Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Example Competency Based Interview Questions by Catherine Z Jones

To help you prepare for your competency interview, we have a number of example competency based interview questions. In this particular article, we focus on Communication and consider the type of questions interviewers might ask you to assess your written and verbal communication skills.

Communication Competence -- What Is Being Assessed?

When asking you competency based interview questions about communication, interviewers are looking for past evidence that you:


Communicate in an effective way, both in writing and verbally
Can listen well to others
Are able to change your communication method and style according to the situation
Contribute in group meetings
Can negotiate with others and influence them when needed

Example Communication Competency Based Interview Questions

Take a look at these typical competency based interview questions which cover communication. In some interviews, the focus might be on verbal communication. In others, it might be on written communication. In many interviews, interviewers will be interested in both!


Tell me about a time when you varied your communication style to suit your audience
Describe a situation in which you encouraged others to share ideas or views
Talk me through a time in which you used your verbal communication skills to make a difference
Tell us about a time when you needed to persuade someone that your idea or way of thinking was right
Give me an example of when you were required to explain something difficult or complex to a customer or work colleague
Describe a time when you needed to deal with a difficult or angry customer
Tell me about a time when you used your listening skills to help resolve a problem or difficult situation
Talk me though the last time you participated in a lively group debate or discussion
Describe a time when you were faced with objections from a customer or colleague
When was the last time you needed to negotiate for something?
What type of written communication are you asked to prepare for your organization?
Describe a time when you were criticized for your written work
Tell me about a situation when you were rewarded or praised for your written work

Job Centre Online - Tips to Succeed in Your Job Janani Jaanby

Do you still find yourself unlucky in searching for a job? Still not able to reach success in finding the right job for you? Are you finding the process of job search demoralizing? Well, don't panic! Go ahead and read on.

The world economy is running through recession, looking for an ideal job these days is quite daunting and difficult. Fortunately there are some ways to shorten the odds stacked up against you and find a job for yourself.

The main aspect that you need to possess is a positive attitude. No matter what situation you are in, positive attitude both in workplace and at home are highly essential. Difficult though, but still it can be done.

With high levels of competition among millions of people, you need to thrive and succeed in your work. The advent of Internet technology has paved way for many job centres online. You need to be cautious at this instance. This is because many people will hypnotize you saying that you can make loads of money, but they are mere scams. However, there are other job center online that lets to find an ideal job.

Check out the following tips that may help achieve your goals.

• Don't while away your time watching TV or playing games. Get moving?
• Get to known about the job vacancies online by reading through daily newspapers.
• Visit various job centers regularly so that people out there might recognize that you are very keen to work.

Do not be fooled by the scams from online jobs at any cost. Make a wise decision and get to known what you are expecting out of your desired job. It is highly imperative to remain positive. Success is heading you, so keep going!

Sunday, August 23, 2009

How Can Job Seekers Be Able to Find a Job? by Son Duongy

Finding a job does not have to be an impossible task. Right now, it may seem like something you will never be able to obtain. A negative attitude will never get you anywhere. People who are looking for a job need to have the right type of attitude before even attempting the job-hunting process. If you must, go out and buy yourself a nice outfit or suit to wear when going to fill out applications. Jot down all of your skills and what it is that makes you so much better than others in your particular career field of interest.

Once you have psyched yourself up for the job hunt, you need to figure out where it is you want to go. Grab a newspaper and begin sifting through the classifieds to see what job description's match your interest. Make sure you pair yourself with a job you know that you would be interested in. You should also be careful not to limit yourself to only one profession. If you run across something online or in a local classified ad that strikes your interest, but doesn't quite seem to match up with your qualifications, do not be intimidated to take a risk. You never know what type of fascinating opportunities await you. If you are a go-getter, then you have a high chance of getting something good and worth while.

Having confidence in your abilities to be a good employee to whatever company you apply to is most important. Take your job hunting seriously. Do not mess around applying to places at which you know you would not enjoy working at. People who enjoy what they do are the one's who stick with a job and become a success. You will greatly increase your chances of finding a job if it is something you do at least once or twice a week. Jobs usually do not come to people, it takes determination and ambition.

The job market is very competitive and people are taking whatever they can get these days. It is best to get out there and be aggressive about obtaining the position you rightfully deserve. It is perfectly okay to be extra direct about what you can do for a company, so do not be shy. You should also not be afraid to contact the company you applied to after a couple of weeks of applying. Employers love it when people actually want the job they are applying for.

