Have you ever been in a middle of an pitch or even in a conversation in that matter, when the person you are talking to just gets up and walks away? Or fiddles in the chair? Or even looks everywhere but at you? How does this make you feel? Most people feel hurt. The listener acts as though he or she is absolutely not interest in what the speaker has to say or already said. And yet, when it is their turn to talk, they expect, if not demand, attention especially when you are doing sales job in Malaysia.
Have you ever been in a heated conversation and realize that your partner has no idea what you have been saying? It could very well be the manner that you are delivering the argument or speech, or it may even be that your partner is a poor listener. Poor listening skills seem to be the majority and not the minority of fresh graduates. Since Malaysia, in particular those in the sales category is so used to being fast paced in all matters, we often forget how to slow down and just listen.
So how can one learn to be a good listener? Below are some common tips that can help poor listeners work wonders in all situations not only during interviews.
Learn to listen by using lots of eye contact:
Let the speaker know that you are interested in what is being said
Be slow to speak:
Sometimes, people speak to think out loud. Sometimes, all they really want is a shoulder to lean on and a willing ear to listen. By being slow to speak, you are allowing the speaker to work out or solve problems themselves. Also, one must think before he/she speaks
Keep the secret:
People trust you with information because they believe that you will not gossip and spread slander. Keep their trust by keeping things private; between the two of you
Be Attentive:
Learn to actively listen. Let the speaker know that you are actually listening, although you are not speaking, by saying things like, "yeah, hmmm, I know, that's true, okay, that makes sense," and so forth. This shows that you are in tune with what they are saying and also following what they are saying
Show Gratitude:
Let the speaker know that you feel honored that they were able to open up to you. If nothing personal was said, than let the speaker know that you had a great time listening and that you learned a lot. In a society that forgets to show gratitude, a simple use of kind words, can make someone's day a little brighter. Showing kindness and appreciation will also help you with the interviewer
Stay in Tune:
Do not simply disappear in the middle of any conversation because your mind wandered. Whether you actually get up and walk away or let your mind wander elsewhere, it is just being plain rude. If you find that your attention span is small, actively repeat what is being said to you as the speaker is speaking. That makes you one step ahead as someone doing sales job in Malaysia.
Job Tags:
Finance Jobs | HR Jobs | Manufacturing Jobs | Management Jobs
Tampilkan postingan dengan label Job Seeker. Tampilkan semua postingan
Tampilkan postingan dengan label Job Seeker. Tampilkan semua postingan
Selasa, 19 Juli 2011
Rabu, 18 Agustus 2010
Finding Your Voice : Making Your Resume Work for You
The role of a resume has always been subjective. It depends on the owner. Some serves as an identity of the candidate, some serves as the credibility certificate and most, as the communication skills of job seekers finds new low, as the only source of information on the jobseekers.
What is a resume by the way? Originally spelled as résumé, Merriam Webster dictionary defines it as a summary of a set of accomplishments. Answer.com says it is “a brief account of one's professional or work experience and qualifications, often submitted with an employment application”.
It’s time to take another look as one thing is for certain, resume is not your business card to be stored away by employers for future reference, and a resume is your personal assistant that should work for you!
Indeed, it is a summary of you and your qualifications, a tool and a marketing brochure of you and your career. It is true and it is persuasive in its approach and not just a mere template.
Its purpose is simple: to get you an interview!
Your readers
Yes, you have a reader, whether or not you realise it. A writer craves recognition from his or her readers. A sports columnists throws his views and opinions that should intrigue and trigger response to sports enthusiasts, while a political journalist would comment on the current state of the nation to the amusement or the dismay of newspaper readers with a nose for armchair politics.
Likewise, a resume is basically a piece of literature, albeit non-fiction of yours, that should pique the interest of your readers.
Who are your resume readers then?
Well, there are actually two stages of readers. On the first stage occupies human resource (HR) executives and HR Managers. The second stage would see readers such as the hiring managers (big corporations), department heads followed by general managers, managing directors and chief executive officers.
In short, it’s no ordinary bunch of readers you have there…and it shows how much the content of your resume is worth.
Most writers write with readers in their mind. A typical reader would appreciate this and that content; expect this and that issue, can digest this and that conclusion. It is no different with your resume.
The difference here is you have two set of readers. Here the first stage readers (remember, the HR execs and managers) would do a skim-scan, meaning they have no time to delve into details, just quick to the point on whether or not to shortlist you. This is where brevity matters.
