Say The Right Thing During Your Job Search

Posted by: Patricia Woodard On: 2/1/2012 11:14 AM

I think the information provided is great, keep it coming cause I have an interview next week.

Posted by: Bruce Mason On: 12/29/2011 6:39 PM

Like many people now I am looking for full time employment. It's hard times and articles such as this and the comments are extremely helpful to me. The comments about the "strengths" and "weaknesses" questions are most helpful.Those are the toughest for me. Stay strong everyone. Better days are ahead. We all have skills and experience that is valuable.  I am 60 years old and a licensed Rad Tech/MA working per diem since I was terminated 2 yrs ago. I took a $10.00 an hour pay cut in my current job. I hope my experience and skills will get  employers past my age. I think that is a factor for some facilities.  

Posted by: regina ayars

If you ask my last employer why I was fired, they would say my "quality".  That is not accurate but it falls into that category.  It was more of a difference in opinion when it came how to treat customers.  I have letters of recommendation from these same customers.  I feel that when you are filling out an application and your choices are laid off, fired, or quit and I have to answer fired, it makes me look bad.  I also believe that when the perspective company calls my former employer, I am getting "black-balled".  How do I get around this?  

Posted by: Diane parsons

I am off for an interview, and hope some of the comments help. Good stuff!

Posted by: Terry Gunderson

I am a nurse without hospital experience for over 12 years, I have worked in oncology outpatient clinics and am very good at my skills.  I was fired 8 months ago.   I have not had to interview for 7 years and they are so involved with questions.  They want you to answer truthfully and did that, but they don't want to hear it so you learn to answer questions with a different approach.  Weaknesses?  I say I thought I could "do it all", but realized I was better off asking for help.  Turn a conflict with coworker into a positive somehow.  I just had an interview yesterday 10/25/11 and received an email I had not gotten the job.  WOW how inpersonal is that?  They want compassion?  It is hard out there and hard to stay positive when you are rejected and don't get feedback as to why.

Posted by: dave long

Thank you for hosting the individual comments from many job seekers across the vast electronic belt wave. E-filing resumes has become the norm, and does consume time, but remember, it is faster and more efficient than driving the city looking for help wanted signs, and sitting in a waiting reception area to then be asked to fill out an application, and be thanked and told; "We will review your application and get back to you!" Use the internet to cherry pick your prospects, and perhaps you may be recruited by an entirely different industry. The question... What did you do when, or How did you resolve... or in fact any of the round the bush questions should be answered by clearly and confidently blowing your own horn. Use your actual work experience as examples. I would never answer the money question unless you don't really intend accepting position if offered. If you really are after the position, and you do have the skills, and experience, switch the interviewer to the interviewee by asking what your predecessors reason for vacancy was, and what their compensation was, also did they fully reach their potential in the position... About applications online that ask personal information like License numbers, or social security numbers, don't, I repeat, don't provide them, and xxxx out of the screen. Search the internet for the company website, go to the "Contact Us" tab or menu and email you concern about asking such information online. The EEOC part at the bottom of an application should always be answered; "I choose not to disclose". As stated in the application description, this will not effect the candidacy of the applicant. A face to face interview is your chance to show your worth,and should be taken very seriously. Think of it as meeting the gate keeper with the golden key!!! Moosehead the office for topic comfort ice breakers, this helps put you, and your interviewer at ease and can work as a blending conversation. I see the picture of a basketball game...pause and wait for an explanation...now is your chance...Yes, I also have an interest in basketball, as I was coaching my son/daughters team, and found it rather informative when I asked the parents for ideas on... This is a great way to reveal your actual skills, and it personalizes it to your interviewer.

Posted by: Chun Chu Kim

Thanks for the article was good and helpful.

Posted by: Pat

I am a 50+ year old female that has been a homemaker for over 20 years that need a job desperately. I have read from my research on the internet that my age and the fact that I have not worked outside my home are weaknesses. Please help me figure out how to cover these in my resume and maybe hopefully get an interview.

Posted by: Lorraine Rayne Dorsey

This information is so very helpful and encouraging.  Thank you. My motto in this challenging job market is this, "Giving up is never an option". My blessings are imminent.

