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.

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!!!

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!!!

twenty minute simple skirt tutorial

I've been sewing since I was a little girl. Pillows, toys, blankets, halloween costumes - that sort of thing. When I was in college, my grandma gave me her old sewing machine. I've since upgraded, but love any chance I have to pull it out!!! Here's a great way to make some simple dress skirts for casual work days or the weekend!

Twenty minute Simple Skirt Tutorial AND GIVEAWAY!!!!: "skirts are elastic I would say they would fit a size 2-8.

summer time reviews...

Wow! I can't believe we're already in the middle of June. Where did the year go? We've hit the summer months which typically means that it's time for mid-year reviews. This is a time for you and your manager to look at what you’ve accomplished since the beginning of the year and what you plan to do in the remainder.

In preparation for your review, here are some guidelines to help you, the employee, with your role in the process.

Planning & Preparation
* Review performance expectations and competencies and ask for clarification if needed.
* Prepare a list of your accomplishments and progress to date.
* Make note of difficulties or obstacles you’ve encountered in completing your goals for the year.
* Obtain feedback from others when necessary.

Completing Your Self Appraisal
* Keep an objective perspective when completing your self-appraisal.
* Consider the wording of the goal carefully before selecting whether you meet expectations.
* Provide examples of successes and difficulties.
* Save your appraisal as a draft until you are comfortable with your self-appraisal.

Meeting with Your Supervisor
* Be an active participant in the discussion with your supervisor.
* Remain open and receptive to the feedback from your supervisor.
* Make the discussion easier by asking questions like, “What else could I have done to improve X” or “Do you have any suggestions for me?” Then listen carefully.
* Provide specific examples of what you’ve done particularly well and where you would like to improve.
* Discuss what you plan to achieve by the end of the fiscal year, and ask what your supervisor expects you to achieve in this timeframe.
* Share progress you have made toward your own development plan with your supervisor.

Completion & Follow-up
* Thank your supervisor for their feedback.
* Recommit yourself to a successful year.
* Periodically ask for additional feedback on your performance.
* Seek out coaching and informal update opportunities.
* Consider special projects/assignments.
* Actively seek learning opportunities and bring to the attention of your supervisor.
* Take responsibility for personal continuous improvement and development.