Questions To Ask After an Interview

Asking a potential employer questions after your interview is often overlooked, but you should never leave an interview without asking at least a few good questions.  It’s always best to prepare ahead of time, so you  know which questions you will ask before you go into the interview. 

Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

·         If I were hired, what would be some of my tasks and responsibilities?

·         If you were to extend me a job offer, when would you like me to start?

·         What are the most valuable personality traits the successful candidate would need to do this job well?

·         What are the biggest challenges of the position?

·         How would you describe the culture of your workplace environment?

Questions to avoid:

·         Closed-ended questions that can be answered with  “yes” or “no” – leave it open for a longer discussion and follow-up questions.

·         Questions about salary and benefits – wait until you get the job offer to discuss these.

·         Personal questions – never ask about the interviewer’s personal life unless they initiate a personal conversation.

What You Wish You’d Known Before Your Job Interview: Infographic

 

To view the original infographic, visit http://theundercoverrecruiter.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/90-seconds-interview-hire-you.jpg.

For more infographics from The Undercover Recruiter: http://theundercoverrecruiter.com/category/infographic/

Common Interview Mistakes to Avoid

We’ve all heard horror stories of interviews that have gone very wrong.  Here are some common mistakes you should keep in mind (and try to avoid!) during an interview:

Bad Timing

Arriving late to an interview is a definite faux pas, but arriving too early can also be a deal breaker too. Always plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled interview time, but not much more than that. And remember, planning out your route before you leave the house will help you avoid showing up late to an interview.

Unprofessional Appearance

As mentioned before, always wear clean, freshly pressed business-appropriate clothes to a job interview. If you’re a smoker, avoid smoking directly before the interview, in case the potential employer is sensitive to the smell of smoke. It’s also a good idea to forgo perfume or cologne, in case the company has a scent-free policy or the interviewer is allergic. Finally, make sure your shoes aren’t giving the wrong impression.  Wear clean, professional dress shoes that complement your outfit without distracting from it.

Using Cell Phones

You won’t need your cell phone immediately before or after your interview, so it’s best just to turn it off completely while you’re there.  A cell phone ringing or vibrating is distracting to both you and the person you’re meeting with, and looks unprofessional. In some cases, the employer may even feel disrespected.

Badmouthing Former Employers

Speaking poorly of a previous employer tells an interviewer that you will probably do the same to your next one – which could be them.  Avoid telling stories that aren’t relevant to the workplace. Don’t give in to gossip or negativity during your interview – or ever. If asked what you didn’t like about your previous job, answer honestly but professionally. Keep your answer simple and to the point, without turning to gossip or drama.

Interview To-Do List

One week before the interview:

ü  List your strengths, weaknesses and why you want the job on a piece of paper

ü  Research common interview questions

ü  Research the company and take notes

ü  Get directions to your interview destination

ü  Practice the interview and your answers to the tough questions

ü  Buy interview-appropriate clothes if you don’t already have some

ü  Inform your references that you have an interview and they may be contacted

 

Two days before:

ü  Plan your route to the interview, and how long it will take to get there. Will you be driving? Walking? Taking public transit?  

ü  Make sure you have a good understanding of the company based on your research

ü  Prepare the materials you need to take with you to your interview

The night before:

ü  Have your clothes clean, pressed and laid out

ü  Check the weather and adjust your route accordingly

ü  Get a good night’s sleep

The day of:

ü  Make sure to eat a good meal before your interview

ü  Arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your interview time 

ü  Leave your phone or any electronics in the car or turned off in your pocket/bag

What to Wear to an Interview

How you dress for an interview can directly affect whether or not you get the job.  Generally, you want to keep your clothing clean, ironed , work-appropriate and conservative.  Neutral wrinkle and stain free clothes are always a necessity for a job interview.  Typically, suits are a go-to for guys, and a business-professional blouse and skirt (no shorter than the knee) or dress pants are perfect for the ladies.  If you are ever unsure about wearing a suit to an interview, do your research or consult with a professor who has worked in the industry for some tips. 