Readers Objectives
Their main objective is two:
1. To disqualify as many candidates as possible
2. To shortlist listing candidates
The first objective certainly sounds nasty, but someone has to do it and an ineffective resume, i.e. totally unreadable and messy resume, no matter how great the experience and qualification is, may not appeal to these eyes.
Once cleared, your resume moves on to the second stage where the decision makers reside. Here, they know that the first stage had shortlisted the best possible candidates and their job has become simpler. They simply have to look at the qualification and match experience with requirements and specific needs, and find Best Possible Fit.
So bear that in mind. Your readers come first when it comes to sitting down and drafting that darned resume of yours. It takes a lot of courage to be honest and honesty is what selling many writers out there and there are no reasons why you resume should be different.
What is a resume by the way? Originally spelled as résumé, Merriam Webster dictionary defines it as a summary of a set of accomplishments. Answer.com says it is “a brief account of one's professional or work experience and qualifications, often submitted with an employment application”.
It’s time to take another look as one thing is for certain, resume is not your business card to be stored away by employers for future reference, and a resume is your personal assistant that should work for you!
Indeed, it is a summary of you and your qualifications, a tool and a marketing brochure of you and your career. It is true and it is persuasive in its approach and not just a mere template.
Its purpose is simple: to get you an interview!
Your readers
Yes, you have a reader, whether or not you realise it. A writer craves recognition from his or her readers. A sports columnists throws his views and opinions that should intrigue and trigger response to sports enthusiasts, while a political journalist would comment on the current state of the nation to the amusement or the dismay of newspaper readers with a nose for armchair politics.
Likewise, a resume is basically a piece of literature, albeit non-fiction of yours, that should pique the interest of your readers.
Who are your resume readers then?
Well, there are actually two stages of readers. On the first stage occupies human resource (HR) executives and HR Managers. The second stage would see readers such as the hiring managers (big corporations), department heads followed by general managers, managing directors and chief executive officers.
In short, it’s no ordinary bunch of readers you have there…and it shows how much the content of your resume is worth.
Most writers write with readers in their mind. A typical reader would appreciate this and that content; expect this and that issue, can digest this and that conclusion. It is no different with your resume.
The difference here is you have two set of readers. Here the first stage readers (remember, the HR execs and managers) would do a skim-scan, meaning they have no time to delve into details, just quick to the point on whether or not to shortlist you. This is where brevity matters.
Readers Objectives
Their main objective is two:
1. To disqualify as many candidates as possible
2. To shortlist listing candidates
The first objective certainly sounds nasty, but someone has to do it and an ineffective resume, i.e. totally unreadable and messy resume, no matter how great the experience and qualification is, may not appeal to these eyes.
Once cleared, your resume moves on to the second stage where the decision makers reside. Here, they know that the first stage had shortlisted the best possible candidates and their job has become simpler. They simply have to look at the qualification and match experience with requirements and specific needs, and find Best Possible Fit.
So bear that in mind. Your readers come first when it comes to sitting down and drafting that darned resume of yours. It takes a lot of courage to be honest and honesty is what selling many writers out there and there are no reasons why you resume should be different.
Jumat, 11 September 2009
7 Tips and Resources for Using Social Media - to Make Your Resume Stand Out
Normally 1 job vacancy can attract a lot job seekers apply, the HR department or related Head of department may not have time 1 by 1 go through the entire resume. And using the traditional way to apply job and submit resume and cover letter, the problem is you need to wait for the reply. Wait and wait and wait.
So how to make your resume stand out from other is very important.
Best use the social media, it will added value for your resume. If you build your social media resume properly, you’ll have more job opportunities increases. People cross by your social media site, if they find you are suitable candidate, they will contact you directly. Not necessary must be job vacancy, it can be some freelance works too (can earn some extra income).
By the way, don’t make me wrong, I’m not meant the traditional way is not good. It will be good if combine with the social media; it will make your resume more stand out from crowd.
The Social Media Resume: Making Your Mark in a Web 2.0 World
Very clear explain what social media resume is.
Ten Ways to Use LinkedIn to Find a Job
For those who are not familiar with LinkedIn, this is good for you.
HOW TO: Build the Ultimate Social Media Resume
This useful article is written by Dan Schawbel. Dan Schawbel is the author of Me 2.0: Build a Powerful Brand to Achieve Career Success.
