How Job Interviews Are Like First Dates

How Job Interviews Are Like First Dates 648 Just because it can be awkward doesn't mean it has to be. This is a guest post by Jamie Scuka. If you’d also like to guest post here on JobMob, follow these guest post guidelines. You know the feeling when you get off the phone after setting a date and time, you are feeling great, yet really nervous? Kind of sounds like a first date right? Or, is it a first interview? You have finally done it, made a step in the right direction after being attracted to an opportunity that you feel is perfect for you (at least at this stage in the game).eval Good for you! How exciting! Or is it? A first date and a first interview are pretty much one in the same.eval Nobody really likes interviews; not only candidates, but especially hiring managers. It always seems like pulling teeth to get an interview confirmed on their end, and it’s because it's the last thing they want to do even though they have a defined need. And as far as first dates are concerned, many of us have that one story about the blind date gone wrong, or the nightmare first date that you could never forget. They both can be very awkward for all involved, but if you approach a job interview like a first date from both sides then you will have a better handle of the interview, and the familiar flow will make it seem like second nature (even if it still is awkward). Here’s what I mean. 5 tips to get another date 1) Dress to impress Have you ever been on a first date and not cared about your appearance? (if you answered yes to that question, send me an email and please tell me how that went, I would LOVE to know) You know that you only have one chance to make a first impression, so the pressure is on. Why would you not think that way in a job interview? I hate to say it, but hiring managers find stupid reasons to disqualify you even if you could be the perfect fit. Please don’t let your wardrobe choice throw you out of the running even before you started the race. If they say you don’t have to wear a suit, you should STILL wear a suit. You should always go above and beyond and this point. And, who knows? If all the other candidates listened to them, they'll remember the one who looked sharp in a suit. 2) Fashionably late does not apply Same rules apply in regards to number one. Your date is probably just as nervous, and if you let them sit there alone for some time waiting for you, a whole list of scenarios can play out, and at that point they have already painted a picture of you in their head, and it’s not to your advantage. Same thing goes for hiring managers, again you are painting a picture of an irresponsible, tardy employee who wastes their time. Remember- don’t get kicked out of the race before it has begun. 3) It's a two-way conversation How awesome would it be to be on a first date, and you just kept asking questions, and the other answered, all the while just talking about themselves? Doesn’t sound like a great way to begin a relationship, now does it? Engaging the other party gives them the sense that you truly are interested, and want to know more. Like I said earlier, interviewing is not exactly a hiring manager’s favorite thing to do, and candidates never engaging them is probably why. It is very important to “interview” hiring managers as well. Do your research about the company and the individuals who are supposed to interview you. For example, ask helpful questions like, “Why did you decide to work here and why do you enjoy it?” or “If you were me, what about the company do you think is most appealing? This accomplishes a few things: It lightens the tone of the conversation. It is no longer one-sided and becomes more free-flowing It emphasizes to the interviewer that this is a HUGE decision for you and your family too, not just a decision for them. In dating, you move forward when you feel there is a mutually beneficial connection; likewise in an interview. 4) Don’t put it all out there Dating can be nerve-racking, and sometimes on a first date you end up saying things that make you think “Did I just say that out loud (facepalm)?” This happens in interviews all the time. The difference is the way that you handle it, as in quitting while you are ahead. If this happens during a first date, you can more easily overcome it by realizing that you are both human, and can probably turn it into a good laugh and recover. In a job interview, if you don't humanize the situation, it will be a lot harder to overcome a “rabbithole of a tangent” where you just keep babbling and ultimately look foolish. In addition, you may be giving your interviewers ideas that they will essentially steal from you even if you aren’t hired. I know that seems harsh to say, but the reality is it does happen. If you approach it the same way as you would a first date, you will be able to think about it, maybe even get a chuckle, and get the interview back on track. Without divulging too much information, yet just enough that they are intrigued to bring you back in and hear more. 5) Ask for the next date We all know that scenario: you have a great date with someone, and you are feeling awesome and can’t wait to see them again, but you say to yourself, “Oh wait! I don’t know when or if they will call, we never clarified that”. You are stuck wondering, and it can really play with your head. However, if you end your date with a clear understanding of when you will see them again, you won’t be as confused about what’s next. You might say something along the lines as, “I had a great time and feel we have a lot of things in common, don’t you agree?” and when they answer, you can answer accordingly. Speaking optimistically, if they say yes you might say, “Great, then when can I see you again?” At that point you can determine whether you are on the same page or not, and uncover any doubts they may have. If you take the same approach in an interview, it might go something like this: “After our conversation, the qualities and skills you are looking for in a candidate align with my background and skill set, so I feel I would make a great fit for your role. Would you agree?” Again, if the interview went well, they most likely will agree. Then, you would say, “Great, when do I start?” Many hiring managers may laugh, which is good as it lightens the moment, yet it can also provide an opportunity to uncover any doubts they have. Tweak this banter to your own personality and the vibe of the conversation. Ultimately, this should give you a good understanding of the next steps in the process. So, the next interview you have, really take the time and think about how you would approach it as a first date. I know it seems somewhat strange, but in essence it’s a great strategy to help you ace your interview. There is an old saying that “I am married to my job”, and quite honestly as much time and energy you spend there, it does have a lot of truth to it. That being the case, the only way to make a step towards a mutual commitment (marriage or job) is the first step, the first date. About the Author Jamie Scuka has extensive experience with small business, talent acquisition, and social media. She has developed and optimized numerous websites in addition to implementing content marketing strategies. You can check our her blog at www.smallbizbabe.com, find her on LinkedIn and follow her on Twitter @smallbizbabe. This article is part of the The $11K 8th Annual JobMob Guest Blogging Contest. If you wantJamie Scuka to win, share this article with your friends. READ NEXT: How To Make a Big Impact in Your First Job Interview

