If you get one, you've obviously done everything right. But remember that it's okay to negotiate a salary. You wouldn't accept a half-carat diamond ring when you know you deserve a three-quarter one, so if you know that the offer they've given you is less than you deserve, tell them that you believe you have the experience necessary to receive the higher end of the advertised salary range. Taking time to consider the offer, instead of accepting immediately, will demonstrate that you are thoughtful, knowledgeable and can hold your ground.
Rule No. 9: Buyer beware.
Observe his behavior so that you do not end up with Mr. Wrong. Remember that your interview is also a chance for you to ask questions and make assessments. Just because a company likes you does not mean that you will like that company. Consider whether the job and company you're applying for are a true fit for you. Ask yourself if you could honestly see yourself working there. How does the boss treat his employees? Do the employees seem to like the company? Was the interviewer welcoming and interested in you? Your job search, much like your search for Mr. or Mrs. Right, is about finding a place that's right for you.
Rule No. 10: Keep doing the Rules, even when things are slow.
Job hunting can be discouraging and exhausting, but remember that the final outcome will be worth all that perseverance. Cheer yourself on with some positive reinforcements (Fein and Schneider suggest building up your confidence with slogans such as "I am a beautiful woman" and "I am enough," but feel free to exercise a little artistic license). |