Some simple rules to remember:

·         Keep colours neutral, avoid loud, busy patterns and bright colour.

·         Make sure the clothes are clean and freshly ironed.

·         Make sure sleeves, pants and/or skirts are the appropriate length.

·         Wear minimal jewellery and natural-looking make-up.

·         Always make sure you shoes are shined, clean and in good condition.  

·         Avoid wearing heavy scents (i.e. soaps, colognes, perfumes).

·         Make sure you appear clean-shaven and well-kept.

For more specific information on interview attire, here are a few great sites:

10 Interview Clothing Faux Pas – check out what not to wear to an interview here.

Female Cosmetic Guide – a great guide for hair, nails, make up and jewellery.

Tattoos and Piercings – Some helpful tips for tattoos, piercings and hair colour for job interviews.

Interview Research

Check out this basic checklist of things you should know before going into an interview.  Not only does researching the company beforehand help you be better prepared to answer the interviewer’s questions,  it also shows that you have an enthusiasm for the job and took the time and initiative to research the business.  There are many online resources you can use to research a company. It’s a good idea to start with the company’s website, but don’t forget to also look up news items and current events involving the company. 

Before you go for your interview, you should know:

·       How the company makes money – what is it that the company does exactly, and who do they serve? 

·       How does your experience relate to the skills needed by professionals in this industry?

·       What does the company value?  Are they a community driven organization?  Perhaps they value innovation and technology, or are environmentally conscious.

·       What role does the department you are interviewing for a position in play? What services do they provide?

·       What are the company’s goals, strategies or current projects? Brainstorm a few ways you could contribute to these areas.

To learn more about prepping for an interview, visit this website.

Check out this Dress Codes 101 infographic!

 

To view the original infographic, visit http://txstrategichr.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/infographic-dress-codes.jpg

Formatting Your References

Job references should be on a separate sheet of paper from your résumé. A heading in the same format you used on your résumé should appear at the top of the page. For font, the rule of thumb is to use the same font you used on your résumé.

When you list your references, use a format similar to this:

Name, Position

Company

Company Address

Company Phone Number

Cell or Alternate Phone Number

E-mail Address

Try to use recent references and make sure you connect with them beforehand to ensure their contact information hasn`t changed, and to let them know you will be providing their information to a potential employer.

 

 

Who Makes a Good Reference?

Every employment and volunteer opportunity you’ve had has contributed to the network of people you know.  When you’re applying for a job, it’s a good idea to make a list of past managers, supervisors, co-workers, and professors who could provide a positive reference on your behalf.  For instance, a supervisor or manager makes a great reference because they are able to attest to your skill set, character and work ethic.  A former co-worker can also be a good reference, and can demonstrate how well you work as part of a team.  Ideally, you want to choose references that can evaluate your skills, are well spoken, and that you got along well with.  An academic reference is also a good possibility, because they will be able to convey your learning and communication skills to a potential employer.  Each time you leave a position, whether it was paid or volunteer, remember to ask for a letter of recommendation or a reference. But don’t forget, when you give their contact information to a potential employer, be sure to let your references know in advance.

Dos and Don’ts of Resume Writing

DO:

·         Use formatting and bullets on your résumé.

·         Keep your résumé clear and concise.

·         Target your résumé for the specific job you’re applying for.

·         Acquire relevant experience through internships and/or volunteer work.

·         Proofread your résumé multiple times, and have somebody else proofread it.

·         Keep your résumé up to date, even when you aren’t actively sending it out.

 

DON’T:

·         Lie on a resume. Ever!

·         Add irrelevant details (like hobbies and interests) if they don’t pertain to the job.

·        Make your resume too long. Aim for one page, two maximum if you have enough relevant experience to fill more than one page.

