I had the opportunity this past
week to speak to a group of graduates from the Nursing Assistant program
through the Albany Community Action Partnership. Thanks to Blake Kush for
making this happen.
Blake asked that I share my
experience and background with this group and to talk about two critical
elements they need to prepare for in seeking a job with their new found skill
& education:
Understanding what employers
look for in job applicants
How to present yourself, and …
What employers are look in for
in job applicants.
I know I opened a few eyes and
mind with what I presented; it isn’t something they heard before with such a
strong emphasis.
So I thought I would summarize
here – for those in the midst of a job search, thinking about finding a new job
or considering a career change.
What employers look for – and
how to present yourself …
It isn’t just education, skills or training – it is the
“soft-skills” that are most important and I hear this from employers all the
time. They also tell me fair amount of “interview horror” stories.
Employers evaluate:
Attitude – Go into
an interview – via phone or face to face – with a negative attitude – you are
dead – you will not be hired. If you are having a difficult time crawling
out of negativity, seek help. Try reading Learned Optimism by Martin
Siegleman – take action. People want to work with
positive people – Debbie Downers are not welcomed or hired.
State of Mind – If you go into an interview and begin
to tell how everything is wrong on your life or job, and
complain about your boss, co-workers, spouse, etc. – again – DOA – dead on
arrival. Check the baggage at the door; approach this as a new fresh start. I have seen this happen so many times.
Appearance – Yes
first impressions count. Go into an interview dressed like you are hanging on
the street, going to the gym or otherwise not sharp and professional, DOA.
Dress to impress; you can never be overdressed; you can certainly be
underdressed.
Interest – If you
have an interest in the job or the company, say it and why you are interested.
It might be the product, the people, the service – whatever, make it known.
Employers hire those who have a genuine interest in their company, and show it. If you do not have an interest, don’t waste your time or
the companies time – move on.
Connection – Employment
is developing a relationship; so in an
interview connect in whatever manner you feel best, to the interviewer.
Show your true personality. Be engaged in the interview; ask questions. It goes
a long way. Don’t wait to be interviewed –
ask the first question – show interest and your style.
I hope these tips are helpful. You can win at anything you
do if you focus on you – your attitude, state of mind, presentation and action.
There is no ceiling for you – unless you put one there yourself.
And thank you for reading this. Thanks again to the Albany Community Action Partnership, Blake and the
participants. You are on your way!
Dan
Dan
Moran
President
& Founder
Next-Act,
Division of DVG, Inc.
Career
Management & Transition Specialists
Corporate
Management Services
Celebrating
25 years providing career & corporate management services in 2013!
125
Wolf Road, Suite #128
Albany,
NY 12205
Phone:
518-641-8968 dmoran@next-act.com
Visit the Assessment Center: next-act.com/assessment-center.cfm
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