10 Social Media Job Search Tips
Tips for finding a job using Twitter, Blogs, Facebook, YouTube and Search Engine Marketing.
Using Your Blog as a Job Search Tool
Tips for how to use blog to find job.
Social Media + Job Search = Good For You
Useful guideline for how to build social media resume.
Using Social Media Tools to Enhance Your Job Search Strategy
So how to make your resume stand out from other is very important.
Best use the social media, it will added value for your resume. If you build your social media resume properly, you’ll have more job opportunities increases. People cross by your social media site, if they find you are suitable candidate, they will contact you directly. Not necessary must be job vacancy, it can be some freelance works too (can earn some extra income).
By the way, don’t make me wrong, I’m not meant the traditional way is not good. It will be good if combine with the social media; it will make your resume more stand out from crowd.
The Social Media Resume: Making Your Mark in a Web 2.0 World
Very clear explain what social media resume is.
Ten Ways to Use LinkedIn to Find a Job
For those who are not familiar with LinkedIn, this is good for you.
HOW TO: Build the Ultimate Social Media Resume
This useful article is written by Dan Schawbel. Dan Schawbel is the author of Me 2.0: Build a Powerful Brand to Achieve Career Success.
10 Social Media Job Search Tips
Tips for finding a job using Twitter, Blogs, Facebook, YouTube and Search Engine Marketing.
Using Your Blog as a Job Search Tool
Tips for how to use blog to find job.
Social Media + Job Search = Good For You
Useful guideline for how to build social media resume.
Using Social Media Tools to Enhance Your Job Search Strategy
Selasa, 08 September 2009
Maximise Your Interview Opportunity
Maximise Your Interview Opportunity - A Job Interview workshop
Date : 26 September 2009, Saturday
Time : 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
Price: S$28 (incl. 7% GST)
Venue: Level 5, Possibility Room, National Library Building, 100 Victoria Street, Singapore
Date : 26 September 2009, Saturday
Time : 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
Price: S$28 (incl. 7% GST)
Venue: Level 5, Possibility Room, National Library Building, 100 Victoria Street, Singapore
Jumat, 04 September 2009
Jobs Vacancies in IBM Malaysia Sdn Bhd
STOP Interviewing for a Job.
START Interview for a life.
IBM Malaysia: 20++ vacancies open for hiring >>
START Interview for a life.
IBM Malaysia: 20++ vacancies open for hiring >>
Minggu, 23 Agustus 2009
Selasa, 11 Agustus 2009
Jobs Malaysia: Malayan Banking Berhad - Maybank
Executive, Business Continuity Management, ORM, Risk Management
Executive, Strategies & Planning, Network Development, Network Delivery Support
Executive, Product Support, Merchant Support, Merchant Business, Cards
Executive, Credit Risk, Risk Management, Risk & Compliance, Cards
Executive, Business Development
Executive, Strategies & Planning, Network Development, Network Delivery Support
Executive, Product Support, Merchant Support, Merchant Business, Cards
Executive, Credit Risk, Risk Management, Risk & Compliance, Cards
Executive, Business Development
Senin, 10 Agustus 2009
Rabu, 05 Agustus 2009
Tell Me About Yourself
So, tell me about yourself.
The "Tell me about yourself" question is probably as old as dinosaurs but it is also one of the toughest questions to be asked as well. There is no one absolutely right answer to the question, because being an open-ended question, no one could say that you've answered wrongly.
However, in the context of an interview, it would be wiser to conform to the expected answers to the question, as required by the interviewers. All questions are asked with an underlying purpose, because in an interview, time is of essence. No one wants to be wasting time asking silly questions or questions that do not give them any vital information about yourself, unless it's intended for ice-breaking.
"Tell me about yourself" is designed to let you reveal information about your personal achievements, your strong points, your character and how you can actually contribute to the company. This question actually lets you preview your best side to the interviewer, as you will subsequently go on to expand on your answer in the following questions asked by the interviewer.
When asking that question, interviewers are not expecting you to tell them a long-winded story about your life. They need you to tell them the highlights of your career, be it academic or working life. Being extremely interested in singing, and explaining that you often spend your free time unwinding at the karaoke stations in town with a bunch of your friends is not going to help the prospective employer analyse any strong positive points about you that could be converted for the benefits of the company.
