hi there. today i represented my company at the job fair sponsored by congressman peter roskam. in college and as an intern, i attended several job fairs as a potential employee. however, this was the first time that i had attended one as an employer. there were some things that instantly stood out to me and i thought i'd share them in my newest addition of my top ten's.
1) breathe.
the first woman i talked to today was so nervous & i simply reminded her to breathe. she instantly became more relaxed.
2) do not show up in a tshirt and jeans.
or shorts for that matter. you can't compare to the candidate next to you in a suit...
3) prepare your one minute elevator speech.
know what information you want to relay to me and keep it short & sweet.
4) do not solicit.
we're there to talk to potential employees. don't take time away from them!
5) bring a notepad.
take notes and reference the companies and jobs you're actually interested in so you can circle back to them.
6) do not stop by just for the pen.
at least talk to me... otherwise, you're wasting time for both of us.
7) pay attention to your personal hygiene.
wear deodorant, eat a breath mint, brush your hair.
8) do not assume you're going to get an interview.
you still need to sell yourself & have a great resume.
9) have a firm handshake!
a limp handshake conveys weakness and lack of self-confidence.
10) do not give your resume to every company.
you're allowed to be picky. take this time to interview the company! ask questions about culture, values, jobs, and benefits!
Showing posts with label interviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label interviews. Show all posts
Monday, July 26, 2010
Thursday, April 1, 2010
why pay?
With the economy the way it is and less companies engaging recruiters, do you think it is worth it for individuals to pay a recruiter themselves?
No matter what type of economy we're in, there is no need to pay for a recruiter. There are tons of firms out there where it is free for the candidate (they'll get the fee from the hiring company).
I'd recommend researching recruitment firms that are free or just keep at it yourself. You can do the same work! Drive around town and write down names of companies you see on buildings. Google companies that you're interested in. Talk to your friends. Attend social/professional networking events. The more you talk to people, the more leads you'll have (and it's still free!).
interview the interviewer
Interviews are often a chance for the employer to sell the company to a potential employee. How can you tell if company is stretching the truth a little about how great they are? What are some little signs to look for that show it's a great workplace?
You are correct! An interview is a two way street. You've got to sell yourself and so does the company! As an internal recruiter, it's my job to be a cheerleader for the company and discuss our best qualities. Just like any relationship, you should know what qualities, values, or personalities are most important to you. You should take the time to write these down and then ask questions during the interview to find out if the company matches them.
Is customer service a passion of yours? Ask about their customer service creed. If they don't have one, clearly customer service isn't a priority.
Is respect or integrity more important to you? Ask them about their corporate values (most have them).
If employee engagement and fun at work is important to you, ask about teams or leagues employees can participate in.
Take the time to interview the company.
a continued effort
Okay.... So I may be slacking at the posting of my days... But I'm still keeping up with them! New years resolution continues!
Day 66. Had a great revelation that there is no need to put a title on something that's great.
Day 67. It never ceases to amaze me the unprofessional ism of some candidates. One wanted to reschedule 45 minutes before their scheduled interview. Another accepted a different position but still wants to come in for an interview...
Day 68. I had a really great conversation with someone I really care about. Walls are down.
Day 69. I love my artwork and it's very hard to give it away even if I know they will take care of it.
Day 70. I decided to take a nap at lunch. THAT was a GREAT idea!
Day 71. For the first time ever. I did not pre-pack for a weekend trip. I'll just do it in the morning.
Day 72. I went home to Savannah for the first time in years to celebrate St. Patty's!
Day 73. I got to see my sister at work. It was very exciting to see her in that role.
Day 74. I was reminded that something as small as a hand-written note can really lift your day.
Day 75. I shared a very personal story with the executive and senior management teams and felt very proud of who I am.
Day 76. I finished the train the trainer program for our new values initiative.
Day 77. I made five job offers in four days and then received another four staff reqs the same day...
Day 78. I do not deal well with rejection mostly because I'm so considerate. I know I need to work on that but not sure which part.
Day 79. Having my best friend in town is the best medicine and distraction.
Day 80. I went to "the dump." I was not impressed.