A strong resume highlighting your skills, strengths, and experience is the master tool in finding a good job. If you have to, you may need to create a resume to target a specific employer. You should also create a catchy cover letter to go along with your resume. Try not to make your cover letter sound too wordy, just state your point, but also be professional and sincere. Just because things are slow does not necessarily mean that employers aren't looking for good employees. They are waiting on you to come to them, you just have to take action. And remember, attitude is everything.

Five Things Not to Do in a Job Interview by Chris Archer

It doesn't matter what industry you are in, or what job you do, when you're trying to land your next job, you have to have a competitive mindset to win the job offer. You've probably heard or read about the different things you are supposed to do when meeting with a prospective employer. Let's turn our focus from what you should do, to what you should never do during a telephone, online meeting, or face to face interview.


Do not be late for your appointment. This shows the employer that you are not reliable from the get-go. Instead, be sure to arrive at least fifteen minutes early, and check in with the front desk or receptionist to let them know of your presense. In the event the time passes, and you have not been called in for your meeting, go back to the individual you checked in with, to ensure they actually informed the interviewer you are there.
Do not leave extra copies of your resume in the car. I suggest having a minimum of three copies of your resume prepared on high quality paper available at every interview. In the event the hiring manager calls in a colleague for you to meet as part of the interview process, or has an additional manager sit in on the interview, you are prepared to shake hands and bring them "into the loop." This makes you, as the candidate, look prepared.
Do not be afraid to ask thoughtful, intelligent, and deliberate questions during an interview. In fact, it is recommended that you work with your career coach or recruiter to create a list of at least ten questions that show you have researched the opportunity with this company, and further illustrate your competency and ability to perform the position in which you are applying. Keep in mind, you never want to ask questions that are easily answered on the company's website, or is general public knowledge.
Do not avoid eye contact throughout the interview. Consider your meeting with the hiring manager to be a performance. The truth of the matter is you are attempting to out-perform other applicants and prospective hires for the same position. If you put yourself in the shoes of the employer, you quickly realize how important behavior and body language is to the interview outcome. By maintaining eye contact with the people you are speaking with, you show that you are confident, and capable of performing the job in which they are hiring for.
NEVER discuss money or benefits during your meeting. If you want to ensure you do not get an opportunity with the company you are applying with, try to bring up compensation. The hiring manager is meeting with you to determine whether or not you are a good fit for the position, and their organization. To discuss money shows your ignorance of the hiring process, and shows a lack of professionalism. The purpose of the interview is for you to articulate to the company what you can do for them. Compensation should not ever enter the conversation until an offer has been made. This is where the salary negotiation process begins.

It is critical to know what not to say during a job interview. While preparation is always key to a good interview, each candidate should realize that they are competing for the same position against formidable opponents. To ensure your best performance during the interview, be sure to think about what the employer is actually looking for, and show them how you can best fit that requirement

Example Competency Based Interview Questions by Catherine Z Jones

To help you prepare for your competency interview, we have a number of example competency based interview questions. In this particular article, we focus on Communication and consider the type of questions interviewers might ask you to assess your written and verbal communication skills.

Communication Competence -- What Is Being Assessed?

When asking you competency based interview questions about communication, interviewers are looking for past evidence that you:


Communicate in an effective way, both in writing and verbally
Can listen well to others
Are able to change your communication method and style according to the situation
Contribute in group meetings
Can negotiate with others and influence them when needed

Example Communication Competency Based Interview Questions

Take a look at these typical competency based interview questions which cover communication. In some interviews, the focus might be on verbal communication. In others, it might be on written communication. In many interviews, interviewers will be interested in both!