Posted by: Frank R

This is an employers market. Jobs are saying "entry level" but the only thing entry level is the pay since experience is often required. Peoples hours,wages, and benefits have been reduced assuming they have a job. So how do you survive? Take on roomates, take on a lower paying job, social services, move in and take care of an elderly family member, take your junk you dont use to auction, but most of all dont give up because you are a person not a paycheck.       

Posted by: Jerry M.

John, in response to your comments about the necessity of going into a Company's website to apply for a position; I was also getting tired of constantly going into websites, until I decided to copy all of my work experience, and paste it into a Word document. Now all I have to do, each time I go into a company website, is just copy from the Word document and paste it into that area of the application. In regards to the end of the application, asking you to "self identify," you DON'T HAVE TO FILL THIS OUT! I don't, and get more responses!

Posted by: Jerry M.

In response to Raymond Gravesande's questions about why there aren't more jobs, after the President proposed all of his ideas; If you're sitting around, waiting on the Government to get you a job, perhaps it's better that you don't go back to work! The ONLY way you are going to get a job is to get your resume out, on SEVERAL networks, have a professional web page, such as Linked In, and continue to be AGGRESSIVE in your search! There are 40+ people looking at almost every job that is posted, due to continued high unemployment, and so many people out of work. It's going to take awhile for things to level out.

Posted by: Barbara R.

Thank you for all your helpful comments and tips in answering the tough questions, and also for the encouragement we give each other in our job searches that can get discouraging.  I'm thinking and feeling better after reading all of them. God bless.

Posted by: Mary C.

I have been looking for a job since last year and what really helps is being consistent with the search. I have found that the more I look for a job the more confidence I feel as if I have and the more I think of myself as earning more money and the more worth I find in myself. These websites I find are becoming more helpful in the perspective of how to take a magnified look at myself and what I have to offer a future employer. Thank you for the blogs and the chance to express what I am going through.

Posted by: Karen B.

I was laid off due to a company acquistion for 13 months after a 30 year career in the insurance industry. I have been on many interviews and worked in various temporary positions during my unemployment. Many of these comments are right on. But in the long run I have found that many employers do not know what they are seeking in an applicant. I have been approached for 3 positions that I interviewed for last year and this year. They still have not been filled. I consider myself a good interviewee and have positive feedback on my interviews. The employers need to define what they are seeking in a candidate. It is difficult to answer questions in an interview when the employer does not know what they want. There is not any respect for all the unemployed people out there that deserve a return call saying they did not get the position or an acknowledgement by them when they receive the resume. Technology has taken all the personal aspects out of applying for a job. A paper resume does not reflect personality and professionalism.  

Posted by: J.

To John K. About wrongful termination suit, I went through this process myself. Get a good lawyer and have valid information for the EEOC. I won my case and it was a fast process. On an application I put personal for reason for leaving. I was in a top management position and was with them for 11+ years. I am always nervous if someone asks me why I left. As a stipulation of my suit I am not allowed to talk about it. I have to create why. I don't feel comefortable fabricating stories, but I have no choice. Good Luck!

Posted by: Dimitra Nicastro

I agree with all of you. Very helpful and very true. I have been out of work and have had a few interviews. And that's as far as it gets. So I'm apparently missing something in my delivery. When it comes to any question, I'd say keep your answer to a minimum and don't be afraid of silence. The interviewer will push for more details if he/she wants to hear more. That's mostly my problem by the way, I don't know when to stop talking. Good luck to all of us.

Posted by: Mary Baird

This has been very helpful to me and for the weakness question I usually say "I get restless if I don't have anything to challenge me."  I have been out on one interview and I thought it was good, but, I didn't get hired.  So I went back to the computer and  put in all the questions that were asked of me, and got great input how to answer them next time.  I also do not like those tests that they give you.  I like the face to face interview much better.  Thanks goes out to all of you for the information on this site.  Good luck everyone it is tough out there, and try to be relaxed when you go into the interview, if you know your qualified for the position it should go well.   

Posted by: Francine f.

All these blogs were very helpful..As yet I've not been on an interview..lost my job of 17 1/2 years ago went to school for medical billing and coding..in 4 1/2 months learned many other subjects also..but no one will hire you without at least one year experience..started looking for manufacturing jobs which is what I used to do... don't feel very hopeful..am on the internet everyday for at least 2 hours... any advice?

Posted by: Doug M.