Give them the milestones in your life whereby you have managed to overcome some huge obstacles in your life, or have accomplished some major project that could have changed the lives of people around you. Give them something stunning and outstanding about you that would make them want to rope you in to work with them. Tie your achievements to the needs of the company hiring because that would ultimately be what interviewers are looking for-how you could fit in into his team of people and what you could contribute for the company.
But please be prepared to expand on your answers because you are not helping things if you merely slap the interviewer with just a one-sentence answer, such as, "I'm really good with my words.". The next thing that would inevitably pop out in the interviewer's mind would be, "And.?". You need to justify your answers and not leave the interviewer with more question marks concerning you. You could probably say, "I'm really good with my words because I'm really passionate about language and linguistics. I could come up with write-ups or stories really fast, and I could even adjust the tone of my writings to the client's needs, which makes me really versatile with my words."
At times, interviewers may also help you along the way, after having asked this question. But don't be too dependent on it because it may leave the interviewer with the impression that you are not well-prepared.
This, being one of the first questions usually asked during interviews is definitely your best shot at marketing yourself to the prospective employers, because it is the time when you have full control of what comes out of your mouth. Use the opportunity wisely and you may have just talked your way to employment with the company.
The "Tell me about yourself" question is probably as old as dinosaurs but it is also one of the toughest questions to be asked as well. There is no one absolutely right answer to the question, because being an open-ended question, no one could say that you've answered wrongly.
However, in the context of an interview, it would be wiser to conform to the expected answers to the question, as required by the interviewers. All questions are asked with an underlying purpose, because in an interview, time is of essence. No one wants to be wasting time asking silly questions or questions that do not give them any vital information about yourself, unless it's intended for ice-breaking.
"Tell me about yourself" is designed to let you reveal information about your personal achievements, your strong points, your character and how you can actually contribute to the company. This question actually lets you preview your best side to the interviewer, as you will subsequently go on to expand on your answer in the following questions asked by the interviewer.
When asking that question, interviewers are not expecting you to tell them a long-winded story about your life. They need you to tell them the highlights of your career, be it academic or working life. Being extremely interested in singing, and explaining that you often spend your free time unwinding at the karaoke stations in town with a bunch of your friends is not going to help the prospective employer analyse any strong positive points about you that could be converted for the benefits of the company.
Give them the milestones in your life whereby you have managed to overcome some huge obstacles in your life, or have accomplished some major project that could have changed the lives of people around you. Give them something stunning and outstanding about you that would make them want to rope you in to work with them. Tie your achievements to the needs of the company hiring because that would ultimately be what interviewers are looking for-how you could fit in into his team of people and what you could contribute for the company.
But please be prepared to expand on your answers because you are not helping things if you merely slap the interviewer with just a one-sentence answer, such as, "I'm really good with my words.". The next thing that would inevitably pop out in the interviewer's mind would be, "And.?". You need to justify your answers and not leave the interviewer with more question marks concerning you. You could probably say, "I'm really good with my words because I'm really passionate about language and linguistics. I could come up with write-ups or stories really fast, and I could even adjust the tone of my writings to the client's needs, which makes me really versatile with my words."
At times, interviewers may also help you along the way, after having asked this question. But don't be too dependent on it because it may leave the interviewer with the impression that you are not well-prepared.
This, being one of the first questions usually asked during interviews is definitely your best shot at marketing yourself to the prospective employers, because it is the time when you have full control of what comes out of your mouth. Use the opportunity wisely and you may have just talked your way to employment with the company.
Jumat, 31 Juli 2009
Kamis, 30 Juli 2009
Top 10: Interview Mistakes
Most of the time, potential job candidates are not aware of the mistakes they make before and during the interview. These small mistakes that might cost them a job.
Running Late Without Notice
Turning up late for the interview and never calling to say you are running late will not give a good impression to your potential employer. If you are running late, do inform your interviewer and apologize that you are running late and ask if it is possible for you to attend the interview a little bit late or just request for the interview to be rescheduled if that is not possible.
Of course, the worst that could happen which could quash your employment chances is your attitude when you do not even bother to turn up at an interview without calling.
Lack of Preparation
Preparation for an interview includes:
In the event that you are required to attend an interview at short notice and you applied for a job with no company description stated in the ad, keep your cool and ask questions during the interview to know more about the company.
It is recommended that you carry an extra copy of your resumé in your working bag just in case you are called for a job interview during your lunch/tea break at short notice.
