As the Breadwinner

Ever since my dad stopped working, we started to experience some financial problems. Or maybe we already have financial difficulties before but i wasn't that aware since i am too young to understand such matters. Well, i cannot blame my dad for this because the situation is simply uncontrollable. He suffered from mild stroke which forced him to give up his work. In exchange, i am the one who took all the responsibilities and became the bread winner of the family. Good thing my father receives monthly disability benefits from both the Government and his previous employer. Being the eldest is really hard. You need to sacrifice a lot for your family. It's hard, Yes but i do not have any regrets. I am doing everything for them wholeheartedly. My parents help me a lot to become a strong person and i would love to bring that courtesy back by simply helping them as much as i can. Hopefully, this year will give me so much blessings. Right now, i am able to manage both of my school and work. I am earning quite good from my freelance web writing job and hopefully this year, i will receive more offers and opportunities especially now that i am planning to buy something for my self. I know it's kinda selfish but I guess sometimes i have to treat my self to motivate me and help me keep going. And if ever i got a chance, i will be joining some cash gifting programs to earn more this year. Well, wish me luck guys!

Acing Job Interviews

Fresh graduates will now hunt for jobs in different industries. It is an opportunity to grow and apply all the things that we learn from school. It also means another group of people will add the unemployment rate in our country.

So what must we do in order for us not to be part of the unemployed group? How can we wow the company we wish to work with? Better follow these tips:

Company Research
Research should always be your first step. Gathering background information on employers is a crucial element in successful interview preparation. You will need to be prepared to answer the questions "What do your know about our company"? and "Why do you want to work here?" Knowing as much as possible about the company's past performance and future plans can make your interview more interactive and could be just the leg up you need in a competitive job market. Before the interview review the company's web site and don't be afraid to contact your prospective employer to request details on the position you are interviewing for or to ask for company literature.

Practice Makes Perfect
Practice makes perfect (or at least leads to improvement). Practice with a friend and record or videotape your responses so you can replay the interview and see how well you did. Prepare answers to commonly asked interview questions. Doing so will help you analyze your background and qualifications for the position.

Behavioral Interviews
Behavior based interviewing is becoming more common. It is based on the premise that a candidates past performance is the best predictor of future performance. Rather than the typical interview questions on your background and experience, you will you need to be prepared to provide detailed responses including specific examples of your work experiences.
The best way to prepare is to think of examples where you have successfully used the skills you've acquired. Take the time to compile a list of responses to both types of questions and to itemize your skills, values, and interests as well as your strengths and weaknesses. Emphasize what you can do to benefit the company rather than just what you are interested in. Also prepare a list of questions you want to ask the interviewer. Remember, you aren't simply trying to get the job - you are also interviewing the employer to assess whether this company and the position are a good fit for you.

Prepare For the Interview
It is very important to be on time for the interview. On time means ten to fifteen minutes early. If need be, take some time to drive to the office ahead of time so you know exactly where you are going. Know the interviewer's name and use it during the interview. If your not sure of the name, call and ask prior to the interview. Remember to bring an extra copy of your resume and a list of references.

Stay Calm
During the interview try to remain as calm as possible. Ask for clarification if you're not sure what's been asked and remember that it is perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to frame your responses so you can be sure too fully answer the question.
End the interview with a thank you to the interviewer and reiterate your interest in the position. Then follow-up with a personal Thank You note restating your interest.

By following the tips above, you're sure to land to your dream job

Practice Before your Job Interview

I used to hear this from my parents, friends, and school teachers. I still hear this until now, especially when I do something I am not used to.

I remember when I had my first job interview. My friends keep on reminding me that I should keep on practicing in front of a mirror, pretending as if my reflection was my interviewer. I did, and it helped me a lot to be composed and confident during the real interview.

Practice makes perfect indeed.

Here are several pointers I can share on how to practice before your job interview, which really helped me. Hope they will worked for you, too. These tips were actually intended for my sister, but I decided posting it here hoping that someone who is afraid of job interviews may happen to read this post ;D

1. If you're nervous about speaking up, practice with good friends, with a family member, or in front of a mirror.
2. While practicing, don't twirl your hair, bite your nails, or rock back and forth. Sit back straight. Relax.
3. Try to be professional and serious while having your practice. Pretend that it was a real interview and observe yourself.
4. If you practice with a friend or a family member, ask them your points of improvement, and then work it out.
5. Watch the local news and observe how the anchor talks. Try to imitate her or him, but not too hard.

Most importantly, while having your "real" interview, remember these:

1. Before entering the room, breathe deeply. Relax.
2. Look the interviewer in the eye.
3. Hold your head up with confidence.
4. Avoid mumbling and saying "um" and "uh" when you speak.
5. When you state your answer or opinion, speak clearly, calmly, and confidently.

Good Luck!