This advice is to those who are filling out on-line apps, and have a resume on a flash drive or some other place you can bring your resume up from. Get your resume up on your computer, then copy and paste the pertinate info from resume to application, thus saving time the time typing it all out. I hope this helped!

Posted by: Margaret M.

    Very helpful advice.  Makes sense.  Grateful for everyone's input.

Posted by: Reuben Ramirez

This comment is in reference to John Kermode's question on how to deal with explaining a wrongful termination. In my opinion there is no easy way and hopefully he will win his case.  I myself am struggling with a simular situation.  Unfortunately it is a very long process to fight a case like this and you need to move on the best way you can. I had much documentation to present to an EEOC investigator and left feeling that it would end up in my favor but it still take a long time. Hopefully you had enough documentation to justify your claim.  I wish you the best but keep on with your job search, I know first hand how this can be a difficult obsticle when you know you are more worthy.

Posted by: Pamala Miller

This is extremely helpful. As we all know, interviews are tough and if the resume is the reason for the call and they set an interview, then just hire me at the first interview...two, three sometimes 4 interviews before they make an offer is more than necessary. It questions on whether or not I should work for a company that is indecisive and can't get it decided upon with the first and should be only interview....exception is if there is another position that I have a better fit in, then the second interview to the correct deciding party is appreciated.  

Posted by: James Cummings

I am currently working with the 'job Search" of a major library in NY.  I look forward to any and all info to help me do my job as a counselor. The advice received in this article is invaluable. I thank the writer for all the info and the comments provided here.  I will use this info to help at least one person secure employment.My sincerest thanks!!!

Posted by: Chris

This is the first site and section I've read completely through because everyone has been so generous with their advices, experiences, hurts, disappointments, mistreatments by the majority of the employers out there.  I now do not feel so upset with myself but appreciative that others, a lot of others are having the same uncivil experience I've had in the past 7-8 months.  You are all in my prayers to receive the dignity and respect your deserve ALL OF THE TIME!

Posted by: Delina Pickett

This has been very helpful! Thank you.

Posted by: Flora Alexander

I am a 61 year old female applying for a medical biller position for a non profit organization and could use some help on answering the commonly asked questions such as my weaknesses, strengths, why I feel I am qualified for this position, etc.  I have a telephone interview in a few days.  Could really use your help.  Thank you

Posted by: Linda Martin

I appreciate all the comments from you all. I too hate the "weakness" question.. But before my last behavioral interview, I went on-line and went through the suggested subjects then made a list of all the circumstances I had at my last job. This list helped to jog my memory while in the interview. The interviewee didn't seem to mind I had the list. It did help alot. Good luck everyone. I've been out of work since February and competing with a couple of hundred out there look for Admin work... only thing I am 56 and know that doesn't help.

Posted by: Vieve

The article was good, but some of the comments were excellent. Thank you so much everybody.  We will win this job battle.

Posted by: Tonia

I resigned from my last position which I had held for eight years. I took a year off and am just resuming my job search. What do I say in my cover letter/resume about the year interval? Do I say that I resigned? Any suggestions?

Posted by: Roger

This interviewing, job search head game stuff that is going on these days is a bunch of bull! People(H.r. people in particular) need to learn to value other people!

Posted by: Sandra D.

Thank you for all the suggestions and help

Posted by: John

Have you filled out the on-line applications that companies force us to do lately?  Every company out there wants you to go to their web site and type up your stuff, and you keep doing it over and over again for hours. What a joke. Not funny though. Huge waste of precious time.Anyway, if you've done this recently, you would have noticed that they make you to self-identify yourself at the end. Of course, they say you don't have to, but we all know what they want. So, I personally find it more racist, because, if everyone is supposed to be treated equally, then why does it matter. Race and Gender shouldn't matter, right? I see it as a form of pre-screening, and illegal it should be. I did a little trick. I created three almost identical on-line profiles and self-identified as three different gender/race combos. 'Male/white' did not get any response, the other two got an invite. I could have had a little fun with this (just to see the look on the interviewer's face), but I'm pressed for time these days.

Posted by: Alonzo

very helpful information, thank you for taking the time to inform me.

Posted by: Joshua P.

Truly helpful!

Posted by: Brenda S.