Lack of Confidence/Over Confidence
Lack of confidence could be perceived by potential employers as your lack of preparation; being nervous could also be giving the impression that you are trying to cover something or is lying. Being over confident may turn interviewers off as you may be viewed as being too big-headed or you may be viewed as a braggart who talks more than you deliver.
Talking Too Much
It is not wise to talk too much and fail to listen and understand the questions asked. Listen carefully to answer the questions asked, be clear and concise in your answers to show that you understood the question and are not just rambling for the sake of talking. Be specific and respond directly to the questions asked. Be careful with your selection of words and think before you say anything to decide if what you are going to say is necessary or appropriate.
Inappropriate Dressing
Avoid revealing clothes or being underdressed - stick to conventional dressing, i.e. mono colours and minimal accessories.
Body Language
Avoid weak or too strong handshakes, minimal or almost no eye contact with the interviewer and slouching when seated. Keep a straight back when seated and refrain from fidgeting or shaking your legs, twitching your nose, biting your nails or other signs that showed your nervousness. Take a deep breath to remain calm and be aware of your body language. Your body language tells your interviewers more about you than your speech.
Criticising or Slating Your Previous Employers/Company/Colleagues or Complaining About Your Day
No one likes a person who complains, keep in mind that it is not a recommended icebreaker. You are being interviewed to promote yourself as the best possible candidate for the post, not to criticise others or complain about the train/car that broke down on your way to the interview.
Lying or Concealing Information
Never attempt to lie or cover up any vital information, no matter how important you thought it was for you to conceal the information. You may land the job but how long it will be before you are found out?
Failing to Ask Questions
Ask questions to show that you are interested in the job, lack of enthusiasm is a killer of your chances of employment.
Money Talk
Never bring up talk on salary at the beginning of the interview. Only talk about salary or your employment package, i.e. remuneration, benefits, etc. when the interviewer asks you or the matter has not been brought up and the interview is near its end.
Running Late Without Notice
Turning up late for the interview and never calling to say you are running late will not give a good impression to your potential employer. If you are running late, do inform your interviewer and apologize that you are running late and ask if it is possible for you to attend the interview a little bit late or just request for the interview to be rescheduled if that is not possible.
Of course, the worst that could happen which could quash your employment chances is your attitude when you do not even bother to turn up at an interview without calling.
Lack of Preparation
Preparation for an interview includes:
- Research on the background of the company
- Bring along an extra copy of your resumé and relevant supporting documents, just in case
- Be prepared with the answers for possible common interview questions
- Rehearse on your speech, clarity, confidence, etc. prior to the interview
In the event that you are required to attend an interview at short notice and you applied for a job with no company description stated in the ad, keep your cool and ask questions during the interview to know more about the company.
It is recommended that you carry an extra copy of your resumé in your working bag just in case you are called for a job interview during your lunch/tea break at short notice.
Lack of Confidence/Over Confidence
Lack of confidence could be perceived by potential employers as your lack of preparation; being nervous could also be giving the impression that you are trying to cover something or is lying. Being over confident may turn interviewers off as you may be viewed as being too big-headed or you may be viewed as a braggart who talks more than you deliver.
Talking Too Much
It is not wise to talk too much and fail to listen and understand the questions asked. Listen carefully to answer the questions asked, be clear and concise in your answers to show that you understood the question and are not just rambling for the sake of talking. Be specific and respond directly to the questions asked. Be careful with your selection of words and think before you say anything to decide if what you are going to say is necessary or appropriate.
Inappropriate Dressing
Avoid revealing clothes or being underdressed - stick to conventional dressing, i.e. mono colours and minimal accessories.
Body Language
Avoid weak or too strong handshakes, minimal or almost no eye contact with the interviewer and slouching when seated. Keep a straight back when seated and refrain from fidgeting or shaking your legs, twitching your nose, biting your nails or other signs that showed your nervousness. Take a deep breath to remain calm and be aware of your body language. Your body language tells your interviewers more about you than your speech.
Criticising or Slating Your Previous Employers/Company/Colleagues or Complaining About Your Day
No one likes a person who complains, keep in mind that it is not a recommended icebreaker. You are being interviewed to promote yourself as the best possible candidate for the post, not to criticise others or complain about the train/car that broke down on your way to the interview.
Lying or Concealing Information
Never attempt to lie or cover up any vital information, no matter how important you thought it was for you to conceal the information. You may land the job but how long it will be before you are found out?
Failing to Ask Questions
Ask questions to show that you are interested in the job, lack of enthusiasm is a killer of your chances of employment.