Job Search Networking 101

Job Search Networking 101 You’ve probably heard that job search networking is responsible for over 80% of all hires in the United States.That means, even with a perfect resume, applying for jobs online is not likely to do the trick.Job search networking is a highly effective solution. While this is rarely disputed, many job seekers still fail to take this approach seriously.Reasons People Fail to NetworkThere are a variety of reasons why people fail to network for a job. For the sake of this article, we will focus on the three most common reasons:You don’t know where to start You feel embarrassed/prideful You don’t have an extensive networkHow to Begin Networking for a JobIf you have bought into the idea that networking is the most effective way to secure a new job, you are on the right track. The attitude you have while networking for a job is also very important. Networking to find a job can be done in a variety of ways.Get in touch with old colleagues or managers Utilize the world’s largest network ing site (LinkedIn) Attend local networking events Reach out to family or friendsAll of the above options are proven networking strategies that have provided significant results for millions of job seekers. Utilizing your network for a job will prove to be quicker, less expensive, and more efficient than anything else. Now, there is no guarantee that your network will be able to help. But, with the odds in your favor (80% of jobs are filled through networking) it makes sense to start with the above strategies, before spending any time on job boards.Don’t Feel Embarrassed and PridefulJust the other day, I had a call with a potential client of mine. Let’s call him, Bill. Bill mentioned that he was looking for a job and that his ideal company would be in the automotive space.He then went on to mention that his former manager had moved on to run a very successful automotive company. This manager had seen Bill’s work ethic and had always appreciated him as an employee. I wish I cou ld tell you that Bill utilized job search networking by contacting his former manager and receiving an offer. But, he didn’t. Bill was too embarrassed and his pride got in the way.Bill continued to search for a job for almost nine months before receiving another offer. To think, Bill could have saved nine months of tiresome, stressful, and time-intensive work if he would have used networking to find a job.Top Places to Network for JobsSo, maybe you just don’t have a large enough network to find a job. No worries! While it’s always ideal to have an existing network, there are a plethora of networking tools at your fingertips if you don’t.LinkedInLinkedIn has grown to become the world’s largest professional networking site with over 500,000,000 members across the globe. Job search networking on LinkedIn has become so easy, you don’t even need to leave the comfort of your home.Local networking eventsIf you prefer to get out of the house and meet people, then ask around or c heck online for local networking events. If you live in an even slightly populated city, chances are there are a variety of networking groups that you can join. Best of all, the majority of these networking groups are free or cost very little to join.Job fairsJob fairs are an excellent way to network with potential future employers. Instead of submitting your resume to an online black hole, attend job fairs to receive quality face time. Meeting someone in person is much more likely to leave a lasting impression than meeting virtually. Make sure to bring a few copies of your resume, dress to impress, and figure out how to stand out from the competition.10 Tips to Utilize Your Job Search NetworkCheck out these top 10 tips to utilize your job search network and get hired!Don’t be embarrassed. Don’t be shy. Don’t be prideful. Don’t limit yourself to just close friends. Understand it’s ok to ask for occasional favors. Put in the work. Nobody is dying to help you if you don’t ask. Use LinkedIn to contact former colleagues or managers. Stay positive/optimistic. Don’t burn bridges; you never know who can help someday. Remain active. Don’t send two messages and quit.It’s not a lack of networking options that keeps someone from utilizing their network. Sometimes, the biggest hindrance to your job search is getting out of your head. The longer you wait to utilize your network when applying to jobs, the more time you are wasting on statistically ineffective strategies. Work smarter, not harder. Always remember to utilize your network for a job before anything else.

Making the Brand - Personal Branding Blog - Stand Out In Your Career

Making the Brand - Personal Branding Blog - Stand Out In Your Career The personal branding wave is continuing to evolve and develop. Of course, the emergence and popularity of the social web has accelerated the process. Today’s job seeker, as well as those interested in progressing within a company and/or industry, have embraced the process as welcome and necessary. Many of you are working hard to identify your brand proposition, developing an identity online and offline, etc. Breaking through the noise is still the goal â€" and it’s getting harder all the time. The competition for jobs and promotions is getting more and more fierce. Making your brand is mission critical Ask yourself these questions: Does my branding (logo, business cards etc) reflect me accurately? Am I dressed and groomed appropriately to represent the companies I’m interested in working for? Do I demonstrate my expertise in my online presence? Even the best brands need to constantly improve. Review your personal brand statement periodically to ensure it says who you are and describes the value you bring to the table. Common mistakes Don’t undo your hard work by making common branding mistakes. Inconsistency â€" Do you have one avatar you use everywhere? Pick a good picture and use it all the time. It’s ok to have different videos and photos out there, as long as they represent your core values, etc. But your avatar should stay the same and become familiar. Mixed messages â€" Using lots of communication platforms is a good idea so make sure you’re saying the same thing on all of them. Repetition is a critical factor in making a brand, but too much ‘cheerleading’ can annoy people. There’s a fine line there, and you have to find that for you. Failure to monitor your online reputation Being oblivious to your online reputation is unforgiveable. You must continue to monitor your brand via Google and other tools. Please avoid these personal branding mistakes at all costs when you are working so hard to make your brand.     Use the tools available both online and offline and be persistent.   This recession wont last forever, and you want to be ready when the hiring comes on full strength! Author: Beverly Macy is the Managing Partner of YM Partners and teaches a social media class at the UCLA Extension.   She also co-hosts Gravity Summit events and provides personal branding coaching.