Facing Job Interviews & Techniques Of Facing It

[icreations]

This Thread Is Dedicated to All Who are Thinking Of Facing The " Job Interview "

This Thread Will Contain Some Valuable Info on Facing Your Job Interviews.
All Are welcomed to contribute On this thread, and share Your part.

In This I wish to consider about the fellowing 2 Points;

► General idea Of Job Interviews
► How To Face Your Job Interview ( Your Field ) And Some Techs..

All are free To talk About their Own Interviews.. How You faced them , What did the Interviewer Pointed Out & What you think about what You must / mustn't Do.. in an Interview.

So the First Post shall Be Posted Tomorrow... ( My One )
Hope that This can Be some kind of help to you...

 

[ranka]

This Thread Is Dedicated to All Who are Thinking Of Facing The " Job Interview "

This Thread Will Contain Some Valuable Info on Facing Your Job Interviews.
All Are welcomed to contribute On this thread, and share Your part.

In This I wish to consider about the fellowing 2 Points;

► General idea Of Job Interviews
► How To Face Your Job Interview ( Your Field ) And Some Techs..

All are free To talk About their Own Interviews.. How You faced them , What did the Interviewer Pointed Out & What you think about what You must / mustn't Do.. in an Interview.


















So the First Post shall Be Posted Tomorrow... ( My One )
Hope that This can Be some kind of help to you...

really helpful machan

 

[DJ.Parker]

i've got an article about brushing up ur cv.......i'll post it in a min

 

[DJ.Parker]

Getting a foot in that door

Getting a foot in that door

A few pointers to sprucing up your CV By Ayesha Inoon

It's a marketing tool that gets you the job you want. Call it a curriculum vitae, bio data, or résumé – its basic purpose is to present your education, skills and experience so as to win yourself a job interview. "The aim of the CV is to get a foot in the door," says Tof Nicoll-Griffith, General Manager, Operations, of a multinational company. "Once you've got that foot in, and landed an interview, then your personality takes over. In the meantime, your CV has to focus the reader on what you have to offer. It's important that achievements relative to what you are applying for are clearly stated."

If you're writing your CV for the first time, you may wonder what format to use, and how to present yourself in the best possible light. While there is no single 'correct' way to write and present a CV, there are some ways to make sure that the first impression you create is a good one.

What information should a CV include?

"Personal Details: This would include your name, date of birth and contact details. Make it easy for prospective employers to contact you by including your address, home and mobile telephone numbers and email address.

"A Mission Statement, or Objective: It helps to have a clearly stated job objective that is short and succinct. It shows focus, and can be changed to suit the job or company that you are approaching.

In one or two sentences, summarise what you have to offer and where you see yourself going in the organisation that you are applying to. It should answer an employer's question, 'what can this person do for me, and how will he benefit my company?' For example, someone applying for a teaching post might say, 'To obtain a position as a Primary School Teacher in which a strong dedication to the total development of children and a high degree of enthusiasm can be fully utilised.'

"Mission statements are great to have, but they must be sincere and you should speak on the same lines at the interview," says Rifki Mohamed, a human resource practitioner, adding that candidates are sometimes caught bluffing, by not sticking with their mission statement, and sometimes even contradicting it.

"Education and qualifications: In reverse chronology (starting with the most recent), list schools, colleges and qualifications. lso list any current courses that you may be doing, and when you expect to be qualified. Give brief, relevant details of your courses, particularly if they are important to the job that you are applying for.

"Skills and interests/extra curricular activities: Employers will particularly be interested in activities where you had leadership or responsibility, or those in which you demonstrated an aptitude for teamwork, such as sports in school. Other skills, such as languages and computer knowledge should also be listed. Any interests that are relevant to the job (for example, current affairs if you are applying for the post of a journalist) are also worth mentioning.

"Work Experience: Again, use reverse chronology, listing your current job first and then going back. "A good tactic is to provide the experience, however small you think it may be, in a strategic and operational breakdown," says Mr. Mohamed, explaining that this should be according to the job functions that you performed in your other jobs. "This part should be concise and in a form where the prospective employer gets to know what he wants to know about you." Try to relate previous experience to the job you are applying for.

If this is your first job, don't worry about experience – but do make sure that your objectives are clearly stated to demonstrate your aptitude for the job.

"References: "All referees should be non-related and former bosses are ideal," says Mr. Mohamed. "You don't want your father’s friend (even if it is Dr. Steven R. Covey) to tell your prospective employer that you are known because of so and so, and not on a working basis. Bad call." He adds that you need to make sure that your referee knows that he or she will be on your CV. Academic referees, such as the principal of your former school, are also a good idea.

Presentation
A CV should be clear and concise, preferably limited to two pages. Bold and italic typefaces can be used for headings and important information. Each page should be on a different sheet of paper.