Reading all the comments has been a great help. Just be aware of the types of interviews too. Behavioral Interviews were something new for me and I stumbled through the first time with the story telling. Know your stories when they ask something like   “Tell me about a time when you ____?” Give the (1) situation, (2) how you handled it and the (3) outcome.  Or, look up behavioral interviews online.  Hope this helps…      

Posted by: Patricia Moore

The comments were a wonderful help.  I liked the fact that specific examples were given, "not a good fit", "hostile environment", "pay is negotiable".  I also appreciated that your article gave several examples.  Thank you.  Patty

Posted by: Irene H.

Absolutely helpful info. my problem is job experience. Since I have been teaching private music for over thirty years, my resume has little in it. There are many aspect of teaching that are very useful for a range of jobs: reliability, responsibility, creativity and so on.  My PERTINENT) references are few as well.  And,(even though it is not legal), I believe my age (57) is an aspect of the employer's consideration. Suggestions welcome!

Posted by: Vickie

Wow! It is truly amazing the number of People who actually struggle with the same question as I do."What is your weakness" Personally I am so hard on myself that when I take a position I strive to always do my best and over the years have learned what works and what does not work. That was a very hard question that left me speechless the first time I was asked not to mention I havent had to look for a job in over 23 years. Now after reading through everyones comments and taking a few notes I will be sure to not only answer that question but a few others.... Look out World I'm back! Good luck everyone, I think we let so many people beat us at this game we felt like we did not deserve the Job. Truth is we were probably over Qualified and they could not afford someone like us! Stand tall hold your head up high today is a new day. Thanks for all your in site and comments,I believe they will come in handy during my interview tomorrow! LOL  

Posted by: Jess D

hi my name is jess dominguez . i would like to just say thank you , to you deborah brown - volkman . in job seeker - interview .for bringing this to my attention , note: say the right thing during your job search :)  keep - up the good work .and to thank  beyond .com for , do your home work ,and know your worth .to you and beyond .comtake care and be safe jess

Posted by: Jackie

I also have been unemployed for over a year.  I did take one position but after 3 months they let me go.  The employer and I were not a good fit.  Since this was how I was let go from my last position I neglected to include this information about my last job on my resume.  I have now added this in hopes that it will look like I have not been unemployed since April of 2009   We will see how this works for me.  Good Luck everyone its tuff out there.  

Posted by: Cynthia Diiorio

It's comforting to hear that I am not the only one struggling! Even though I have been laid-off for over one year, I don't want to take just anything. I have been interviewing and the two positions I really wanted I didn't get. The companies seemed interested in me, but, never called back! So, I will keep interviewing (even if I don't really want the job), for the experience, til I find the right one!  

Posted by: marines Chapa

I am looking for a job opening in a post office. I would like to be a clerk. If you do have a position open please let me know.thanks marineschapa

Posted by: Otis

The tips that were provided were very informative and helful. After the disaster known as Hurricane Katrina, my company decided to relocate my department to Texas, where i was reluctant to relocate. Since then i have asisted my cousin with starting up her business, that has held me for the past four years. I started searching for other employment in late 2008, but because of the sub-prime mortgage melt down, company weren't hiring, they were laying off.  After applying for several different positions, i received about three interviews, of which only one said that they chose someone else, because their qualifications match their needs. I began to think that it was just me and the way I was handling the interview process. Later I would learned from two of the companies that, it wasn't my interviewing skills that were off, it was my qualifications for the position or they felt that because of experiences and education,that price wouldn't be in their budget, like was mention in one of tips. The Interview process can be trying, confusing, scary and in some cases a complete disaster. Because of this, some fellow job seekers sometime are remist about trying again for an extended period of time, because of their reluctancy to hear that phrase of the letter that state "we regret to inform you that we have chosen another candidate". Thanks for the advice and tips, they will make individuals like myself, more empowered and more confident, in our future quest to find and land employment.

Posted by: evangeline freeman

i have an interview on thursday for phlebotomist position. this is my first time in this kind of field. i am afraid that they will ask me some difficult questions.,such as tell us something about yourself? your weakness..etc..can anyboby help me about the interview? some ideas on healthcare field? thanks

Posted by: John Pizzi

I will save this info.  This is good basic advice. Go on interviews even if it is not your dream job. Get the practice, try a job fair.

