SlideShare une entreprise Scribd logo
1  sur  47
P a g e | 1
Page 1 of 47
THIS E-PORTFOLIO HOLDS
THE KEYS THAT WILL UNLOCK YOUR FUTURE
Dr. Kerrie Mayberry, Resume Writer & Interview Strategist
Cell: 678-862-3565 | Visionary4life@yahoo.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerriemayberry
P a g e | 2
Page 2 of 47
Here Are Your Keys
If after reading my e-portfolio
and you still cannot find your
keys, search within your soul
because that is where god put
them. He placed YOUR keys inside
of you, so that, only you have
access to retrieving your keys.
Have you heard the good news?
Once you find your keys, you will
then have complete access to
unlocking god’s plan for your life.
Ask God to help you find your
keys, today!
P a g e | 3
Page 3 of 47
MESSAGE FROM DR. MAYBERRY
I congratulate you on your job search and for working so hard to improve your resume,
communication, and interviewing skills. As we know, the job market is very challenging,
competitive and sometimes unfair. Nevertheless, you have to press on and stay in the game.
Although God is ordering your steps…you still have to believe that your financial, life or health
will improve. My hope is that you will move beyond your fears and focus on your health,
mindset and your spiritual guidance. Furthermore, I am curious to: what do you say when you
talk to yourself? Are your conversations negative or positive? Are you procrastinating and
moaning about how bad life has treated you? If this is your daily conversation, I encourage you
to read this E-Portfolio over and over. Do you know that you could dramatically change your life
in one minute? All you have to do is simply change how you see your situation? I know you can
do it; however, you have to summon the courage and then take a bold stand to make something
great happen. Paul Robeson once said, “This is the stand I take, for I can do no other.” Know
that the storm will pass, and you will see a beautiful rainbow in the sky. Nothing stays the same
forever…good or bad, only thinking makes it so. In closing…remember, through all of your
struggles and pain, Gods still is on the throne. He sits high and looks low. Furthermore, know
P a g e | 4
Page 4 of 47
that God loves you, and that He wants you to be prosperous. Don’t quit! Don’t quit! There will
be days when you’ll feel like quitting, but don’t! Ask for help!!! Look towards the hills.
P a g e | 5
Page 5 of 47
Preface
P a g e | 6
Page 6 of 47
This powerful, all-inclusive and easy-reading electronic portfolio offers powerful tips,
insights and strategies to help job candidates prepare for their next interview. This E-
Portfolio also contains eye-catching, content-based and special resume and curriculum
vitae designs that will turn heads. Moreover, this E-Portfolio covers helpful strategies,
which significantly reduce fear, doubt and anxiety during the job planning stages, and
during the interview. Finally, this E-Portfolio offers daily motivation for people who are
experiencing some temporary tough times.
P a g e | 7
Page 7 of 47
ANSWERING THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS MIGHT HELP
YOU FIND SUCCESS IN YOUR LIFE.
1. What emotional side effects are associated with you not reaching your goals in life?
2. What can you do to improve your mindset when facing rejection after rejection?
3. How do you stay focus during the tough times and what Higher Power do you seek?
4. Do you have a good exercise program and a healthy diet to fight depression?
5. What do you say when you talk to yourself? Do you beat yourself up for past mistakes?
6. What is your rod and shield when the “Messenger of Misery” pays you a visit?
7. What is your purpose in life? Are you hopeful, despite your current situation?
8. What is your “recovery time” after suffering a “temporary” loss?
9. What are you afraid of? What scares you? Why aren’t you pursuing your dreams? Why?
10. When will you lay to rest “but” and his cousins would’ve, could’ve and one day I gonna?
11. How is your “faith” not during the good times, but during the rough times?
12. Do you believe that one day you will reach your lifelong goals?
13. What do you think about all day long? “As a Man Thinketh, So He Becomes”
14. How is your imagination? Can you see when your eyes are closed?
15. How often do you pray and how often to you ask God for forgiveness?
16. Do you know that the “enemy” does not want your worldly possessions? The enemy
wants your “mind”
17. Do you know that the “enemy” looks for any “entryway” into your mind"?
18. What do you think about “Murphy’s Law”? Do you remember the song? “Life is like a
circle, everything we do comes back to you."
19. Have you ever heard of this before? Be kind to the people you meet on the way up
because you will meet those same people on the way down? What do you think about that
saying?
20. Did you know that most of your problems resonate internally versus externally? The
Mind.
21. Are you afraid of the “Unknown”? Are you afraid of losing? Are you afraid of the light?
22. Is there any dead weight that you need to unload in 2017?
23. What are you passionate about? What motivates you to get up every morning?
24. What are you willing to “give up” in order to reach your dreams?
25. WILL YOU BE A BEACON OF HOPE FOR THOSE WHO ARE IN NEED TODAY?
P a g e | 8
Page 8 of 47
DON’T WASTE TIME WORRYING ABOUT
TOMORROW…USE THE TIME GOD GAVE
YOU TODAY TO LIVE YOUR DREAMS.
LET YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE THAT PEOPLE
WILL SEE YOUR GOOD DEEDS IN 2017
P a g e | 9
Page 9 of 47
Walk through those doors and do not worry about the unknown. We will
never know what God has in store for us if we never step out of the
shadows of our pasts. We must be confident that God is ordering our steps.
P a g e | 10
Page 10 of 47
Sometimes the journey is long, unfair, and lonely at times. Nevertheless,
you must summon the courage and keep moving forward. If you get
knocked down,getup! “Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand”“He that cherishes
a beautiful vision in his mind,a lofty idea in his heart, will one day realize it”.
Anonymous
WALKING THE MILE TOWARDS MY GOALS!!!!
Remember that you are the Director of your movie; you are the of your movie, and you
are the main character. With that being said, know that you have GOD on your side and that He
said, “He will never leave you or forsake you…You cannot lose!
P a g e | 11
Page 11 of 47
IT’S SHOW TIME!
Now that you have reached the big screen, it is important that you take care of
your health, mind and your family. Also, it is important that you be kind to the
people you meet on the way up because you will meet those same people on the
way down. Likewise, now, that you have reached your goals, after so many long
hours of hard work, don’t forget where you came from. Make a promise to yourself
that you will help someone because you did not reach your goals alone, someone
helped you.
Please know that your greatest asset is not your physical ability; your greatest asset is your
mental ability. If you want to be successful, then go after success, but you cannot continue to
point fingers at people because they won’t give you a chance, or you were denied that job or
promotion. Start fighting for what you want and stop fighting for what you don’t want. Sure we
P a g e | 12
Page 12 of 47
may not be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel, just keep walking through that tunnel. In
fact, you may only see only a small glimpse of light…that is better than no light at all.
NEED TO KNOW NUGGETS
 Needto Know: Do you know that job interviewing is about building rapport, exchanging of ideas,
and demonstration good communication skills?
 Needto Know: Do you know that smiling, showing enthusiasm and projecting a positive attitude
can possibly land you a job? In addition, you look better when you SMILE!!!!
 Needto Know: Do you know that job candidates with good communication skills, oftentimes,
receive more job offers then those with poor communication skills?
 Needto Know: Do you know that many job candidates do not receive job offers because they fail
to ask for the job? WOW!
 Needto Know: Do you know that employers aren’t only interested in your academic
accomplishments? Instead, they want to learn who you are, and are you teachable, approachable
and more importantly, are you promotable?
 Needto Know: Do you know the job market is competitive? However, if you continue to work on
building your skills and maintaining a positive outlook on life, sooner, rather than later, you’ll get a
job? (Stay hopeful)
 Needto Know: If you are not chosen for a job that you strongly believe you could do...don’t get
discouraged, send the employer a thank-you card
 for giving you a chance to interview. Remember: Always maintain professionalism at all times.
 Tip: Never say anything bad about your current or former manager or employer.
 Tip: Don’t spend your interview time talking about YOU and what you want. Instead, talk about
what you can do for the company.
 Tip: If you want a job, don’t sit on the sideline complaining about no one is hiring, get back into
the GAME and find that job. [Make it happen]
 Tip: If you are experiencing a tough time finding work, listen to your inner conversations. What
types of inner conversations are you having with yourself?
 Tip: If you aren’t working, turn off that TV. You must maximize your time and effort.
 Tip: In your quest for searching for a job, you must rid yourself of the toxic, draining people in
your life (Today)...It’s hard enough trying to stay positive in your job search. (Also, put to rest
(But, and all of his cousins: Could’ve, Should’ve and One Day I am gonna)
P a g e | 13
Page 13 of 47
 Tip: Do you honestly BELIEVE you deserve a job? If so, SPEAK IT and it shall be!
I AIN’T GONNA CRY NO MORE!!!
DON’T’ QUIT!!! YOUR CURRENT SITUATION
WILL CHANGE FOR THE BETTER. YOU HAVE TO
KEEP WORKING YOUR PLAN, AND STAY
FAITHFUL UNTIL YOU GET WHAT YOU WANT.
DO YOU KNOW THAT WE CANNOT SEE A
BEAUTIFUL RAINBOW IN THE SKY, UNTIL IT
RAINS? RIGHT NOW, IT IS RAINING.
DO YOU HAVE THE COURAGE TO HANG IN THERE UNTIL YOUR CHANGE
COMES? THERE IS A GOSPEL SONG THAT SAYS: “GOD, PLEASE HELP ME
TO HOLD OUT UNTIL MY CHANGE COME.” YOU HAVE TO STAY PRAYED
UP DURING THE GOOD TIMES, AS WELL AS, DURING THE BAD TIMES.
P a g e | 14
Page 14 of 47
Let’s here. Most job candidates struggle with this first
question, generally, asked by hiring managers and decision makers.
THE START OF THE INTERVIEW AND MORE….
Because it's such a common interview question, it's strange that more job candidates don't spend time
preparing how to answer this first question. In fact, YOU KNOW IT’S COMING! Perhaps because the
question seems so disarming and informal; we drop our guards and shift into a rambling mode. You must
resist all temptations to going into a rambling mode because if you do, the interview could be over before
it starts.
Note: Hiring managers are not looking for a 10-minute dissertation when they ask this question. Instead,
they want a razor-sharp sentence or two that sets the stage for further discussion. It is imperative that you
create a 30 second marketing commercial that speaks to who you are and what you stand for.
Be Specific
 The key is that you must lead with your strongest benefit to the employer. Be specific and don't
wander about with some laundry list of skills or talents. Be sure to put a monetary value on your
work, if at all possible, and be ready with details when you're called upon. Give an estimated
value to the $$ you've made or saved for current or past employers.
Be Prepared
 When you walk into an interview, remember to always expect the "tell me about yourself"
question. Prepare ahead of time by developing your own personal branding statement that clearly
tells who you are,your major strength and the clear benefit that your current or past employer
received. The advantages of this approach are that you'll quickly gain their attention, and you’ll
interest them in wanting to know more. You'll separate yourself from your competitors. In
addition, you'll also have a higher chance of being positively remembered and hired.
P a g e | 15
Page 15 of 47
GET READY, IT’S TIME TO SHINE. DON’T WORRY, YOU'LL BE FINE. JUST
RELAX, CONTROL YOUR BREATHING AND PRAY EVERYDAY.
Side note: If the hiring manager asks if you would like something to
drink…always say YES. The Interviewer wants to break the ice.
Quiz: Why do you want to leave your current job?
One of the questions that are typically asked from hiring manager is "Why do you want to leave
your current job?" alternatively, "Why did you leave your previous job?" If you have already
moved on, or if you were fired from your job, use these answers to respond.
Remember, do not Badmouth Your current or former Boss or Company…keep it professional
Regardless of why you left, don't speak badly about your previous employer. The interviewer may wonder
whether you will be bad-mouth his company next time you're looking for work. I recently read an article about
a job candidate who told the interviewer that her last employer was terrible? They didn't pay her enough. The
hours were awful, and she hated the job. That company happened to be the company she was interviewing
with. The hiring manager said, “there is no way I would have hired someone who felt that way, justified or not,
about a company. With that being said, avoid any bad words with current or past companies you have worked
for.
Below are prepared answers for (why you left or thinking about leaving your job?)
 I found myself bored by the work, and I looked for more challenges. I am an excellent employee, and
I didn't want my unhappiness to have any impact on the job I was doing for my employer.
 There isn't room for growth with my current employer, and I'm ready to move on to a new challenge.
 I'm looking for a bigger challenge and to grow my career, and I couldn't job hunt part-time while
working. It didn't seem ethical to use my former employer's time.
 I was laid-off from my last position when our department was eliminated due to corporate
restructuring.
P a g e | 16
Page 16 of 47
 I'm relocating to this area due to family circumstances and left my previous position in order to make
the move.
 I've decided that is not the direction I want to further my career, and my current employer has no
opportunities that align with my future aspirations.
 After spending several years in my last position, I'm now looking for an opportunity where I can make
an immediate contribution and grow in a team-oriented environment.
 I am interested in a new challenge and an opportunity to use my technical skills and experience in a
different capacity than I have in the past.
 I recently received my degree, and I want to utilize my educational skills in my next position.
 I am interested in a job with more responsibilities, opportunities that will stretch my thinking.
 I left my last position in order to spend more time with my family. Circumstances have changed, and
I'm more than ready for full-time employment again.
 I am seeking a position with a stable company that offers room for growth and opportunities for
advancement.
 I was commuting to the city and spending a significant amount of time each day traveling. I prefer to
be closer to home.
 To be honest, I wasn't considering a move, but I saw this job posting, and I was intrigued by the
opportunity and the progressive direction the company is taken. It sounds like an exciting opportunity
and an ideal match with my qualifications.
 This position seemed like an excellent match for my skills and experience, and I am not able to fully
utilize them in my present job.
 The company was cutting back, and unfortunately my job was one of those eliminated.
DR. KERRIE’S KEY INTERVIEWING TIPS
Interview tip # 1: Do not get overly nervous. Most people that interview you are not
professional job interviewers. They typically do not just interview for a living, so by being
nervous you will not help the situation. Try to relax, take deep breaths, and maintain some poise.