Money Talk
Never bring up talk on salary at the beginning of the interview. Only talk about salary or your employment package, i.e. remuneration, benefits, etc. when the interviewer asks you or the matter has not been brought up and the interview is near its end.
Kamis, 23 Juli 2009
Rabu, 22 Juli 2009
Selasa, 14 Juli 2009
9 Tips for Better Online Job Hunting
Job hunt - a "task" that influence your future and life goes without saying that the Internet has drastically changed the way people today hunt for jobs. It's probably been a few years since you've submitted a resume via mail or fax. But even most professionals turn to the Internet for help locating a new position, not all understand the finer points of a Web-based job search.
Following are some tips to keep in mind the next time you look online.
1) Top Job sites
It's prudent to start your job search by visiting top job sites such as JobsDB.com because of the sheer number of listings offered. In addition, employers of all scales and industries are apt to list their job openings on sites with strong brand recognition. If you're at a crossroads in your career or willing to relocate, the big boards offer the widest view of what jobs are currently available.
2) Submit your online resume or ready-made resume
Resume and cover letter are the marketing tools to sell yourself to the employers. Employers will judge you based on your resume. You must ensure that the submitted resume is great and containing the essential details. You may spend some time to fill in your online resume step-by-step. Or, to save your time, you may make use of the resume upload function to upload your ready-made resume to the recruitment site if you have it on hand. The advantages of a full online resume over a ready-made resume is that it guides you through developing a good resume without missing out the important details that all employers would like to know about the candidates. But be mindful of your spelling and grammar when typing information directly onto online forms.
3) Essential of Resume Update regularly
Always get your resume prepared with updated information to tackle every opportunity when great openings present. In order to maximize the opportunity of getting hired, you should regularly update your resume with relevant accomplishments, new job duties, recently achieved certifications, and other similar achievements.
4) Get jobs come to you, Job Alert Subscription
In addition to search the large boards, you may get the jobs come to you by subscribing to service offered by recruitment site - Job Alert! The service allows the job seeker to specialize your preferred job function and suit to your field. Besides, it always keeps you up-to-date on opening or position offered by employers. All you need to do is check your email daily to get the job alert, you may apply directly when suitable job found. Subscribe now to Job Alert!
5) Appropriately utilise quick apply
Most job sites enable users to apply for a position with a simple click of the mouse. But don't blindly apply. Recruitment managers seek tailored resumes that directly tie a job seeker's unique skills and abilities to the requirements of the position. Take the extra time and effort to customize your application materials to each specific opportunity.
6) Be an expert in job hunting
Make yourself full with knowledge of job hunting especially for newcomers to the job market. Guides to write great resume and cover letter, negotiating your salary, tips of attending interview, asking the right question in the interview and so on are the precious intellectual treasures for your career hunting. You may subscribe to e-Newsletter where you can receive lots of useful tips on job hunting. Sometimes, you may find some special messages or special recruitment messages from the employers. So, don't miss them, it is vital! They may change your life. Let's subscribe to e-Newsletter now.
7) Let the resume be searchable
Always keep your resume "open" for searching! A searchable resume will open the door to be head hunted by the potential employers. You don't know when the employers will knock on your door unexpectedly to offer you a job opportunity. Probably you will receive some resume request from employers which are unexpected or you may not be interested on the positions offered. But you can still send a resume and cover letter to the company to widen the opportunity, as anything can happen in future.
8) Scanning oldies for goodies
It is a big mistake to limit your search to positions posted in the last few days. Some positions posted one month ago might still available; especially hard-to-find skills are required. It will be advantageous to focus on oldies opening while most job seekers focusing on recent postings, you may be competing with fewer candidates.
9) Follow up
When job hunting is done online, it's critical that you follow up with prospective employers after applying for a position. If you've submitted your application and haven't heard back from the company, make a call or send an e-mail to verify that the resume was received and to reassert your interest in the position. But it should be done within two weeks of submitting application materials.
An online job hunt shouldn't be the only strategy you use to find a new position while the Internet has revolutionized the way job seekers connect with prospective employers. The best searches combine various approaches, including exploring the services offered by recruiting and staffing firms, touching base with members of your professional network, and participating in industry events where you can hobnob with hiring managers.
Following are some tips to keep in mind the next time you look online.