 

Résumé Resources

The best resource to help you create your resume is the Loyalist Career Centre. The Centre can help you develop, review, and fine tune your résumé before you start distributing it. If you can’t make it to the Career Centre for advice, here are some other good resources:

What Recruiters Look at During the Six Seconds They Spend On Your Resume

This interesting article shows you where recruiters spend the most time focusing on resumes.  The study, which used a scientific technique called “eye tracking” on 30 professional recruiters, determined some of the most important aspects of a résumé.

12 Revealing Traits of a Successful Résumé

This great infographic will help you review some of the details you should include when writing a résumé.

Résumé Keywords

Here you will find a list of 250 keywords you can add to your résumé (as long as they apply). Remember: It’s always a good idea to look for keywords in a specific job posting as well.

E-mail Matters

Something as simple as your e-mail address may not seem like a big deal, but it could actually be the reason you haven’t had any calls from prospective employers lately.  When you’re submitting resumes and cover letters, be conscious of even the small details – like your e-mail handle.  If you’re still using the same cutesy e-mail address you created in high school, it may be time to upgrade to something a little more professional.  When creating a new email address, remember to keep it simple. 

Creating a professional e-mail address is easy. Here are some formats to consider:

ü  FirstLast@domain.com

ü  FirstLast123@domain.com

ü  First.Last@domain.com

ü  Initial-Last@domain.com

Is Your Cover Letter Doing More Harm Than Good?

Your cover letter will often be the first thing a potential employer sees, so a simple mistake could cost you an interview or even the job.  Here is a list of common errors to avoid when writing and distributing your cover letter:

1.       Too generic. When you’re applying for multiple jobs, avoid using the same generic cover letter for every position.  You should always tailor your cover letter around the specific job posting, using concepts and keywords from the posting in your letter.

2.       Full of errors. As with everything, proofread thoroughly to make sure your letter is free of spelling and grammatical errors.  Make sure to have someone else read over the letter as well. A fresh set of eyes has a fresh perspective.

3.       Length. Your cover letter shouldn’t be too long, but it can’t be too short either.  Typically, cover letters are between three and five paragraphs.  See our last post for more information about what to include in your paragraphs.

4.       Salutation. When submitting a cover letter, ensure that you have referenced the right position. Attention to detail is very important to employers, and it’s easy to make simple mistakes when you’re sending out dozens of applications.  Also, avoid “To Whom It May Concern” whenever possible. Do research and try to find the name of the person who will be reading your cover letter. 

5.       Stolen content. Cover letters online are great, but only for ideas. You should never copy one word for word, or repurpose the content of somebody else’s letter. Be creative and write your own letter that accurately reflects your personality and experience.

 

10 Steps to a Cover Letter

1.       Make sure your contact information is in bold font and is accurate, with a professional email address included.

2.       A slogan on a cover letter is entirely optional.  If you feel it would work in your favour, or is appropriate for the career path you’ve chosen, add something that will attract an employer and make your cover letter stand out.

3.       Make sure to date and properly address your cover letter.

4.       The company’s contact information and the job you’re interested in, with the correct job title, should be in the job posting. When possible, always try to use the name of the person who will be reading your resume (do your research!).

5.       In the first paragraph, include the position you are applying for and indicate why you are the perfect fit for the job by demonstrating some of the biggest qualifications you possess. Use the original job posting as your reference point.

6.       In the second paragraph, include all relevant skills and experience and explain how your qualifications match up with the company’s expectations.  Tip: Make sure not to repeat your resume in this paragraph! Highlight only your key qualifications, and be creative.

7.       Your cover letter should be 3 to 5 paragraphs long.

8.       The closing paragraph of your cover letter should encourage the reader to follow up with you. Once again, include a contact number and e-mail address.  Most importantly, thank the reader for their time and consideration.

9.       When closing your letter, be professional. Print your name and sign the letter. If you are sending a cover letter via e-mail, you might want to scan a copy of the letter with your signature to use for online applications.