Relax; visualize how you would like the interview to go. Remember, the person that is
interviewing you is no different from you…he or she is only in a leadership position.
Be yourself throughout the interview. Honesty is the best policy. If you are asked a question, and
you are not sure what the interviewer wants…ask if he or she can restate the question. (IT’S
THAT EASY)
Interview tip #2: Be prepared. The interview does not start when you arrive at their facility or
when you sit down in their chair. The interview starts the moment you get that first phone call
and while you are on your way to the interview. During this quiet time, you should be collecting
P a g e | 17
Page 17 of 47
your thoughts on how you want to conduct the interview. In addition, you should be thinking
about the types of questions you may be asked. The more you are prepared, the best and
smoother the interview will go.
Interview tip #3: Know the types of interview questions you will be asked. While it is
impossible to predict what an interviewer will ask you, the basic idea you should remember in
answering interview questions is: Why you are the right person for the job? Remember, even
if you are not interviewing for a sales job, you still need to sell yourself. No one knows you
better than you do, so be sure to sell and market the complete you. (Remember—you only get
one chance to make a good first impression.)
Interview tip #4 Expect to be asked this question: tell me about yourself? This is probably one
of the. First of all, interview questions employers may ask. The difficulty in answering this
question is you never know what the interviewer wants to hear. You can get yourself in trouble
with this question if you are not sure what to say. You should start by saying: thank you for the
question…now, go right to it. Remember, he/he already knows your name, so please do not
repeat your name. Talk about your short/long-range goals, education, prior or current projects
you are working on, etc. do not talk about your personal life, children, hard times or good times.
Keep it professional.
Interview tip #5: Avoid being negative about your previous employers, bosses, and co-workers.
No one wants to hire anyone who he/she perceives to be trouble. One who has been terminated
can easily fall into this big trap. Instead, talk about things you have learned, opportunities you
have gained, contributions you have made and friendships you have developed. If you speak
negatively about past employers, the interviewer will probably wonder, was it the employer who
was bad, or was it, you. Do not fall into this uncompromising situation. If you do…chances are
you won’t get hired.
REMEMBER: The interview does not start when you enter the employer’s facility, the
interview starts the moment you receive that call, and it continues until you get an offer. So, use
all of your time to rehearse, relax, and build self-confidence. Why? Because you deserve to be
hired, and the employer likes you; otherwise, you would not be interviewing.
REMEMBER: As the interview approaches its closing moments, you must ask for the job.
However, I must caution you….if you ask for the job, you have to be ready to defend your
reason(s) why you are the best candidate for the job. Remember to use your resume as your
guide to lead the hiring manager to offer you the job. Furthermore, ask for a business card, so
that you can send a thank-you note later. Good luck and you will do just find!!! Remember to
smile during the interview…it pays great dividends, plus you look nice.
P a g e | 18
Page 18 of 47
 Remember, when giving your answer(s) Side Note: When waiting in the lobby
prior to the interview…DO NOT use your cell phone; instead, use this time to
review your notes, relax and be alert because you never know who's watching
you.
 Always look the interviewer in his or her eyes. Do not look away during this time.
In addition, project your voice; speak with clarity and with confidence.
Remember, always be truthful about your education, employment, and
salary
KEY QUESTIONS OFTEN ASKED BY HIRING MANAGERS
NOW, WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST STRENGTH?
Best Answers
 When I'm working on a project, I don't want just to meet deadlines. Rather,I prefer to complete
the project well ahead of schedule.
 Strong listening, critical thinking and reasoning skills.
 My time management skills are excellent, and I'm organized, efficient, and take pride in excelling
at my work.
 I pride myself on my customer service skills and my ability to resolve difficult situations.
YOU ARE SCORING LOTS OF POINTS…DON’T ADD THEM YET…YOU HAVEN’T SECURED THE
JOB YET…IT’S COMING THOUGH!!!! I BELIEVE IN YOU, DO YOU BELIEVE IN YOU?
WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST WEAKNESS?
DO NOT SAY: YOU DON’T HAVE ANY WEAKNESSES, EVERYONE HAS WEAKNESSES.
Best Answers:
 Being organized wasn't my strongest point, but I implemented a time management system that
really helped my organization skills.
 I like to make sure that my work is perfect,so I tend to perhaps spend a little too much time
checking it. However,I've come to a good balance by setting up a system to ensure everything is
done correctly the first time.
P a g e | 19
Page 19 of 47
 I used to wait until the last minute to set appointments for the coming week,but I realized that
scheduling in advance makes much more sense.
 Sometimes I spend more time than necessary on a task, or take on tasks personally that could
easily be delegated to someone else. Although I've never missed a deadline, it is still an effort for
me to know when to move on to the next task, and to be confident when assigning others' work.
 I had difficulty with statistics in college, but I persevered with tutoring assistance and extra effort
and completed two courses with a B minus average.
 I used to like to work on one project to completion before starting on another, but I've learned to
work on many projects at the same time, and it allows me to be more creative and effective in
each one.
HOW DO YOU HANDLE STRESS AND PRESSURE?
Best Answers
 Stress is very important to me. With stress, I do the best possible job. The appropriate way to deal
with stress is to make sure I have the correct balance between good stress and bad stress. I need good
stress to stay motivated and productive.
 I actually work better under pressure, and I've found that I enjoy working in a challenging
environment.
 From a personal perspective, I manage stress by going to the gym three days a week. It has been great
stress reducer for me over the years.
 Prioritizing my responsibilities, so that I have a clear idea of what needs to be done.
 If I am facing stress in managing people, I discuss options for better handling difficult situations with
them.
 I find that when I'm under pressure in meeting deadlines, I oftentimes do my best work.
 I'm not a person who has a difficult time handling stress. When I'm under pressure, I focus, and I get
the job done.
 I find it exhilarating to be in a dynamic environment when the pressure is on.
 I find a fast-pace environment to be invigorating, and I thrive when the pressure is on.
 I've done some of my best work under tight deadlines where the atmosphere was very stressful.
 I'm the kind of person who stays calm under pressure, and handles stress fairly easily.
It's a good idea to give examples of how you have handled stress to your interviewer(s). That
way, they can get a clearer picture of how well you can work in stressful situations.
P a g e | 20
Page 20 of 47
CAN DESCRIBE A DIFFICULT WORK SITUATION/PROJECT
AND HOW YOU OVERCAME IT?
Best Answers:
 Give concrete examples of difficult situations that actually happened at work. Then discuss what
you did to solve the problem.
 Keep your answers positive ("Even though it was difficult when Kerrie Mayberry quit without
notice, we were able to rearrange the department workload to cover the position until a
replacement was hired.") and be specific. Itemize what you did and how you did it.
 The best way to prepare for questions where you will need to recall events and action is to refresh
your memory and consider some special situations you have dealt with or projects you have
worked on. You can use them to help frame responses. Prepare stories that illustrate times when
you have successfully solved a difficult situation.
WHAT IS YOUR DEFINITION OF SUCCESS?
Best Answers:
 "I evaluate success in different ways. At work, it is meeting the goals set by my supervisors and my
fellow workers. It is my understanding from talking to other employees that the Helping Hand
Resume & Interview Coaching Company is recognized for not only rewarding success, but giving
employees’ opportunity to grow as well. After work, I enjoy playing softball, so success on the field is
catching the winning pop-up."
 "For me, success is about doing my job well. I want to be recognized as someone who always does
his/her or her or her best and tries his/her or her or her hardest to succeed."
 "I evaluate success based on not only my work, but the work of my team. In order for me to be
considered successful, the team needs to achieve."
 "I evaluate success based on outcomes. It's not always the path we take to achieve success that
matters. Rather, it's quantifiable results."
 "For me, success is when I am performing well and satisfied with my position, knowing that my
work is adding value to the company but also to my overall life and the lives of other people."
P a g e | 21
Page 21 of 47
WHY DO YOU WANT THIS JOB?
Best Answers:
 This is not only a fine opportunity, but this company is a place where my qualifications can make a
difference. As a customer service manager, I see this position as made to order. It contains the
challenges to keep me on my toes. That's the kind of excitement I like to anticipate every morning.
 I want this job because it seems tailored to my competencies, which include sales and marketing. As I
said earlier, in a previous position, I created an annual growth rate of 22 percent in a flat industry.
 I understand that this company is on its way up. Your web site talks about how the company is
launching several new products next year and I want to be a part of this growth.
 As a dedicated manager, I like doing essential research. Being part of a breakthrough team is an
experience I'd love to be a part of.
 This job is a good fit for what I've been interested in throughout my career. It offers a nice mix of
short- and long-term opportunities. My short-term achievements keep me cranked up, and the long-
term give me a stronger outlook on life.
 I want this job as manager because I'd be good at it. I'm good at managing tasks and developing
people.
THE FOUR-LETTER WORD
IN YOUR QUEST FOR LANDING THAT NEW JOB OR PROMOTION;
YOU MUST LEARN TO DO THIS FOUR-LETTER WORD:
SELL! SELL! SELL!
WHY SHOULD WE HIRE YOU INSTEAD OF OTHER CANDIDATES?
REMEMBER TO FOCUS ON YOUR DISTINCTIVENESS
The interviewer wants to know how you stand out among the other applicants. Therefore,focus
on one or two qualities you possess that might be unique, or more difficult to find, in other
P a g e | 22
Page 22 of 47
interviewees. For example, if you are very experienced with a certain skill that the job requires,
say so. This is your chance to tell the interviewer why you would be an invaluable employee.
Examples ofAnswers
 You have explained that you are looking for an experienced manager who is able to effectively
manage over a dozen employees. In my fifteen years of experience as a customer service
manager, I have developed strong motivational and team-building skills. I was twice awarded
manager-of-the-year for my innovative strategies for motivating employees to meet and surpass
quarterly goals. If hired, I will bring my leadership abilities and strategies for achieving profit
gains to this position.
Side Note: show some enthusiasm and smile because the
interviewer is looking for that inner and outer GLOW.
 You describe in the job listing that you are looking for a special-education assistant teacher with
an abundance of patience and compassion. Having served as a tutor at a summer school for
dyslexic children for the past two years,I have developed my ability to be extremely patient
while still achieving academic gains with my students. My experience teaching phonics to
children ages 6 to 18 has taught me strategies for working with children of all ages and abilities,
always with a smile. My previous employer often placed me with the students with the most
severe learning disabilities because of my history of success. I will bring not only experience, but
patience and creative problem-solving, to this position.
WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS?
Don't discuss your goals for returning to schoolor having a family, they are not relevant and could knock you
out of contention for the job. Rather, you want to connect your answer to the job you are applying for.
Examples of good responses include:
P a g e | 23
Page 23 of 47
 My long-term goals involve growing with a company where I can continue to learn, take on
additional responsibilities, and contribute as much of value as I can.
 I see myself as a top-performing employee in a well-established organization, like this one. I plan on
enhancing my skills and continuing my involvement in (related) professional associations.
 Once I gain additional experience, I would like to move on from a technical position to management.
 In the Helping Hand Resume & Interview Coaching Corporation, what is a typical career path for
someone with my skills and experiences?
Side Note: Listen for the “Tense” in which the interviewer is speaking in…if he/she is speaking
in the past tense, he/she is not ready to make a hiring decision. You have to get the person to
focus on present and eventually the future tense during the interview.
STATEMENT & QUESTIONS TO SAY
DURING THE INTERVIEW
YOU ARE ABOUT TO GET HIRED!
YOU MUST ASK FOR THE JOB AT LEAST TWICE DURING THE INTERVIEW.
DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE INTERVIEWER ASK IF YOU ANY QUESTIONS. IF
YOU WAIT UNTIL THE END, VALUABLE TIME WOULD HAVE BEEN LOST.
YOU NEED A WELL-SOUGHT OUT PLAN THAT WILL ALLOW YOU ENOUGH
TIME TO MARKET YOUR SKILLS, SPEAK TO THE KEY POINTS ON YOUR
RESUME; SHOWCASE YOUR GREAT COMMUNICATION SKILLS, YOUR
DESIRE AND YOUR ENTHUSIAM TO WORK FOR THE COMPANY…DON’T BE
LIKE SO MANY JOB CANDIDATES THAT LEAVE THE INTERVIEW AND WISH
THEY WOULD HAVE SAID WHAT THEY WENT THERE TO SAY. AT THAT
POINT, IT IS TOO LATE. NOW, YOU ARE BACK ON “DEFENSE” HOPING AND
PRAYING THAT YOU GET A CALL BACK FROM THE EMPLOYER.
 I think that I could do a lot for your company, and I believe we could have a great working
relationship.
 I think I would be a great fit for this position…look over your resume and discuss key areas on
your resume. If I designed your resume, you will have key sections.
 I am certain this is the job I want. Is there anything else I can say or provide today that will
help you decide right now?
P a g e | 24
Page 24 of 47
 I am very interested in coming to work for your company. I do have a list of professional
references that are willing to speak to you on my behalf.
 This job sounds like a perfect fit for my career. The position itself aligns with my career goals
and my mission statement.
 Mr. Jones, I am really enjoying what I am hearing today. I like how you have specifically
outlined the duties and responsibilities of the position.
 Mr. Jones, do you believe that I can do this job? Yes, I do. Well, Mr. Jones, it seems like we are
in agreement, would you be willing to make me an offer today?
 Mr. Jones, if given an opportunity to come work for you, I have outlined a plan that could
help your department or company reaches its goals this year.
 Mr. Jones, can you tell me how I compare to the other candidates you have already
interviewed?
 Mr. Jones, my schedule is open for the rest of the week; I would be willing to come back
tomorrow to further discuss my plan to help your company reach its goals.
