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5 Surprising Things Not to Say in an Interview

By leidson on Wednesday, October 2, 2013

There is no doubt job interviews are stressful. Between the interview preparation, trying to wow the interviewer, and managing your employment situation, your plate is full. But with all you are trying to remember “to do” have you thought about what “not to do?” Here are five things to never say in an interview.

1. I don’t know how to use computers.
Maybe you don’t feel comfortable with computers but with technology taking hold of all facets of our life, it’s time to have some level of comfort with it. Even if you are looking for a job that may not require computer skills, you may have to use one for a specific task, for example filling out your timecard. Explain what you can do, whether it’s play games online, send email, or Skype with your family, share your experiences with computers. If you don’t have a computer at home visit your local library. They may have free classes that will help you get familiar with computers. You never want to lie about your abilities, and they may not be looking for a computer whiz, just someone who has familiarity with computers.

2. I bet I could learn how to do that.
Hiring employees is time intensive and costly. Employers want to be as certain as possible about your work ethic and ability to do the job and get up and running quickly. Be familiar with the job description and share transferable skills and related experiences that would make it quick and easy for you to perform the task required. Choose your words carefully and demonstrate your confidence.

3. I’m so busy.
Everyone has a life outside of work, but what’s most important during an interview is how well you would be able to perform the job at hand. Telling too much about your family responsibilities, hobbies, or other jobs may lead a prospective employer to believe that your ability to work will not be consistent.

4. What I really want to do is _____.
You’re here for a job, and the interviewer doesn’t want to hear your dream job is something different. Show your appreciation and enthusiasm for the opportunity. There may not be a direct career path for you, but focus on what you can learn and gain from the job opportunity.

5. I just couldn’t stand ______.
There isn’t anything to be gained from being negative. It’s fine to be honest about tasks you don’t enjoy but don’t exaggerate the situation. It’s good to let them know you understand there are good and not so good aspects to every job. In addition, it’s unprofessional to talk negatively about people and companies from your past. Focus on your future and what you’ve learned in the past, but keep it clean, positive, and brief.

Take time to prepare before your interview. Understanding the job description, the company information, and how your experiences and abilities make you right for the job will help keep your conversation on track. It’s natural to be nervous, but don’t rush your conversation. Choose your words carefully and remain focused, it’s okay to pause and collect your thoughts.

How do you ensure a successful interview conversation? Share your tips in the comments section below.

Career Advancement Resumes and Cover Letters The Job Search

3 Times When a Functional Resume is Your Best Bet

By mrsmith on Thursday, September 12, 2013

Let’s face it, if everyone could get a foot in the door and personally introduce themselves to the employer they want to work for, then everyone would have the job of their dreams. Unfortunately it doesn’t work that way. So what can we rely on to incite interest from hiring managers and get ahead of the competition?

The answer is – a resume. This document has been known to make or break your chances at landing that job you desire. It’s often your first impression and the emissary that chronicles your work history and skills. But there is more than just one style of resume. The key to finding the right one is to figure out what compliments your work history and skill set. If you want to really flex the skills you have acquired then a functional resume is the right format for you. Below are three reasons to choose function over form.

When You’re New to the Job Market
College grads typically have little to no experience in the field of their studies. A functional resume allows you to show off what you know, what you’ve learned, and show that you have the know-how to get the job done. Remember to tailor the skills on your resume for each employer. Different aspects of your diversity or knowledge may be beneficial to some and not to others.
When You Have Gaps in Your Work History
Sometimes gaps in our work history are out of our control, and without an explanation they may give the wrong impression of your work ethic, or the appearance of a “job hopper.” Many companies may see the value in your experience but may not want to invest time and money to train you only to have you leave months later. A functional resume takes the focus off of when and where, and places it on the value you received from your time there.
When You Don’t Have Relevant Work Experience
Not all past experience will relate to the job you want. If you’re looking at beginning an advertising career, your accounting experience is probably not going to sell your creative side. A functional resume allows you to focus on the soft and hard skills that are more related to the position you want.

A functional resume may not be for everyone. If you don’t know what is best for you, look at your work history and put yourself in employers’ shoes. If your skills are valuable to the position but your years of unrelated employment aren’t, a functional resume is the way to go. Have any tips on how the functional format helped you land a job? Tell us in the comments section below.

Career Advancement New Job Tips The Job Search Uncategorized

Work Ethic/Integrity Most Important Atribute in Hiring

By leidson on Thursday, September 12, 2013

Express Employment Professionals recently asked leaders and job seekers about the most important attributes in hiring a new employee, and both parties agreed that work ethic/integrity are at the top of the list. College degrees ranked the lowest, continuing the debate about the value of a college education. Since work ethic and integrity rank so high on this poll, check out this post on ways to improve your integrity on your cover letter.

Number two on the list was work experience, proving that taking temporary assignments can really pay off. There is a variety of part-time and full-time work available that can utilize the skills you’ve obtained. According to the American Staffing Association, 40% of staffing employees use temporary work to obtain employment experience or job training.

A popular discussion point in the “Other” category by leaders was attitude.

This poll is part of a larger conversation by Express within America Employed, a series of reports on the state of employment and unemployment in America and who gets hired and why.

At Work Career Advancement Current Affairs Leadership New Job Tips

Reading and Your Career

By leidson on Friday, September 6, 2013

Whether you consider yourself a bookworm or prefer to stick to comic strips and movies, your ability to read is a privilege – a privilege that more than 780 million adults across the globe lack. Nearly two-thirds of those illiterate adults are women, and an additional 94 to 115 million children won’t receive an education at all. In light of this worldwide need, International Literacy Day will be held on Sunday, Sept. 8, to help draw attention to the literacy needs of people everywhere. The power to read can unlock doors and change lives. Check out this video.