Day 81. I missed my flight to Chicago. That has never happened before... I was able to stay calm and it really paid off because great Delta folks helped me out and got me on a flight!
There's more... But I didn't want this post to be too long....
Day 66. Had a great revelation that there is no need to put a title on something that's great.
Day 67. It never ceases to amaze me the unprofessional ism of some candidates. One wanted to reschedule 45 minutes before their scheduled interview. Another accepted a different position but still wants to come in for an interview...
Day 68. I had a really great conversation with someone I really care about. Walls are down.
Day 69. I love my artwork and it's very hard to give it away even if I know they will take care of it.
Day 70. I decided to take a nap at lunch. THAT was a GREAT idea!
Day 71. For the first time ever. I did not pre-pack for a weekend trip. I'll just do it in the morning.
Day 72. I went home to Savannah for the first time in years to celebrate St. Patty's!
Day 73. I got to see my sister at work. It was very exciting to see her in that role.
Day 74. I was reminded that something as small as a hand-written note can really lift your day.
Day 75. I shared a very personal story with the executive and senior management teams and felt very proud of who I am.
Day 76. I finished the train the trainer program for our new values initiative.
Day 77. I made five job offers in four days and then received another four staff reqs the same day...
Day 78. I do not deal well with rejection mostly because I'm so considerate. I know I need to work on that but not sure which part.
Day 79. Having my best friend in town is the best medicine and distraction.
Day 80. I went to "the dump." I was not impressed.
Day 81. I missed my flight to Chicago. That has never happened before... I was able to stay calm and it really paid off because great Delta folks helped me out and got me on a flight!
There's more... But I didn't want this post to be too long....
Saturday, February 13, 2010
formspring.me (what not to do in an interview)
Can you describe the worst interview you've ever conducted?
I imagine that you're asking this question so that you know best "what not to do" during an interview. So, I'll describe the worst interview and then give you some lessons to remember along with it.
The worst interview was with a gentleman that had been unemployed for sometime. Because of his situation, he had created two resumes - one for entry-level positions and the second for more advanced positions. He was interviewing for a fairly entry-level position and, clearly, forgot which resume he was referencing in the interview. As well, a defined requirement for the position was advanced Excel skills and he rated himself as a 9 out of 10. He definitely was not a 9 out of 10 as he had, quite possibly, the lowest Excel scores of anyone I've given the test to. On top of that, a large part of my job as a recruiter is to weed out those candidates that will not fill it with the culture of the organization. Not only did I feel that he would not fit in with the culture, at one point, I became very uncomfortable sitting in the room alone with him.
So, what lessons should you take away from this story? 1) Although, I recommend customizing your resume to the job, there is no need to down-play or over-indulge your skill set, 2) There is a big difference between being confident and proud of the work you've done compared to being cocky and over-exaggerating, 3) Be honest, and 4) Be yourself.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
formspring.me (tough market and no response)
Lots of job seekers take it personally when they never hear back from companies to which they've applied. What advice would you give to new jobseekers vis a vis maintaining a thick skin and being persistent in a tough market like this one?
This is a tough one for me to answer. Mostly, because it consistently tugs at my heartstrings.
Its easy for me to say "Don't take it personally...", but I truly understand that it is VERY personal. Of course it's personal! Before I give you any advice... Let me give you some perspective and a little insight to how I function as a recruiter.
If a resume is handed or emailed to me as a referral from someone who works with me, I attempt to reply to either those individuals directly or the internal referral with the status of the position or their candidate's qualification.
If I post a position on one of the major job boards (Career Builder, Monster, Indeed, etc), I'm sure you can only imagine how many resumes I get a day. In every job description, I attempt to be VERY clear on what the requirements of the position are. So, I quickly go through all the received resumes and delete those that do not meet the basic requirements. You read that correctly... I delete them without responding. Then, I go through the remainder to look for the ones with the desired qualifications. The reason that this tugs so much at my heartstrings is that I WANT TO respond to every candidate, but it would be physically impossible to do so.
So, my first piece of advice... NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK. As for names. Talk to people. Let them know you're looking. You are ten times more likely to get your resume in front of the recruiter if you know somebody at that company than you are with simply applying online. It it impossible? Absolutley not.