You can be creative, depending on the job that you are applying for. "For those in the animation business, their CV is best delivered in electronic media where their profile is presented in an entertaining way," says Mr. Mohamed, adding that you should take care not to get carried away with the visuals. Still, he says, employers prefer creative thinkers in any field.

While a CV is a self-promotional document, it also predicts how you will perform in your desired future job. Remember to keep updating it every once in a while – it should be about the future and your ultimate career goals.



Source: Sundaytimes

 

[Asitha-K]

This is really good from next moth onwards i'mm on job hunt!

 

[Kalindugayan]

niyama thread eka machan
keep it up

 

[shelan]

good thread!!!

 

[ndnk]

Hmmm Really a usefull thread machan.. Update it

 

[Eclipse]

wooow machoo nice work this will be really helpful!!

 

[henderson]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial]Resume Writing [/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]The purpose of your resume is to make the reader want to interview you. Resumes should be informative, concise, consistent, and should highlight intriguing skills and experience. They should grab attention early and provide a concentrated, convincing argument that you perfectly match the position at hand. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]The basics
Those who have been in the workforce for several years would customarily list professional experience first, followed by education and other elements such as publications or skills. Most resumes use reverse chronological order, listing the most recent experience first with the rest following chronologically. This type of resume gives a prospective employer a sense of where your career is headed and how it evolved into what it is today. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]For entrepreneurs, sales personnel, recent graduates, and others with less-than-standard experience, an alternative format called the functional approach might make more sense. This format puts an emphasis on your abilities and achievements, categorizing your experience by industry, type of position, skill, and what you did rather than when you did it. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]There is no right or wrong way to write a resume. Whatever sets you apart from the masses while requiring a minimum of effort for the recruiter will probably be your best bet. Here are some general guidelines to follow. [/FONT]

• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Be concise. Unless you have been working for a long time, stick to one page. Even with extensive experience, a resume should rarely exceed two pages. [/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Use vivid language. Include hard facts showing your impact on the company. Employers want to know what you did and how closely that experience matches their needs. Use action verbs and eliminate pronouns. Be grammatically consistent and proofread rigorously for mistakes. [/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Go easy on the eye. Graphics in a resume should make it easy to read. Use topic headings and lots of space. Forget clip art. Use one typeface. Pull the reader in from the top. Be creative, but clean with the layout. [/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Tell them what they need to know
Resumes should start with your name, address, e-mail, and phone numbers. Include your education, accomplishments, and related experience. List unique talents or specialized skills in hot demand, like those related to computers. [/FONT]

• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Objective. Write one line stating your career direction and the job title you seek. It will direct your resume to the proper department and provide a key to interpreting the contents. This statement will be of greater strategic value if you have a specific focus or are in the midst of a career change rather than if you are just starting out and unsure of your career path. [/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Education. List schools, years attended, graduation dates, degrees, majors or concentrations, and awards. Highlight a master's thesis topic or academic honors. Put your most recent or most impressive educational achievement first. If it is not your highest degree, leave out high school unless it's extraordinary. [/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Experience.[/FONT] [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif] List your employers, job location, employment dates, job titles, and descriptions of your tasks, accomplishments and skills. Use statistics.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Skills. Highlight your computer, language, or other technical skills. List software you have worked with including any unique programs or expertise. For an Internet job, list any certifications or Web programs and computer languages you are familiar with. [/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Title the sections of your resume as you prefer, but remain consistent grammatically. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]The order of the resume should reflect the position being sought. If your computer experience is more relevant to the job than your work history, put your computer skills first. If your educational achievements outweigh your actual experience, put them up higher. List other personal information at the bottom. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Use discretion beyond the basics
Include a personal summary to provide a concise rundown of your career, particularly if you are an established executive or have an array of job experiences. Highlight volunteer work or memberships in nonprofits if you are applying for a related position. Include a brief section on your hobbies to present a more complete and interesting picture, although you run a risk that the information could prejudice your resume. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Leave out overtly personal data, salary information, or negatives like health or legal problems. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Customize as needed
When you are ready to apply for a position, tailor your resume to that job. Highlight your qualities by addressing the specific needs listed in a classified ad or employer's description. If you have no direct experience in the field, pay special attention to related skills. Even with experience, show how your talents suit the position. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Update constantly
Update your resume every time you accomplish something new to capture what's important and remain ready for new opportunities, without struggling to get something together under a tight deadline or stressful circumstance. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Check resources
The following references provide solid examples of objectives, layouts, and other aspects of resumes, as well as further commentary. [/FONT]

 