For 2013, the theme of the day is “Invent Your Future.” The specific goal of this slogan is to “shine a light on the crucial literacy skills that prime students for success in school, work, and life,” as stated by the International Reading Association. Beyond simply being a required skill for most jobs, reading has some major benefits for your career path, especially if you read the right stuff.

The Benefits
Ultimately, you are in control of your future. Where you end up professionally is largely based on your abilities to learn, grow, adapt, and communicate, all of which can be gained through reading. There are many benefits that come from reading, but there are a few that directly correlate to your career growth.

Reading can:

Expand your knowledge and understanding.
Provide good conversation starters.
Make you look intelligent.
Increase your vocabulary.
Improve your written and verbal communication skills.

And the list goes on.

Finding the Best Reading Materials
Depending on your industry and career goals, what you read will probably vary from what your friends and even your co-workers read. But, there are some books and resources that can help just about anyone in their career. Here are some great resources to help you know where to start:

Forbes Best Books to Boost Your Career in 2013
15 Books That Will Help You Prosper and Be Happy in Your Career from BrazenCareerist
CareerBuilder 5 Books That Will Help Your Career
The Top 75 Websites for Your Career from Forbes

Even if you don’t consider yourself a great reader, why not make it a goal to read at least one career- focused book in September? Do it in observance of Literacy Day. Do it in honor of all those who can’t. Do it to take control and advance your career. You’ll be a better employee, and person, because of it.
What are some specific books or blogs that you’ve found to be helpful to your career? Are there other benefits of reading that you’ve discovered in your professional life? Please share below!

Associates of the Month At Work Career Advancement Contests Leadership National Staffing Week

Congratulations Employee of the Year Winners!

By mrsmith on Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Every year, Express Employment Professionals searches North America for the best of the best associates. Across the U.S. and Canada, stories submitted by Express offices and their clients are judged and selected through three rounds of committees. Awarding Express associates at a state, regional, and national level, these employees exude many characteristics that earned them this prestigious award. This year, 43 winners were named and on Wednesday, Sept. 4, their stories will be shared with the world.

Our 2013 winners were judged on multiple factors, including skills development, reliability, honesty, and many more traits that define a “Character of Excellence.” Their stories are just a small insight into what it means to be an exemplary Express associate. Visit ExpressPros.com/EOY to read the bios of Express 2013 Employees of the Year.

Career Advancement Leadership Reader Surveys

Poll: How Do You Think Millennial employees Want to be Managed?

By Rachel Rudisill on Friday, August 30, 2013

A Google search on “Millennials in the workplace” returns more than 2.4 million results, reinforcing the impact this generation is having in the business world. Millennials have proven their ability to contribute in the workplace and mingle with the other generations, but it’s still a hot topic of conversation.

Born between 1980 and the late-1990s, the 80 million members of the Millennial generation are a force to be reckoned with, outnumbering even the Baby Boomers. But when it comes to their desired management style, we want to hear what you think. Vote in our poll to tell us how you think Millennials want to be managed.

At Work Career Advancement Career Options Leadership My Entry-Level Life Networking New Job Tips Salary and Promotions Workplace Relationships

Being A Pro At Being A Professional: 3 Reasons Why Professional Organizations Are Important

By mrsmith on Monday, August 26, 2013

So you landed the big job. You’re officially a “professional.” So, what now? It isn’t time to put your feet up and bask in your accomplishment! Your career development doesn’t just happen overnight, and promotions and raises are earned, not gifted. But, how do you develop yourself? How do you make yourself a valuable commodity not an expendable? Hit the ground running in your career by joining a professional organization. According to the Center for Association Leadership, there are more than 1.9 million organizations currently in the U.S. which means there are plenty to choose from.

Finding the organization that is right for you and your field is important. You may have to do a little research or it may be as simple as asking your coworkers or colleagues what they are a part of. Once you find the organization that covers your field, you may have to pay for a membership, but many employers are willing to pay these dues for you. If they don’t, it’s okay. Just look at the money you spend on dues as an investment – maybe one of the most important investments you will ever make. Now that you’re in and have become part of something larger than yourself, I bet your next question is, “what is this going to get me?” Below are three ways professional organizations can help you grow your career.

Network, Network, Network
Networking can give numerous opportunities to further your career. Rubbing elbows with your peers opens up a forum for idea exchange. This open line of communication can drum up new business, new friendships, great concepts, and maybe even future career opportunities.

Conventional Conventions
Many organizations have one or more conventions every year. At these conventions, there are breakout sessions, keynote speakers, and round tables where you can learn and collaborate with your peers in your industry. These opportunities allow you to grow as a professional as well as stay on the cutting edge of your field, while establishing dialogue with individuals in your field.

Developing the Leader in You
Organizations generally have boards or committees that are in charge of club operations. Becoming a member of the board is often as easy as asking current leaders about opportunities to join the board or committee in charge. Becoming a part of the leadership in an organization can develop important attributes found in great leaders that can help advance your career. Not to mention, your peers will have a front row seat to the display of your leadership skills. The amount of involvement is completely up to you. Since it’s typically a volunteer position with a “term system” similar to our own government, you decide how involved you get. If you’re interested in taking on a more time intensive positions make sure you discuss this interest with your manager, as the more involved you are, the more time intensive the position can be.

These are just a few benefits to being a member of an organization geared toward your industry. If you have another way that your experience in a professional organization has helped you, please share in the comments section below.