Which brings me to my second piece of advice and I'm going to borrow the next quote from a famous poster "Keep Calm and Carry On". If is a very touch market out there right now, but I will tell you that things are picking up. Slowly, for sure, but they are picking up. Keep a think skin. Be persistent. DO NOT GIVE UP. The right job will come along. Everything happens in its own time.
Best of luck!
formspring.me (brainteasers)
Seems like there's a fad for asking really oddball brainteaser questions in job interviews these days...is there any way to prepare for those? Is there anything wrong with just saying "I really don't know"?
You know... It does seem like that's the fad right now... Although, I'm not a huge fan of it. My goal is not to trick you or make you uncomfortable. I've been told often that my interviewing style is more conversational. I want to make sure that you not only have the right qualifications for the job, but that you're going to fit in with the culture of the organization.
However, simply because that's not my interview style, does not mean that it still does not happen. What I can tell you is to prepare for those "typical" questions. Here's a list of the top ten most frequently asked interview questions: http://distinguishingyou.blogspot.com/2009/06/another-top-10.html
Now, for the oddball questions... If you honestly have no clue what the interviewer is asking you, do not reply with "I really don't know". Instead, ask for clarification. Have them expand on the question, or give you an example. Hopefully, this will provide you a clearer picture as to what they are asking you. Best of luck!
formspring.me (desired salary)
How do you answer the "desired salary" question on a job application? When is it OK to just say "negotiable"? And if you're applying for a job you really want, and you're willing to take a paycut, how can you communicate that w/o undercutting yourself?
Great questions!
The "desired salary" question is a tough one and requires the same amount of thought an effort as you would to applying for a specific position. Take the time to think about not only the dollar amount, but what benefits do you want as well. It's always okay to give a range rather than an exact number. Who knows? You may be willing to take a lesser salary if they give you an extra week of vacation or a company car.
As a recruiter, I despise when candidates say "negotiable" because it makes me think that you haven't put much thought into it. Of course, it's negotiable. Everything's negotiable.
The best piece of advice I can give is to ask the salary range up front so that you know what you're dealing with. Of course, salary isn't everything, especially if you're lucky enough to find your dream job... So, go ahead and ask the question, take the time to decide what your needs are and then communicate it effectively. It makes the offer process easier if all the cards are already out on the table.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
tiffany's top ten for interviewing internally
Hello All. Most Americans are feeling the pains when it comes to searching for a job, and it seems as if there simply are not any out there. The reality of the situation is that most companies are simply not filling roles, and if they are, they're filling them internally. As a recruiter, I feel that my role is not simply to weed out candidates, but rather nurture and grow my current employee base.
Top Ten Tips for Interviewing Internally
1. When applying, always provide a resume even if not asked for one.
Managers from another department may not be aware of your prior work experience or accomplishments.
2. Provide a letter of recommendation or job-related kudos.
You may be pleasantly surprised about the supportiveness of your supervisor when it comes to helping you advance.
3. Emphasize your specific experience and extensive knowledge of the company.
Discuss how this knowledge makes you the ideal person for the job, but provide details. Don't assume the interviewer knows all about your past accomplishments.
4. User your "insider knowledge."
Come up with answers to expected questions that will target what the interview wants to hear. For example, if they continually emphasize the importance of customer service, be sure to talk specifically about how you've enhanced customer service in your current role.
5. Research the position for which you are applying.
Talk to people who work in that department; find out what they're currently working on, and their goals - then prepare to talk about how you can help to achieve those goals during the interview.
6. Come prepared to the interview.
Prep for some of the "most asked" questions; as well, come with your own questions as well. Internal candidates often forget that they are interviewing the manager as well to guarantee this is the right fit for them.
7. Think outside-the-box with your responses.
In case the hiring supervisor is thinking about bringing in an external candidate because they feel a need for a fresh perspective and/or new ideas, be sure to work your creativity into your answers. Show that you can be innovative and inventive, and are full of "fresh" ideas yourself!
8. "Sell" yourself just as if you were interviewing for another company.
Be careful not to sound too casual or overly confident, especially if you and your interviewer know each other well. You may have a great advantage over external candidates, but don't assume that's all you'll need.