[henderson]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial]Business Correspondence [/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Business correspondence serves a variety of purposes throughout the career cycle, but most of all it reflects professional courtesy during the job search. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]It can be quite time-consuming to correspond personally with everyone you encounter during a job hunt, but each person has the potential to play a role in your job-hunting network. While generally not required, correspondence through formal letters, memos, or email also provides an opportunity to remind the company and the people you have contacted of your interest. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Cover letters
More than a mere formality, a cover letter can spark interest in your special skills and give extra information. Cover letters help explain anomolies that may stand out in a resume, such as a move or career change, salary requirements, or your special link to the company. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Keep the letter to a few brief paragraphs. Avoid generalizations, even when you send out a mass mailing. Be clear about where you are, what you have to offer, what you want, and when you want it. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Mention only positive things. For example, instead of stating: "Even though I only have two years experience in the industry,…" leave out the negative clause and write: "I doubled my experience in the industry by spending two years in a highly competitive company." [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Be formal, yet friendly and open. Use statistics, highlighted statements, or bullets. Because recruiters often skim, make sure vital information can be easily spotted. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Personalize
Address the cover letter to a specific person if you can. Use the head of human resources as a contact if you cannot pinpoint the manager for the particular job you want. If you know someone at the company, or if you have some recognizable and attractive qualification the recruiter would jump at, put it in the first sentence.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Vary your approach
There are a number of reasons why you might be contacting an employer during a job search and it is important to highlight the strengths of each approach in your cover letter. [/FONT]

• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]When responding to a job posting, refer to where and when you saw the advertisement. Tailor your letter to the job as described by showing how your skills and experience perfectly match its requirements. [/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]If you send a resume blindly, you have the opportunity to show off your ambition as a proactive rather than reactive job seeker. This drive could be something potential employers applaud. Point it out. [/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Your best shot at being hired comes from someone referring you to the job or by using a mutual contact's name. Include in your job search people your friends have mentioned, people you have met or heard about at a social gathering, and professional contacts from your current job. Mention the contact's name in the first sentence and refer to any previous meetings or conversations. [/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Say why you fit
Explain what intrigues you about the position and the company. If there are aspects of the job that would enhance your career, state them. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Use the cover letter to show how and why you are a perfect match. Highlight a couple of skills from your resume. Get specific. If you are answering an ad, respond directly to the points raised in the job description. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Keep an eye on the industry and the companies you are looking at to spot trends or developments. Mention a company's recent media exposure or incorporate relevant industry news into your cover letter. Be creative. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Start the communication ball rolling
Sometimes a cover letter is just a heads-up that you will be calling. Add a paragraph at the end saying when you plan to follow up and how you can be contacted. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Say thank you
Thank-you letters remind employers of your presence in the applicant pool. If eloquently written, they might help tip the balance in your favor. They cannot hurt, even if the company has already settled on you. They restate your interest in the position, give thoughts in response to the interview, and reaffirm the next step. The thank-you can be handwritten, typed, or emailed, but should be brief. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Respond to rejection
You are not expected to respond to a rejection letter. But if you get one, the company clearly values formality and a response would show your professionalism. The letter should be brief, leaving open mention of the future. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Decline with finesse
If you have more than one offer, or you feel that a position does not meet your satisfaction, send a letter politely declining the job. You may need or want to communicate with this employer in the future and you will want to maintain good relations. In a couple of short paragraphs, thank the recruiter for his/her time and be vaguely positive about future contact. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Formally accept
Beyond the obvious statement of thanks for having been offered a position, the acceptance letter formalizes your agreement to the terms of the job as described in the offer letter. It can be a good legal move as well as a polite one. After the statement of thanks, briefly restate your duties, salary, and benefits package as you understand them.[/FONT]

 

[henderson]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial]Networking to Find a Job[/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif] A few years ago, Kathy met Henry in a social setting. At the time, Henry had a small business that sounded relatively intriguing to Kathy. Out of habit, Kathy made a point of getting Henry's contact information at the end of the evening even though she was content in her job. The next day she sent him a resume and a letter recapping their conversation. Henry filed the correspondence for future reference.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]A year and a half later, Henry was starting a different business that needed someone with a particular set of skills. Henry recalled meeting Kathy, who had those skills. He pulled her resume out of his file, contacted her, and pitched the new idea. The opportunity and the timing were perfect. Kathy now works for this successful, growing business, adding value as a key part of its operations.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Networking in professional, social, and other settings has become an increasingly important aspect of a job search as people now tend to move from one company to another more frequently. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Network everyday, everywhere
Follow the demand for your talent by continuous networking, making it second nature. Make your own connections and be your own agent.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]There are networking opportunities every day. It's done at parties, dinners, events, small gatherings, birthdays, volunteer activities, and ceremonies. It happens at the gym, the grocery store, and the garage. Talk to anyone and everyone including those new to an industry and old pros, those in school and those overseas. They all matter.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Try this mental game at a networking function. First, bring a stack of business cards at least a quarter inch thick. See if you can find three people who refuse to take one. Chances are, you'll run out of business cards before you find even one person who says no. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Keep an active and pleasant communication open with past employers, being careful not to burn bridges when you leave a company. If you leave the workforce for a few years to raise children, network with other stay-at-home parents and attend your partner's company events at the holidays.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Use resumes like personal flyers
Resumes can serve as detailed business cards, reminding contacts of you and your accomplishments. Create a version of your resume for networking alone, one that can be pulled out on short notice. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Use informational interviews
Exploit another networking staple with an informational interview - a formal chat in which you ask someone to talk about his or her work without trying to squeeze a job out of the experience. It can be a particularly useful way to get a detailed picture of the industry since you are free to ask absolutely anything and can more often expect a frank response than in a regular interview. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Ask how your contact got into the industry, and why. Ask what skills are most in demand, where the industry is headed, and where the jobs will be. Ask the best way to advance. Ask whether he or she has any regrets. Ask for the best way to find a job in the industry. Get further contacts. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Network toward a job
When you actively start to look for work, contact everyone you know. Go to your immediate and extended family, friends of the family, religious community, volunteer connections, old college buddies or clubs, past employers, and anyone you deal with including your accountant, real estate agent, or dentist. Reciprocate when they call you. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Network for your company too
Even if you are happily employed, you can network for your company and help your personal pursuits at the same time. If your company gets invited to an event, go. If someone in a salon or at a grocery store wants to talk about your company, engage them. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Put your network to use
References can have a significant impact on the final hiring decision. Be ready to provide potential employers with at least three solid ones from your network of professional contacts.[/FONT]