1) Top Job sites
It's prudent to start your job search by visiting top job sites such as JobsDB.com because of the sheer number of listings offered. In addition, employers of all scales and industries are apt to list their job openings on sites with strong brand recognition. If you're at a crossroads in your career or willing to relocate, the big boards offer the widest view of what jobs are currently available.
2) Submit your online resume or ready-made resume
Resume and cover letter are the marketing tools to sell yourself to the employers. Employers will judge you based on your resume. You must ensure that the submitted resume is great and containing the essential details. You may spend some time to fill in your online resume step-by-step. Or, to save your time, you may make use of the resume upload function to upload your ready-made resume to the recruitment site if you have it on hand. The advantages of a full online resume over a ready-made resume is that it guides you through developing a good resume without missing out the important details that all employers would like to know about the candidates. But be mindful of your spelling and grammar when typing information directly onto online forms.
3) Essential of Resume Update regularly
Always get your resume prepared with updated information to tackle every opportunity when great openings present. In order to maximize the opportunity of getting hired, you should regularly update your resume with relevant accomplishments, new job duties, recently achieved certifications, and other similar achievements.
4) Get jobs come to you, Job Alert Subscription
In addition to search the large boards, you may get the jobs come to you by subscribing to service offered by recruitment site - Job Alert! The service allows the job seeker to specialize your preferred job function and suit to your field. Besides, it always keeps you up-to-date on opening or position offered by employers. All you need to do is check your email daily to get the job alert, you may apply directly when suitable job found. Subscribe now to Job Alert!
5) Appropriately utilise quick apply
Most job sites enable users to apply for a position with a simple click of the mouse. But don't blindly apply. Recruitment managers seek tailored resumes that directly tie a job seeker's unique skills and abilities to the requirements of the position. Take the extra time and effort to customize your application materials to each specific opportunity.
6) Be an expert in job hunting
Make yourself full with knowledge of job hunting especially for newcomers to the job market. Guides to write great resume and cover letter, negotiating your salary, tips of attending interview, asking the right question in the interview and so on are the precious intellectual treasures for your career hunting. You may subscribe to e-Newsletter where you can receive lots of useful tips on job hunting. Sometimes, you may find some special messages or special recruitment messages from the employers. So, don't miss them, it is vital! They may change your life. Let's subscribe to e-Newsletter now.
7) Let the resume be searchable
Always keep your resume "open" for searching! A searchable resume will open the door to be head hunted by the potential employers. You don't know when the employers will knock on your door unexpectedly to offer you a job opportunity. Probably you will receive some resume request from employers which are unexpected or you may not be interested on the positions offered. But you can still send a resume and cover letter to the company to widen the opportunity, as anything can happen in future.
8) Scanning oldies for goodies
It is a big mistake to limit your search to positions posted in the last few days. Some positions posted one month ago might still available; especially hard-to-find skills are required. It will be advantageous to focus on oldies opening while most job seekers focusing on recent postings, you may be competing with fewer candidates.
9) Follow up
When job hunting is done online, it's critical that you follow up with prospective employers after applying for a position. If you've submitted your application and haven't heard back from the company, make a call or send an e-mail to verify that the resume was received and to reassert your interest in the position. But it should be done within two weeks of submitting application materials.
An online job hunt shouldn't be the only strategy you use to find a new position while the Internet has revolutionized the way job seekers connect with prospective employers. The best searches combine various approaches, including exploring the services offered by recruiting and staffing firms, touching base with members of your professional network, and participating in industry events where you can hobnob with hiring managers.
Jumat, 10 Juli 2009
7 Networking Tips for Shy Job Seekers
The word "networking" can strike terror into the hearts of not only shy job seekers but even the confident ones, and even seasoned entrepreneurs. It conjures up images of wandering round a function room, trying to offload your business card to as many people as you can.
However, networking - when done properly - is one of the most important elements of any effective job search strategy. Consider the facts that almost 80% of jobs openings are never advertised, and around 60% of executive vacancies are filled through networking and referrals.
We usually hate the idea of networking because we think it makes us look pushy, fake or just plain desperate. Relax! Nobody is born knowing how to network. Networking is just another skill that can be learned and can be applied throughout your career.
The following tips can help make the process less painful.
1) Start with people you know
Think you don't know anybody? Think about the people you socialize or currently work with, and their friends/partners/relatives. Not only is it less daunting to start with people you know, it is more efficient and effective to build on your existing network rather than try to create a completely new one from scratch. If everyone you know in turn knows another 10 people, you potentially have access to hundreds, even thousands of people.