9. Don't assume you will know the interviewer(s).
They may bring in additional interviewers from other departments to provide an unbiased interview panel.
10. Always, always, always ask what the next steps are.
This simple step shows that you are truly interested in the position. This is also a great way for you to hone in our your investigative skills to see how interested they are in you. Interested managers will share the process in detail. Hiring managers that are not interested tend to be vague.
Top Ten Tips for Interviewing Internally
1. When applying, always provide a resume even if not asked for one.
Managers from another department may not be aware of your prior work experience or accomplishments.
2. Provide a letter of recommendation or job-related kudos.
You may be pleasantly surprised about the supportiveness of your supervisor when it comes to helping you advance.
3. Emphasize your specific experience and extensive knowledge of the company.
Discuss how this knowledge makes you the ideal person for the job, but provide details. Don't assume the interviewer knows all about your past accomplishments.
4. User your "insider knowledge."
Come up with answers to expected questions that will target what the interview wants to hear. For example, if they continually emphasize the importance of customer service, be sure to talk specifically about how you've enhanced customer service in your current role.
5. Research the position for which you are applying.
Talk to people who work in that department; find out what they're currently working on, and their goals - then prepare to talk about how you can help to achieve those goals during the interview.
6. Come prepared to the interview.
Prep for some of the "most asked" questions; as well, come with your own questions as well. Internal candidates often forget that they are interviewing the manager as well to guarantee this is the right fit for them.
7. Think outside-the-box with your responses.
In case the hiring supervisor is thinking about bringing in an external candidate because they feel a need for a fresh perspective and/or new ideas, be sure to work your creativity into your answers. Show that you can be innovative and inventive, and are full of "fresh" ideas yourself!
8. "Sell" yourself just as if you were interviewing for another company.
Be careful not to sound too casual or overly confident, especially if you and your interviewer know each other well. You may have a great advantage over external candidates, but don't assume that's all you'll need.
9. Don't assume you will know the interviewer(s).
They may bring in additional interviewers from other departments to provide an unbiased interview panel.
10. Always, always, always ask what the next steps are.
This simple step shows that you are truly interested in the position. This is also a great way for you to hone in our your investigative skills to see how interested they are in you. Interested managers will share the process in detail. Hiring managers that are not interested tend to be vague.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
what not to say
Hello all. My boss sent me an article today about 43 wierd things said in an interview. Let me preface this by saying that you really should not follow suit. Although, it's a hilarious read & I hope you enjoy it! Just click on the following link!
What NOT to say!!!
What NOT to say!!!
Thursday, June 25, 2009
say it with a smile
Recently, a friend of mine was scheduled for a phone interview and she asked if I had some tips. It seems like there are more and more of these now-a-days. My guess is because there are so many people on the market for a new job that companies are having to add an extra step for screening applicants. So, here are some tips if you find yourself on a phone interview.
* As with any interview, ALWAYS BE PREPARED!!! Do your research on the company and the job opening - check out their website if you already have that information.
* Anticipate questions from the recruiter or hiring manager like the ones in my top ten. Have an idea of how you want to respond to these questions.
* Type up a list of questions that are important to you and ask them! Remember, an interview is a two way street. You're interviewing the company to make sure its a right fit as well.
* Say it with a smile. Do the interview in front of a mirror and smile at yourself. I know it seems wierd, but it really does make a difference in the sound of your voice.
* Dress as if you were going to the interview in person. Trust me, you'll feel more professional in a suit than your PJs.
* At the end of the interview, always ask "What's next?" This shows your interest in the process and the position!
Go forth & good luck!!!
* As with any interview, ALWAYS BE PREPARED!!! Do your research on the company and the job opening - check out their website if you already have that information.
* Anticipate questions from the recruiter or hiring manager like the ones in my top ten. Have an idea of how you want to respond to these questions.
* Type up a list of questions that are important to you and ask them! Remember, an interview is a two way street. You're interviewing the company to make sure its a right fit as well.
* Say it with a smile. Do the interview in front of a mirror and smile at yourself. I know it seems wierd, but it really does make a difference in the sound of your voice.