Tell me about a time when you varied your communication style to suit your audience
Describe a situation in which you encouraged others to share ideas or views
Talk me through a time in which you used your verbal communication skills to make a difference
Tell us about a time when you needed to persuade someone that your idea or way of thinking was right
Give me an example of when you were required to explain something difficult or complex to a customer or work colleague
Describe a time when you needed to deal with a difficult or angry customer
Tell me about a time when you used your listening skills to help resolve a problem or difficult situation
Talk me though the last time you participated in a lively group debate or discussion
Describe a time when you were faced with objections from a customer or colleague
When was the last time you needed to negotiate for something?
What type of written communication are you asked to prepare for your organization?
Describe a time when you were criticized for your written work
Tell me about a situation when you were rewarded or praised for your written work

What to Wear to an Interview For Women by Wesley E Anderson

I'm probably sure that women have a harder time trying to find a nice decent wardrobe for a job interview than a male does. The reason is because there are so many variables that play into the interview. For starters ladies are always self conscious of the fact that the interviewer may not hire her because of what she has on or the way she looks. This makes it tough for you ladies because you are trying to balance your cuteness with professionalism. As a result you struggle with your wardrobe because you are in a dilemma that may or may not get you a job. However, you won't have anything to worry about after this because I am going to help you maximize on your interview wardrobe.

The first thing that you need to pay attention to is the color. Make sure that you are wearing neutral colors or earth tone colors, if you are not into wearing the simple black and white. Never wear any bright colors, summer dresses, or show too much of your special features if you know what I mean. You will need to watch the type of blouses that you wear. Make sure that you are not showing too much cleavage. You also don't want to show too much leg. Make sure that your skirts and dresses are just above your knees and you are looking cute enough to pass the test.

You don't have to look like you are going to the club. However, you don't want to look like you are going to a funeral either

How Can Job Seekers Be Able to Find a Job? by Son Duong

Finding a job does not have to be an impossible task. Right now, it may seem like something you will never be able to obtain. A negative attitude will never get you anywhere. People who are looking for a job need to have the right type of attitude before even attempting the job-hunting process. If you must, go out and buy yourself a nice outfit or suit to wear when going to fill out applications. Jot down all of your skills and what it is that makes you so much better than others in your particular career field of interest.

Once you have psyched yourself up for the job hunt, you need to figure out where it is you want to go. Grab a newspaper and begin sifting through the classifieds to see what job description's match your interest. Make sure you pair yourself with a job you know that you would be interested in. You should also be careful not to limit yourself to only one profession. If you run across something online or in a local classified ad that strikes your interest, but doesn't quite seem to match up with your qualifications, do not be intimidated to take a risk. You never know what type of fascinating opportunities await you. If you are a go-getter, then you have a high chance of getting something good and worth while.

Having confidence in your abilities to be a good employee to whatever company you apply to is most important. Take your job hunting seriously. Do not mess around applying to places at which you know you would not enjoy working at. People who enjoy what they do are the one's who stick with a job and become a success. You will greatly increase your chances of finding a job if it is something you do at least once or twice a week. Jobs usually do not come to people, it takes determination and ambition.

The job market is very competitive and people are taking whatever they can get these days. It is best to get out there and be aggressive about obtaining the position you rightfully deserve. It is perfectly okay to be extra direct about what you can do for a company, so do not be shy. You should also not be afraid to contact the company you applied to after a couple of weeks of applying. Employers love it when people actually want the job they are applying for.

A strong resume highlighting your skills, strengths, and experience is the master tool in finding a good job. If you have to, you may need to create a resume to target a specific employer. You should also create a catchy cover letter to go along with your resume. Try not to make your cover letter sound too wordy, just state your point, but also be professional and sincere. Just because things are slow does not necessarily mean that employers aren't looking for good employees. They are waiting on you to come to them, you just have to take action. And remember, attitude is everything

Become Interview Smart by Jonathan E Richards

You have updated your cv and scoured online job boards. Finally, the phone call you have been waiting for has arrived and you have been invited to interview. Following these five simple steps will ensure a successful interview and help you to land your dream job!

Step One: Research Brings Rewards
It is important to find out as much information as you can about the company and the person you are interviewing with. This can be done with an online search. Companies are impressed when you are able to speak about recent press releases or current topics within the industry. Don't forget to include finding out directions to the interview and the amount of time it will take you to get there!

Step Two: Dress for Success
Dressing professionally is a key component of any interview. Be sure to pay attention to grooming your hair, nails and teeth. It is better to be over dressed than under dressed. Employers pay attention to not only what you are wearing but also your emotional state so be sure to take a deep breath, stay calm and smile!

Step Three: Be Specific
It is important to highlight your strengths using specific examples. Take the time to speak about the projects you have been involved in or the leadership roles you have been given with previous employers.

