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!).

Ask me anything

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!

Ask me anything

check it out

Well, well.... Who would have known? I am attempting to be tech-savvy. Thanks to the help from Nicole! Thankfully Blogger makes it fairly easy to be tech savvy. It's mostly point, click, copy & paste. Phew!

Anyways, I've added the feature on the right-hand side giving you the opportunity to ask me anything related to training or recruiting. I guess you could ask personal questions too... But that doesn't mean I'll answer them...

how long is a new year?

How long does a new year last? Well, at least until you stop referring to it as the new year? Well, we're still here and I'm keeping up with my new year's resolution! Although, they say that it takes three weeks to make something a habit... Day 17 - not so bad. Although, check back with me in three months... That will be an accomplishment!

Day 10. Not only do I thrive in situations where I can learn something new, but also in those that allow me to be creative (i.e. previous post)
Day 11. While at the townhall meetings for my company, I learned the results of 2009 and the goals for 2010. Most importantly, I was reminded why I love working for LeasePlan
Day 12. I can use my creativity to hone in on my insomnia issues. If I get the idea out of my head and on paper/ on canvas/ on fabric, I'll be able to sleep easier.
Day 13. The notion of starting my own company with my best friend is becoming a reality. Welcome grits&lime!!!
Day 14. I read a great article about self image and ways to remind your how special you are.
Day 15. Sometimes all you need is a good night's sleep for a little fresh perspective.
Day 16. Always go with your gut. It usually steers you in the right direction.
Day 17. I finished my first sample for grits&lime and couldn't be more excited and proud of myself.

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.