65. Networking The Steps Identify your network Make initial contact and introductions Follow-up on leads Keep in contact
66. The Rules Never ask for a job! Ask for information Be brief and respectful of time Do not do all of the talking Ask for suggestions on how to expand your network Always follow-up Reciprocation is a must! Send a thank-you note!!!
67. Follow-up Contact to make sure materials arrived Restate interest in company and position Thank-you notes: Network connections Employers at career fairs AFTER INTERVIEWS!!!
103. Group/Panel Interviews Find way to connect with each interviewer Maintain eye contact with each member Shake hands and collect all business cards
104. Behavioral Interviews Past behavior as an indicator for future behavior Ask for descriptions of how you handled work-related situations Think of stories that demonstrate your skills STAR: Situation-Task-Action-Result
105. Interview Over Food Avoid hard-to-eat or messy items No alcohol Keep conversation professional Refresh eating etiquette
108. Make-up/nails: neutral shades and subtle. Avoid perfume.Clothing: conservative suit, knee length skirt, or dress pants (black, gray, or navy), with dress shirt Shoes: <2 inch heal, closed toed, and comfortable Hair: traditional styles and colors pulled away from the face
109. What to wear: Men Tattoos/body piercings: conceal tattoos and remove piercings Jewelry: watch and one ring acceptable Hands: clean and trimmed fingernails Cologne: avoid cologne or strong aftershave Clothing: conservative suit (black, gray, navy) with pressed shirt and tie Shoes: polished dress shoe Hair: well groomed and shorter styles
110. Body Language Good Posture Eye Contact Hand Gestures Nod While Listening Smile Don’t Fidget!
119. Illegal Questions National origin Ancestry Age Marital status/dependents Sexual orientation Religion Political affiliation Height/weight Disabilities Criminal record Military experience How to Handle Them: Answer at your own risk Ask the relevance Refuse- risk looking confrontational Examine intent and respond appropriately
120. Prepare to Ask Questions Daily Tasks and Responsibilities Short and Long-term Goals Organizational Structure Performance Evaluations Company Culture Effects of Current Issue (layoffs, merger, etc..) Promotion Potential
121. Key Points NEVER speak badly about a former employer/job Focus on the positive of every experience Always use each question to highlight your skills and capabilities Avoid “ums” and nervous laughter Stay professional- no profanity! Tell stories! Do not initiate discussion about salary or benefits
122. End of Interview Thank them for their time Shake hands Collect business cards Establish next step Send thank-you letters to each interviewer Follow-up to determine if a decision has been made
123. Job Offer Never accept right away!! Discuss salary only after offer has been made Get the offer in writing detailing all benefits Be sure before accepting NEVER back out of a job after accepting the position!!!