It goes something like this. On Monday morning, you get a surprised telephone call at
9:00. And, (2) minutes into the phone call you are asked this question: What type of
salary are you looking for? We are quick to respond by saying: we are open, or It's
negotiable, or i am flexible. All wrong!!! You have to become a player and learn how to
answer this question without shooting yourself in the foot and not underminding your
worth or being unaware of what the salary is for your industry. This is one of the reasons
why so many people do not get what they are worth. I am going to help you out. The
next time you are asked about salary, say this:
Answering Salary
Questions
P a g e | 25
Page 25 of 47
HERE ARE A COUPLE EXAMPLES TO PRACTICE
 Salary is important to me, just as it is to the next person. However, my reason(s) for
being here is not about salary; instead, my reason(s) for being here, is because of the
opportunity, how this opportunity directly aligns with my career goals, and how this
opportunity will allow me to learn about your company and how I might be able to
contribute to your organization.
 Mr. Jones, thank you for the question. Based on industry standards for a person with
my skillset, education, training, and for this particular area of the country, the low
salary range is between $45k -49k; the median range salary is between $50k-56k,
and the high end salary range for this particular position in $57k-68k. Mr. Jones, as
you can see from my resume, I bring a host of skills and talents that you are seeking
in a candidate. Let me ask you a question, Mr. Jones. What would you say a person with
my skillset, education, experience, creative thinking, and enthusiasm is worth?
SHOW SOME ENTHUSIAM WHILE ON THE PHONE!!!!!
Never initiate compensation or benefit during a telephone
interview…you may not have enough information to accurately talk
P a g e | 26
Page 26 of 47
about what you are seeking, salary wise. My approach below
might help you to answer this, sometimes, awkward question.
Mr. Smith, thank you for the question. I can honestly say that I do not know enough about
the job responsibilities to give you an accurate salary figure during this time. However,
knowing that this opportunity is in direct alignment with my goals, and I believe a personal
interview would re-affirm my interest and qualifications. Then, express your interest in the
job and the company. Finally, say that you would appreciate the opportunity to talk about
the job further in person. Final points to remember: Thank the caller, and write down the
caller’s full name and title.
For starters: If an employer calls you at an undesirable time, i.e. while driving, at work,
on the bus or if you are home with a sick child; you may not be ready to conduct a phone
interview. Politely ask the employer if you can call him/her right back in 30-45 minutes. Be
sure to call the employer back at the scheduled time. This will allow you time to organize
your material and your thoughts. Remember, when you call the employer back, have ready:
 A Pen, paper, and a calculator
 The job ad and your résumé.
 A list of your accomplishments, if applicable.
 A calendar in case the employer asks to schedule an in-person interview. The
calendar will allow you to confirm your dates. At this time, you want to be honest if
you cannot interview on a specific date.
 If you conducted some research on the company, and you found press releases or
you learned that the company is coming out with a new product/service, be ready to
talk about your findings.
 Finally, turn off the radio and TV. If you are using your cell phone and another call
comes in during the interview, DO NOT PLACE THE EMPLOYER ON HOLD…THIS CALL
IS MORE IMPORTANT.
Techniques of a professional:
 Smile-it comes through the phone.
 Speak directly into the telephone, avoid using the speakerphone.
 Do not smoke, chew gum, eat, or drink anything while talking on the phone.
 Stand up while speaking, your voice projects stronger.
 Avoid the ah, er, hum-this habit is especially noticeable on the telephone.
To gain a winning edge during the telephone interview:
 Confirm the caller’s name and company, immediately ask the caller for his or her
telephone number in case the call gets disconnected.
 Pace the call, let the caller do most of the talking without interruptions.
 Use the technique of repeating or re-phrasing questions. It tells the caller that you
listened carefully, this also gives you time to think.
P a g e | 27
Page 27 of 47
TYPICAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
QUESTIONS ANSWERS
Tell me about yourself. • Ask for clarification or specifics of what the Client would like
to hear about. The information shared should be about your
professionalbackground rather than your personal life.
• Speak logically for approximately 2 minutes. (The Client is
probably looking for communication skills and linear
thinking.)
• Describe a major personal attribute.
Why are you leaving
Your current position?
• This answer may be variable depending on your situation.
One potential open-ended answer may be that after long
personalconsideration, the chance to make a contribution is
low due to company changes. Remember, you should not
sound too opportunistic. Care should be taken not to “bad
mouth” a previous employer.
What do you consider your most significant accomplishment? • Prepare extensively to answer this question.
• Tell a 2-minute story: State the accomplishment, why you
consider it an accomplishment, and what occurred as an
effect of the accomplishment. (The answer to this question
may secure the job offer.)
• Present the accomplishment as worth achieving, discussing
hard work, long hours, pressure, and important company
issues that were at stake.
Why do you believe you are qualified for this position? • Select two or three main factors about the job and about
yourself that are most relevant to the company and the
duties and skills of the position, addressing the question for
2 minutes with specific details.
• Mention a technical skill, a specific management skill (e.g.,
organizing, staffing, planning), and a personalsuccess
attribute.
• Prepare success stories to present to the company.
P a g e | 28
Page 28 of 47
Have you ever accomplished something you didn’t think you
could?
• Prepare a good example where you overcame numerous
difficulties to succeed; demonstrating that you are not a
quitter and that you will keep going, even when things get
tough. (The interviewer is trying to determine your goal
orientation, work ethic, personal commitment, and integrity.)
What do you like/dislike most about your current position? • Consider who you are talking to and respond using good
judgment. Take care not to express too many details, or
express a particular “dislike” for management.
• Be honest about liking challenges, pressure situations,
opportunities to grow, or disliking bureaucracy and
frustrating situations. (The interviewer is trying to determine
your compatibility with the open position.)
How do you handle pressure? Do you like or dislike these
situations?
• Provide a good example of handling pressure, with details
that provide an overview of the stressfulsituation. (The
interviewer should “feel” the stress through the description.
High achievers tend to perform well in high-pressure
situations. This question could also imply that the position is
pressure-packed and may be a red flag for you).
What are your career goals? Where do you see yourself 5
years from now? 10 years?
•
You should be honest with the potentialemployer and let
them know what your goals are. Make certain that your
goals are inclusive of details of the opportunity at hand.
Telling an interviewer that you have plans to move or to go
back to school full time may not be the best things to dis-
close during the interview process. Be as open as possible
with your answers.
What do you consider your most significant strengths? • Prepare for this question by knowing your five key strengths.
(Selected attributes should be those that are most
compatible with the job opening.)
• Discuss specific examples that support each of these five
strengths.
• Avoid the standard answers — “management” or “good
interpersonalskills” — unless you can support them with
examples of specific characteristics of management (e.g.,
planning, organizing, results, staffing, etc.) or how
relationship skills have proven critical to the your success.
What do you consider your most significant weakness? • Discuss tolerable faults that you are working toward
improving, not deep character flaws.
• Discuss how the weakness has changed over time or how the
weakness can be turned into a strength (e.g., how a
concentration on details results in higher quality work, even
though it requires overtime).
The sign of a good employee is the ability to take the
initiative. Can you describe situations like this about
yourself?
• Convince the interviewer that you possess this attribute by
providing a series of short examples of your self-motivation.
• Discuss an in-depth example showing extra effort, a strong
work ethic, and a creative side. (A proactive, results-
oriented person does not have to be told what to do, which
is a major success attribute.)
What’s the worst or most embarrassing aspect of your busi-
ness career? How would you have done things differently
now with 20/20 hindsight?
• Talk openly about failures, if the failures show learning from
the experiences. (This indicates an open, more flexible
personality and is a critical aspect of high potential
individuals. This question is to learn how introspective you
are and to see if you can learn from your mistakes.)
P a g e | 29
Page 29 of 47
How have you grown or changed over the past few years? • Select changes that demonstrate maturation, increased
technical skills, or increased self-confidence. (Your ability to
discuss this effectively is indicative of a well-balanced,
intelligent individual. Overcoming personal obstacles or
recognizing manageable weaknesses can help you be
viewed as an approachable and desirable employee.)
Deadlines, frustration, difficult people, and silly rules can
make a job difficult. How do you handle these types of
situations?
• Show that you can overcome these situations through
diplomacy, perseverance, and common sense. (Because
most companies face these types of problems on a daily
basis, a candidate’s inability to deal with petty frustrations
will be seen as a problem.)
One of our biggest problems is ________. What has been
your experience with this? How would you deal with it?
• Ask questions to get details about the identified problem and
then break the problem into sub-parts.
• Address the sub-parts that you have experience with, and
then summarize the whole situation.
•
State how you would approach the problem and work to
solve it, being specific to demonstrate organizationaland
analyticalskills.
(1) As a manager, how do you compare your technical skills to
your management skills?
• Try to present a good balance between technical skills and
management skills. (Many people tend to minimize their
technical skills, either because they do not have any or
because they do not like going into detail. Most successful
managers possess good technical skills, getting into enough
detail to make sure they understand the information being
presented by their group.)
As a manager, how would you handle a situation with tight
deadlines, low employee morale, and inadequate resources?
Be creative in answering this question, providing an
example if possible.
Describe your toughest management task, demonstrating
organizationalskills, interpersonalskills, and handling
pressures. (Skillful handling of this question demonstrates
your skills—good managers should be able to address each
issue, even if the issues are not concurrent. This question
indicates the interviewer’s search for strong management
skills.)
Why should we hire you for this position? What kind of
contribution would you make?
Relate specific attributes and specific accomplishments that
are appropriate for the job duties and responsibilities,
qualifying responses with the need to gather information.
(The answer to this question should demonstrate a
thoughtful, organized attitude that includes strong effort.
This question provides a good chance for you to summarize
your qualifications for the position.)
P a g e | 30
Page 30 of 47
ARE YOU CONSIDERING LOOKING FOR OUT-OF-STATE-JOBS? IF SO,
HERE ARE SOME THINGS TO CONSIDER.
1. Don’t put your address on your résumé
By no means am I saying that you should lie on your résumé. That is a no. However, if you truly
are dedicated to getting a job in a different state, you must make sure you have all the logistics
taken care of. If the employer contacts you, do you have a plan of where you’re going to stay
during the interview process? Any leads on where you could live or at least stay for the first few
weeks if you got offered the job? Have you saved up enough to be able to afford the trip(s)?
2. Make it clear that you don’t expect the company to pay for you.
That leads us directly into the next point. If part of the application process requires you to give
your address, don’t lie. Just make sure that the employer knows that you won’t be costing them
anything.
Unless you’re the one being contacted for the job, don’t expect an employer to pay for any
relocation expenses. This includes any flights that might be necessary for an interview.
“If you’re going to be a good hire, you should be able to figure out how to get to an interview
and make a start date and that shouldn’t be the employer’s problem.
P a g e | 31
Page 31 of 47
3. Make it very clear why you’re interested in that job and why it won’t be a problem for you to
get there—you’re planning to move anyway, have enough money saved up to look for jobs in
that area, have a family member who lives in the area, etc.
Other key points to remember when considering relocating for a job…
If you want to relocate out-of-state or away from your hometown, realize many companies will not pay for
relocation in the current economic environment unless they cannot find a local candidate. Here are a few
techniques you can use to increase your chances for an out-of-state job: Find a mailbox company (or a friend)
with an address perceived as within the commuting distance for the job. Also, get a phone number (use Skype
or Google Voice) to get a phone number that is in the area code where the job is.
In the cover letter, mention although you are currently working in another city, you have begun the transition
to the new location. This is true if you have established an address and phone number in the new city.
 I do not recommend that your resume list name, email address and phone number only. That bare-bones
information can get you eliminated from the application, since the company will assume you are hiding
something.
 In the cover letter or email that accompanies your resume mention that you are open to relocation. Even
better, if you already have plans in place to move to the state, let the company know when you will be a
resident.
 The easier you make your relocation for the company involved, the more likely they will be to consider
you. You may want to consider paying for your own transportation to the interview.
SMILE! SMILE! SMILE! YOU ARE APPROACHING THE FINISH LINE…THEY WILL CONCLUDE
THE INTERVIEW BY ASKING IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS. PLEASE DON’T SAY: YOU HAVE
ANSWERED ALL OF MY QUESTIONS. YOU COULD SAY: TROUGHOUT THE INTERVIEW, I HAD
QUESTIONS; HOWEVER, AS THE INTERVIEW PROGRESSED, YOU WERE ABLE TO PROVIDE
CLEAR ANSWERS TO MY QUESTIONS, THANK YOU.
1. What additional information do you need regarding my candidacy for the
position?
2. Can you please explain the rest of the interview process?
P a g e | 32
Page 32 of 47
3. Do you foresee anything that might hinder me from getting the job?
4. I would love to work for your company, restate what you will bring to the
company.

