What are the company's strengths and weaknesses compared to its competition?
•
How important does upper management consider the function of this department/position?
•
What is the organization's plan for the next five years, and how does this department fit in?
•
Could you explain your organizational structure?
•
How will my leadership responsibilities and performance be measured? By whom?
•
What are the day-to-day responsibilities of this job?
•
Could you describe your company's management style and the type of employee who fits well with it?
•
What are some of the skills and abilities necessary for someone to succeed in this job?
•
What is the company's policy on providing seminars, workshops, and training so employees can keep up their skills or acquire new ones?
•
What particular computer equipment and software do you use?
•
What kind of work can I expect to be doing the first year?
•
What percentage of routine, detailed work will I encounter?
•
How much opportunity is there to see the end result of my efforts?
•
Who will review my performance? How often?
•
How much guidance or assistance is made available to individuals in developing career goals?
•
How much opportunity will I have for decision-making in my first assignment?
•
Can you describe an ideal employee?
•
What is your organization's policy on transfers to other cities?
RESOURCE
http://www.career.vt.edu/JOBSEARC/interview/AskQues.htm
Monday, August 31, 2009
Question you should not ask during interview
1) What does your company do? This question is extremely common. When you ask a question like this to a potential employer it shows a complete lack of effort on your part to take 2 minutes of your time and do some research on the company.
2) What are your psychiatric benefits? This is not a joke. I was actually asked this question. What ever your personal issues are they need to stay exactly that, personal. This is a question to be addressed confidentially with the insurance company.
3) Can you guarantee me that I will have a job a year from now? There are no guarantees in life. Can you guarantee to an employer that you will still be working their in a year? Of course not. So why would you expect that from an employer?
4) The job description mentions weekend work. Would I really have to do that? If it is in the job description it is part of the job.
5) I'm not really a morning person. Is it really important that I be here at 8 am? Once again if it is in the job description it is part of the job. If some one is already whining about the requirements of a position before they even have it, are they going to be a good fit?
6) When can I take time off? How much time off do I get? These are also very common questions you should not ask on a job interview. All of this information will be laid out in a job offer. By asking these questions to the interviewer during the job interview process you are showing more interest in taking time off from work then the job at hand.
7) Gee, how long is this interview going to take? A general rule of thumb is; the longer a interview takes the better it is going. If you are already whining about putting some extra effort in before you have the job, why would they want to hire you?
8) If I don't like my boss here, what can I do to change that? Not work there.
9) How can you determine my qualifications in a short interview? Insulting the interviewers ability to do their job usually is NOT the best way to score a second interview.
10) Would anyone notice If I come in late and leave early? If you are already trying to figure out ways to shrug your responsibilities before you have a position it is usually not going to be a good fit.
11) What is the zodiac sign of your company's president? Just plain inappropriate.
12 )How many (insert the name of any ethnic group) do you have working here? Once again, just plain inappropriate. If you need an explanation you really need to join us in the 21st century.
13) What does this company consider a good absenteeism record? If you are trying to figure out with the interviewer during the job interview how many times you can call out before you get fired they will probably not hire you for the position.
RESOURCE
http://www.jpcservicesinc.com/never_ask_questions.html
2) What are your psychiatric benefits? This is not a joke. I was actually asked this question. What ever your personal issues are they need to stay exactly that, personal. This is a question to be addressed confidentially with the insurance company.
3) Can you guarantee me that I will have a job a year from now? There are no guarantees in life. Can you guarantee to an employer that you will still be working their in a year? Of course not. So why would you expect that from an employer?
4) The job description mentions weekend work. Would I really have to do that? If it is in the job description it is part of the job.
5) I'm not really a morning person. Is it really important that I be here at 8 am? Once again if it is in the job description it is part of the job. If some one is already whining about the requirements of a position before they even have it, are they going to be a good fit?
6) When can I take time off? How much time off do I get? These are also very common questions you should not ask on a job interview. All of this information will be laid out in a job offer. By asking these questions to the interviewer during the job interview process you are showing more interest in taking time off from work then the job at hand.
7) Gee, how long is this interview going to take? A general rule of thumb is; the longer a interview takes the better it is going. If you are already whining about putting some extra effort in before you have the job, why would they want to hire you?