* Dress as if you were going to the interview in person. Trust me, you'll feel more professional in a suit than your PJs.
* At the end of the interview, always ask "What's next?" This shows your interest in the process and the position!
Go forth & good luck!!!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
another top 10
Have you ever left an interview and thought to yourself, "Dang, I had the perfect answer for that!" knowing that you completely froze when you were asked it... Well, the key to a great interview is being prepared. Take the time to actually write out your answers to these top ten interview questions, and it wouldn't hurt to practice in the mirror either. Trust me! It helps!
Top Ten Interview Questions to Prepare For
1. Tell me about yourself.
Tip: Talk about a couple of your key achievements making sure to focus on highlights of your resume.
2. Tell me about your current/last position. What did you like best about it? Least?
Tip: Be prepared to provide specifics.
3. What is your greatest strength? Weakness?
Tip: Discuss your number one strength making sure to provide a good example. For your weakness, find something that you are currently working on. Provide an example of how you’re working to improve on it.
4. Can you provide me an example of when you provided great customer service?
Tip: Explain the problem/project, discuss the action you took, and provide what the results were.
5. What motivates you in the workplace?
Tip: Challenge, creativity, success, and opportunity are the most used. You can also mention specific skills that you enjoy using such as problem solving, decision making, listening, or counseling others.
6. Did you gain any relevant experience during this time period?
Tip: Most likely, they’re referring to gaps in your work history. Keep your answers professional and work-related. Talk about skills you developed, gained, or worked on while un-employed. You may want to talk about time management skills, how to deal with adversity, problem solving, decision making, etc.
7. What is the most difficult situation you’ve ever faced?
Tip: Pick an example which you successfully resolved a tough situation in the work place. Tell the story briefly and try to reveal as many good qualities as possible. The interviewer is looking for qualities such as perseverance, good judgment, and maturity in a work situation.
8. What experience do you have that will make you the ideal candidate for this position?
Tip: This is a great opportunity to sell you. Talk about your strengths (including ones you did not mention previously) and how they fit the needs of the company. Do your research on both the company and the position before going into the interview.
9. What is the most important thing you are looking for in a job?
Tip: Figure out what it is that you value most in a company and position. You may value challenge, good working conditions, training, or friendly co-workers. Talk about one or two of those items.
10. Have you ever been convicted by any Federal, State or any other law enforcement authorities for any violation of Federal, State, County, or municipal law, regulation, or ordinance?
Tip: This may appear on your application. If so, answer truthfully. If you are offered the job, they will most likely do a background check and its better to be forth-coming with this information. For many companies, this does not omit you as a candidate for the position. If asked about it during the interview, find the positive and talk about how you have moved on from this discretion. There is no need to go into detail. If the interviewer is concerned about your credibility, mention that you can provide a list of professional references that would be able to vouch for your character.
Top Ten Interview Questions to Prepare For
1. Tell me about yourself.
Tip: Talk about a couple of your key achievements making sure to focus on highlights of your resume.
2. Tell me about your current/last position. What did you like best about it? Least?
Tip: Be prepared to provide specifics.
3. What is your greatest strength? Weakness?
Tip: Discuss your number one strength making sure to provide a good example. For your weakness, find something that you are currently working on. Provide an example of how you’re working to improve on it.
4. Can you provide me an example of when you provided great customer service?
Tip: Explain the problem/project, discuss the action you took, and provide what the results were.
5. What motivates you in the workplace?
Tip: Challenge, creativity, success, and opportunity are the most used. You can also mention specific skills that you enjoy using such as problem solving, decision making, listening, or counseling others.
6. Did you gain any relevant experience during this time period?
Tip: Most likely, they’re referring to gaps in your work history. Keep your answers professional and work-related. Talk about skills you developed, gained, or worked on while un-employed. You may want to talk about time management skills, how to deal with adversity, problem solving, decision making, etc.
7. What is the most difficult situation you’ve ever faced?
Tip: Pick an example which you successfully resolved a tough situation in the work place. Tell the story briefly and try to reveal as many good qualities as possible. The interviewer is looking for qualities such as perseverance, good judgment, and maturity in a work situation.