Step Four: Stay Positive
Sometimes what you don't say is just as important as what you do say. Avoid topics such as overtime, money and disputes with previous employers. Stick with positive topics.
If you are asked about a skill you don't have, make sure you point out your ability to learn quickly or similar skills you have.

Step Five: Ask Questions
Turning up to the interview prepared to ask questions about both the position and the company shows a potential employer your enthusiasm and interest in the industry.

Following these five simple steps will not only make you interview smart but will put you at the top of any employer's list.

Becoming Your Best Self - How to Get Ahead at Work byLouise Kaelin

When we sign a contract with an employer, it is critical that we realize that we are in control of our destiny and our career with that company. Here are some things you can do to insure that you earn the promotions you want.


1. Do the best job you can. Part of being the best you can be is doing the best job you can. To get promoted, it's not enough to show up for work. Whatever we have been hired to do, we must do to our very best ability. The better you do your job, the more likely it is that your efforts will be noticed and that you'll be considered for bigger and better responsibilities. This step is absolutely critical for getting ahead.
2.Respect authority. Whether you respect the person in the position, always show respect for the position. This is especially true when that person decides whether or not you'll get promoted. I believe that people have to earn respect, but it always make sense to respect the position. Even if we question their ability or how they got there, their position is vital to the success of the company. Because of that, it is just common sense to treat the person in it with respect.
3.Assume management is doing the best they can. It may be hard to believe some days, but the management is actually doing the best they can. They have the interests of the company and their employees at heart. However, unfortunately to some degree, they must often put the needs of the business before the needs of the individual employees. It only makes sense, and trust me when I say, that you would most like make the same decision if that were your responsibility. Also, assuming the best of management makes for a better relationship for you and the powers that be.
4.Assume management is not trying to screw you. If you are someone who believes that other people are in control of your life, then it is very possible that you believe management has your name on a voodoo doll in the backroom and all their decisions are made to screw you over. Nothing could be further from the truth (at least in 99.9% of the cases). Take responsibility for your life and your career. If you are not getting promoted, start by looking at your actions. Would you promote you, based on the quality and quantity of work you do, and the level of maturity you show on the job? One of my favorite Jim Rohn quotes is "You don't get paid for the hour. You get paid for the value you bring to the hour." This is something to remember always.
5.Support the company's mission statement and operating principles. Most companies, big and small, have outlined their mission and operating principles. Get a copy of yours and follow the guidelines as presented on these documents. Supporting these documents and becoming a true member of the team, by looking out for the best interests of the company as well as yourself (and don't forget to do both!) is a great way to be noticed by management.

How Can Job Seekers Be Able to Find a Job? b Son Duongy

Finding a job does not have to be an impossible task. Right now, it may seem like something you will never be able to obtain. A negative attitude will never get you anywhere. People who are looking for a job need to have the right type of attitude before even attempting the job-hunting process. If you must, go out and buy yourself a nice outfit or suit to wear when going to fill out applications. Jot down all of your skills and what it is that makes you so much better than others in your particular career field of interest.

Once you have psyched yourself up for the job hunt, you need to figure out where it is you want to go. Grab a newspaper and begin sifting through the classifieds to see what job description's match your interest. Make sure you pair yourself with a job you know that you would be interested in. You should also be careful not to limit yourself to only one profession. If you run across something online or in a local classified ad that strikes your interest, but doesn't quite seem to match up with your qualifications, do not be intimidated to take a risk. You never know what type of fascinating opportunities await you. If you are a go-getter, then you have a high chance of getting something good and worth while.

Having confidence in your abilities to be a good employee to whatever company you apply to is most important. Take your job hunting seriously. Do not mess around applying to places at which you know you would not enjoy working at. People who enjoy what they do are the one's who stick with a job and become a success. You will greatly increase your chances of finding a job if it is something you do at least once or twice a week. Jobs usually do not come to people, it takes determination and ambition.

The job market is very competitive and people are taking whatever they can get these days. It is best to get out there and be aggressive about obtaining the position you rightfully deserve. It is perfectly okay to be extra direct about what you can do for a company, so do not be shy. You should also not be afraid to contact the company you applied to after a couple of weeks of applying. Employers love it when people actually want the job they are applying for.

