interview | Journey

Home/ interview

Tag Archives: interview

Ask a Recruiter: How to Build a List of References

By Job Journey on Friday, March 20, 2015

Navigating the job search, acing interviews, and creating resumes can be challenging. We know there’s a lot to learn about these processes, and we want to help you by answering your questions. Our very own industry experts at Express Employment Professionals are posting their recruitment and hiring answers right here on the Movin’ On Up blog.

Question:
In the second installment of our new series, “Ask a Recruiter,” we’re excited to feature a question from Movin’ On Up reader Anthony.

Anthony asks, “What do you do if you were terminated from a job and when you ask for a reference, the manager says they can’t give you a reference, only a phone number to call for verification of employment?”

Answer:
In an ideal situation, your previous employer would provide your potential employer with all the details needed for you to land your next dream job. However, most companies don’t offer specific details about previous employees – regardless of whether you left the company after termination, down-sizing, or by choice.

Employers do this to protect both their company and you. If an employer is called to provide information about a previous employee, they must be careful to provide factual and well-documented information. To avoid claims of defamation and to restrict giving out any confidential or protected information, many companies have strict policies in place about providing references for past employees. Some companies will only share basic information, like the length of employment or positions held.

Keep in mind that when an inquiry call is made about a previous employee, some companies send these calls straight to the Human Resources department. From there, only your dates of employment along with other small details are released.

I’m betting your previous manager doesn’t have a choice but to direct people to HR to handle referrals. Instead of listing your manager as a reference, I would consider asking a previous co-worker to be a referral. If you worked together at the same company, they can talk about your work ethic and what it was like to work alongside you.

Since the information shared from company to company varies, it’s generally unknown what a potential employer may be able to learn through a reference. Play it safe by choosing references who can easily speak about your experience and skills as they relate to your job performance. These people may include previous teachers, co-workers, or mentors. And remember to ask for permission from anyone you list as a reference so they are prepared for calls from your potential employers.

Thanks for asking, Anthony! And thank you to Blake Whisenant from Express for providing the answer!

Do you have a question about the job search, hiring, or recruiting process? Now’s your chance to have your question answered by industry professionals who find, interview, and hire people every day. Ask your question in the comments section below and check back soon to read what our experts have to say!

Check out previous installments in the “Ask a Recruiter” series:

How to Document Short-Term Jobs on Your Resume

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

Reader Surveys

The Results Are In: What Causes Communication Breakdown in Your Job Search?

By Job Journey on Wednesday, March 11, 2015

There are a number of factors that can make or break your chances of landing a job. Your resume, the interview, and how you follow up with potential employers can positively or negatively affect your job search.

One factor that plays a significant role in your job search is communication. Clear and concise communication is important in all areas of your life, and your job search is no exception. Since communication is such a big factor in landing a job, we asked Movin’ On Up readers what causes communication breakdown in their job search.

What Readers Think
With 35% of the votes, “lack of follow up from the interviewer” was the number one answer to what causes communication breakdown. “Unclear job postings” earned 22% of the vote, followed by “unmotivated workers/interviewers” with 12%.

Other answers included “the job application” with 7% of the votes and “poor leadership” with 5%. “Stress” also earned 5% of the votes, and “lack of planning” received 3%.

Additionally, 10% of respondents selected the “Other” option in our poll and left responses including:

Poor interviewer planning
No response to applications
Online applications, which remove personal communication
Use of internet to screen applicants

What Leaders Think
Interestingly, in a similar poll on Refresh Leadership, the Express blog for business leaders, the areas of communication breakdown don’t seem to match for employers and job seekers. While “poor leadership” only received 5% of job seekers votes, it was the number one response from business leaders (33%). Likewise, the number one response from job seekers was “lack of follow up” with 35% of the votes, while only 10% of business leaders selected this option.

Since the number one factors causing communication breakdown seem to be very different for job seekers than they are for business leaders, it’s no surprise that there may be a lack of communication in the job search. To help you better your chances of landing a job, take a look at the factors Movin’ On Up readers selected. If lack of follow up from an interviewer is affecting your job search, take the lead and follow up with them yourself. If unclear job postings are holding you back, reach out to the recruiter or hiring manager and ask for clarification. Doing so shows you have a clear interest in the job.