8) If I don't like my boss here, what can I do to change that? Not work there.
9) How can you determine my qualifications in a short interview? Insulting the interviewers ability to do their job usually is NOT the best way to score a second interview.
10) Would anyone notice If I come in late and leave early? If you are already trying to figure out ways to shrug your responsibilities before you have a position it is usually not going to be a good fit.
11) What is the zodiac sign of your company's president? Just plain inappropriate.
12 )How many (insert the name of any ethnic group) do you have working here? Once again, just plain inappropriate. If you need an explanation you really need to join us in the 21st century.
13) What does this company consider a good absenteeism record? If you are trying to figure out with the interviewer during the job interview how many times you can call out before you get fired they will probably not hire you for the position.
RESOURCE
http://www.jpcservicesinc.com/never_ask_questions.html
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Types of interview
After reading this segment, you will be able to:
Identify the predominant types of interviews used by employers
Introduction
Since the interview is the last phase in the selection process, employers use interviewing styles that assist in revealing those attributes of the candidate that are most essential for the job and most beneficial to the organization. Interviews can be conducted one on one, in a panel, or as a group.
Interviews can be informal or formal, relaxed or stressful, directed or undirected.
The key to preparing for an interview is to find out before the interview how the interview will be conducted. You can do this by asking the following questions when the interview is being scheduled:
- How many people will be interviewing me?
- Will I be the only person interviewed at one time?
- What kind of questions will be asked?
How can I best prepare for this interview?
Becoming familiar with different types of interviews will give you a chance to be better prepared.
Assorted Interviews
Here are descriptions of the most common types of interviews:The Exploratory or Information Interview
The exploratory or information interview is used as a screening and fact-finding tool for you, the candidate. This interview is used to find out about a company as a potential place to work, including its corporate culture, organizational structure, and future growth,
learn about an occupation, including the educational requirements, experience needed, and responsibilities involved in doing a job, and find out about the hiring trends, positions available, and application procedures.
Carefully select the questions you will ask so that you can obtain practical information. Be prepared to leave your résumé for future reference. As for any interview, be sure to follow up with a thank you letter.
To find out how to conduct an information interview, read Information Interviews on this Website.
The Directed Interview
The directed or directive interview involves the interviewer using an outline and asking specific questions within a certain time frame. The interviewer works from a checklist and takes notes. This type of interview is impersonal and seeks to reveal facts.
The Undirected Interview
The undirected or non-directive interview is unstructured and allows candidates to discuss their qualifications openly. This interview gives candidates a measure of control over the interview, providing for an opportunity to concentrate on strengths and to show leadership and organizational abilities.
The Panel Interview
- The supervisor
- The manager
- A union representative
- A human resources officer
- An employment equity officer
- Employees from the department that is hiring
Typically, members of the panel will ask one question that represents their area of concern. To succeed at this type of interview, it is best to anticipate and prepare for questions on a variety of issues related to the organization and to the occupation. Thorough company and occupational research will help you to prepare for such interviews. For more information on doing employment-related research, visit Researching Employment on this site.
The Group Interview
The group interview is used by some large companies or organizations for graduate intakes when several graduates are interviewed at one time. This interview can last from two hours to a day or longer and usually includes a group problem-solving exercise.
The interviewers may ask questions in an unstructured manner; therefore, the questions and comments may be unrelated to one another. This type of interview is used to:
- Observe how candidates react under pressure
- Evaluate how individuals interact with people with different personalities
- Test for communication skills
- Assess the "fit" with the group
It is wise to seek the advice of someone who has experienced this type of interview before engaging in this process.
The Sequential Interview
Some interviews are sequenced over a longer period, such as a half or full day. These interviews are used as an assessment tool. The first stage may begin with a panel interview, followed by a tour around the company (during which the assessment continues). The interview sequence may then conclude with another interview when you may be asked questions that test your creativity or your "fit" within the organization.
Further, you may be invited to more than one interview; for instance, the first may be an overall screening, followed by some form of assessment, then a post-assessment follow-up.
The Stress Interview
The stress interview intentionally creates and promotes discomfort. The interviewer may have an abrupt or brash attitude. Alternately, the interviewer may stare, be silent, and spend time taking notes. The purpose of this type of interview is to test the candidate's ability to be assertive and handle difficult situations.