 

[henderson]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial]References[/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif] References can have a significant impact on the final hiring decision. Be ready at a moment's notice to provide potential employers with at least three solid ones.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Approach only your natural contacts, the people who would unquestionably offer a glowing report about you. You want people who know you well professionally and can relay information about your proficiency, skills, attitudes, and behaviors.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Consider mentors, bosses, or coworkers in positions of authority. Also look at professors, coaches, or counselors. Steer away from family and friends, who may be biased or unaware of your work habits.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Ask early and carefully
Ask for references before you leave your current job. Say something like, "If I need a reference, would you feel comfortable offering a positive recommendation?" If there is any hesitation, avoid using that person. If he or she is a solid mentor, talk about the type of position you are seeking, your hopes, and your goals. Asking for advice educates and engages your references in your efforts. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Do their work for them
Make it easy for your references to say good things about you.[/FONT]

• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Provide an updated resume.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Give them warning that a potential employer has asked for references.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Describe the job you are seeking, the challenges it might provide, and your ability to meet them.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Outline why you are the best candidate for the job.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Ask them to let you know when/if they've been contacted. [/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]How HR managers use your network
Human resource managers almost invariably ask for references when seriously considering someone. For liability reasons, if for no other, they will probably call each one. They will look for inconsistencies between information gleaned from your interview and from what your references say. They may ask about the following.[/FONT]

• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Promptness or tardiness[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Interactions with coworkers[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Attitude[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Competency[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Weaknesses [/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Thank your references
After your job search is over, contact your references to let them know how their referral paid off. Ask if there is anything you can do in return.[/FONT]

 

[TΞΞNSTAR™]

wow.. thnx bro.. i guess i got something to share... wait ill check..

 

[henderson]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial]Interview Basics [/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif] Despite the etiquette, formality, and inevitable fear factor, job interviews can actually be enjoyable as well as extremely informative. In an interview, where you and the prospective employer begin a mutual relationship based on observation and communication, you have just as much power as the interviewer. So forget the high stakes and have fun.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]The focus for both sides should be on the immediate benefits you can add to and get from the company. Use examples; emphasize thought processes rather than results; and turn negatives into positives.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Research, research, research
Be ready to rattle off your achievements and how your current projects fit in with the goals of the prospective employer. Research industry trends and know where the company excels and where it might need your talents. Use media, reference books and sites, and your contacts in the industry.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Do enough research to speak authoritatively during the interview. Look at the company's recent stock price if it is publicly traded. Find out its values through the mission statement and the recent comings and goings of its executives. Keep current on relevant news and check for late-breaking events that could affect the business. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Interviews come in various guises.[/FONT]

• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Screening interviews narrow the applicant pool. You might be screened without knowing it, in person or otherwise. Career fairs, for example, provide screening opportunities. Job applicants might also be screened by phone.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Electronic or phone interviews may be used when you are relocating. Treat virtual interviews as if they were face to face, even if you are in your pajamas. Keep any materials you might need for the conversation at hand.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Sequential interviews, where you visit different interviewers one after another within a company, are the most common. Treat each interview as though it were the first.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Panel interviews, where you face a panel of interviewers, or group interviews, where multiple candidates are interviewed at once, are less common but might also occur. [/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]It's all in the package you present
Interviewers will probably ply you with questions about your education, experience, skills, and long-term career goals as they look for the following.[/FONT]

• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Confidence without arrogance. Show you work well with others as equals while exhibiting the confidence and assertiveness of a self-starter.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Reason. The prospective employer looks for how well you process information.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Communication. The interviewer looks for social savvy, small talk, and interpersonal ability with coworkers.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Success. Show how you have used your skills by providing measurable statistics and explain the thought process behind your actions.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Organization. Show your level of organization by your dress, manner, and coordination handling the papers and equipment you bring to the interview.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Enthusiasm. Let how much you want the job shine through and add a positive spin to negative situations. [/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Every question counts
Interviewers might pose behavioral questions to get an idea of how you might act in the office. Certain banking, finance, and consulting employers use case questions to test your analytical skills. Hypothetical questions offer a picture of how you might handle a situation you have yet to encounter. You may face these types of questions if you are interviewing for a job in a new industry or for one with more responsibilities. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Don't fall for tricks
In stress tests, the interviewer fires a barrage of questions or problems at the candidate in stressful surroundings. These cases are less about what you do or say than about how you respond. Emphasize the process, not the result. If you feel a question is extraordinarily strange, ask for elaboration. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Your turn to do the grilling
Respond to the interview questions with articulate, focused answers but make sure to get some answers for yourself.[/FONT]

• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Ask about attitude and environment. If the interviewer shows you around, pay attention to the work environment. Listen to what employees say; notice how they dress and the relative diversity or homogeneity of the workforce.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Ask about training. Training programs help facilitate your transition into a new position. Look for companies willing to enhance your skills and knowledge, regardless of job level and tenure.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Ask about management. Ask about the relationships workers have with senior management and whether one department is held in higher regard than another. Find out whether your department has an advocate before senior staff or how strong an advocate you will be able to be.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Ask about time, travel, and relocation. Find out the time commitment expected from you. Ask whether the company expects you to travel or relocate and whether they will reimburse you.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Ask about promotions and reviews. A good rate of promotion is 18 months to two years. Performance reviews, which may include a raise, should take place once a year.[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Ask about compensation. The interviewer is likely to cover this topic eventually, but make sure all your questions are answered. Does the company pay competitive salaries in general? Does it offer cash bonuses, stock options, paid holidays, and gifts like meals and tickets?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Ask about turnover. If employees are leaving in droves, you know something is wrong. Workers may be dissatisfied with their pay, management, or work culture; or there may have been layoffs. Ask whether the company is in talks on acquisitions or mergers. Find out about any current litigation and its possible impact. [/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]What happens next? The interviewer will contact you about the job if the company is interested. Ask how long you can expect to wait. Contact the interviewer in the interim if you have questions or for additional materials or references. But the decision will depend mostly on your interview. Do your best to leave a great impression.[/FONT]

 

[henderson]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial]Interview Brainteasers [/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif] You've heard of those brain teaser questions that may well come between you and a job someday. No matter how much you may prepare yourself for a job interview, you may never be completely ready when that interviewer asks you why manhole covers are round. Even that question has been asked so often by now, it's considered one of the easy ones. Microsoft is partly to blame.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Ever since the Seattle-based software giant made news a few years ago for asking applicants questions like "How many golfballs does it take to fill a 747?", more and more companies have been adding their own mindbenders to the interview mix - and it's not just at software behemoths like Microsoft, but also at consulting firms and investment banks like Goldman Sachs and Smith Barney. Don't feel prepared just because you've got a bulletproof resume and have thoroughly researched the company you're interviewing for. Be ready for something unorthodox to pop up out of the blue.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]It's how you answer, not what you answer
It's not a matter of answering the question "correctly" - in many cases there is no correct answer. The company wants to know how you think. They are interested in how and why you arrive at your answer. According to one contractor who was writing anonymously on a website devoted to Microsoft job interviews, the interviewer "wants to know what you're like, not what you think you should be like. While it might seem obvious that authenticity is vital, many people still get the misguided impression that there is a character type they must reflect."[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]These brain teasers range widely in difficulty. Some of them do have actual answers. One example is,"Calculate the number of degrees between the hour and minute hands of an analog clock that reads 3:15." Hint: the answer is not zero. Others exist primarily to see how creatively and elegantly you can reason under pressure, for example, "How many gas stations are there in the United States?" While these may involve some math, it's fairly simple stuff. The key is to show how flexible your mind is when figuring these things out.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Take the manhole cover question, one of the easier brain teasers out there. Why are they round? Don't panic. Consider the question from different angles. You might answer that manhole covers are round because it makes them easier for one person to move them around by rolling them on one side. They might be round because if the manholes were, say, square - or for that matter, any shape other than a circle - they could easily drop through the hole. This is the orthodox "right" answer to the manhole question. Another popular answer to this is that the round covers don't need to be rotated to fit over the hole they're covering, as square ones would.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Or consider this: What's the size of the market for disposable diapers in China? Start big and take this brain teaser one mathematical step at a time. Estimate how many people live in China and pick a percentage of that number that would represent Chinese people of child-bearing age. Divide that number in half to get the number of Chinese women of childbearing age. Assume a percentage of those women have children, a fraction of whom are under two years old. Recall that on average, Chinese families tend to have only one child. Plug in the numbers and do the math.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]The number may not be the precise answer, but the logic you use to get it shows the interviewer that you know how to think. The trick is to use big, round numbers that are easy to add, subtract, multiply, and divide on the fly. By showing the interviewer that you can think on your feet, you'll begin to demonstrate that you'll be a solid problem-solver as an employee.[/FONT]