Likewise, take into consideration what business leaders are experiencing. Many business leaders reported that unmotivated workers were a source of communication breakdown, so break the mold by showing motivation and interest in the job. Show up to your interview on time, have an excellent resume ready, and follow up with the interviewer frequently.

How do you plan to use these results to help with your job search? Let us know in the comments section below!

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

Uncategorized

5 Tips to Communicate with Hiring Managers

By Job Journey on Monday, March 9, 2015

Some job seekers think a top-notch resume is everything they need to seal the deal on a new career opportunity. It’s definitely part of the process, serving as your go to tool to help get your foot in the door at a company and hopefully land an interview with a hiring manager. But, once you land the interview, the real pressure begins. An interview usually means that you’re a top candidate for a job but are still in competition with a few other equally qualified individuals.

So, how do you become the standout applicant who gets the offer? Here are a few top tips on what hiring managers are looking for and how to communicate with them to increase your chances for success.

1. Be professional.
From your very first email or phone call with a hiring manager to the end of your interview process, you are being observed for your professionalism. In all communication, respond in a timely manner, check your spelling on emails, and keep your tone kind and business focused rather than personal. Once you have been asked to come in for an interview, brush up beforehand on your business etiquette tips and ways to dress to impress. Remember to arrive 10 minutes early with extra copies of your resume and a notepad in hand. Your goal should be to make a great first impression and then continue impressing those you meet.

2. Be genuine and show your personality.
Hiring managers are going to work with you if you get the job and are also going to be held responsible for hiring you, too. So they want to make sure you’re a good fit for the company’s culture and the team you’d be working with. Being in competition with other applicants who are also trying to make a great impression, you need to show the hiring manager why you’re the best fit. Connect with their personality during the interview and the odds will be more in your favor.

3. Know your motivations.
A hiring manager is curious about your motivations. Why are you looking for a new job? Why are you applying for this job? Why do you want to work for this company? What are your biggest career motivators? Be ready to speak to these questions honestly, positively, and professionally. A hiring manager will also check to make sure what you say matches up with the research they’ve done on you and what your references say about you.

4. Do your homework.
The interviewer wants to test your knowledge about the company and the job you’re interested in. You should be prepared to talk about what they do, know how long the company has been in business, if there are multiple locations, and what types of programs they offer. You’ll also want to be ready to explain how your skills fit the position and duties of the job. Do your homework in advance and know why you’re the best candidate for the company.

5. Follow-up after your interview.
If you really want the job you applied for, don’t forget to send a thank you to the hiring manager. They took time out of their day to meet with you, so the least you can do is thank them. Although it’s great to write a thank you and mail it, that takes a little time. A nice email sent a few hours after your interview will accomplish the same objective of letting them know you appreciate the time they took to interview you.

Share some key points you learned about the position and the organization, re-emphasize why your abilities are a great fit, and communicate your excitement about potentially joining the team. Hiring managers are waiting for this information to see if you’re seriously interested.

Hiring managers want what’s best for their company so keep these tips in mind and you’ll be well prepared to ace the interview.

Do you have any other advice on how to communicate with hiring managers? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

Uncategorized

3 Interview Questions That Should Never Stress You Out

By Job Journey on Friday, February 13, 2015

Before a job interview, it’s common to feel anxious about what you could be asked and wonder what kind of curve-ball questions might be thrown your way. However, as a Forbes article reveals, “it turns out, most companies will ask more common interview questions.” And that means during your prep time the night before your interview, you can prepare yourself for many of the questions that could be asked.

Realistically, it would probably take too much time and effort to practice answering all the common interview questions. But, when Forbes, U.S. News, and Monster published their most common interview questions lists, there were three questions that consistently appeared near the top of all three lists. So, if you want to make a good impression and take some of the stress out interviewing, make sure you’re at least ready to respond to these three questions.

Why are you leaving your current job?
Yes, it may be the all-time most dreaded question, but you better have your answer ready. Monster recommends that your response focuses on what you’re looking for in this new position. For instance, the article suggested, “After two years, I made the decision to look for a company that is team-focused, where I can add my experience.” U.S. News advocates that you can also cite new challenges that you’re seeking, a recent move, financial instability at your former employer, and other true reasons. They suggest avoiding badmouthing employers or complaining about work. The same applies if you’re unemployed and the interviewer is asking why you left your previous job. The number one thing to remember is to stay truthful and positive.