10.   Finally, make sure your letter is presentable, use a font that is easy to read, print the cover letter out on plain white paper, and keep the tone professional. Plus, don’t forget to proofread your entire cover letter and resume!

Volunteer Experience

Relevant volunteer experience is one of your biggest assets on a resume. Volunteering is also great for networking, acquiring solid references, and gaining relevant experience while looking for a job in your field.  If you do well in a volunteer position, it may have the potential to turn into a paid position.  The biggest piece of advice you can follow while volunteering is to treat it as if it were a paying job.  Show up often and on time, establish strong relationships, and show a passion for the work you’re doing.  Showing the initiative to take on new things in your volunteer position will show the people you work with that you are ambitious and eager to learn, and have various skills you can apply to the position.  Versatility and attention to detail are key in any situation, and can be valuable when volunteering as well.  Most importantly, let the manager know you are interested in a position if one becomes available, and make sure to keep in contact so he or she knows you’re interested.  Making connections can be valuable to your career, but maintaining those connections is key.    

 

The Old Fashioned Way

The convenience of the online job search has its advantages, but there can also be disadvantages.  The process of applying for a job from behind a computer screen can sometimes take away the personal face-to-face experience of searching for a job. The convenience of applying with a click of a button also creates a lot of competition between applicants.  If a job posting asks applicants to apply online or in person, consider dropping off a resume in person and shaking a hand or two while you’re there. Taking the time to go in person, even if you don’t make it past the receptionist, shows that you are genuinely interested in and serious about the position.  Although applying in person can give you an advantage, remember that if the job posting specifically asks for an electronic application, you should respect the company’s wishes.

Where to Look for a Job

A good job doesn’t have to be impossible to come by. Ultimately, one of the best resources for finding a job is your ability to network and research.  You can find many job postings online, but don’t be limited to electronic resources. Don’t forget to check your local paper, career centres, and connect with local businesses.  The Loyalist Career Centre offers a list of specific job search sites for each program offered at the College, and should be your primary resource while searching for a job. They offer job boards within the school and online, and provide a list of generic job search sites to start your search.  When appropriate, remember that it can be a good idea to visit a business in person and ask for an application or drop off a resume.  Another way to gain experience and make connections during your job search is volunteering.  Volunteering gives you the chance to build your network in a field that is relevant to you, while you gain hands-on experience. Volunteer positions can also lead to job opportunities.

Restricting Social Media at Work

How does restricting social media in the workplace affect employee productivity? Check out this infographic from Socialcast.

Personal Branding

When you are putting yourself out there – passing out resumes and business cards, applying for jobs, and networking – you’re selling yourself. In order to be successful, you have to have strong personal branding in person and online. Check out this infographic for tips to improve your personal branding on social media:

 

Clean It Up!

Searching for a job can be tricky, but it can be even more challenging when your social media accounts are bringing you down behind the scenes. If you’re job hunting, or even if you aren’t, keeping your social media accounts free of inappropriate content is always a good idea. About.com offers these tips for social-savvy jobseekers:

• Don't post anything you wouldn't want your current employer or a prospective employer to see.
• Avoid any comments that could be interpreted as racist, sexist or discriminatory in any way.
• Remove or ‘untag’ photos of you that show you in an unfavorable light. If you prefer not to, then be sure to carefully manage your album privacy settings. These control which people can see which of your albums.
• Look at your wall. Remove comments from your friends that seem distasteful.
• Look at the apps on your profile. Does their purpose portray you well? There are more than a few apps that may not be the best ones to have on your page when you're looking to get a job.
• What groups are you a member of? If you belong to "It's 5 a.m., I'm drunk, and on Facebook" or any similar groups, you probably want to leave them.

Facebook Privacy Settings

• Make sure only friends can see your photos, religious and political views, and posts.
• Within the privacy settings, you are given an opportunity to preview your profile as an outsider. Take advantage of this and double-check what others can see.