Posted by: Adam

Practice, Practice, Practice! That's what it takes to land the job you want.I was laid off a month ago and still lookig for that right opportunity. However, I use a technique which I call the run and gun where I go to job interviews for jobs that I least care for and practice answering questions and asking questions. I make sure I find time after the interview to write down as many questions I remembered from the interview  and then practice at home. This technique hasn't worked yet since I have been laid off but it has worked for me in the past so I'm still trying. This way on the next interview for the job I really want, I know what to expect. Practicing in front of parents and friends is good but it really depends on how much time you got so I recommend finding a technique that works for you. In these tough economic times, recruiters are very picky on what they want and you have to be on your game more than ever. Another suggestion is don't worry about the job search, do something else with your time as well. For example, I'm working for my dad right now while Im searching for something else or another opportunity comes along. This will help you to become more comfortable and more confident that an employer sees you as an asset. It will also look good on your resume as a job gap filler. Hope this helps!

Posted by: Victoria Gurney

How do you sell yourself on a resume, or interview when you do not have leadership qualities? I have always done the jobs at hand, but did not shine.

Posted by: Boyd Rush

One thing I have learned, try to find out information on the person(s) doing the interview. Do you know someone from the same company and may know the person? Look around the office,if in a office and see if you have some of the same interest, as  sports, fishing, etc.

Posted by: Claudia Warlick

This was very thought-provoking.  I was laid off 6 months ago after being in this profession for 30+ years.  I have always been hired because I "already know how to do the job."  Job interviews are intimidating to me.  This was a very dynamic website to come across.  Most of my interviews will be with on-line companies, to being prepared for these questions has given me the "Ump" I needed.

Posted by: Raymond Gravesande

With the president's plan-Tax Credit incentives to companies, is there some comfort to the unemployed, that companies will be more inclined to hire the unemployed-first. One wonders how this will play out, with Corporations effort to reduce the unemployment crisis and stimulate the economy, and bring people back to work.?Also, do hiring managers and H/R have this in mind when they are interviewing, considering that there is a Tax benifit to be gained at $5000.00 per new hire? Any Comments?

Posted by: Anita Hayden

I've had a few interviews and have been on unemployment for probably about 6 months now.  My last job went out of business.  I think sometimes we know that the job we are applying for has so many applicants, we automatically have bad feelings that we won't even be considered for an interview, let a lone a job offer.  Anyway, I sometimes don't see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Posted by: vernon shepherd

I truly thank you for the tips i received, because i haven't had a interview in 17 years i feel very nerves and undecided about what to say.

Posted by: Debra Debozy

I'm responding to Jeffrey Turnbow's inquiry about the "weakness question," I've learned that the answer is all in the phrasing.  I say, "Well, one issue I know I have to remain aware of is......."  This shows that you are aware of this weakness, you stay on top of it, and you strive to strengthen this particular skill.  Hope this helped.  

Posted by: Carla Woolley

Found this article very helpful and look forward to reading and learning more...

Posted by: Daryl Blanton

I was recently terminated from my job after seven years with this company. No reason was given on my letter of termination. I became disabled two years ago and now am a paraplegic, but still have the capacity to do my job. How do I approach this with perspective employers? This is all new to me and would like some feedback, possibly from someone who has been threw a similar situation.

Posted by: Deborah Strole

I have been out of the workforce for 10 years since I sold my business, so I haven't had to job search and interview for 20 years.  Being out of the workforce for so many years seems to be my weakness.  Those years weren't spent planting a garden or in a rocking chair, I was quite engaged in politics, writing legislation and building a website to further the rights of US citizens.  That fact doesn't seem to impress.How could I handle it better in my resume and in my next interview?

Posted by: pamela guthrie

This has been very helpful thank you for your suggestions and comments.  

Posted by: John Kermode

There are some great suggestions on this website and in the comments from various readers.  I am starting a job search after working for my former employer for more than 15 years, so it's difficult to build up my job search and interview skills quickly.  I was terminated from my previous job, but it was a wrongful termination and I am suing my previous employer.  Does anyone have any suggestions on how to handle such a situation during an interview?  It will be easier once the lawsuit is over, assuming I win, but how should I deal with this in the meantime?

