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

Dont Waste your Time seeking for a perfect Job

Yesterday, my Brother and I had a conversation about her "future" job. He asked my opinion on what job best suits him. As her elder brother, I said "It's up to you. Go for something you are passionate about. Go for something that will make you happy".

My brother answered back "Maybe I will just wait for a perfect job for me."

His reply really hit me. I wonder how many people around the world thinks like him, believing that a perfect job is worth waiting. How many of them believe that a great opportunity will come for them, not the other way around.

Again, I answered back "You should not be waiting for a perfect job. Instead, you should be searching for it. You will never know that it's the perfect job for you, unless you already got it."

I don't know if my brother was enlightened with these words. I am hoping so.

Maybe some will argue that they became successful because a great chance knocks by their door while they were waiting for it. Well, I say, they must be lucky. Very, very lucky. But life is not only about luck. Not everyone is fortunate like them.

I am not saying that we should not wait for a perfect job because I believe that a perfect job will come to us on its perfect time. Sometimes, it will just knock on your door while you are not expecting it. But it seldom does. My point is, instead of waiting for a perfect job to come for you, then why not go out and search for what's best for you. Maybe the great job is waiting for you.

Remember, life is too short and time is gold. Don't waste your life and time for waiting. Instead, use them to explore.