8. What experience do you have that will make you the ideal candidate for this position?
Tip: This is a great opportunity to sell you. Talk about your strengths (including ones you did not mention previously) and how they fit the needs of the company. Do your research on both the company and the position before going into the interview.
9. What is the most important thing you are looking for in a job?
Tip: Figure out what it is that you value most in a company and position. You may value challenge, good working conditions, training, or friendly co-workers. Talk about one or two of those items.
10. Have you ever been convicted by any Federal, State or any other law enforcement authorities for any violation of Federal, State, County, or municipal law, regulation, or ordinance?
Tip: This may appear on your application. If so, answer truthfully. If you are offered the job, they will most likely do a background check and its better to be forth-coming with this information. For many companies, this does not omit you as a candidate for the position. If asked about it during the interview, find the positive and talk about how you have moved on from this discretion. There is no need to go into detail. If the interviewer is concerned about your credibility, mention that you can provide a list of professional references that would be able to vouch for your character.
everyone loves a top 10
Hello all. This week, I have two top 10's for you. The other day, I mentioned that I was able to go to the Atlanta Children's Shelter to work with the parents on tips and tricks for interviewing. So I wanted to give you the two top 10 lists I provided them. Enjoy!
Top Ten Do’s and Don’ts For an Interview
1. DON’T wear something that is too revealing or flashy.
Stick with dress pants or a knee length skirt. Conservative is the safer way to go!
2. DO be aware of your personal hygiene!
Take the time the morning of to shower, and brush your hair. First impressions are everything!
3. DON’T leave your cell phone on or answer it during an interview.
Turn it off or put it on silent. If you missed a call, return it once the interview is over.
4. DO bring a copy of your resume and any prepared questions.
Always be prepared!
5. DON’T chew gum during an interview.
It’s distracting and unprofessional.
6. DO wear a watch!
Plan on being there at least 10 minutes early!
7. DON’T use inappropriate language.
Try to avoid using slang. Keep the interview as professional as possible!
8. DO have a firm handshake.
It’s okay for women to have a firm handshake.
9. DON’T lie.
There is no need to lie if asked a question directly, but be careful about going into too much detail.
10. DO come with a positive attitude.
Treat all people you encounter with courtesy and respect. First impressions are everything, even that of the receptionist!
Top Ten Do’s and Don’ts For an Interview
1. DON’T wear something that is too revealing or flashy.
Stick with dress pants or a knee length skirt. Conservative is the safer way to go!
2. DO be aware of your personal hygiene!
Take the time the morning of to shower, and brush your hair. First impressions are everything!
3. DON’T leave your cell phone on or answer it during an interview.
Turn it off or put it on silent. If you missed a call, return it once the interview is over.
4. DO bring a copy of your resume and any prepared questions.
Always be prepared!
5. DON’T chew gum during an interview.
It’s distracting and unprofessional.
6. DO wear a watch!
Plan on being there at least 10 minutes early!
7. DON’T use inappropriate language.
Try to avoid using slang. Keep the interview as professional as possible!
8. DO have a firm handshake.
It’s okay for women to have a firm handshake.
9. DON’T lie.
There is no need to lie if asked a question directly, but be careful about going into too much detail.
10. DO come with a positive attitude.
Treat all people you encounter with courtesy and respect. First impressions are everything, even that of the receptionist!
Friday, June 5, 2009
a little inspiration goes a long way
My friend, Nicole, has recently been on this huge kick of finding something positive in all this doom and gloom, and I've decided its about time to join her!
Even more recently, Nicole (yeap! the same one!) has been let go from her job. Although this was a swift kick in the gut (as I'm sure it would be for anyone out there going through a similar situation), Nicole has taken on an immensely positive attitude. Nicole looked at her situation, not as a mark of bad fortune, but as an opportunity and is taking life into her own hands.
Although the afore-mentioned job was here in Alpharetta where we both reside, we call Savannah home. Nicole's been comtemplating her move back to Savannah for some time now, and losing her job really and truly did offer her the right timing and opportunity to make this work for her.