 

[henderson]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial]The Weakness Question[/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif] You're sitting in a conference room or office, face-to-face with the person you most want to impress - your prospective boss - and he or she is asking you, "What is your biggest weakness?" How do you answer a question like that?[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]The good news is, it's a job interview, not a confessional. No one expects you to demonize yourself in hopes of appearing forthright. After all, you are selling yourself and you want the interviewer to buy, not pass.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]You could try stalling - think hard for a minute or two and answer something to the effect of, "I can't really think of any aspect of my personality that has compromised my performance at work. All of my performance reviews have been positive and I've never had any problems with past employers." The problem with this approach, though, is that you run the risk of appearing smug.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]A better approach to take with the weakness question is to answer it honestly in a way that makes you look positive. Try to come up with a problem or difficulty you had at work a long time ago - the farther back, the better. Explain how that one minor flaw affected your performance in a way that enabled you to correct the problem and learn from it. This will show your employer how you have learned from a mistake.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]"The classic 'weakness' answers are those where the weakness is a strength in disguise," said Jenn Schraut, Human Resources and Compensation Associate at Salary.com. "But avoid the blatant, overused ones, like, 'My problem is, I work too hard'," she said.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]With the weakness question, you'd better be prepared. If you think of something on the spot, your example might have flaws you don't have time to think about.[/FONT]

 

[henderson]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial]Inappropriate Questions[/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif] Have you ever felt uncomfortable about a question someone asked in a job interview? Frankly, some things are none of your prospective employer's business. Moreover, many types of questions are not only inappropriate, but even illegal.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Federal and state laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Pregnancy Discrimination Act, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and others legally bar interviewers from asking questions about race, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, national origin, marital status, or family matters. While questioners might throw in the odd zinger, questions should focus exclusively on the position and your qualifications for it.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif] If a prospective employer asks an inappropriate question, it puts you in a delicate position. [/FONT][FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]"Whether the question is legal or not, you still might have an incentive to answer it," said Bill Coleman, Vice President of Compensation at Salary.com. "And you have to consider the implications of calling the employer's attention to the fact that the question is illegal."[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]The interviewer who asks an illegal question may not know he or she is breaking the law. It may be intended as idle small talk, an attempt to get to know you better as a person - so try to put the question in its intended context. "The reason some questions are illegal is to prevent potential employers from discriminating against candidates," said Coleman, adding that not all inappropriate questions are asked with discriminatory intent. In fact, it could be the opposite. A hiring manager who is inexperienced at interviewing, for example, might have very constructive intentions for asking inappropriate questions - such as trying to diversify a team. "A constructive intention doesn't change the legality of the question," said Coleman, "But it could affect your decision whether to answer it."[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Other times the intention is to plan carefully for the future of a business. Venture capitalists are notorious for asking women entrepreneurs about their plans for having children, something they are allowed to do as they consider investing in a business, though not when recruiting executives for a portfolio company. And although most women entrepreneurs would prefer not to let their pregnancies become deal points, the people with money to invest would prefer to be able to expect when their CEO might be expecting.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]If you believe it is in your best interest to defer answering an interview question, use tact and grace to explain that the question does not relate to your abilities or qualifications for the position. If an interviewer's questions make you very uncomfortable, think twice about whether this is a company you want to work for.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Here are some examples of illegal job interview questions.[/FONT]

• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]How old are you?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Are you married?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]How many times have you been married? [/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Are you in a committed relationship right now? [/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]How does your spouse feel about your working here? [/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Do you rent or own your home? [/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Whom do you live with? [/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]What is your sexual orientation?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]What's your ethnicity/nationality?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]What is your first language?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Were your parents born in this country? [/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]What is your racial background?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Are you religious? Do you attend church?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Do you intend to have children? How many?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Do you have children?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]What are your child care arrangements?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Are you pregnant?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Do you have any disabilities?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Have you had any recent illnesses or surgeries?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Do you work out regularly? [/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Do you smoke?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Have you ever been addicted to drugs?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]What is your political affiliation?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]What organizations do you belong to?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Have you been injured on the job?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Have you ever filed for workers' compensation before?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Have you ever declared bankruptcy? [/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Where do you bank?[/FONT]
• [FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Have you ever been arrested? (Questions about convictions are legal, however, and are considered to be security measures.)[/FONT]

 

[henderson]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial]How to Evaluate an Offer[/FONT]