The Behavioural Interview
Become familiar with various types of interviews, as you may encounter interviewers who blend styles to suit the interview objectives and to test for employment readiness.
RESOURCE
http://ilearn.senecac.on.ca/careers/interviews/types.html
Job application letter for FESTO SDN BHD in position SALES ENGINEER-TRAINING EQUIPMENT
No 39 Jalan 4,
Taman Titiwangsa,
43100 Hulu Langat,
Selangor Darul Ehsan.
has_cicak17@yahoo.com
Festo Sdn Bhd
No. 10, Persiaran Industri,
Bandar Sri Damansara,
52200 Kuala Lumpur,
Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia
Phone : 6-03-62868000
Fax :6-03-62756411
http://www.festo.com/my
Dear Mr.
I would like you to consider my qualifications for the position of Saler Engineer-Equipment Trainning with your company. I am fresh graduate from University Technology Mara(UiTM)
Details my in Mechanical Engineering are provided in the enclosed resume.
May I have an interview with you to discuss your position and my qualifications? My address and phone number are listed on the resume.
Sincerely yours,
Hasnizam Bin Haliza
Taman Titiwangsa,
43100 Hulu Langat,
Selangor Darul Ehsan.
has_cicak17@yahoo.com
Festo Sdn Bhd
No. 10, Persiaran Industri,
Bandar Sri Damansara,
52200 Kuala Lumpur,
Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia
Phone : 6-03-62868000
Fax :6-03-62756411
http://www.festo.com/my
Dear Mr.
I would like you to consider my qualifications for the position of Saler Engineer-Equipment Trainning with your company. I am fresh graduate from University Technology Mara(UiTM)
Details my in Mechanical Engineering are provided in the enclosed resume.
May I have an interview with you to discuss your position and my qualifications? My address and phone number are listed on the resume.
Sincerely yours,
Hasnizam Bin Haliza
INTERPERSONAL
Interpersonal compatibility is a concept that describes the long-term interaction between two or more individuals in terms of the ease and comfort of communication.
Interpersonal communication is defined by communication scholars in numerous ways, usually describing participants who are dependent upon one another and have a shared history. Communication channels, the conceptualization of mediums that carry messages from sender to receiver, take two distinct forms: direct and indirect.
Direct channels are obvious and easily recognized by the receiver. Both verbal and non-verbal information is completely controlled by the sender. Verbal channels rely on words, as in written or spoken communication. Non-verbal channels encompass facial expressions, controlled body movements (police present hand gestures to control traffic), color (red signals 'stop', green signals 'go'), and sound (warning sirens).
Indirect channels are usually recognized subconsciously by the receiver, and are not always under direct control of the sender. Body language, comprising most of the indirect channel, may inadvertently reveal one's true emotions, and thereby either unintentionally taint or bolster the believability of any intended verbal message. Subconscious reception and interpretation of these signals is often described with arbitrary terms like gut-feeling, hunch, or premonition.
Context refers to the conditions that precede or surround the communication. It consists of present or past events from which the meaning of the message is derived, though it may also, in the case of written communications, depend upon the statements preceding and following the quotation in question. Immediate surroundings may also color the perceived meaning of words; normally safe discourse may easily become contextually ambiguous or offensive in a restroom or shower hall. These influences do not constitute the message by themselves, but rather these extraneous nuances subtly change the message's effective meaning. Ultimately, context includes the entire world, but usually refers to salient factors such as the following:
Interpersonal communication is defined by communication scholars in numerous ways, usually describing participants who are dependent upon one another and have a shared history. Communication channels, the conceptualization of mediums that carry messages from sender to receiver, take two distinct forms: direct and indirect.
Direct channels are obvious and easily recognized by the receiver. Both verbal and non-verbal information is completely controlled by the sender. Verbal channels rely on words, as in written or spoken communication. Non-verbal channels encompass facial expressions, controlled body movements (police present hand gestures to control traffic), color (red signals 'stop', green signals 'go'), and sound (warning sirens).