In the past two weeks, I've watched Nicole take the next step (and a giant one at that) in her career. She's put herself in an opportunity to be very happy in the town we both love and call home and make herself known in the industry she loves and (i know) she will thrive in. She's already applied for a few jobs in the Savannah area that are right up her alley and exactly what she wants to be doing. Not only that, but 1) she's teamed up with two other talented individuals to create their own team to design websites, 2) she's being asked by companies what her consultative fee is for marketing advice, 3) she's already been asked to plan a wedding, and 4) a press release she wrote at the afore-mentioned job was just picked up by msnbc!
It's people like Nicole that inspire me to keep doing what I love! Good things CAN happen, even in crappy times like these. Like I always say - the decision is yours! What are you going to do with your career? What opportunities have just been presented to you?
Even more recently, Nicole (yeap! the same one!) has been let go from her job. Although this was a swift kick in the gut (as I'm sure it would be for anyone out there going through a similar situation), Nicole has taken on an immensely positive attitude. Nicole looked at her situation, not as a mark of bad fortune, but as an opportunity and is taking life into her own hands.
Although the afore-mentioned job was here in Alpharetta where we both reside, we call Savannah home. Nicole's been comtemplating her move back to Savannah for some time now, and losing her job really and truly did offer her the right timing and opportunity to make this work for her.
In the past two weeks, I've watched Nicole take the next step (and a giant one at that) in her career. She's put herself in an opportunity to be very happy in the town we both love and call home and make herself known in the industry she loves and (i know) she will thrive in. She's already applied for a few jobs in the Savannah area that are right up her alley and exactly what she wants to be doing. Not only that, but 1) she's teamed up with two other talented individuals to create their own team to design websites, 2) she's being asked by companies what her consultative fee is for marketing advice, 3) she's already been asked to plan a wedding, and 4) a press release she wrote at the afore-mentioned job was just picked up by msnbc!
It's people like Nicole that inspire me to keep doing what I love! Good things CAN happen, even in crappy times like these. Like I always say - the decision is yours! What are you going to do with your career? What opportunities have just been presented to you?
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
doing what i love... with purpose
I really am lucky. I do love what I do. What I love even more is being able to help others while doing what I love to do!!! I recently had the opportunity to do so.
Last Friday, I was able to go downtown to the Atlanta Children's Shelter. They are a day-care facility for homeless children. They also offer programs to assist the parents in their home and job search. I lead a session on the Do's & Don'ts of Interviewing. It was a really great session and I was really impressed with the questions they asked once they finally opened up.
The experience was the best part of it all. I was actually able to take what I do on a day-to-day basis and use it to help those in need and provide reassurance for each of them in the job market. It was such an uplifting day.
Last Friday, I was able to go downtown to the Atlanta Children's Shelter. They are a day-care facility for homeless children. They also offer programs to assist the parents in their home and job search. I lead a session on the Do's & Don'ts of Interviewing. It was a really great session and I was really impressed with the questions they asked once they finally opened up.
The experience was the best part of it all. I was actually able to take what I do on a day-to-day basis and use it to help those in need and provide reassurance for each of them in the job market. It was such an uplifting day.
Monday, January 12, 2009
learn, act, grow!
I'm so ridiculously excited!!! This is my baby!!! I proposed this idea less than a year ago when I was applying to be the new Trainer & its actually coming to fruition!!! This is such an amazing experience! I'll keep you updated!!!
Are you interested in getting your undergraduate degree? Or going back for your master's? But you're not sure if you're ready?
Would you like to have someone take a look at resume to make sure it's ready to go when the next opportunity arises?
Are you thinking about making a career shift here at LeasePlan, but want some questions answered first?
Not exactly sure how to handle stress in your personal/professional life & would like the opportunity to talk to others on how they handle it?
Would you like to know more about Tuition Reimbursement and what colleges are local?
Ready to make your New Year's Resolution, but not exactly sure how to set the goal & stick with it?
Not great at Networking and would like some tips & tricks of the trade?
These questions and MORE will be answered during LeasePlan Academy's Career Fair "Learn, Act, Grow!"
Mark your calendars the week of February 9th and keep an eye out for more information to come!
Are you interested in getting your undergraduate degree? Or going back for your master's? But you're not sure if you're ready?