[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif] Just like an interview, a job offer can tell you a great deal about a potential employer. An offer can reveal how serious the employer is about the offer, how valuable you are to the company, and most importantly, whether you should make the move. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Jobs are customarily offered over the telephone or in person. The employer should offer more than just, "Congratulations, you've got the job." He or she should explain the offer in detail and answer your questions.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]It is appropriate to respond to a job offer within two to four days. Rarely would an employer expect you to accept a position on the spot. While you're thinking it over, here's what to look for.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Titles
The most basic information is your title. Titles are more than names; they are a short, strategic, and functional explanation of your job and its responsibilities. You need to be clear on your duties so that you know what is expected of you, which can help minimize surprises after you start working.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]The names and titles of your immediate supervisors also should be mentioned in the offer. Most likely, you have already met your supervisors during your interview and have gotten acquainted with them. You'll be working with your supervisors every day, so it's important to feel comfortable around them. Knowing how many supervisors you have also will give you a better idea of the amount of work involved in your job.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Salary
Understanding the salary information - the most important piece of the job offer - can help you reach an educated career decision. Find out your base pay, which can be stated annually, monthly, or both. Make sure you know how frequently you will receive a paycheck. Most employers pay biweekly (26 times a year) or twice a month (24 times a year). If you are a nonexempt employee, you should be paid at least twice a month.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Be sure to ask about the timing of your salary review - in other words, when will you be eligible for a raise. Your salary review sometimes is tied to your performance review and is a chance for the employer to recognize and reward you for your accomplishments. Generally, the review will take place one year from your start date. Some companies conduct six-month salary reviews as well.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Bonuses
Bonuses can add money to your total compensation package. Employers should tell you about the different bonuses offered, which can be based on personal performance or be relative to the company's profit. Sometimes a bonus simply will be a set percentage of your base pay. If you were offered a signing bonus, be sure to ask about the details, such as the date you will receive the pay.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]If an employee referred you to the company, then he or she may receive a referral bonus, which is contingent upon your employment. This means you may have to be employed at the company for a specified period before the bonus is granted. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Benefits
Compensation isn't just the cash, it's also the benefits. The most important benefits are health and dental insurance. You should find out the name of the provider and the types of coverage you will receive. You should also be aware how much your insurance will cost each week, and how much your employer will cover. Companies offer different kinds of coverage, and if your company makes you pay more for health coverage, you have an incentive to negotiate. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Medical plans sometimes take more than a week to process, so find out whether your new medical plan will take effect on the day you start working. Your health insurance plan at your current job expires on the day you leave, but under federal COBRA laws you have the right to continue to purchase health insurance under your old plan for 18 or 36 months, depending on the plan. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]If your new plan will not take effect right away and you elect to purchase your old plan, you may want to ask your new employer to pay part or all of the plan's costs until the new one kicks in.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Remember, you want an offer that matches your current employment status. A good starting point is to use the list of benefits from your current job as a checklist for your new job. If you currently have short-term and long-term disability insurance coverage, find out whether the new employer offers comparable programs. Some other common financial benefits are pension plans, retirement plans, life insurance, travel insurance, and severance packages. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Some companies, both public and private, offer stock options as part of the compensation package. If you are offered stocks, find out how many shares you'll receive and when they vest. Vesting in this context is the period over which an employee has the right to realize the right to exercise options (purchase and sell shares of stock). Vesting schedules vary from company to company. Be sure to ask when the vesting period begins. You may, for example, become vested in 25 percent of your stock options after each six months of employment. It's also in your best interest to know your exercise price, the current price of public stock, and the number of shares outstanding to calculate the value of your options and get a better idea of your total package.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Perks
Traditionally, companies offer added perks to executives and some senior managers. Today, some companies also offer the same high-end incentives to other employees. These benefits could include daycare, reimbursement for parking or commuting fees, and health club memberships. Not all companies offer these services, and not all employees are granted these perks.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Employers also offer training programs, and often every employee is sent to at least one training session, regardless of industry or job title. An employer that values its staff wants to help them grow and develop professionally. Ask about the types of training you would receive. Some companies also offer tuition reimbursement to encourage employees to pursue higher education.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Vacation time
Don't forget to ask about the all-important vacation time. Always ask when you are in doubt - and never assume - because policies differ from company to company. Generally, every employee receives two weeks of vacation time each year; the number is usually higher for senior-level positions. Vacation time also is negotiable if you are offered less time compared with what you have at your current job. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Two benefits often overlooked when evaluating a job offer are sick days and personal days (sometimes called floating holidays). These benefits should be stated in the offer letter, and you should clarify when you can access these benefits. Usually, you must wait three months before you can take a vacation day or a personal day, so if you know ahead of time about an upcoming engagement, negotiate now so that there will be no surprises later. Plus, this is proper business etiquette.[/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Start date
An employer will discuss your start date, which should be stated in the offer letter. If you are currently employed, the start date will be at least two weeks later, giving you enough time to notify your current employer. It could be as long as four weeks if you hold a management position or if it takes longer to find a replacement for your current position. Negotiate for more time if you feel it's necessary to help you make a smoother transition into your new career.[/FONT]