5. My schedule is open. I would accept the opportunity to set a second interview
with you.
6. Do you see any reason why I would not be a major addition to your team?
7. If I may ask, how do I compare to the other candidates whom you have already
interviewed?
8. Ask, what will it take to be successful in the position you are currently seeking to
fill?
9. Ask the interviewer if he/she can make you an offer now. Restate what you will
bring.
AS THE INTERVIEW APPROACHES ITS CLOSING MOMENTS…
This is the time to sell your skills and talents. Re-state your career goals, what you can bring to
the organization, some of the projects you’ve implemented at previous jobs. Finally, don’t forget
to shake the employer(s)' hand and thank each person for the interview. Ask would it be okay to
follow up with him or her in a couple of days.
You should walk out of the interview with confidence and assurance. If you do not feel this way,
maybe you need more practice. Remember, with practice, you will get better, and eventually
you’ll land that dream job….good luck!
Tips on Conditioning Your Mind and Preparing for the Interview
LIFE IS GOOD; YOU ARE MAKING A COMEBACK…
CLAIM IT! SPEAK IT! LIVE IT!
Successful job interviews do not occur by chance.
THESE FIVE INTERVIEW TIPS WILL HELP PREPARE YOU TO HAVE A GREAT INTERVIEW:
P a g e | 33
Page 33 of 47
Interview tip # 1: Do not get overly nervous. Most people that interview you are not professional
job interviewers. They typically do not just interview for a living, so by being nervous you will not
help the situation. Try to relax, take deep breaths, and maintain some poise. Relax; visualize how you
would like the interview to go. Remember, the person that is interviewing you is no different from
you…he or she is only in a leadership position. Be yourself throughout the interview. Honesty is the
best policy. If you are asked a question, and you are not sure what the interviewer wants…ask if he or
she can restate the question. (IT’S THAT EASY)
Interview tip #2: Be prepared. The interview does not start when you arrive at their facility or when
you sit down in their chair. The interview starts the moment you get that first phone call and while
you are on your way to the interview. During this quiet time, you should be collecting your thoughts
on how you want to conduct the interview. In addition, you should be thinking about the types of
questions you may be asked. The more you are prepared, the best and smoother the interview will
go.
Interview tip #3: Know the types of interview questions you will be asked. While it is impossible to
predict what an interviewer will ask you, the basic idea you should remember in answering interview
questions is: Why you are the right person for the job? Remember, even if you are not
interviewing for a sales job, you still need to sell yourself. No one knows you better than you. So, be
sure to sell and market the complete you. (Remember—you only get one chance to make a good
first impression.)
Interview tip #4 Expect to be asked this question: tell me about you? This is probably one of the
first of many interview questions employers will ask. The difficulty in answering this question is you
never know what the interviewer wants to hear. You can get yourself in trouble over this question if
you are not sure what to say. You should start by saying: thank you for the question…now, go right
to it. Remember, he/he already knows your name, so please do not repeat your name. Talk about
your short/long-range goals, education, prior or current projects you are working on, etc. do not talk
about your personal life, children, hard times or good times. Keep it professional.
Interview tip #5: Avoid being negative about your previous employers, bosses, and co-workers. No
one wants to hire anyone who he/she perceives to be trouble. One who has been terminated can
easily fall into this big trap. Instead, talk about things you have learned, opportunities you have
gained, contributions you have made and friendships you have developed. If you speak negatively
about past employers, the interviewer will probably wonder, was the employer the problem, or was it
you. Do not fall into this uncompromising situation. If you do…chances are you won’t get hired.
REMEMBER: The interview does not start when you enter the employer’s facility, the interview
starts the moment you receive that call, and it continues until you get an offer. So, use all of
P a g e | 34
Page 34 of 47
your time to rehearse, relax, and build self-confidence. Know that you deserve to be hired, and
they like you. Otherwise, you would not be interviewing.
Remember: as the interview approaches its closing moments, you must ask for the job.
However, I must caution you….if you ask for the job, you have to be ready to defend your
reason(s) why you are the best candidate for the job. Remember to use your resume as
your guide. Furthermore, prior to leaving the interview, ask for a business card, so that
you can send a thank-you note later. Good luck and you will do just find!!! Remember to
smile during the interview…it pays great dividends, plus you look nice.
 Is your current resume generating job interviews for you? If employers are not calling
you, don’t get discouraged; maybe your resume needs a makeover. Call the number
above, and learn how to write a job-winning resume that will encourage employers to
call YOU.
 Have you ever been fired from a job? Call or email me and learn techniques on how to
answer questions pertaining to a job loss. (Rule #1: Always Be Truthful)
 Learn how to answer questions that employers often ask. For example: Why did you
leave your last job or why should we hire you? Or, tell me a story? Or what type of
salary are you looking for? And much more!
Side Note: Don’t forget to ask for a business card once the interview starts.
Why? By having the interviewer’s business card, you won’t make the
mistake of calling him/her by the wrong name.
Dr. Kerrie’s Five Seeds of Hope
1) Don’t QUIT, you can make it, if you can find the strength to get through THIS DAY, not
tomorrow or next week.
2) When the messenger of misery pays you a visit, AND you will get your visit, because none of us
are exempt, so put on your battleground gear and tough it out!
3) Keep looking for ways to win. Somehow, some way, God will make a way...Can you believe in a
P a g e | 35
Page 35 of 47
Higher Power to get you through this? If you can...you will succeed!
4) You Might be going through some tough times, and maybe life has thrown some punches at you.
I say,Hold to God’s unchanging Hand. You will make it!
5) In order to see a beautiful rainbow in the sky, it must first rain. However, once the rain stops,
look to the sky for your rainbow.
Dr. Kerrie’s five recommendations for creating a balanced life.
1. Get up every morning, put on your business attire and leave the house.
2. Join a civic group and/or volunteer your time to help someone else. Remember, you aren’t the only one
unemployed or facing hard times.
3. Expect someone to call you...reaffirm over and over in your mind that you will get a job today.
4. Eat healthy, exercise regularly, meditate, and read about your industry.
5. Finally, end your night with a sincere prayer, thanking God for another day and try to RELAX!!!
THE PANEL INTERVIEW
Do you fear panel interviews? A panel interview is when you have two
or more key people at the organization interviewing you at the same
time. Relax…read this manual and you will feel so much better…look
at a panel interview as an opportunity to have (one) strong interview,
instead of 2-3 different interviews. You can impress everyone now!
1. Direct your attention to each person on the panel.
Upon starting the interview, get each person’s name (and ask for their business card or jot down the
name), and then look at each person as you introduce yourself. This will help to break the ice and
establish a connection to all of your interviewers. While fielding questions, avoid staring at a single
P a g e | 36
Page 36 of 47
person (nothing makes you look more “frozen” than doing this!). Instead, make it a point to relax,
smile, and shift your eyes to the others on the panel. Even if a single member of the group asks you a
particular question, look around at the others while you answer it. Doing so will help you project a
confident image and build rapport with the entire panel. (Remember…smile, but be yourself. Please
don’t smile or laugh if nothing is funny.
2. Expect to repeat yourself.
While one of your interviewers might understand your answer the first time, you can almost expect
someone else to ask for clarification — or ask it again, later in the interview. Everyone has different
verbal abilities, and many of us have different listening styles. What is clear to one panel participant
may need further explanation for another person. In addition, each panelist comes to a group
interview with a different agenda. You can expect a prospective peer to be interested in your
technical or analytical skills, for example, while the boss might be more curious about why your last
job was so short.
You may also find yourself repeating information from earlier interviews. This is perfectly normal
within the context of a multi-interview hiring process, so avoid coming across as impatient or noting
that you’ve answered this query before.
3. Find out who you’ll need to impress the most.
Within most panel interviews, it becomes obvious very quickly who’s on your side, and who still
hasn’t made up his or her mind yet. (“Good cop, bad cop” is fairly common in panel interviews!)
While it may be comforting to direct your answers and gaze toward the interviewer who seems more
open to your responses, you’re better off tackling the naysayer first. Why? Because winning over the
person most likely to reject you shows that you have the ability to read the audience, as well as
problem-solve on your feet. Most employers are looking for leaders who will challenge issues head-
on, ask numerous questions, and hone in on the thorniest problems first. If you respond well to
P a g e | 37
Page 37 of 47
someone that throws challenges your way, you’ll come across as an unflappable professional ready
to take on the demands of the job. In addition, most panel interviewers convene after a group
interview to discuss the candidate and their impressions. If you’ve won over the toughest member of
the group, the others may likely throw their support behind him or her.
4. Be prepared for at least one zinger question.
Interviewers, like anyone else, tend to feel more comfortable (and perhaps bold) in a group.
Therefore, you can almost count on being asked a question that might not be posed to you in a one-
on-one situation. Of course, you’ll want to prepare for your interview by pulling out 3-5 “power
stories” that demonstrate your abilities to perform the job. Arming yourself with these anecdotes will
give you the ability to answer numerous behavioral-style questions common to both single- and
multi-interviewer situations. Nevertheless, if there’s any question or situation that you would feel
awkward explaining, prepare and practice a set of answers to it prior to your panel interview! This
way, you won’t feel a sense of dread when the question finally comes up, and you’ll be better able to
handle any curveballs thrown your way.
5. Thank all participants promptly upon leaving the interview.
At the conclusion of your group interview, thank everyone personally, and gather business cards if
you didn’t already do so. Then, as you’re sitting in your car post-interview, write thank-you notes
immediately and bring them back in for drop-off to the receptionist. You’ll gain the advantage of
having the interview fresh on your mind, and you will score points for your promptness and attention
to professional courtesy.
In summary, a panel interview is nothing to dread, especially since it offers an opportunity to
establish rapport with your potential new co-workers and bosses. Arm yourself with a stack of
success stories, answers to tough questions, thank-you notes, and a smile, and you’ll be on your way
to a faster job offer.
P a g e | 38
Page 38 of 47
ARE YOU READY FOR LUNCH?
The Lunch Interview…You never know when you will be asked
out on an lunch-Interview date…Relax…read on!
As if the job interview were not already stressful enough—enter the lunch interview. Not only
are you being judged on your skills, qualifications, and experience, your table manners are being
scrutinized too! Never fear. It is possible to wow a potential employer without getting
indigestion. Here’s a quickie list of guidelines, roughly in the order in which you’ll need them.
1. A lunch interview is not about your eating…it is about building rapport…Read on!!!
2. The morning of the interview, be sure you listen to current news or wherever it is you get your
information. This is recommended for all interviews, but lunchtime interviews often involve more
chitchat.
3. Dress as you would for a normal interview.
4. Make an effort to arrive first and wait in the lobby, not at the bar.
5. No matter what time you arrive, check to see if your party is already there. You never know.
6. Wait for everyone to be seated before you put your napkin in your lap or open your menu.
7. First hurdle: Beverages. Your interviewer is likely to let you order first. Avoid the booze. Consider
sparkling water. It’s both grown up and non-alcoholic. Depending on where you live, iced tea is also
a good choice.
8. Do not drink straight from a bottle or through a straw, especially if you are a woman.
9. Second hurdle: Entrées. Don’t order the most expensive thing. Don’t order the cheapest thing.
Don’t order anything that is ostentatiously huge or smelly or crunchy.
10. Instead, order a smallish dish that you can easily and gracefully eat with a knife and fork. (Avoid
spaghetti, spareribs, fried chicken, tacos, lobster, and big fat sloppy sandwiches.)
P a g e | 39
Page 39 of 47
11. Order quickly and with no fuss or interrogation of the server. Do not make an issue of your food
allergies, your weight, or your likes and dislikes.
12. If you’ve brought a portfolio or other papers, mention that you have them and let the interviewer
choose when to bring them out. After the plates have been cleared is usually a good time.
13. Be polite to the servers. The way you treat them says a lot about your character.
14. If something is a little wrong with your order, let it slide. This is one meal that is really not about
the food.
15. Eat your dinner roll by breaking off a small piece at a time.
16. Don’t eat too fast, or as if you’re ravenous. Don’t wipe your plate with your bread.
17. Don’t eat extremely slowly either, though you will probably be eating less quickly than your
interviewer (a good reason to order something small).
18. Do eat something. If you don’t, you’ll look nervous. Try to finish at least half.
19. Do not ask for a doggie bag.
20. Here’s an advantage of the lunch interview: You can ponder your answer to a difficult answer
while chewing! Do take small bites, though, so there’s not an awkwardly long lag time while your
interviewer is waiting for you to swallow.
21. Only order dessert if the interviewer does.
22. In case Mom failed to mention it: Don’t talk with your mouth full. Don’t put your elbows on the
table. Sit up straight. Use a napkin.
23. At the end, don’t wad up your napkin. Fold it loosely and lay it on the table next to your plate.
24. Be graceful about letting the interviewer pick up the tab. You were invited!
25. Don’t forget to mention the meal in your thank-you note.
LEARN THE SKILLS TO BE SUCCESSFUL
AT CAREER FAIRS
P a g e | 40
Page 40 of 47
It isn't often that a bunch of employers will gather for several hours in a purposeful effort to meet
you and other job seekers. So when a career fair is held in your area, it's smart for you to attend.
Even so, to get something from the experience beyond free key chains, colorful pens, and other
gadgets, you need to understand the purpose of the career fair and the role you and the employer
play.
Four preparation things you should do before attending the career fair…
1. Developa Strong Resume: Highlight your skills and accomplishments. Your resume should
be error free, concise and quality resume paper. Don't forget to make several copies, since you'll
probably visit with more than one employer.
2. Get or Make Business Cards: You can buy blank business cards at stores like Office Depot,
and then use a computer and laser printer to create some personalized cards. List your name,
contact information, and perhaps the career you'd like to pursue or your key skills. (It would be
nice to have your own resume business cards…ask me how to get these cards…)
3. Get a list of companies attending the career fair and do your research on companies you
are most interested in: Nothing impresses an employer less than a prospective candidate asking,
"So what do you guys do?" Instead, be one of the few attendees that know something about each
of the companies. The more informed you are, the more likely you will be positively
remembered.
4. Developa 30-Second Commercial: "Tell me a little about yourself." You're likely to get that
invitation from many of the employers at the fair. So spend a little time beforehand figuring out
your response. Think of your reply as a 30-second, self-promotional commercial you'll deliver to
each employer who asks. (Attend my workshop and I will teach you what to say…it works.)
P a g e | 41
Page 41 of 47
1. Introduce yourself and Shake Hands: In many ways, a career fair is a test of your social
skills. While employers are almost always friendly and outgoing, they'll expect the same of you.
If you haven't done much ice breaking before, practice in advance with a career counselor or
friend. (Attend my workshops and I will teach you these skills
2. Dress Appropriately: In most cases, you'll want to dress professionally to attend a career fair.
Sometimes business casual is fine, but don't go too casual. When in doubt, overdress.
3. Ask Intelligent Questions: If you've studied up on the organizations, you'll probably have
some questions you'd like to ask. Not only will you get some answers, but you'll also show
yourself to be someone who does his or her research.
4. Focus on What You Can Offer, Not What They Can Offer You. You'll be a refreshing
change to most hiring managers if you tell them what you can do for them and their
organizations instead of asking what they can do for you. (Be yourself)
5. Leave Your Resume and Profile Card with Each Hiring Manager: Then be sure to grab
each one of their cards
Steps to take after a job fair
1. Take Notes: After the fair concludes, jot down notes about conversations you had with
company representatives. If you wait too long, the conversations will start running together in
your head, and you'll forget what you said to whom.
2. Follow Up on Promises: If, for example, a company representative expressed interest in
looking at your Web site, make sure to email the URL like you said you would.
3. Send Thank-You Notes: Write or email each of the people you met and thank them for their
time. Reiterate your interest in the company and your relevant skills and experience. Most job
seekers fail to take this simple step, often losing out in the end to those who did express their
thanks.
There will be a few other times in your life when employers make such a concerted bid to get
your attention. So when they participate in a nearby career fair, make the most of the opportunity
to present yourself favorably, gather useful information and meet new contacts. Your small
investment of time and effort - before, during and after - might very well turn into an opportunity
INTERVIEW QUESTIONS ASKED TO EDUCATORS
TOP 100 Teacher Interview Questions Hiring Managers Ask All The Time
P a g e | 42
Page 42 of 47
1. First, tell us a little bit about yourself. (Almost every teacher interview begins this way.)
2. Describe your college experiences.
3. Tell us about your experiences working with students at this age level.
4. Describe your philosophy of teaching?
5. Why do you want to become a teacher?
6. Describe three of your strengths and explain each one.
7. Describe three of your weaknesses as a teacher.
8. In what ways do you encourage creativity in your classroom?
9. Tell us about a lesson in which you've used differentiated instruction.
10. How do you teach kids to utilize higher-order thinking skills in your classroom?
11. What do you do to prepare your students for state or standardized tests?
12. Do you make learning fun for students? How?
13. If I walked into your classroom on a typical afternoon, what would I see going on?
14. How do you measure student performance in your classroom?
15. Describe a successful lesson. Tell why it was successful.
16. What would you do if a student wasn't handing her homework on a regular basis?
17. How much homework do you give?
18. Besides lecture, what methods of teaching do you use?
19. Tell us about your discipline philosophy.
20. What are your classroom rules? How do you make students familiar with the rules?
21. What daily or weekly routines would be incorporated in your teaching?
22. One student hits another student. What do you do?
23. A student throws a pencil across the room. What do you do?
P a g e | 43
Page 43 of 47
24. Explain what you would do if a student was swearing in your class?
25. What would you do if a student was complaining about an assignment you've given?
26. What would you do if a parent complained about an assignment?
27. Describe some methods of "positive reinforcement" that you might use in your classroom.
28. Would you describe yourself as a "tough" teacher or an "understanding" teacher? Explain.
29. How would you create a behavior modification for a student with ongoing behavior
problems?
30. What are some ways you can avoid behavior problems?
31. Without giving any names, describe the most challenging student you've ever taught.
32. What would you do to calm an angry parent?
33. Do you have an example of a parent newsletter that you can show us?
34. In what ways do you communicate with parents on a regular basis?
35. A parent calls you because they are worried about their child's low grades. What would you
say to the parent?
36. A parent writes a note and tells you that their daughter could not complete their homework
assignment because she had a dance recital the night before. What do you do?
37. How do you keep parents informed of their child’s progress?
38. How do you use technology to enrich your lessons?
39. How computer literate are you?
40. Do you think it is appropriate for children in school to be using the Internet?
41. Give an example of a time when you've worked on a team.
42. Describe one time when you've acted as a leader.
43. How do you feel about team-teaching?
44. What can you do for a student that is extremely gifted?
45. Describe a gifted student.
P a g e | 44
Page 44 of 47
46. How would you recommend a child for special education services?
47. Most classes have students with a wide-range of reading abilities. What can you do to meet
the needs of students with high reading abilities and low reading abilities at the same time?
48. Tell us a little about your student teaching experiences.
49. What is your least favorite age/grade/subject to teach? Explain.
50. What is your favorite age/grade/subject to teach? Explain.
51. What are some of the most important things you learned when student teaching?
52. What was the most satisfying moment throughout your student teaching?
53. What was the most frustrating thing about student teaching?
54. Describe one college course that taught you the most about being a good teacher.
55. Who influenced you to become a teacher?
56. Describe the biggest challenge you've ever had to face.
57. What books are you currently reading?
58. A student confides in you and tells you that his parent abuses him. He asks you not to tell
anyone. What do you do?
59. What is your definition of a life-long learner? How can you promote life-long learning in
your classroom?
60. Would you be willing to help out with extra-curricular activities? Which ones?
61. Have you ever been a substitute teacher in this school district?
62. What do you look for in a principal?
63. How do you communicate with administrators?
64. Would you like to be part of our new teacher mentor program?
65. What kinds of in-services would you be eager to attend?
66. List five adjectives that accurately describe yourself.
67. What professional teaching organizations do you belong to?
P a g e | 45
Page 45 of 47
68. Have you ever received an award for anything in your lifetime? Describe.
69. Describe the differences between a good teacher and a great teacher?
70. What were you like as a student?
71. If you teach a lesson and your students don't seem to be "getting it," what do you do?
72. How do you provide support for students who are not performing as well as they should?
73. What can you do to meet the needs of students who do not speak English?
74. In what ways can you teach students to be accepting of one-another?
75. How would you teach conflict resolution to your students?
76. Name a book that you'd like to read to (or with) your students. Describe the book and tell
why you chose it.
77. How do you feel about working in an inclusion classroom?
78. How do you meet the needs of a student with an IEP?
79. How would you teach the writing process?
80. Describe a high-interest project that you might assign to your students.
81. What can you offer our school that other candidates cannot?
82. Do you think you are a flexible person? Explain.
83. What do you like to do when you're not teaching?
84. How do you incorporate writing into your curriculum?
85. Can you show us what your lesson plan book would look like?
86. How closely do you follow your lesson plans?
87. Where do you plan to be ten years from now?
88. What part of this job are you looking forward to?
89. What part of this job scares you?
90. In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges that teachers face today?
P a g e | 46
Page 46 of 47
91. Why do you want to teach in this, particular district?
92. How can you make your teaching connect to students' real-world experiences?
93. Tell me about your references. Who are they and how do they know you?
94. If I were to call your references, what might they say about you?
95. How can teachers reach out to the community?
96. How do you make sure you are teaching to the state standards?
97. What kinds of materials and supplies would you need to do your job well?
98. How do you feel about noise in your classroom?
99. Are you a good teacher?
100. What would you students say about your teaching style?
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS AS A JOB CANDIDATES
HERE ARE SOME ILLEGAL QUESTIONS TO LISTEN FOR:
 ARE YOU A U.S. CITIZEN?
 WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
 WHAT IS YOUR SPOKEN LANGUAGE AT HOME?
 HOW MANY CHILDREN DO YOU HAVE?
 ARE YOU MARRIED,DIVORCED OR SINGLE?
 WHAT RELIGION DO YOU PRACTICE?
 HOW OLD ARE YOU?
 DO YOU PLAN ON STARTINGA FAMILY SOON?
 DO YOU HAVE ANY ILLNESS?
 DO YOU DRINK OR SMOKE SOCIALLY?
 HOW IS YOUR CREDIT?
 DO YOU OWN OR RENT WHERE YOU LIVE?
P a g e | 47
Page 47 of 47
WHY SHOULD HIRING MANAGERS BUY YOUR PRODUCT.pdf
God is ordering your steps..pdf
Sample Client Resume.pdf Sample Client Resume 2.pdf
Sample Client Resume 3.pdf Sample Client Curriculum Vitae.pdf
Sample Client Resume 5 - Copy.pdf Sample Client Resume 6.pdf Sample Client Resume 7.pdf
Sample Client Curriculum Vitae 8.pdf Sample Client Resume 9.pdf Sample Client Resume 10.pdf
Sample Client Curriculum Vitae 11.pdf
RESUME FEE PACKAGES.pdf Dr. Mayberry Bio& BusinessBrochure.pdf
Dr. Mayberry'sLeadership& TeachingPhilosophy.pdf