A strong resume highlighting your skills, strengths, and experience is the master tool in finding a good job. If you have to, you may need to create a resume to target a specific employer. You should also create a catchy cover letter to go along with your resume. Try not to make your cover letter sound too wordy, just state your point, but also be professional and sincere. Just because things are slow does not necessarily mean that employers aren't looking for good employees. They are waiting on you to come to them, you just have to take action. And remember, attitude is everything.

How to Get Great Job References by Coleen Bennett

References are one of the most important factors in your job search. Potential employers don't usually call your references until the very end. When they've seen your resume and interviewed you and they think you're the one, then they'll want to call your references to make sure. A lukewarm reference can kill the deal. You need to make sure that the names you give are people who will give your potential employer a glowing report.

First, a little about how reference checks work. Potential employers will want to talk to people who have worked with you. At least one of your references should be somebody that you reported to directly (a former boss). Others can be co-workers, people from other companies who interacted with you at work, even clients. It's okay to include a personal reference too. This may be someone who knows you personally but hasn't worked with you.

If you're currently employed, you probably don't want your current employer to know that you're looking for a job. Your new potential employer will understand if you don't give them permission to call your current supervisor. But you do need people who have worked can speak to your work performance. You could give the name of your supervisor and others from your previous job. If there is someone who worked with you at your current employer but has now left the company, that could be a good resource. If you've done any volunteer work, someone there could provide a reference.

If you are not currently employed and you don't provide the name and number of your most recent supervisor, your potential employer will wonder why.

Most companies have policies against giving references. That's because if they say something negative about a former employee, they could be sued. If you give your potential employer the name and number of the HR person from a former job, that person will likely only confirm that you worked for them and when.

Ask people if they will give you a reference. If they say no, or cite the company policy, don't give their name as a reference. If they were so enthusiastic about you that they would give a glowing report, they would have said yes. Be very careful about asking anyone associated with your current job. Word might get back to your employer. You could also damage your employer's position by tipping your hand to the wrong person. For example, you are an account rep serving an important client. If you leave, your employer will want to position it carefully it a way that makes their clients feel that their needs are still going to be taken care of. If you ask that client for a reference, you leave your company is an awkward spot.

Leave on spectacular terms. Do not put your employer in a difficult position when you depart. Give two weeks notice and come to work every day during those two weeks. Do everything you can so that the next person can pick up your job easily. Even if you're not pleased with your current employer, you should do these things because you'll need them to give you great references the next time you look for a job.

How to Apply For Jobs Online Tips by Son Duong

Searching for a job is one thing, but the actual application process is something totally different. The first thing you should do is give yourself a pat on the back for at least attempting to locate work online. You are making a very profitable decision when you choose to apply for jobs online, especially since the corporate world is becoming more and more computerized as time passes on. There really isn't a better way to apply for a job because it is convenient, fast, and obviously, very simple.

One of the first steps you need to take in order to apply for employment online is to find a job that interests you. Think about what your skills are and what qualifications you possess and then go from there. For example, if you have a teaching degree, your best bet will be to apply online to local schools, kindergartens, colleges, etc. If you have a particular company or workplace you prefer to work at over all others, then apply there first.

When presented with the application, you are going to be asked a series of questions such as what your first and last name are, where you currently reside, telephone number, email address, position you are interested in applying for, years of experience, etc. It is highly recommended that you do not leave anything blank. The more information your potential employer can obtain about you during the application process, the more likely they will be to give you a call back for an interview.

When you are filling out your online application, make sure you are as honest as possible. If the application asks if you have ever been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony, do not give a false answer. If the application asks you to list your previous job history, make sure you are completely honest about the amount of related experience you have. Any false answers could potentially have a negative influence on your chances of gaining employment.

An effective way to apply for a job online is to submit your resume to as many job portal websites as possible. Be careful to make your resume appear as professional as possible. If this is your first resume, there are plenty of places you can look to for assistance on how to make it appear professional. Remember that your resume can make or break your chances for gaining employment, so do your best to be as accurate as possible about the information you display. It is essential that your potential employers be very aware of the skills you possess as well as what you can do for their company as an employee. Be sure to highlight any achievements and place any related job experience on your resume as well.

All in all, the online job process is relatively simple. Once you have submitted your resume and/or online job application, all you have to do is wait. If more than a month passes by and you have not yet received an email or call back from the place you are interested in working, give them a call and inform them that you were just checking on the status of your application. The more you persist, the quicker you are likely to obtain employment.