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Wednesday, July 25, 2007

Looking For A New Job?


Looking for a new job? Are you anxious about what to say, and what you need to do to prepare for the interview? Tonight we’ll give you some tips and some cautions for that big interview day.

Many employers say they make a first impression within 30 seconds. Sometimes those impressions are lasting so what are some keys to a successful first meeting? Here are some great tips from CareerBuilders.com
• Be on time. Being late can be one of the worst errors so allow yourself plenty of time to get to the office. Also give yourself time to relax and get your composure before you walk into the appointment. Ideally, you should show up 5-10 minutes early
• First impressions are based on appearance. We may not like it, but your appearance composes a large part of first impressions. Try to look professional – tailored suits and generally the most appropriate.
• The handshake is important. Offering a limp handshake makes the employer think you are hesitant, and crunching the boss’s hand makes you look aggressive. Shake w/ a medium grip to convey confidence.
• Watch your posture. Your body language sends silent messages, so make sure you sit straight, try not to fidget and maintain eye contact.

What are some other tips for successful interviewing?
• Be prepared. Bring an extra copy of your resume. Research the industry or company so you know how your talents fit into the company
• Show your enthusiasm. It is important to stand out, and being enthusiastic tells the employer you are highly motivated.
• Sell yourself. Create a list of things you want the employer to know about you and be ready to do a good job selling yourself.
• Be honest and ask questions. Don’t be afraid to ask about responsibilities of the job or ask about typical projects. It is important to engage the interviewer.

Are there some cautions for interviews?
• Never be rude to the receptionist. Many receptionists are the gatekeepers for the boss and their impressions are valued. Remember if you get the job, you may need the assistance of the receptionist.
• Never trash your former boss. This shows you left on poor terms and you want to keep the interview positive and upbeat.
• Never exaggerate your accomplishments or credentials. A skilled interviewer can see through fabrications and remember they may check out your story if they are interested in you.
• Make sure you always thank the interviewer. Shake hands once again, and be polite and make sure you write a thank you note stating how much you appreciate their time and how you are interested in the job.

Keep these things in mind, and you just might be getting that new job in nothing flat!

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Those were all wonderful things to do to prepare or for an interview.
Just a few other ideas, having been on a board hiring teachers: Bring several copies of your resume because our panel included seven teachers. You don't want them thinking more about when they are going to get you resume than listening to what you have to say. Print your resume on high quality stock paper and perhaps use even an off white, light blue, or even light gray color may attract a little more attention. Remember after you leave they have only a few pages of paper to remember you.

The being on time or early, this show respect for the interviewers time and put you in a good light. This is extremely important.

I think you really have to talk yourself up as much as possible, if it is a teaching position, There are hundreds of applicants out there. The fact YOU got an interview is outstanding concerning the completion out there. If you don't "sell" yourself--
nobody else will!

Language is important, Use proper grammar when speaking. Answer the questions in complete sentences, when possible.

Have something for "show and tell". Even if you have just finished student teaching, bring some pictures of what you and your students did. If you have news-clippings, please include them, This is not considered "bragging", this shows self confidence.

Ask questions only after you have heard there presentation. Note things along the way you wish to ask about later. Don't be afraid to ask about the pay scale and how it works. A lot is districts put "big money" the first year of the scale, and have little growth on their steps. Ask about further schooling and does the school pick up some of the tuition payments. Ask about the availability of picking up CPUS, etc. needed for certification.

When you leave, thank the board for their time, and you may ask how soon they plan to make their decision and are all interviewed people informed of their decision. Good luck!