Contenu connexe

Tendances

21 Millionaire Secrets
21 Millionaire Secrets21 Millionaire Secrets
21 Millionaire Secrets
mahfoozelahi
 

Tendances (20)

Visualization and-goal-setting (Noni)
Visualization and-goal-setting (Noni)Visualization and-goal-setting (Noni)
Visualization and-goal-setting (Noni)
 
Secrets to Authentic Success
Secrets to Authentic SuccessSecrets to Authentic Success
Secrets to Authentic Success
 
Life Coach Self Assessment
Life Coach Self AssessmentLife Coach Self Assessment
Life Coach Self Assessment
 
Hero habits
Hero habitsHero habits
Hero habits
 
A Short Guide On How To Get A Following
A Short Guide On How To Get A Following A Short Guide On How To Get A Following
A Short Guide On How To Get A Following
 
The Butterfly Emerges Self-coaching Session 1
The Butterfly Emerges Self-coaching Session 1The Butterfly Emerges Self-coaching Session 1
The Butterfly Emerges Self-coaching Session 1
 
50 ways to stay awesomely motivated
50 ways to stay awesomely motivated50 ways to stay awesomely motivated
50 ways to stay awesomely motivated
 
Motivation
Motivation Motivation
Motivation
 
Get your goals_-_april_1,_2012
Get your goals_-_april_1,_2012Get your goals_-_april_1,_2012
Get your goals_-_april_1,_2012
 
21 Millionaire Secrets
21 Millionaire Secrets21 Millionaire Secrets
21 Millionaire Secrets
 
Introducing The Job Search Solution
Introducing The Job Search SolutionIntroducing The Job Search Solution
Introducing The Job Search Solution
 
How to achieve a goal : a blueprint
How to achieve a goal : a blueprintHow to achieve a goal : a blueprint
How to achieve a goal : a blueprint
 
Free 51 ideas
Free 51 ideasFree 51 ideas
Free 51 ideas
 
Motivational Speech - Don't Ask Why Me, Say Try Me
Motivational Speech - Don't Ask Why Me, Say Try MeMotivational Speech - Don't Ask Why Me, Say Try Me
Motivational Speech - Don't Ask Why Me, Say Try Me
 
Prfed workbook.lo epub
Prfed workbook.lo epubPrfed workbook.lo epub
Prfed workbook.lo epub
 
10 Habits, Disciplined Life
10 Habits, Disciplined Life10 Habits, Disciplined Life
10 Habits, Disciplined Life
 
20090524 Quotable Quotes And Comments To Tune Your Mind to Becoming Better ...
20090524   Quotable Quotes And Comments To Tune Your Mind to Becoming Better ...20090524   Quotable Quotes And Comments To Tune Your Mind to Becoming Better ...
20090524 Quotable Quotes And Comments To Tune Your Mind to Becoming Better ...
 
7 helping
7 helping7 helping
7 helping
 
10 Important Guidelines for Success
10 Important Guidelines for Success10 Important Guidelines for Success
10 Important Guidelines for Success
 
Daily Inspiration Slide Share
Daily Inspiration Slide ShareDaily Inspiration Slide Share
Daily Inspiration Slide Share
 

Similaire à DR MAYBERRY'S RESUME & INTERVIEW COACHING E-PORTFOLIO

Launch pad preparing for change in 2010
Launch pad preparing for change in 2010Launch pad preparing for change in 2010
Launch pad preparing for change in 2010
Donyielle Holley
 
Book yourself solid
Book yourself solidBook yourself solid
Book yourself solid
Chef Central
 
Joker's Guide To Personal Effectiveness
Joker's Guide To Personal EffectivenessJoker's Guide To Personal Effectiveness
Joker's Guide To Personal Effectiveness
bites consulting
 

Similaire à DR MAYBERRY'S RESUME & INTERVIEW COACHING E-PORTFOLIO (20)

2009 Me Me Me Jmvg
2009 Me Me Me Jmvg2009 Me Me Me Jmvg
2009 Me Me Me Jmvg
 
Launch pad preparing for change in 2010
Launch pad preparing for change in 2010Launch pad preparing for change in 2010
Launch pad preparing for change in 2010
 
Damaged Goods edited version
Damaged Goods edited versionDamaged Goods edited version
Damaged Goods edited version
 
Realities of life
Realities of lifeRealities of life
Realities of life
 
Book yourself solid
Book yourself solidBook yourself solid
Book yourself solid
 
Why should you work for a start up ?
Why should you work for a start up ?Why should you work for a start up ?
Why should you work for a start up ?
 
Best Motivational Quotes
Best Motivational QuotesBest Motivational Quotes
Best Motivational Quotes
 
True calling and life purpose rediscovered
True calling and life purpose rediscoveredTrue calling and life purpose rediscovered
True calling and life purpose rediscovered
 
September 2013 Lifestyle Freedom Club Magazine - John Di Lemme
September 2013 Lifestyle Freedom Club Magazine - John Di LemmeSeptember 2013 Lifestyle Freedom Club Magazine - John Di Lemme
September 2013 Lifestyle Freedom Club Magazine - John Di Lemme
 
Get Your Goals
Get Your GoalsGet Your Goals
Get Your Goals
 
33 Experts Share Their No. 1 On Living A Fulfilling And Meaningful Life
33 Experts Share Their No. 1 On Living A Fulfilling And Meaningful Life33 Experts Share Their No. 1 On Living A Fulfilling And Meaningful Life
33 Experts Share Their No. 1 On Living A Fulfilling And Meaningful Life
 
Tips to Motivate Yourself by Todd Jacobucci
Tips to Motivate Yourself by Todd JacobucciTips to Motivate Yourself by Todd Jacobucci
Tips to Motivate Yourself by Todd Jacobucci
 
33 powerful success hacks for you
33 powerful success hacks for you33 powerful success hacks for you
33 powerful success hacks for you
 
Change your mindset, expand your wealth page numbered-converted
Change your mindset, expand your wealth page numbered-convertedChange your mindset, expand your wealth page numbered-converted
Change your mindset, expand your wealth page numbered-converted
 
Joker's Guide To Personal Effectiveness
Joker's Guide To Personal EffectivenessJoker's Guide To Personal Effectiveness
Joker's Guide To Personal Effectiveness
 
Being Your Best.pdf
Being Your Best.pdfBeing Your Best.pdf
Being Your Best.pdf
 
Road to success
Road to successRoad to success
Road to success
 
Own Your Own Business
Own Your Own BusinessOwn Your Own Business
Own Your Own Business
 
Hard Work is The Key to Success
Hard Work is The Key to SuccessHard Work is The Key to Success
Hard Work is The Key to Success
 
Career Make Over Tips By Karan Bhalla Encompass
Career Make Over Tips  By Karan Bhalla EncompassCareer Make Over Tips  By Karan Bhalla Encompass
Career Make Over Tips By Karan Bhalla Encompass
 