Posted by: Wendy Habert

The comments posted so far have been great.  As an HR professional over the past few years, I have the following suggestions.  #1)  In the first interview, the interviewee (you - the one looking for a job) should NEVER ask what the pay rate is.  If you are asked what pay you are willing to accept, be generic.  Simply state something to the effect, "The topic of pay is definitely something negotiable to me.  I am sure you would offer me a pay rate commensurate with  my experience and abilities in comparison to the workforce you currently employ.  I am not specifically looking for any job just based on pay, but definitely must keep it in mind when deciding my next career move.  If offered this postion, I would be more than open and available to discuss the topic of pay.  Until that time, I will leave that specific answer in your hands."  #2) Reason for leaving when terminated:  remember the root as to why you were terminated - poor performance issues = "not challenged enough in the last position" or "the position, employer and I were just not a good fit; the 3 of us did not gel and a happy medium was unatainable unfortunately"; fight or conflict with a coworker = "hostile working environment" or "I did not feel emotionally / physically safe working there"; attendance issues = the work schedule was not conducive to my / my family's needs and the employer was not willing to negotiate a happy medium or modified schedule... A key thing during an interview is to be honest with yourself.  Remember that you are being interviewed by the prospective employer, but you should also be interviewing them.  Ask questions like, "What are you looking for in your next _____"; "Why is this position vacant?"; "What type of supervisor is the person to whom this position reports - a micromanager, a mentor, non-existent, etc"Just put yourself on the other side of the table as one of the individuals that would be hearing your answer.  If you think it sounds like a line of bull, it probably is!  If anyone on the panel during an interview thinks you are wasting your time, you can pretty much asure yourself you will not land the job.....

Posted by: Lhenie Gillespie

This is very helpful for me. Thank you so much.I resigned from my job as a "Research Specialist" JPMorgan Chase Bank.Last December 27,2008. The reason why I resigned.I come to Georgia to joined my military husband, he was reasigned here at the States of Georgia.I start applying for several firms,companies and small busineses and etc.......!I got few interviews, I am not so lucky enough to be hired. One position for so many applicant.  

Posted by: Jeffrey Turnbow

I am interviewing today and feedback on how to respond to weakness question is just what I was looking for.  Thanks.

Posted by: Betty Hadley

I love this article as I think on my last interview I put my foot in my mouth.It's hard to tell which way an interview will go.Sometimes I'm great other times I stink.I'm with the last commentor though.What do you say to the quetion,why did you leave your last job if you were terminated?

Posted by: Rhonda Tebedo

Reading all of the comments have been very helpful for me. I will be going on my 2nd interview in 7 years on Monday 8-3-09! The first interview-the company ended up not being for me. I still have alot of research to do until then. Wish me luck! I really hate that 'weakness' question as well!..oh my goodness...I'm so sure there is so much more I will need to be prepared for!

Posted by: Elaine Bernier

i was let go from my legal assistant position with the explanation that i was to thorough (in other words, too slow) - what do i say to a future employer when they ask why did you leave your last job?  please help! thanks! elaine

Posted by: Brenda Whittlesey

The advise giving is always a good to follow.Thanks for the continue support.

Posted by: Diamond

The information here has been very helpful.  The questions perspective employers as are many and some crazy.  The ones on salary and suggestions was very helpful.  Its been over 20 years since i have had to go on an interview.  I really hate it but as i continue to do it i am getting stronger.Its true it will make you better and stronger for the next interview.

Posted by: Roberto Canessa

"What do you think you would take as an hourly rate for this job?",could be answered with "Are you offering me the job?", followed by " I am sure you pay a competitive salary", and do not answer the question directly, but if possible, put the onus on the interviewer.

Posted by: Heather Gibel

Thanks, it was nice but I would've liked to see some specific example statements.

Posted by: Sirena Anderson

Thank you so much for helping me realize things about an interview to improve myself.

Posted by: Sunanda Rana

Thank you all, especially Shaun, SBrown, Tinroofer for sharing your thoughts and giving valuable insight.

Posted by: Attia Reeder

Very informative! thanks

Posted by: Kenneth Chesney

Very helpful. It's all about confidence & preperation. I've had 4 interviews this week alone, which I feel very lucky to have landed in these tough times. I had to practice, practice, practice! Mock interviews with family or friends is a great way to build your skills & not worry about saying the wrong thing. Know your strengths & expand on them- an employer must know why they can't do without you!!! Rejection is tough for all of us, just remember- sometimes others have better skills in work experience & interviewing, so level the playing field as much as you can!

