If it’s time to go for a job interview, whether for a part-time job or a full-time graduate career, here is some career advice you should take on board.
Career Advice #1: Be different – don’t be like all the rest – candidates are a dime a dozen, so stand out by having energy, passion, confidence to burn and the zeal to tackle the interviewer. Let your personality shine through—let the employer see that you have a positive approach, a sense of humour, and enthusiasm for the job. Look them in the eye, have firm hand shake, sit upright. Have stature – if you don’t know what it is, go and find out. Practice in front of a mirror to see what your hands and facial expressions are. Listen to yourself on tape so see whether your voice tone changes or you stumble on words etc. Video yourself and play it back to see what the interviewer see.
Career Advice #2: Ask pointed, tough questions. – There is always another candidate, but you only have one career. Ask the difficult questions like;
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Why should I consider joining this organisation?
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What’s different about this organisation?
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What are the company’s practiced values and give me an example of one.
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What words describe the company’s personality?
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What is my boss going to teach me?
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Using individual words, describe my bosses management style.
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Is my boss, more a leader or a\ manager?
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What qualities are you seeking in the successful applicant?
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What behaviours do you seek?
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What level of functional knowledge is desired?
The only way to learn if the job is right for you is to ask questions. Employers like being questioned, because it shows you are interested in the position. However don’t be cocky. The way you ask questions is more important than the question itself. Tell the interviewer, you accept someone will get the position, but you only have one career and it is important to get the fit right. They will understand. Let them do most of the talking and engage in conversation and prove that you are keen and willing to dedicate your time to the job. Come prepared with memorised questions and get on a roll when asking them.
Career Advice #3: Submit a current, well-structured resume. The first words they read are the impressions you want them to retain about you. Your personal details go last. Employers need only 15 seconds to read a resume. Short, sharp to the point with up-to-date information including personal profile, summary employment history, key achievements and what you offer.
Career Advice #4: Clean your digital dirt. Make sure that if an employer types your name into Google or Facebook, they are not greeted with reasons not to hire you. Ensure you either have no negative presence, or can only be researched in a positive way.
Career Advice #5: Wear power clothes – wear a business suit, with contrasting colours and power tie or scarf. If you don’t have a suit, buy the best one you can practically afford – it will make you money.
Finally the best career advice I can give you is that being ready for an interview is not the same as being prepared. Learn about the company’s products or services, what major announcements or events they have, anything that demonstrates you have made an effort to understand them. Now that’s preparation. Want to talk about it, write me a blog below
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