DR MAYBERRY'S RESUME & INTERVIEW COACHING E-PORTFOLIO

  • 1. P a g e | 1 Page 1 of 47 THIS E-PORTFOLIO HOLDS THE KEYS THAT WILL UNLOCK YOUR FUTURE Dr. Kerrie Mayberry, Resume Writer & Interview Strategist Cell: 678-862-3565 | Visionary4life@yahoo.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerriemayberry
  • 2. P a g e | 2 Page 2 of 47 Here Are Your Keys If after reading my e-portfolio and you still cannot find your keys, search within your soul because that is where god put them. He placed YOUR keys inside of you, so that, only you have access to retrieving your keys. Have you heard the good news? Once you find your keys, you will then have complete access to unlocking god’s plan for your life. Ask God to help you find your keys, today!
  • 3. P a g e | 3 Page 3 of 47 MESSAGE FROM DR. MAYBERRY I congratulate you on your job search and for working so hard to improve your resume, communication, and interviewing skills. As we know, the job market is very challenging, competitive and sometimes unfair. Nevertheless, you have to press on and stay in the game. Although God is ordering your steps…you still have to believe that your financial, life or health will improve. My hope is that you will move beyond your fears and focus on your health, mindset and your spiritual guidance. Furthermore, I am curious to: what do you say when you talk to yourself? Are your conversations negative or positive? Are you procrastinating and moaning about how bad life has treated you? If this is your daily conversation, I encourage you to read this E-Portfolio over and over. Do you know that you could dramatically change your life in one minute? All you have to do is simply change how you see your situation? I know you can do it; however, you have to summon the courage and then take a bold stand to make something great happen. Paul Robeson once said, “This is the stand I take, for I can do no other.” Know that the storm will pass, and you will see a beautiful rainbow in the sky. Nothing stays the same forever…good or bad, only thinking makes it so. In closing…remember, through all of your struggles and pain, Gods still is on the throne. He sits high and looks low. Furthermore, know
  • 4. P a g e | 4 Page 4 of 47 that God loves you, and that He wants you to be prosperous. Don’t quit! Don’t quit! There will be days when you’ll feel like quitting, but don’t! Ask for help!!! Look towards the hills.
  • 5. P a g e | 5 Page 5 of 47 Preface
  • 6. P a g e | 6 Page 6 of 47 This powerful, all-inclusive and easy-reading electronic portfolio offers powerful tips, insights and strategies to help job candidates prepare for their next interview. This E- Portfolio also contains eye-catching, content-based and special resume and curriculum vitae designs that will turn heads. Moreover, this E-Portfolio covers helpful strategies, which significantly reduce fear, doubt and anxiety during the job planning stages, and during the interview. Finally, this E-Portfolio offers daily motivation for people who are experiencing some temporary tough times.
  • 7. P a g e | 7 Page 7 of 47 ANSWERING THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS MIGHT HELP YOU FIND SUCCESS IN YOUR LIFE. 1. What emotional side effects are associated with you not reaching your goals in life? 2. What can you do to improve your mindset when facing rejection after rejection? 3. How do you stay focus during the tough times and what Higher Power do you seek? 4. Do you have a good exercise program and a healthy diet to fight depression? 5. What do you say when you talk to yourself? Do you beat yourself up for past mistakes? 6. What is your rod and shield when the “Messenger of Misery” pays you a visit? 7. What is your purpose in life? Are you hopeful, despite your current situation? 8. What is your “recovery time” after suffering a “temporary” loss? 9. What are you afraid of? What scares you? Why aren’t you pursuing your dreams? Why? 10. When will you lay to rest “but” and his cousins would’ve, could’ve and one day I gonna? 11. How is your “faith” not during the good times, but during the rough times? 12. Do you believe that one day you will reach your lifelong goals? 13. What do you think about all day long? “As a Man Thinketh, So He Becomes” 14. How is your imagination? Can you see when your eyes are closed? 15. How often do you pray and how often to you ask God for forgiveness? 16. Do you know that the “enemy” does not want your worldly possessions? The enemy wants your “mind” 17. Do you know that the “enemy” looks for any “entryway” into your mind"? 18. What do you think about “Murphy’s Law”? Do you remember the song? “Life is like a circle, everything we do comes back to you." 19. Have you ever heard of this before? Be kind to the people you meet on the way up because you will meet those same people on the way down? What do you think about that saying? 20. Did you know that most of your problems resonate internally versus externally? The Mind. 21. Are you afraid of the “Unknown”? Are you afraid of losing? Are you afraid of the light? 22. Is there any dead weight that you need to unload in 2017? 23. What are you passionate about? What motivates you to get up every morning? 24. What are you willing to “give up” in order to reach your dreams? 25. WILL YOU BE A BEACON OF HOPE FOR THOSE WHO ARE IN NEED TODAY?
  • 8. P a g e | 8 Page 8 of 47 DON’T WASTE TIME WORRYING ABOUT TOMORROW…USE THE TIME GOD GAVE YOU TODAY TO LIVE YOUR DREAMS. LET YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE THAT PEOPLE WILL SEE YOUR GOOD DEEDS IN 2017
  • 9. P a g e | 9 Page 9 of 47 Walk through those doors and do not worry about the unknown. We will never know what God has in store for us if we never step out of the shadows of our pasts. We must be confident that God is ordering our steps.
  • 10. P a g e | 10 Page 10 of 47 Sometimes the journey is long, unfair, and lonely at times. Nevertheless, you must summon the courage and keep moving forward. If you get knocked down,getup! “Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand”“He that cherishes a beautiful vision in his mind,a lofty idea in his heart, will one day realize it”. Anonymous WALKING THE MILE TOWARDS MY GOALS!!!! Remember that you are the Director of your movie; you are the of your movie, and you are the main character. With that being said, know that you have GOD on your side and that He said, “He will never leave you or forsake you…You cannot lose!
  • 11. P a g e | 11 Page 11 of 47 IT’S SHOW TIME! Now that you have reached the big screen, it is important that you take care of your health, mind and your family. Also, it is important that you be kind to the people you meet on the way up because you will meet those same people on the way down. Likewise, now, that you have reached your goals, after so many long hours of hard work, don’t forget where you came from. Make a promise to yourself that you will help someone because you did not reach your goals alone, someone helped you. Please know that your greatest asset is not your physical ability; your greatest asset is your mental ability. If you want to be successful, then go after success, but you cannot continue to point fingers at people because they won’t give you a chance, or you were denied that job or promotion. Start fighting for what you want and stop fighting for what you don’t want. Sure we
  • 12. P a g e | 12 Page 12 of 47 may not be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel, just keep walking through that tunnel. In fact, you may only see only a small glimpse of light…that is better than no light at all. NEED TO KNOW NUGGETS  Needto Know: Do you know that job interviewing is about building rapport, exchanging of ideas, and demonstration good communication skills?  Needto Know: Do you know that smiling, showing enthusiasm and projecting a positive attitude can possibly land you a job? In addition, you look better when you SMILE!!!!  Needto Know: Do you know that job candidates with good communication skills, oftentimes, receive more job offers then those with poor communication skills?  Needto Know: Do you know that many job candidates do not receive job offers because they fail to ask for the job? WOW!  Needto Know: Do you know that employers aren’t only interested in your academic accomplishments? Instead, they want to learn who you are, and are you teachable, approachable and more importantly, are you promotable?  Needto Know: Do you know the job market is competitive? However, if you continue to work on building your skills and maintaining a positive outlook on life, sooner, rather than later, you’ll get a job? (Stay hopeful)  Needto Know: If you are not chosen for a job that you strongly believe you could do...don’t get discouraged, send the employer a thank-you card  for giving you a chance to interview. Remember: Always maintain professionalism at all times.  Tip: Never say anything bad about your current or former manager or employer.  Tip: Don’t spend your interview time talking about YOU and what you want. Instead, talk about what you can do for the company.  Tip: If you want a job, don’t sit on the sideline complaining about no one is hiring, get back into the GAME and find that job. [Make it happen]  Tip: If you are experiencing a tough time finding work, listen to your inner conversations. What types of inner conversations are you having with yourself?  Tip: If you aren’t working, turn off that TV. You must maximize your time and effort.  Tip: In your quest for searching for a job, you must rid yourself of the toxic, draining people in your life (Today)...It’s hard enough trying to stay positive in your job search. (Also, put to rest (But, and all of his cousins: Could’ve, Should’ve and One Day I am gonna)
  • 13. P a g e | 13 Page 13 of 47  Tip: Do you honestly BELIEVE you deserve a job? If so, SPEAK IT and it shall be! I AIN’T GONNA CRY NO MORE!!! DON’T’ QUIT!!! YOUR CURRENT SITUATION WILL CHANGE FOR THE BETTER. YOU HAVE TO KEEP WORKING YOUR PLAN, AND STAY FAITHFUL UNTIL YOU GET WHAT YOU WANT. DO YOU KNOW THAT WE CANNOT SEE A BEAUTIFUL RAINBOW IN THE SKY, UNTIL IT RAINS? RIGHT NOW, IT IS RAINING. DO YOU HAVE THE COURAGE TO HANG IN THERE UNTIL YOUR CHANGE COMES? THERE IS A GOSPEL SONG THAT SAYS: “GOD, PLEASE HELP ME TO HOLD OUT UNTIL MY CHANGE COME.” YOU HAVE TO STAY PRAYED UP DURING THE GOOD TIMES, AS WELL AS, DURING THE BAD TIMES.
  • 14. P a g e | 14 Page 14 of 47 Let’s here. Most job candidates struggle with this first question, generally, asked by hiring managers and decision makers. THE START OF THE INTERVIEW AND MORE…. Because it's such a common interview question, it's strange that more job candidates don't spend time preparing how to answer this first question. In fact, YOU KNOW IT’S COMING! Perhaps because the question seems so disarming and informal; we drop our guards and shift into a rambling mode. You must resist all temptations to going into a rambling mode because if you do, the interview could be over before it starts. Note: Hiring managers are not looking for a 10-minute dissertation when they ask this question. Instead, they want a razor-sharp sentence or two that sets the stage for further discussion. It is imperative that you create a 30 second marketing commercial that speaks to who you are and what you stand for. Be Specific  The key is that you must lead with your strongest benefit to the employer. Be specific and don't wander about with some laundry list of skills or talents. Be sure to put a monetary value on your work, if at all possible, and be ready with details when you're called upon. Give an estimated value to the $$ you've made or saved for current or past employers. Be Prepared  When you walk into an interview, remember to always expect the "tell me about yourself" question. Prepare ahead of time by developing your own personal branding statement that clearly tells who you are,your major strength and the clear benefit that your current or past employer received. The advantages of this approach are that you'll quickly gain their attention, and you’ll interest them in wanting to know more. You'll separate yourself from your competitors. In addition, you'll also have a higher chance of being positively remembered and hired.
  • 15. P a g e | 15 Page 15 of 47 GET READY, IT’S TIME TO SHINE. DON’T WORRY, YOU'LL BE FINE. JUST RELAX, CONTROL YOUR BREATHING AND PRAY EVERYDAY. Side note: If the hiring manager asks if you would like something to drink…always say YES. The Interviewer wants to break the ice. Quiz: Why do you want to leave your current job? One of the questions that are typically asked from hiring manager is "Why do you want to leave your current job?" alternatively, "Why did you leave your previous job?" If you have already moved on, or if you were fired from your job, use these answers to respond. Remember, do not Badmouth Your current or former Boss or Company…keep it professional Regardless of why you left, don't speak badly about your previous employer. The interviewer may wonder whether you will be bad-mouth his company next time you're looking for work. I recently read an article about a job candidate who told the interviewer that her last employer was terrible? They didn't pay her enough. The hours were awful, and she hated the job. That company happened to be the company she was interviewing with. The hiring manager said, “there is no way I would have hired someone who felt that way, justified or not, about a company. With that being said, avoid any bad words with current or past companies you have worked for. Below are prepared answers for (why you left or thinking about leaving your job?)  I found myself bored by the work, and I looked for more challenges. I am an excellent employee, and I didn't want my unhappiness to have any impact on the job I was doing for my employer.  There isn't room for growth with my current employer, and I'm ready to move on to a new challenge.  I'm looking for a bigger challenge and to grow my career, and I couldn't job hunt part-time while working. It didn't seem ethical to use my former employer's time.  I was laid-off from my last position when our department was eliminated due to corporate restructuring.
  • 16. P a g e | 16 Page 16 of 47  I'm relocating to this area due to family circumstances and left my previous position in order to make the move.  I've decided that is not the direction I want to further my career, and my current employer has no opportunities that align with my future aspirations.  After spending several years in my last position, I'm now looking for an opportunity where I can make an immediate contribution and grow in a team-oriented environment.  I am interested in a new challenge and an opportunity to use my technical skills and experience in a different capacity than I have in the past.  I recently received my degree, and I want to utilize my educational skills in my next position.  I am interested in a job with more responsibilities, opportunities that will stretch my thinking.  I left my last position in order to spend more time with my family. Circumstances have changed, and I'm more than ready for full-time employment again.  I am seeking a position with a stable company that offers room for growth and opportunities for advancement.  I was commuting to the city and spending a significant amount of time each day traveling. I prefer to be closer to home.  To be honest, I wasn't considering a move, but I saw this job posting, and I was intrigued by the opportunity and the progressive direction the company is taken. It sounds like an exciting opportunity and an ideal match with my qualifications.  This position seemed like an excellent match for my skills and experience, and I am not able to fully utilize them in my present job.  The company was cutting back, and unfortunately my job was one of those eliminated. DR. KERRIE’S KEY INTERVIEWING TIPS Interview tip # 1: Do not get overly nervous. Most people that interview you are not professional job interviewers. They typically do not just interview for a living, so by being nervous you will not help the situation. Try to relax, take deep breaths, and maintain some poise. Relax; visualize how you would like the interview to go. Remember, the person that is interviewing you is no different from you…he or she is only in a leadership position. Be yourself throughout the interview. Honesty is the best policy. If you are asked a question, and you are not sure what the interviewer wants…ask if he or she can restate the question. (IT’S THAT EASY) Interview tip #2: Be prepared. The interview does not start when you arrive at their facility or when you sit down in their chair. The interview starts the moment you get that first phone call and while you are on your way to the interview. During this quiet time, you should be collecting
  • 17. P a g e | 17 Page 17 of 47 your thoughts on how you want to conduct the interview. In addition, you should be thinking about the types of questions you may be asked. The more you are prepared, the best and smoother the interview will go. Interview tip #3: Know the types of interview questions you will be asked. While it is impossible to predict what an interviewer will ask you, the basic idea you should remember in answering interview questions is: Why you are the right person for the job? Remember, even if you are not interviewing for a sales job, you still need to sell yourself. No one knows you better than you do, so be sure to sell and market the complete you. (Remember—you only get one chance to make a good first impression.) Interview tip #4 Expect to be asked this question: tell me about yourself? This is probably one of the. First of all, interview questions employers may ask. The difficulty in answering this question is you never know what the interviewer wants to hear. You can get yourself in trouble with this question if you are not sure what to say. You should start by saying: thank you for the question…now, go right to it. Remember, he/he already knows your name, so please do not repeat your name. Talk about your short/long-range goals, education, prior or current projects you are working on, etc. do not talk about your personal life, children, hard times or good times. Keep it professional. Interview tip #5: Avoid being negative about your previous employers, bosses, and co-workers. No one wants to hire anyone who he/she perceives to be trouble. One who has been terminated can easily fall into this big trap. Instead, talk about things you have learned, opportunities you have gained, contributions you have made and friendships you have developed. If you speak negatively about past employers, the interviewer will probably wonder, was it the employer who was bad, or was it, you. Do not fall into this uncompromising situation. If you do…chances are you won’t get hired. REMEMBER: The interview does not start when you enter the employer’s facility, the interview starts the moment you receive that call, and it continues until you get an offer. So, use all of your time to rehearse, relax, and build self-confidence. Why? Because you deserve to be hired, and the employer likes you; otherwise, you would not be interviewing. REMEMBER: As the interview approaches its closing moments, you must ask for the job. However, I must caution you….if you ask for the job, you have to be ready to defend your reason(s) why you are the best candidate for the job. Remember to use your resume as your guide to lead the hiring manager to offer you the job. Furthermore, ask for a business card, so that you can send a thank-you note later. Good luck and you will do just find!!! Remember to smile during the interview…it pays great dividends, plus you look nice.