Twitter Accounts for Jobseekers

Some of the great advantages of being a Generation Y job seeker are the information and career resources readily available online, but this can also be a job seeker’s greatest downfall.  There is an abundance of relevant information out there, but there is just as much out-dated and conflicting advice out there too.  Twitter to the rescue!  There are many experts who have taken to twitter with a focus specifically on Generation Y job seekers.  Here are a couple of great career-focused accounts:

Heather R. Huhman: @heatherhuhman

v  Offers tons of helpful advice, interesting articles and relevant information for Gen Y job seekers looking for internships and entry-level jobs

 

Dan Schawbel: @DanSchawbel

v  Follow his interesting and often witty blog about career success specifically for Gen Y’s

 

Jac Poindexter: @ValueIntoWords

v  A reliable resume expert who mixes things up with work and life balance

 

Loyalist College Career Centre @CareerCentre

v  Offers information to assist you with your career, job search and professionalism

14 Career Experts to Follow on Twitter

v  Click here for more great career experts on Twitter

How Professionals are Using LinkedIn: Infographic

Who uses LinkedIn? Find out with this infographic from SiliconANGLE and Lab42.

Employers on Social Media

Did you know 37% of employers are using social media to research job candidates? Career Builder put together this infographic to show you just how social your social media profile has become.

The Low-Down on LinkedIn

According to Forbes, 97.3% of employers who use social media as a recruitment tool turn to LinkedIn. Here are some tips and tricks to get you started building an effective profile on LinkedIn:

Profile:

• Have a good quality profile picture of just you.
• Make sure it is 100% filled out.
• Add keywords that represent you in your position.
• Be specific  i.e. if you are a student, state your school and program with the use of keywords to make it effective.
• Include all of your education, awards, and even extra-curricular activities.
• Stay up to date with your profile, and update your responsibilities often.

Summary:

• Never leave your summary blank!
• Make sure your summary is clear and concise.
• Share goals, accomplishments, and qualities – and make sure to use keywords that will help you stand out.

Connections:

• Focus on expanding your network on LinkedIn by adding professional connections.
• Always personalize your connection requests – avoid using the default LinkedIn invitation text.
• Join groups on LinkedIn that are specific to your field of interest.

Recommendations:

• Try to get a variety of recommendations from all of the positions you've held.
• Ask for recommendations for part employers, professors, or colleagues.
• Just like you would for a reference, ask for a recommendation politely and professionally - don't assume you deserve one.

To Tweet or Not to Tweet?

Ever since Twitter erupted, celebrities, athletes, and your friends have been able to share anything they want at any given moment.  Sure, this method of communication has its perks, but do you really need to share everything?  After researching what the experts had to say, here’s what we suggest keeping off Twitter, no matter how tempting it may be to post!

 

1.       Work-Related Gossip: This one seems like a given, yet it continues to be a problem for some.  Sure, your boss may have ticked you off today, or maybe you heard a juicy tidbit about a fellow employee, but there is never a good reason to share this information with the rest of the world.

2.       Your Whereabouts: Maybe you’re going to be coming home from work late tonight, you’re alone in the house for the night, or you’re going away for the week. As innocent as a tweet about any of these things may seem, posting about it on the internet spells out vulnerability. While you think you’re sharing your exciting vacation details, you’ve also let who knows how many people that your house is going to be empty for a week, or you are going to be at home alone tonight.  Bottom line: don’t share this information on social media – for your own safety.

3.       Inappropriate or Offensive Content: This one is pretty simple. If you are about to tweet something that you wouldn’t want your Grandma to see, don’t tweet it.  Remember, employers scan through potential candidates’ social media posts, and you don’t want inappropriate tweets to cost you a potential job.

4.       Personal Information: It’s surprising how many people still share too much personal information online.  Just remember – the info you’re tweeting can be seen by hundreds of people, some of who you may not even know. Being smarter about your posts can help you stay safer online.