Why do you want to work here?
While this one might seem easy to answer, you want to answer it well. Simply saying you just need a job, paycheck, or health insurance isn’t going to impress the potential employer. “Your answer here should focus on what about the substance of the role most interests you,” U.S. News explains. “Interviewers want to hire people who have carefully considered whether this is a job they’d be glad to work at every day, and that means focusing on the work itself, not what the job can do for you.” So, as you prepare your answer to this question, think back to the key tasks and responsibilities listed in the job description and specifically pinpoint what piqued your interest.

Why should we hire you?
This question is your chance to sell your skills and experience to the employer and to convince them that you will benefit their organization. As U.S. News amply explains, “If you don’t know the answer to that, it’s unlikely that your interviewer will figure it out either.” Of all the questions, this is the one you must be ready to answer. By combining your “elevator speech” with the specific details you know about the employer and position, you should be able to present your abilities and experience as a solution to the company’s needs.

There are plenty of reasons to feel nervous about a job interview, but being anxious because you’re unprepared for the questions shouldn’t be one of them. And, Monster agrees – “Too many job seekers stumble through interviews as if the questions are coming out of left field. But many interview questions are to be expected.” So spend a little time thinking through potential questions and formulating your responses. Not only will you be more likely to impress the interviewer and move on to a second interview, you’ll also be less stressed and better able to spot the signs that the interview has gone well.

How do you prepare for common interview questions? Let us know in the comments section below!

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

Career Advancement

Do You Have What It Takes to Play On A Championship Team?

By Job Journey on Friday, January 30, 2015

Excitement is growing each day as we get closer and closer to the kickoff of the big game. Friends are planning parties and fans are picking sides. And in the spirit of one of the world’s largest sporting events – it’s time to put your game face on and attack your job search. Here are five tips to help you become a champion in the job search competition.

Develop a Game Plan
Research companies you would like to work for and develop a plan of action to be part of their team. The most obvious search would be the company’s website to see if the company culture aligns with your values. Consider asking friends who might work at the company or individuals you might know through professional networking organizations. Execute your plan daily with determination, drive, and passion.

Fundamentals are Key
In football and in life, fundamentals are key. You need to practice your skills to make sure you are sharp and ready for any assignment. If you are just entering the workforce and don’t have the experience yet, consider volunteering with a nonprofit to gain some valuable skills like organization, time management, and team building. Or, if you are in the workforce and are looking for a change, you may need to think about career technical school or night school to acquire a new set of skills.

Outplay Your Competition
After you’ve practiced, sharpened your skills, and executed your plan, you’re set to outplay your competition. Here are some suggestions that can set you apart from the competition: dress appropriately for the interview, know what employers may ask in an interview, and be on time. Once you have an interview, make sure you follow up with a thank-you note to the interviewer.

Go Long
It’s 4^th down and inches and you are faced with a choice: do you go for it or punt. If you are willing to take a risk on a new job opportunity, but still have questions, it’s okay to ask the interviewer questions. You may consider asking what does a normal workday for this position look like or what is the biggest challenge someone in this position typically faces.

Leave Everything on the Field
You’ve prepared for that dream job and got an offer, now what do you do? Make sure you are on time for work and for meetings, work hard to hit your deadlines, and contribute solutions to projects at hand. Above all, work hard and celebrate with your new championship team.

What are some ways that you attacked your job search with a game plan and landed on the championship team? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

Job Interviews

Getting Past the Recruiter

By Job Journey on Monday, December 22, 2014

Making it past that initial job application phase to reach an interview is one of the biggest hurdles job seekers face. It can feel like you’re sending your information into a black hole. And, more often than not, you probably never hear anything back.

It is possible, though, to make it past the recruiter and land an interview, and eventually the job. So we asked Joe Paquette, a hiring professional and consultant at Express Employment Professionals, what job seekers need to know about getting past the recruiter. And here’s what he had to say:

“We all submit our resumes to a website and then cross our fingers and wait,” Joe shared. “But, the truth is, you may never make it to the recruiter’s desk. There might be hundreds of applications.”

However, there is a way to overcome that – you have to make an impression. “When a recruiter goes to open a job application, they’re instantly looking for something that sparks their attention,” Joe said.

Specifically, Joe has found three ways job seekers can make that necessary impression.