Indirect channels are usually recognized subconsciously by the receiver, and are not always under direct control of the sender. Body language, comprising most of the indirect channel, may inadvertently reveal one's true emotions, and thereby either unintentionally taint or bolster the believability of any intended verbal message. Subconscious reception and interpretation of these signals is often described with arbitrary terms like gut-feeling, hunch, or premonition.
Context refers to the conditions that precede or surround the communication. It consists of present or past events from which the meaning of the message is derived, though it may also, in the case of written communications, depend upon the statements preceding and following the quotation in question. Immediate surroundings may also color the perceived meaning of words; normally safe discourse may easily become contextually ambiguous or offensive in a restroom or shower hall. These influences do not constitute the message by themselves, but rather these extraneous nuances subtly change the message's effective meaning. Ultimately, context includes the entire world, but usually refers to salient factors such as the following:
- Physical milieu: the season or weather, current physical location and environment
- Situational milieu: classroom, military conflict, supermarket checkoutCultural and linguistic backgroundsDevelopmental progress (maturity) or emotional state
- Complementary or contrasting roles: boss and employee; teacher and student; parent, child, and spouse; friend or enemy; partner or competitor
RESOURCE:
Top 5 interview dressing
1 - Dress somewhat normal:Whatever the position is you are being interviewed for, dress equal to the dress code of that position.An example can be management. If you know how managers dress in the building, try to dress the same.
2 - Proper hair style:Not only are clothes an importance to an interview, but even the hair plays a large role. No business would hire someone who has messy hair or even not clean to that matter. Thats why hair should be cleaned and combed properly.
3 - Wear proper shoes:Another plus in an interview is the proper foot wear. Any type of foot wear that is open toed or open heel should not be worn. Females should not wear high heels if they have trouble walking in them. Anything clean and closed in the toe and heel area are more than welcome. They come off more professional.
4 - Grab interviewer's attention:Every response to a question should be in proper language and in a clear manner. Speak loud enough and keep eye contact at all times. Don't wear any jewelery that can possibly distract the interviewer. Any perfume or cologne that is strong can also become a distraction. Limit any movement in the chair or where the interview is being held.
5 - Be professional:Do not attend an interview eating anything. This goes for gum and any other type of food. Tattoos should be hidden if possible along with piercings. Outside an interview you may be loud and not as serious, but in an interview your normal behaver should be toned down in a professional state.
Following all of these tips can and will give you a job if done correctly. Just be smart and stay focused!
RESOUSE
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1465415/top_5_interview_dressing_tips.html
2 - Proper hair style:Not only are clothes an importance to an interview, but even the hair plays a large role. No business would hire someone who has messy hair or even not clean to that matter. Thats why hair should be cleaned and combed properly.
3 - Wear proper shoes:Another plus in an interview is the proper foot wear. Any type of foot wear that is open toed or open heel should not be worn. Females should not wear high heels if they have trouble walking in them. Anything clean and closed in the toe and heel area are more than welcome. They come off more professional.
4 - Grab interviewer's attention:Every response to a question should be in proper language and in a clear manner. Speak loud enough and keep eye contact at all times. Don't wear any jewelery that can possibly distract the interviewer. Any perfume or cologne that is strong can also become a distraction. Limit any movement in the chair or where the interview is being held.
5 - Be professional:Do not attend an interview eating anything. This goes for gum and any other type of food. Tattoos should be hidden if possible along with piercings. Outside an interview you may be loud and not as serious, but in an interview your normal behaver should be toned down in a professional state.
Following all of these tips can and will give you a job if done correctly. Just be smart and stay focused!
RESOUSE
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1465415/top_5_interview_dressing_tips.html
Monday, August 17, 2009
Common Interview Questions
questions job-seekers should expect in a job interview:
- Tell me about yourself.
- Why did you leave your last job?
- What do you see yourself doing five years from now? Ten years from now?
- What are your long-range career objectives?
- Why did you choose this career?
- How well do you work with people? Do you prefer working alone or in teams?
- How would a good friend describe you?
- What would your last boss say about your work performance?
- Why should I hire you?
- What makes you qualified for this position?
- What do you think it takes to be successful in a company like ours?
- In what ways do you think you can make a contribution to our company?
- What's the most recent book you've read?
- What two or three accomplishments have given you the most satisfaction? Why?
- Describe the most rewarding experience of your career thus far.