  • 18. P a g e | 18 Page 18 of 47  Remember, when giving your answer(s) Side Note: When waiting in the lobby prior to the interview…DO NOT use your cell phone; instead, use this time to review your notes, relax and be alert because you never know who's watching you.  Always look the interviewer in his or her eyes. Do not look away during this time. In addition, project your voice; speak with clarity and with confidence. Remember, always be truthful about your education, employment, and salary KEY QUESTIONS OFTEN ASKED BY HIRING MANAGERS NOW, WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST STRENGTH? Best Answers  When I'm working on a project, I don't want just to meet deadlines. Rather,I prefer to complete the project well ahead of schedule.  Strong listening, critical thinking and reasoning skills.  My time management skills are excellent, and I'm organized, efficient, and take pride in excelling at my work.  I pride myself on my customer service skills and my ability to resolve difficult situations. YOU ARE SCORING LOTS OF POINTS…DON’T ADD THEM YET…YOU HAVEN’T SECURED THE JOB YET…IT’S COMING THOUGH!!!! I BELIEVE IN YOU, DO YOU BELIEVE IN YOU? WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST WEAKNESS? DO NOT SAY: YOU DON’T HAVE ANY WEAKNESSES, EVERYONE HAS WEAKNESSES. Best Answers:  Being organized wasn't my strongest point, but I implemented a time management system that really helped my organization skills.  I like to make sure that my work is perfect,so I tend to perhaps spend a little too much time checking it. However,I've come to a good balance by setting up a system to ensure everything is done correctly the first time.
  • 19. P a g e | 19 Page 19 of 47  I used to wait until the last minute to set appointments for the coming week,but I realized that scheduling in advance makes much more sense.  Sometimes I spend more time than necessary on a task, or take on tasks personally that could easily be delegated to someone else. Although I've never missed a deadline, it is still an effort for me to know when to move on to the next task, and to be confident when assigning others' work.  I had difficulty with statistics in college, but I persevered with tutoring assistance and extra effort and completed two courses with a B minus average.  I used to like to work on one project to completion before starting on another, but I've learned to work on many projects at the same time, and it allows me to be more creative and effective in each one. HOW DO YOU HANDLE STRESS AND PRESSURE? Best Answers  Stress is very important to me. With stress, I do the best possible job. The appropriate way to deal with stress is to make sure I have the correct balance between good stress and bad stress. I need good stress to stay motivated and productive.  I actually work better under pressure, and I've found that I enjoy working in a challenging environment.  From a personal perspective, I manage stress by going to the gym three days a week. It has been great stress reducer for me over the years.  Prioritizing my responsibilities, so that I have a clear idea of what needs to be done.  If I am facing stress in managing people, I discuss options for better handling difficult situations with them.  I find that when I'm under pressure in meeting deadlines, I oftentimes do my best work.  I'm not a person who has a difficult time handling stress. When I'm under pressure, I focus, and I get the job done.  I find it exhilarating to be in a dynamic environment when the pressure is on.  I find a fast-pace environment to be invigorating, and I thrive when the pressure is on.  I've done some of my best work under tight deadlines where the atmosphere was very stressful.  I'm the kind of person who stays calm under pressure, and handles stress fairly easily. It's a good idea to give examples of how you have handled stress to your interviewer(s). That way, they can get a clearer picture of how well you can work in stressful situations.
  • 20. P a g e | 20 Page 20 of 47 CAN DESCRIBE A DIFFICULT WORK SITUATION/PROJECT AND HOW YOU OVERCAME IT? Best Answers:  Give concrete examples of difficult situations that actually happened at work. Then discuss what you did to solve the problem.  Keep your answers positive ("Even though it was difficult when Kerrie Mayberry quit without notice, we were able to rearrange the department workload to cover the position until a replacement was hired.") and be specific. Itemize what you did and how you did it.  The best way to prepare for questions where you will need to recall events and action is to refresh your memory and consider some special situations you have dealt with or projects you have worked on. You can use them to help frame responses. Prepare stories that illustrate times when you have successfully solved a difficult situation. WHAT IS YOUR DEFINITION OF SUCCESS? Best Answers:  "I evaluate success in different ways. At work, it is meeting the goals set by my supervisors and my fellow workers. It is my understanding from talking to other employees that the Helping Hand Resume & Interview Coaching Company is recognized for not only rewarding success, but giving employees’ opportunity to grow as well. After work, I enjoy playing softball, so success on the field is catching the winning pop-up."  "For me, success is about doing my job well. I want to be recognized as someone who always does his/her or her or her best and tries his/her or her or her hardest to succeed."  "I evaluate success based on not only my work, but the work of my team. In order for me to be considered successful, the team needs to achieve."  "I evaluate success based on outcomes. It's not always the path we take to achieve success that matters. Rather, it's quantifiable results."  "For me, success is when I am performing well and satisfied with my position, knowing that my work is adding value to the company but also to my overall life and the lives of other people."
  • 21. P a g e | 21 Page 21 of 47 WHY DO YOU WANT THIS JOB? Best Answers:  This is not only a fine opportunity, but this company is a place where my qualifications can make a difference. As a customer service manager, I see this position as made to order. It contains the challenges to keep me on my toes. That's the kind of excitement I like to anticipate every morning.  I want this job because it seems tailored to my competencies, which include sales and marketing. As I said earlier, in a previous position, I created an annual growth rate of 22 percent in a flat industry.  I understand that this company is on its way up. Your web site talks about how the company is launching several new products next year and I want to be a part of this growth.  As a dedicated manager, I like doing essential research. Being part of a breakthrough team is an experience I'd love to be a part of.  This job is a good fit for what I've been interested in throughout my career. It offers a nice mix of short- and long-term opportunities. My short-term achievements keep me cranked up, and the long- term give me a stronger outlook on life.  I want this job as manager because I'd be good at it. I'm good at managing tasks and developing people. THE FOUR-LETTER WORD IN YOUR QUEST FOR LANDING THAT NEW JOB OR PROMOTION; YOU MUST LEARN TO DO THIS FOUR-LETTER WORD: SELL! SELL! SELL! WHY SHOULD WE HIRE YOU INSTEAD OF OTHER CANDIDATES? REMEMBER TO FOCUS ON YOUR DISTINCTIVENESS The interviewer wants to know how you stand out among the other applicants. Therefore,focus on one or two qualities you possess that might be unique, or more difficult to find, in other
  • 22. P a g e | 22 Page 22 of 47 interviewees. For example, if you are very experienced with a certain skill that the job requires, say so. This is your chance to tell the interviewer why you would be an invaluable employee. Examples ofAnswers  You have explained that you are looking for an experienced manager who is able to effectively manage over a dozen employees. In my fifteen years of experience as a customer service manager, I have developed strong motivational and team-building skills. I was twice awarded manager-of-the-year for my innovative strategies for motivating employees to meet and surpass quarterly goals. If hired, I will bring my leadership abilities and strategies for achieving profit gains to this position. Side Note: show some enthusiasm and smile because the interviewer is looking for that inner and outer GLOW.  You describe in the job listing that you are looking for a special-education assistant teacher with an abundance of patience and compassion. Having served as a tutor at a summer school for dyslexic children for the past two years,I have developed my ability to be extremely patient while still achieving academic gains with my students. My experience teaching phonics to children ages 6 to 18 has taught me strategies for working with children of all ages and abilities, always with a smile. My previous employer often placed me with the students with the most severe learning disabilities because of my history of success. I will bring not only experience, but patience and creative problem-solving, to this position. WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS? Don't discuss your goals for returning to schoolor having a family, they are not relevant and could knock you out of contention for the job. Rather, you want to connect your answer to the job you are applying for. Examples of good responses include:
  • 23. P a g e | 23 Page 23 of 47  My long-term goals involve growing with a company where I can continue to learn, take on additional responsibilities, and contribute as much of value as I can.  I see myself as a top-performing employee in a well-established organization, like this one. I plan on enhancing my skills and continuing my involvement in (related) professional associations.  Once I gain additional experience, I would like to move on from a technical position to management.  In the Helping Hand Resume & Interview Coaching Corporation, what is a typical career path for someone with my skills and experiences? Side Note: Listen for the “Tense” in which the interviewer is speaking in…if he/she is speaking in the past tense, he/she is not ready to make a hiring decision. You have to get the person to focus on present and eventually the future tense during the interview. STATEMENT & QUESTIONS TO SAY DURING THE INTERVIEW YOU ARE ABOUT TO GET HIRED! YOU MUST ASK FOR THE JOB AT LEAST TWICE DURING THE INTERVIEW. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE INTERVIEWER ASK IF YOU ANY QUESTIONS. IF YOU WAIT UNTIL THE END, VALUABLE TIME WOULD HAVE BEEN LOST. YOU NEED A WELL-SOUGHT OUT PLAN THAT WILL ALLOW YOU ENOUGH TIME TO MARKET YOUR SKILLS, SPEAK TO THE KEY POINTS ON YOUR RESUME; SHOWCASE YOUR GREAT COMMUNICATION SKILLS, YOUR DESIRE AND YOUR ENTHUSIAM TO WORK FOR THE COMPANY…DON’T BE LIKE SO MANY JOB CANDIDATES THAT LEAVE THE INTERVIEW AND WISH THEY WOULD HAVE SAID WHAT THEY WENT THERE TO SAY. AT THAT POINT, IT IS TOO LATE. NOW, YOU ARE BACK ON “DEFENSE” HOPING AND PRAYING THAT YOU GET A CALL BACK FROM THE EMPLOYER.  I think that I could do a lot for your company, and I believe we could have a great working relationship.  I think I would be a great fit for this position…look over your resume and discuss key areas on your resume. If I designed your resume, you will have key sections.  I am certain this is the job I want. Is there anything else I can say or provide today that will help you decide right now?
  • 24. P a g e | 24 Page 24 of 47  I am very interested in coming to work for your company. I do have a list of professional references that are willing to speak to you on my behalf.  This job sounds like a perfect fit for my career. The position itself aligns with my career goals and my mission statement.  Mr. Jones, I am really enjoying what I am hearing today. I like how you have specifically outlined the duties and responsibilities of the position.  Mr. Jones, do you believe that I can do this job? Yes, I do. Well, Mr. Jones, it seems like we are in agreement, would you be willing to make me an offer today?  Mr. Jones, if given an opportunity to come work for you, I have outlined a plan that could help your department or company reaches its goals this year.  Mr. Jones, can you tell me how I compare to the other candidates you have already interviewed?  Mr. Jones, my schedule is open for the rest of the week; I would be willing to come back tomorrow to further discuss my plan to help your company reach its goals. It goes something like this. On Monday morning, you get a surprised telephone call at 9:00. And, (2) minutes into the phone call you are asked this question: What type of salary are you looking for? We are quick to respond by saying: we are open, or It's negotiable, or i am flexible. All wrong!!! You have to become a player and learn how to answer this question without shooting yourself in the foot and not underminding your worth or being unaware of what the salary is for your industry. This is one of the reasons why so many people do not get what they are worth. I am going to help you out. The next time you are asked about salary, say this: Answering Salary Questions
  • 25. P a g e | 25 Page 25 of 47 HERE ARE A COUPLE EXAMPLES TO PRACTICE  Salary is important to me, just as it is to the next person. However, my reason(s) for being here is not about salary; instead, my reason(s) for being here, is because of the opportunity, how this opportunity directly aligns with my career goals, and how this opportunity will allow me to learn about your company and how I might be able to contribute to your organization.  Mr. Jones, thank you for the question. Based on industry standards for a person with my skillset, education, training, and for this particular area of the country, the low salary range is between $45k -49k; the median range salary is between $50k-56k, and the high end salary range for this particular position in $57k-68k. Mr. Jones, as you can see from my resume, I bring a host of skills and talents that you are seeking in a candidate. Let me ask you a question, Mr. Jones. What would you say a person with my skillset, education, experience, creative thinking, and enthusiasm is worth? SHOW SOME ENTHUSIAM WHILE ON THE PHONE!!!!! Never initiate compensation or benefit during a telephone interview…you may not have enough information to accurately talk
  • 26. P a g e | 26 Page 26 of 47 about what you are seeking, salary wise. My approach below might help you to answer this, sometimes, awkward question. Mr. Smith, thank you for the question. I can honestly say that I do not know enough about the job responsibilities to give you an accurate salary figure during this time. However, knowing that this opportunity is in direct alignment with my goals, and I believe a personal interview would re-affirm my interest and qualifications. Then, express your interest in the job and the company. Finally, say that you would appreciate the opportunity to talk about the job further in person. Final points to remember: Thank the caller, and write down the caller’s full name and title. For starters: If an employer calls you at an undesirable time, i.e. while driving, at work, on the bus or if you are home with a sick child; you may not be ready to conduct a phone interview. Politely ask the employer if you can call him/her right back in 30-45 minutes. Be sure to call the employer back at the scheduled time. This will allow you time to organize your material and your thoughts. Remember, when you call the employer back, have ready:  A Pen, paper, and a calculator  The job ad and your résumé.  A list of your accomplishments, if applicable.  A calendar in case the employer asks to schedule an in-person interview. The calendar will allow you to confirm your dates. At this time, you want to be honest if you cannot interview on a specific date.  If you conducted some research on the company, and you found press releases or you learned that the company is coming out with a new product/service, be ready to talk about your findings.  Finally, turn off the radio and TV. If you are using your cell phone and another call comes in during the interview, DO NOT PLACE THE EMPLOYER ON HOLD…THIS CALL IS MORE IMPORTANT. Techniques of a professional:  Smile-it comes through the phone.  Speak directly into the telephone, avoid using the speakerphone.  Do not smoke, chew gum, eat, or drink anything while talking on the phone.  Stand up while speaking, your voice projects stronger.  Avoid the ah, er, hum-this habit is especially noticeable on the telephone. To gain a winning edge during the telephone interview:  Confirm the caller’s name and company, immediately ask the caller for his or her telephone number in case the call gets disconnected.  Pace the call, let the caller do most of the talking without interruptions.  Use the technique of repeating or re-phrasing questions. It tells the caller that you listened carefully, this also gives you time to think.