1. Use the Right Lingo
When filling out an application, use the buzz words or keywords used in the company’s description of the position, Joe explained. Also, take those same words and phrases and include them in your resume. For instance, if you’ve been using certain descriptive phrases for your past job responsibilities, but the job description describes the same responsibilities slightly different, rewrite your information to mirror what the employer is looking for. “You don’t want to lie or mislead the recruiter,” clarified Joe. “But you want something that immediately alerts the recruiters that you have the experience they want.” This also applies to job titles. If your former title was Lead Accountant, but the hiring employer refers to the same type of position as Staff Accountant, include both titles in your application and resume.

2. Find An Advocate
After you apply through the company’s normal job application process, ask a current employee you might know to forward your information to the recruiter. “Usually, especially at bigger companies, you can find someone you know who will speak on your behalf,” Joe encouraged. “This sets you apart from everyone else in the queue.” And, yes, it is okay that the recruiter will receive your information twice. Once they get the referral from your contact, they’ll look back through all the applications and pull yours to the top of the pile.

3. Make A Connection
You need to make it your goal to have direct contact with the recruiter after you’ve submitted your application, explained Joe. If you have a contact at the company, then get the recruiter’s name, email, and phone number. You may have to do your homework through social media and internet searches to find their contact information if you don’t know another employee there. In your call or email to the recruiter, you can provide a list of references or describe in a few paragraphs specifically how your experience matches the job description. “Anytime you can take that second step and draw the line to connect your experience to the job, that’s what you need to do,” confirmed Joe. “Just don’t become a stalker – only make one connection and then leave them alone.”

Getting past the recruiter is possible; it just takes some extra effort. “The main thing, though,” Joe said, “is to not give up.”

Keep applying to the jobs that match your experience and interest, and eventually your effort will pay off.

How do you ensure your application or resume is seen by the recruiter? Let us know in the comments section below!

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.

Job Interviews

Give Thanks: The Importance of Following Up

By Job Journey on Wednesday, November 26, 2014

The big job interview you’ve been stressing over and preparing for is done, and now you can breathe a sigh of relief. However, if you think your part in the interview process is done and you’re just waiting to hear back, you’re missing out on a great opportunity to shine.

As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s important to think about how you can show gratitude in all areas of your life. For example, giving thanks after an interview could be the deciding factor in a job offer. According to some studies, only 10% of job candidates follow up after a job interview with a thank-you letter. Don’t assume the interviewer knows you are thankful – take the time to actually express your gratitude. If you’re among that 10%, you have the perfect opportunity to stand out.

So, how do you handle this important post-interview correspondence? Give thanks by using these six tips below.

1. Follow up quickly.

As soon as your job interview is over, send a follow-up email or letter to the company. Following up is a critical step in showing your continued interest, but don’t pester the recruiter. A carefully written thank-you note or email will help keep your name at the top of recruiters’ lists.

2. Make the message personal.

Don’t send a standard thank-you template to every person who interviews you. Find the significant points you discussed in the interview and mention the little details you learned about the company and the interviewer. This shows that you not only paid attention during the job interview, but remembered what the company thinks is important.

3. Always say thank you.

The first line of your message should always start with sincere gratitude for the time and interest of the interviewer. After that, be specific about how your experience and skills can benefit the company. Add any other skills that you didn’t get a chance to talk about during the interview, and end the message with another heartfelt thanks.

4. Fit into the culture.

When crafting your message, consider the company culture. If the company is more traditional, craft your thank-you letter in a more formal manner with a hand-written thank-you note or business letter. In some instances, an email may be more appropriate.

5. Proofread and proofread again.

Before you send your thank-you note, proofread it. Then proofread it again. Have a friend or family member proofread it after that. A well-written thank you falls flat if your note is full of errors or if you spelled the interviewer’s name wrong. Be conscientious when crafting your thank-you letter.

6. Follow up, but don’t pester.

Once you’ve sent your first thank-you message, allow for a week to pass before contacting the company again. During your interview, you may also ask for a general time frame as to when to expect an answer. If you didn’t get the job, request feedback on how to improve your interview skills, and follow up any feedback with another thank-you message.

You can’t go wrong by expressing thanks. Whether you aced the interview or bombed it, you at least had the chance to show off your potential. Interviews are stressful for both the job seeker and the employer, but a well-crafted and sincere thank-you note can ease the agony of waiting to hear back.

What tips do you have when following up after a job interview? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Movin’ On Up is brought to you by Express Employment Professionals.