- Why did you decide to seek a position in this company?
- What can you tell us about our company?
- What do you know about our competitors?
- What two or three things are most important to you in your job?
- Are you willing to travel for the job?
Resources that will help you with job interview questions:
Interview Question Collections
Job Interview Question Database
Sample Behavioral Interview Questions
Sample Traditional Interview Questions
RESOUCES:
http://www.quintcareers.com/career_doctor_cures/job_interview_questions.html
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Tips how to writting a resume
RESUME WRITING TIPS
1. Limit to one page. You do not have to state everything you have done on a resume, but everything you state must be true.
2. Determine the type of layout that works best for your experience. You may use bolding to emphasize key skills and accomplishments.
3. Tailor your resume to the type of position to which you are applying. Decide what you want your resume to convey about your abilities.
4. Maintain a consistent writing style.
a. Do Not use "I" or "my."
b. You may use complete or fragmented sentences as long as the meaning is clear and style is consistent.
c. Start each description with an action word. Use present tense verbs when referring to current activities. Use past tense verbs when referring to past activities.
d. Especially if you are interested in the financial industry use numbers, where appropriate, to quantify the scope of involvement.
e. Include a brief explanation of an organization in your description if its name is obscure. Remember, the reader is not necessarily familiar with Trinity.
5. Emphasize outcome, accomplishments and breadth of responsibility. Examples: Streamlined invoice procedures reducing staff processing time. Organized publicity campaign leading to 25% increase in volunteers.
6. Be concise and clear in your descriptions. Do not try to impress employers with the use of complicated or confusing words.
7. Make sure there are no typing, spelling or grammar errors.
8. Do not use contractions and make sure you define abbreviations or acronyms.
9. Be consistent. For example, if your headings are in bold type, all headings should be in bold. Each entry should follow a uniform format.
10. Spell check, but remember that spell check does not catch everything. Have someone proofread your resume.
11. Choose a font that is easy to read: Palatino or Times, no larger than 14 point and no smaller than 10 point.
12. In most cases a cover letter should be attached to your resume.
13. Print final copies of your resume on quality paper. Use the same color and type of paper for resume, cover letter and envelope. Make sure the paper photocopies well.
14. Seek advice from the Career Services Office for suggested improvements in wording, layout and style.
RESOURSE
http://www.trincoll.edu/depts/career/guides/resume.shtml
1. Limit to one page. You do not have to state everything you have done on a resume, but everything you state must be true.
2. Determine the type of layout that works best for your experience. You may use bolding to emphasize key skills and accomplishments.
3. Tailor your resume to the type of position to which you are applying. Decide what you want your resume to convey about your abilities.
4. Maintain a consistent writing style.
a. Do Not use "I" or "my."
b. You may use complete or fragmented sentences as long as the meaning is clear and style is consistent.
c. Start each description with an action word. Use present tense verbs when referring to current activities. Use past tense verbs when referring to past activities.
d. Especially if you are interested in the financial industry use numbers, where appropriate, to quantify the scope of involvement.
e. Include a brief explanation of an organization in your description if its name is obscure. Remember, the reader is not necessarily familiar with Trinity.
5. Emphasize outcome, accomplishments and breadth of responsibility. Examples: Streamlined invoice procedures reducing staff processing time. Organized publicity campaign leading to 25% increase in volunteers.
6. Be concise and clear in your descriptions. Do not try to impress employers with the use of complicated or confusing words.
7. Make sure there are no typing, spelling or grammar errors.
8. Do not use contractions and make sure you define abbreviations or acronyms.
9. Be consistent. For example, if your headings are in bold type, all headings should be in bold. Each entry should follow a uniform format.
10. Spell check, but remember that spell check does not catch everything. Have someone proofread your resume.
11. Choose a font that is easy to read: Palatino or Times, no larger than 14 point and no smaller than 10 point.
12. In most cases a cover letter should be attached to your resume.
13. Print final copies of your resume on quality paper. Use the same color and type of paper for resume, cover letter and envelope. Make sure the paper photocopies well.
14. Seek advice from the Career Services Office for suggested improvements in wording, layout and style.
RESOURSE
http://www.trincoll.edu/depts/career/guides/resume.shtml
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