Would you like to have someone take a look at resume to make sure it's ready to go when the next opportunity arises?
Are you thinking about making a career shift here at LeasePlan, but want some questions answered first?
Not exactly sure how to handle stress in your personal/professional life & would like the opportunity to talk to others on how they handle it?
Would you like to know more about Tuition Reimbursement and what colleges are local?
Ready to make your New Year's Resolution, but not exactly sure how to set the goal & stick with it?
Not great at Networking and would like some tips & tricks of the trade?
These questions and MORE will be answered during LeasePlan Academy's Career Fair "Learn, Act, Grow!"
Mark your calendars the week of February 9th and keep an eye out for more information to come!
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
dress for success
I'm sure that most of you have seen Julia Roberts and her portrayal of Erin Brockovich. There's no doubt that the work of the real Erin Brockovich is nothing short of absolutely astonishing and she continues to inspire others as a dedicated environmental activist. Even with all of this hard work & natural talent she obviously carries, my mind cannot help but wonder how many obstacles she has encountered in her lifetime simply because of the way she dressed while on the job? When I hear her name, my first thought is of tight mini-skirts and enough cleavage to make some people blush.... then, my mind goes to the excellent work she has done. Let's face it... we live in a visual society and it's almost impossible to escape the ramifications that come along with that.
Recently, careerbuilder.com surveyed employers to discover that 41% say that people who dress better or more professionally tend to be promoted more often than others in their organization. The survey dug in a little bit deeper to find that employers give more weight in an interview to candidates who show up wearing a business suit than those who do not. In an effort to encourage employees to continually look professional, some employers have made the decision to ban certain items of clothing such as flip-flops, mini-skirts, & even jeans.
Just like many other companies, mine faces these same issues. In an effort to find an out of the box way to address these issues, we came up with our own Dress for Success Panel. For the first panel we held, we brought in one of our departments that is 100% female-based & put together a panel of 5 women from our organization that were director level or above. The moderator posed a few questions to get the session going and to keep it moving if need be, but for the most part the ladies kept the conversation lively and upbeat. You could see the enthusiasm in the group to find out what tips and tricks that they could each use to help further their own careers. It was so interesting to hear the questions from the women of our organization and the concerns they already have about being able to dress to impress. It was even more impressive and ultimately humbling to hear one of our vice presidents (one of our best-dressed vice presidents at that) talk about sharing suits with her roommate when she was fresh out of college to appear like she had more clothes than she did.
Since the inception of the first panel, we now hold the panel monthly with a different set of panelists each time. We've also encorporated men in the panel to ensure that each and every employee can get the most out of the experience. I think that with out a doubt this program has been a success. It's provided a fresh perspective on how being aware of your personal style can only positively enfluence your career.
Recently, careerbuilder.com surveyed employers to discover that 41% say that people who dress better or more professionally tend to be promoted more often than others in their organization. The survey dug in a little bit deeper to find that employers give more weight in an interview to candidates who show up wearing a business suit than those who do not. In an effort to encourage employees to continually look professional, some employers have made the decision to ban certain items of clothing such as flip-flops, mini-skirts, & even jeans.
Just like many other companies, mine faces these same issues. In an effort to find an out of the box way to address these issues, we came up with our own Dress for Success Panel. For the first panel we held, we brought in one of our departments that is 100% female-based & put together a panel of 5 women from our organization that were director level or above. The moderator posed a few questions to get the session going and to keep it moving if need be, but for the most part the ladies kept the conversation lively and upbeat. You could see the enthusiasm in the group to find out what tips and tricks that they could each use to help further their own careers. It was so interesting to hear the questions from the women of our organization and the concerns they already have about being able to dress to impress. It was even more impressive and ultimately humbling to hear one of our vice presidents (one of our best-dressed vice presidents at that) talk about sharing suits with her roommate when she was fresh out of college to appear like she had more clothes than she did.
Since the inception of the first panel, we now hold the panel monthly with a different set of panelists each time. We've also encorporated men in the panel to ensure that each and every employee can get the most out of the experience. I think that with out a doubt this program has been a success. It's provided a fresh perspective on how being aware of your personal style can only positively enfluence your career.
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