Showing posts with label strengths. Show all posts
Showing posts with label strengths. Show all posts

Monday, July 26, 2010

top ten things to remember at a job fair

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!

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

3 weeks is a habit

Did you know that it takes 21 days of doing something consistently to build a habit? Just so you know, if you stop doing that something for even one day, you break the habit and have to start all over again! Well, we are now on day 26 of my new year's resolution, and I'm keeping up with! Woo hoo! Again, let's see if I can keep this up for 3 months.

So, what have I been up to since the last blog? Well, find out!

Day 18. Its a very small world and it got smaller. Ran into someone from work at trivia and ironically, someone else at my table works with someone from his table!
Day 19. The "my dog ate my homework" excuse is sometimes true, especially with my dog, and sometimes it's better to just buck up and be honest.
Day 20. Looked back at my 2009 accomplishments list. It made me feel great to see what I'm capable of.
Day 21. I'm currently involved in our Quality Improvement Process team. During a QIP session, I learned about benefit cost analysis, solution finding based on root cause, and documenting proposed process improvements. As a side note, I was described as a firecracker today. I'll take that as a compliment!
Day 22. Realized fully how you have to take time for yourself BEFORE you get burnt out (yeah, I'm there...).
Day 23. You know you're getting older when you go to a "Rock Band" (yes, the game) party on a Saturday night and they pull out a wet-vac to clean up a spilled beer.
Day 24. I was able to use my creativity, resourcefulness, and craftiness to help fix a friends dress for an upcoming wedding.
Day 25. Did you know? Lacrosse is the national summer sport for Canada.
Day 26. I was reminded while reading a fellow sewer's blog that I need to continue to make beautiful things out of sad, ugly things. There are others in the world who have very similar stories to tell.

Thursday, January 14, 2010

a little inspiration: with a twist

This blog was originally created to provide tips, feedback, new ideas, and suggestions about recruiting, training, and career development as a whole. Some of the information is geared toward my fellow recruiters and trainers, although even more so for my fellow followers, friends, and those looking to distinguish themselves. More importantly, this blog was designed to be a creative outlet for myself. In a way, it was really a chance for me to distinguish myself.

In recent months, I've come to realize that I am, in fact, a creative person. Not only do I thrive in situations where I am continually learning something new, but in situations where I can be creative and put my hands to work. I've been sewing as long as I can remember and have always loved making gifts for my family. Most recently, I started painting which has been an amazing release for me. Now, you may be asking yourself why I'm so surprised at realizing this about myself... Well, I'm always great at using the analytical side of my brain. I've always been good at math, love working with spreadsheets, and even come up with random equations in my head while running (trust me, I know how odd that sounds). My entire family is like this and I've always been steered in that direction because its what made the most sense.

Well, it may have taken almost 28 years to figure this out about myself, but I couldn't be more excited. Actually, let me rephrase that. I couldn't be more inspired. That inspiration has lead me to work with one of the dearest and most creative friends I know, Nicole, to start grits & lime. So follow us @gritsandlime for updates on what's to come and check out {nicole galletta} for a great explanation of how we came up with the name!

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.

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!!!

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.

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!

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?

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

its all about you

Career Development can be a really vague term at times, but what it really boils down to is what are YOU doing to make yourself a better candidate, employee, boss, or even co-worker?

Earlier in the year, I put together an internal Career Development Fair for my company. We got a huge response, which was exactly what I had hoped for. However, I think that people tend to forget or not grasp the most important part of Career Development. I can teach as many classes in one day, one week, one year as possible, but if you're not playing an active part in that session, what's the point? Don't get me wrong... I LOVE what I do! I feel like I'm the luckiest person in the world! I love providing support to those who want to do something for themselves... but I can't hold your hand through all the steps. You have to actively participate in your own career development, because I can tell you - It's not going to be handed to you.

What's the moral of the story? Get inspired! Think about the changes you want to make and GO FOR IT!!! If you realize you're lacking a certain skill, step up to the plate and find a way to acquire or develop that skill. If you're wanting to learn something new, take the initiative and go out and buy a book, do some research, take a class! Your life is in your hands and there are endless opportunities!

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!

Sunday, November 9, 2008

what are your strengths?

Last year, I participated in a 4 day series (that lasted over the course of 8 months) that my company offers to the women of the organization. We use an outside vendor that specializes in career development for women. The course is designed to talk about many issues women face in the workplace & how to set yourself up to succeed. Over the course of this blog, I'll be sure to touch on several of the topics we covered.

Before we even started the series, we each read "Now, Discover Your Strengths" by Marcus Buckingham. This was such an eye-opening book to read. It discusses the idea that in order to succeed & be happy, you must first discover what your strengths are & focus on those rather than focusing on trying to strengthen your weaknesses. You also take the StrengthsFinder test which helps determine what your top 5 strengths are. Let me tell you, this test could not have hit the nail more squarely on the head. It was me to a tee (no pun intended). My #1 strength is that I'm a Learner. Let me tell you - This really put my whole life into perspective for me. My entire life, I've been the wierd kid that loves going to school. If there is one thing that I've learned from reading this book is that I thrive in situations where I'm learning new things. Finally explains why I always enjoyed going to school, reading books, watching educational movies/shows, and why I always wanted to be a teacher. Some may ask why I didn't become a teacher; well, let's say that I learned very early on in college that I did not want to spend 8 hours a day with the little ones. I realized after reading this book & taking the course that I need to be in a job that allows me to learn new things on a daily basis. That's when I realized I should (and wanted to) become a trainer.

I guess the point that I'm trying to make is find out what you're good at... You can figure it out pretty easily by paying attention to what makes you happy during the day. When we succeed, something triggers inside our heads & we immediately feel happy. So find out what your strength is & figure out how to make it work for you. Find the job or the aspects of your job that truly make you happy. Take the work out of your job!!!!

On another note, the Wall Stret Journal recently picked up the story of the program. Take a look and stay tuned for more. Also, we're (along with the 3rd party firm that created the program for us) are finalist for a 2008 Client Advisor Award, an award to honor clients & advisors who consistantly and cooperatively foster and grow successful client advisor relationships. This program has just started its third round & I believe there will be several more.