Posted by: Sharon Redekop

I was laid off recently and have been looking for work since then.I have had quite a few interviews. I can make it past the first but when it comes to a panel interview in front of a # of people my mind seem to end up in the deep freeze. I am a professional in the medical field and have many years of successful work experience. My last panel interview went better then those previously and I am waiting to find out the outcome. I am still not 100% happy with my responses but I think you are that right-practise makes perfect!

Posted by: tinroofer

I went on my first interview in 12 years this week. I got questions ranging from 'what would your previous employer say about you?' to 'how would you motivate people?' but the one that threw me was 'What do you think you would take as an hourly rate for this job?' I would expect this question for a high level position, not a low level manufacturing job. I'm sure I priced myself right out the door because I went with my first instinct - that there was more to the position than they were saying. If I had just taken a breather and thought things through, I might have lowered my rate to get in the door.I obviously need a lot more practice at this.

Posted by: john joris

I feel that in today's workforce there are workers and people that just want a check. This is where all your knowledge and character come out.  These hints are helpful to anyone that needs the right stuff to find a job. Great articles

Posted by: Anacleto Cortez

Your ideas and clue for this kind of interviewreally are helpful instead of wondering to find an answer. Thank you so much, I really appreciate it.Anacleto Cortez

Posted by: SBrown

A quick search on google will result in a ton of responses on how to deal with the weakness question. I was trying to find a line from the Office where Michael Scott (the Office Regional Manager) is asked his weakness and I found the responses below from him as well as a couple of other people. Like her or hate her, Hillary's response isn't bad and I've turned that into one that's applicable for my business (and is often true), i.e. "I sometimes get frustrated when we can't do all the things that we want to do as quickly as we'd like to do them - usually do to resource constraints but I've learned over the years to be more patient, prioritize and find innovative ways to do more with the resources available." You have to make these your own, though:HILLARY CLINTON: "I get frustrated when people don't seem to understand that we can do so much more to help."JOHN EDWARDS: "I sometimes have a very powerful emotional response to pain that I see around me."BARACK OBAMA: "I ask my staff never to hand me paper until two seconds before I'll need it because I will lose it."Michael Scott: "I work too hard. I care too much. And sometimes I can be too invested in my job".

Posted by: tobias mccrystal

   HELPFUL!

Posted by: Margo Thomas

This article was great. A lot of the interview skills are common sense. Remaining calm and collected is key. Job searching is one of the hardest things you can do. It is important to remember to just be yourself and sell yourself to the employer.  Let them know they need you and believe if you keep up the effort you will find the right position.

Posted by: Shaun

Of course, we all have weaknesses, admit it, steal their thunder, and move on.  Take immediate control?  Give an example.  If anything, tell them what you would do coming in.  They are obviously looking for someone that has a handle on this and can do it right away without anyone following them around.  "This is what I would do first...."  They may need someone to "right their ship."  Ease their fears, show confidence - nothing overboard.  "Tell me about yourself?"  What would you want to hear about someone?  Not their tastes in travel.  Just remind them of what you do, what you have done, why you understand the business - and how that will affect them - and how you will implement this.  If anything personal, compare to a technique of success in life that you use for work.  Keep answers short, confident.  Never explain what you just said.  Tell them you want the job; ask them what the next step is.  Let them know that quality of life, integrity, high morals, etc. have meaning and are important and applicable to your work and everyone under/over you.  My main outlook for people is, simply - can I depend on them?  And the great depth and width of their dependability, the better it is for them - in regard to me.  Good luck - everyone is having a hard time today, Keep trudging along.

Posted by: Staff Editor

Jackie, this blog posting might help:  http://www.employmentmetrix.com/blog/2008/12/relevant-irrelevant-and-provocative-interview-questions.html

Posted by: Jackie Smith

I am a professional Property Manager, 21 yrs experience, and hold 3 designations. I have recently relocated to Little Rock and have inundated the market with my resume. I have interviewed at several properties who say they are looking for a strong manager; one that can take immediate control. I have been asked 40 different questions, all of which I answered, what I thought, was correct. They start out by asking "tell me about yourself". Frankly, that is a very personal questions and has nothing to do with my job qualifications. I have  been asked "what are your weaknesses". Frankly, I think I have very few where my job is concerned. My biggest weakness is the grandchild. Give me hands up as to how I should answer these two questions. Thanks.