 

[TΞΞNSTAR™]

[FONT=arial,helvetica,sans-serif][SIZE=+2]Top 10 Interview Tips [/SIZE][SIZE=-1]

Great interviews arise from careful groundwork. You can ace your next interview if you:[/SIZE][/FONT]

• [FONT=arial,helvetica,sans-serif][SIZE=-1]Enter into a state of relaxed concentration. This is the state from which great basketball players or Olympic skaters operate. You'll need to quiet the negative self chatter in your head through meditation or visualization prior to sitting down in the meeting. You'll focus on the present moment and will be less apt to experience lapses in concentration, nervousness, self-doubt and self-condemnation. [/SIZE][/FONT]

• [FONT=arial,helvetica,sans-serif][SIZE=-1]Act spontaneous, but be well prepared. Be your authentic self, professional yet real. Engage in true conversation with your interviewer, resting on the preparation you did prior to coming to the meeting. Conduct several trial runs with another person simulating the interview before it actually occurs. It's the same as anticipating the questions you'll be asked on a final exam. [/SIZE][/FONT]

• [FONT=arial,helvetica,sans-serif][SIZE=-1]Set goals for the interview. It is your job to leave the meeting feeling secure that the interviewer knows as much as he or she possibly can about your skills, abilities, experience and achievements. If you sense there are misconceptions, clear them up before leaving. If the interviewer doesn't get around to asking you important questions, pose them yourself (diplomatically) and answer them. Don't leave the meeting without getting your own questions answered so that you have a clear idea of what you would be getting yourself into. If possible, try to get further interviews, especially with other key players. [/SIZE][/FONT]

• [FONT=arial,helvetica,sans-serif][SIZE=-1]Know the question behind the question. Ultimately, every question boils down to, "Why should we hire you?" Be sure you answer that completely. If there is a question about your meeting deadlines, consider whether the interviewer is probing delicately about your personal life, careful not to ask you whether your family responsibilities will interfere with your work. Find away to address fears if you sense they are present. [/SIZE][/FONT]

• [FONT=arial,helvetica,sans-serif][SIZE=-1]Follow up with an effective "thank you" letter. Don't write this letter lightly. It is another opportunity to market yourself. Find some areas discussed in the meeting and expand upon them in your letter. Writing a letter after a meeting is a very minimum. Standing out among the other candidates will occur if you thoughtfully consider this follow up letter as an additional interview in which you get to do all the talking. Propose useful ideas that demonstrate your added value to the team. [/SIZE][/FONT]

• [FONT=arial,helvetica,sans-serif][SIZE=-1]Consider the interviewer's agenda. Much is on the shoulders of the interviewer. He or she has the responsibility of hiring the right candidate. Your ability to do the job will need to be justified. "Are there additional pluses here?" "Will this person fit the culture of this organization?" These as well as other questions will be heavily on the interviewer's mind. Find ways to demonstrate your qualities above and beyond just doing the job. [/SIZE][/FONT]

• [FONT=arial,helvetica,sans-serif][SIZE=-1]Expect to answer the question, "Tell me about yourself." This is a pet question of prepared and even unprepared interviewers. Everything you include should answer the question, "Why should we hire you?" Carefully prepare your answer to include examples of achievements from your work life that closely match the elements of the job before you. Obviously, you'll want to know as much about the job description as you can before you respond to the question. [/SIZE][/FONT]

• [FONT=arial,helvetica,sans-serif][SIZE=-1]Watch those nonverbal clues. Experts estimate that words express only 30% to 35% of what people actually communicate; facial expressions and body movements and actions convey the rest. Make and keep eye contact. Walk and sit with a confident air. Lean toward an interviewer to show interest and enthusiasm. Speak with a well-modulated voice that supports appropriate excitement for the opportunity before you. [/SIZE][/FONT]

• [FONT=arial,helvetica,sans-serif][SIZE=-1]Be smart about money questions. Don't fall into the trap of telling the interviewer your financial expectations. You may be asking for too little or too much money and in each case ruin your chances of being offered the job. Instead, ask what salary range the job falls in. Attempt to postpone a money discussion until you have a better understanding of the scope of responsibilities of the job. [/SIZE][/FONT]

• [FONT=arial,helvetica,sans-serif][SIZE=-1]Don't hang out your dirty laundry. Be careful not to bare your soul and tell tales that are inappropriate or beyond the scope of the interview. State your previous experience in the most positive terms. Even if you disagreed with a former employer, express your enthusiasm for earlier situations as much as you can. Whenever you speak negatively about another person or situation in which you were directly involved, you run the risk (early in the relationship) of appearing like a troubled person who may have difficulty working with others. [/SIZE][/FONT]