2) Do not ask for a job
The most important thing to remember is that networking is NOT about asking people for a job. It is about asking people for information, advice or assistance on how or whom to contact that will be able to help find you a job. Also, it is as much about asking what you can do for them as what they can do for you.
3) Do not assume you are being a pest
Do not assume you are bothering the people you contact. Before you assume you are going to be a pest if you try to make contact with someone, think twice. In fact, most people will be glad to hear from you.
4) Enlist a spokesperson
It is good to have an intermediary who acts as a go-between for you if you are hesitant to contact someone you do not know. If someone in your network has given you the name of a colleague, ask your contact to call the person first for you to "warn" them that you'll be calling. Most people are willing to do this.
5) Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse
If you tend to freeze up when meeting someone new, try practising what you are going to say again and again. If you tend to babble when talking on the phone or leaving messages, take some time to plan what you will say before picking up the phone. A written letter or even email of introduction can make the follow-up conversation less nerve-racking if you cannot even get yourself to pick up the phone and make a cold call.
6) Be comfortable in your own skin
Concern about your appearance is a frequent excuse for being reluctant to network, but it need not be. While the "package" you present to others is important, physical attractiveness is not a prerequisite for being a successful networker. If your confidence is undermined by your feelings about your outward appearance, consider fixing what is fixable and learn to make the most of what is not.
7) Just do it
Networking can be difficult, anxiety-provoking and a pain in the neck, but at some point you have to disregard all the excuses, take a deep breath and just do it. Arm yourself with the attitude that there's nothing to lose, but everything to gain!
Do not expect to become a master networker overnight. It takes time, patience, and practice to get good at networking. Be prepared to take baby steps and do not let yourself be discouraged by minor setbacks. Every contact you make, no matter how minor it seems, could be the one to propel you to the next stage of your career.
However, networking - when done properly - is one of the most important elements of any effective job search strategy. Consider the facts that almost 80% of jobs openings are never advertised, and around 60% of executive vacancies are filled through networking and referrals.
We usually hate the idea of networking because we think it makes us look pushy, fake or just plain desperate. Relax! Nobody is born knowing how to network. Networking is just another skill that can be learned and can be applied throughout your career.
The following tips can help make the process less painful.
1) Start with people you know
Think you don't know anybody? Think about the people you socialize or currently work with, and their friends/partners/relatives. Not only is it less daunting to start with people you know, it is more efficient and effective to build on your existing network rather than try to create a completely new one from scratch. If everyone you know in turn knows another 10 people, you potentially have access to hundreds, even thousands of people.
2) Do not ask for a job
The most important thing to remember is that networking is NOT about asking people for a job. It is about asking people for information, advice or assistance on how or whom to contact that will be able to help find you a job. Also, it is as much about asking what you can do for them as what they can do for you.
3) Do not assume you are being a pest
Do not assume you are bothering the people you contact. Before you assume you are going to be a pest if you try to make contact with someone, think twice. In fact, most people will be glad to hear from you.
4) Enlist a spokesperson
It is good to have an intermediary who acts as a go-between for you if you are hesitant to contact someone you do not know. If someone in your network has given you the name of a colleague, ask your contact to call the person first for you to "warn" them that you'll be calling. Most people are willing to do this.
5) Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse
If you tend to freeze up when meeting someone new, try practising what you are going to say again and again. If you tend to babble when talking on the phone or leaving messages, take some time to plan what you will say before picking up the phone. A written letter or even email of introduction can make the follow-up conversation less nerve-racking if you cannot even get yourself to pick up the phone and make a cold call.
6) Be comfortable in your own skin
Concern about your appearance is a frequent excuse for being reluctant to network, but it need not be. While the "package" you present to others is important, physical attractiveness is not a prerequisite for being a successful networker. If your confidence is undermined by your feelings about your outward appearance, consider fixing what is fixable and learn to make the most of what is not.
7) Just do it
Networking can be difficult, anxiety-provoking and a pain in the neck, but at some point you have to disregard all the excuses, take a deep breath and just do it. Arm yourself with the attitude that there's nothing to lose, but everything to gain!
Do not expect to become a master networker overnight. It takes time, patience, and practice to get good at networking. Be prepared to take baby steps and do not let yourself be discouraged by minor setbacks. Every contact you make, no matter how minor it seems, could be the one to propel you to the next stage of your career.
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