  • 27. P a g e | 27 Page 27 of 47 TYPICAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS QUESTIONS ANSWERS Tell me about yourself. • Ask for clarification or specifics of what the Client would like to hear about. The information shared should be about your professionalbackground rather than your personal life. • Speak logically for approximately 2 minutes. (The Client is probably looking for communication skills and linear thinking.) • Describe a major personal attribute. Why are you leaving Your current position? • This answer may be variable depending on your situation. One potential open-ended answer may be that after long personalconsideration, the chance to make a contribution is low due to company changes. Remember, you should not sound too opportunistic. Care should be taken not to “bad mouth” a previous employer. What do you consider your most significant accomplishment? • Prepare extensively to answer this question. • Tell a 2-minute story: State the accomplishment, why you consider it an accomplishment, and what occurred as an effect of the accomplishment. (The answer to this question may secure the job offer.) • Present the accomplishment as worth achieving, discussing hard work, long hours, pressure, and important company issues that were at stake. Why do you believe you are qualified for this position? • Select two or three main factors about the job and about yourself that are most relevant to the company and the duties and skills of the position, addressing the question for 2 minutes with specific details. • Mention a technical skill, a specific management skill (e.g., organizing, staffing, planning), and a personalsuccess attribute. • Prepare success stories to present to the company.
  • 28. P a g e | 28 Page 28 of 47 Have you ever accomplished something you didn’t think you could? • Prepare a good example where you overcame numerous difficulties to succeed; demonstrating that you are not a quitter and that you will keep going, even when things get tough. (The interviewer is trying to determine your goal orientation, work ethic, personal commitment, and integrity.) What do you like/dislike most about your current position? • Consider who you are talking to and respond using good judgment. Take care not to express too many details, or express a particular “dislike” for management. • Be honest about liking challenges, pressure situations, opportunities to grow, or disliking bureaucracy and frustrating situations. (The interviewer is trying to determine your compatibility with the open position.) How do you handle pressure? Do you like or dislike these situations? • Provide a good example of handling pressure, with details that provide an overview of the stressfulsituation. (The interviewer should “feel” the stress through the description. High achievers tend to perform well in high-pressure situations. This question could also imply that the position is pressure-packed and may be a red flag for you). What are your career goals? Where do you see yourself 5 years from now? 10 years? • You should be honest with the potentialemployer and let them know what your goals are. Make certain that your goals are inclusive of details of the opportunity at hand. Telling an interviewer that you have plans to move or to go back to school full time may not be the best things to dis- close during the interview process. Be as open as possible with your answers. What do you consider your most significant strengths? • Prepare for this question by knowing your five key strengths. (Selected attributes should be those that are most compatible with the job opening.) • Discuss specific examples that support each of these five strengths. • Avoid the standard answers — “management” or “good interpersonalskills” — unless you can support them with examples of specific characteristics of management (e.g., planning, organizing, results, staffing, etc.) or how relationship skills have proven critical to the your success. What do you consider your most significant weakness? • Discuss tolerable faults that you are working toward improving, not deep character flaws. • Discuss how the weakness has changed over time or how the weakness can be turned into a strength (e.g., how a concentration on details results in higher quality work, even though it requires overtime). The sign of a good employee is the ability to take the initiative. Can you describe situations like this about yourself? • Convince the interviewer that you possess this attribute by providing a series of short examples of your self-motivation. • Discuss an in-depth example showing extra effort, a strong work ethic, and a creative side. (A proactive, results- oriented person does not have to be told what to do, which is a major success attribute.) What’s the worst or most embarrassing aspect of your busi- ness career? How would you have done things differently now with 20/20 hindsight? • Talk openly about failures, if the failures show learning from the experiences. (This indicates an open, more flexible personality and is a critical aspect of high potential individuals. This question is to learn how introspective you are and to see if you can learn from your mistakes.)
  • 29. P a g e | 29 Page 29 of 47 How have you grown or changed over the past few years? • Select changes that demonstrate maturation, increased technical skills, or increased self-confidence. (Your ability to discuss this effectively is indicative of a well-balanced, intelligent individual. Overcoming personal obstacles or recognizing manageable weaknesses can help you be viewed as an approachable and desirable employee.) Deadlines, frustration, difficult people, and silly rules can make a job difficult. How do you handle these types of situations? • Show that you can overcome these situations through diplomacy, perseverance, and common sense. (Because most companies face these types of problems on a daily basis, a candidate’s inability to deal with petty frustrations will be seen as a problem.) One of our biggest problems is ________. What has been your experience with this? How would you deal with it? • Ask questions to get details about the identified problem and then break the problem into sub-parts. • Address the sub-parts that you have experience with, and then summarize the whole situation. • State how you would approach the problem and work to solve it, being specific to demonstrate organizationaland analyticalskills. (1) As a manager, how do you compare your technical skills to your management skills? • Try to present a good balance between technical skills and management skills. (Many people tend to minimize their technical skills, either because they do not have any or because they do not like going into detail. Most successful managers possess good technical skills, getting into enough detail to make sure they understand the information being presented by their group.) As a manager, how would you handle a situation with tight deadlines, low employee morale, and inadequate resources? Be creative in answering this question, providing an example if possible. Describe your toughest management task, demonstrating organizationalskills, interpersonalskills, and handling pressures. (Skillful handling of this question demonstrates your skills—good managers should be able to address each issue, even if the issues are not concurrent. This question indicates the interviewer’s search for strong management skills.) Why should we hire you for this position? What kind of contribution would you make? Relate specific attributes and specific accomplishments that are appropriate for the job duties and responsibilities, qualifying responses with the need to gather information. (The answer to this question should demonstrate a thoughtful, organized attitude that includes strong effort. This question provides a good chance for you to summarize your qualifications for the position.)
  • 30. P a g e | 30 Page 30 of 47 ARE YOU CONSIDERING LOOKING FOR OUT-OF-STATE-JOBS? IF SO, HERE ARE SOME THINGS TO CONSIDER. 1. Don’t put your address on your résumé By no means am I saying that you should lie on your résumé. That is a no. However, if you truly are dedicated to getting a job in a different state, you must make sure you have all the logistics taken care of. If the employer contacts you, do you have a plan of where you’re going to stay during the interview process? Any leads on where you could live or at least stay for the first few weeks if you got offered the job? Have you saved up enough to be able to afford the trip(s)? 2. Make it clear that you don’t expect the company to pay for you. That leads us directly into the next point. If part of the application process requires you to give your address, don’t lie. Just make sure that the employer knows that you won’t be costing them anything. Unless you’re the one being contacted for the job, don’t expect an employer to pay for any relocation expenses. This includes any flights that might be necessary for an interview. “If you’re going to be a good hire, you should be able to figure out how to get to an interview and make a start date and that shouldn’t be the employer’s problem.
  • 31. P a g e | 31 Page 31 of 47 3. Make it very clear why you’re interested in that job and why it won’t be a problem for you to get there—you’re planning to move anyway, have enough money saved up to look for jobs in that area, have a family member who lives in the area, etc. Other key points to remember when considering relocating for a job… If you want to relocate out-of-state or away from your hometown, realize many companies will not pay for relocation in the current economic environment unless they cannot find a local candidate. Here are a few techniques you can use to increase your chances for an out-of-state job: Find a mailbox company (or a friend) with an address perceived as within the commuting distance for the job. Also, get a phone number (use Skype or Google Voice) to get a phone number that is in the area code where the job is. In the cover letter, mention although you are currently working in another city, you have begun the transition to the new location. This is true if you have established an address and phone number in the new city.  I do not recommend that your resume list name, email address and phone number only. That bare-bones information can get you eliminated from the application, since the company will assume you are hiding something.  In the cover letter or email that accompanies your resume mention that you are open to relocation. Even better, if you already have plans in place to move to the state, let the company know when you will be a resident.  The easier you make your relocation for the company involved, the more likely they will be to consider you. You may want to consider paying for your own transportation to the interview. SMILE! SMILE! SMILE! YOU ARE APPROACHING THE FINISH LINE…THEY WILL CONCLUDE THE INTERVIEW BY ASKING IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS. PLEASE DON’T SAY: YOU HAVE ANSWERED ALL OF MY QUESTIONS. YOU COULD SAY: TROUGHOUT THE INTERVIEW, I HAD QUESTIONS; HOWEVER, AS THE INTERVIEW PROGRESSED, YOU WERE ABLE TO PROVIDE CLEAR ANSWERS TO MY QUESTIONS, THANK YOU. 1. What additional information do you need regarding my candidacy for the position? 2. Can you please explain the rest of the interview process?
  • 32. P a g e | 32 Page 32 of 47 3. Do you foresee anything that might hinder me from getting the job? 4. I would love to work for your company, restate what you will bring to the company.  5. My schedule is open. I would accept the opportunity to set a second interview with you. 6. Do you see any reason why I would not be a major addition to your team? 7. If I may ask, how do I compare to the other candidates whom you have already interviewed? 8. Ask, what will it take to be successful in the position you are currently seeking to fill? 9. Ask the interviewer if he/she can make you an offer now. Restate what you will bring. AS THE INTERVIEW APPROACHES ITS CLOSING MOMENTS… This is the time to sell your skills and talents. Re-state your career goals, what you can bring to the organization, some of the projects you’ve implemented at previous jobs. Finally, don’t forget to shake the employer(s)' hand and thank each person for the interview. Ask would it be okay to follow up with him or her in a couple of days. You should walk out of the interview with confidence and assurance. If you do not feel this way, maybe you need more practice. Remember, with practice, you will get better, and eventually you’ll land that dream job….good luck! Tips on Conditioning Your Mind and Preparing for the Interview LIFE IS GOOD; YOU ARE MAKING A COMEBACK… CLAIM IT! SPEAK IT! LIVE IT! Successful job interviews do not occur by chance. THESE FIVE INTERVIEW TIPS WILL HELP PREPARE YOU TO HAVE A GREAT INTERVIEW:
  • 33. P a g e | 33 Page 33 of 47 Interview tip # 1: Do not get overly nervous. Most people that interview you are not professional job interviewers. They typically do not just interview for a living, so by being nervous you will not help the situation. Try to relax, take deep breaths, and maintain some poise. Relax; visualize how you would like the interview to go. Remember, the person that is interviewing you is no different from you…he or she is only in a leadership position. Be yourself throughout the interview. Honesty is the best policy. If you are asked a question, and you are not sure what the interviewer wants…ask if he or she can restate the question. (IT’S THAT EASY) Interview tip #2: Be prepared. The interview does not start when you arrive at their facility or when you sit down in their chair. The interview starts the moment you get that first phone call and while you are on your way to the interview. During this quiet time, you should be collecting your thoughts on how you want to conduct the interview. In addition, you should be thinking about the types of questions you may be asked. The more you are prepared, the best and smoother the interview will go. Interview tip #3: Know the types of interview questions you will be asked. While it is impossible to predict what an interviewer will ask you, the basic idea you should remember in answering interview questions is: Why you are the right person for the job? Remember, even if you are not interviewing for a sales job, you still need to sell yourself. No one knows you better than you. So, be sure to sell and market the complete you. (Remember—you only get one chance to make a good first impression.) Interview tip #4 Expect to be asked this question: tell me about you? This is probably one of the first of many interview questions employers will ask. The difficulty in answering this question is you never know what the interviewer wants to hear. You can get yourself in trouble over this question if you are not sure what to say. You should start by saying: thank you for the question…now, go right to it. Remember, he/he already knows your name, so please do not repeat your name. Talk about your short/long-range goals, education, prior or current projects you are working on, etc. do not talk about your personal life, children, hard times or good times. Keep it professional. Interview tip #5: Avoid being negative about your previous employers, bosses, and co-workers. No one wants to hire anyone who he/she perceives to be trouble. One who has been terminated can easily fall into this big trap. Instead, talk about things you have learned, opportunities you have gained, contributions you have made and friendships you have developed. If you speak negatively about past employers, the interviewer will probably wonder, was the employer the problem, or was it you. Do not fall into this uncompromising situation. If you do…chances are you won’t get hired. REMEMBER: The interview does not start when you enter the employer’s facility, the interview starts the moment you receive that call, and it continues until you get an offer. So, use all of
  • 34. P a g e | 34 Page 34 of 47 your time to rehearse, relax, and build self-confidence. Know that you deserve to be hired, and they like you. Otherwise, you would not be interviewing. Remember: as the interview approaches its closing moments, you must ask for the job. However, I must caution you….if you ask for the job, you have to be ready to defend your reason(s) why you are the best candidate for the job. Remember to use your resume as your guide. Furthermore, prior to leaving the interview, ask for a business card, so that you can send a thank-you note later. Good luck and you will do just find!!! Remember to smile during the interview…it pays great dividends, plus you look nice.  Is your current resume generating job interviews for you? If employers are not calling you, don’t get discouraged; maybe your resume needs a makeover. Call the number above, and learn how to write a job-winning resume that will encourage employers to call YOU.  Have you ever been fired from a job? Call or email me and learn techniques on how to answer questions pertaining to a job loss. (Rule #1: Always Be Truthful)  Learn how to answer questions that employers often ask. For example: Why did you leave your last job or why should we hire you? Or, tell me a story? Or what type of salary are you looking for? And much more! Side Note: Don’t forget to ask for a business card once the interview starts. Why? By having the interviewer’s business card, you won’t make the mistake of calling him/her by the wrong name. Dr. Kerrie’s Five Seeds of Hope 1) Don’t QUIT, you can make it, if you can find the strength to get through THIS DAY, not tomorrow or next week. 2) When the messenger of misery pays you a visit, AND you will get your visit, because none of us are exempt, so put on your battleground gear and tough it out! 3) Keep looking for ways to win. Somehow, some way, God will make a way...Can you believe in a
  • 35. P a g e | 35 Page 35 of 47 Higher Power to get you through this? If you can...you will succeed! 4) You Might be going through some tough times, and maybe life has thrown some punches at you. I say,Hold to God’s unchanging Hand. You will make it! 5) In order to see a beautiful rainbow in the sky, it must first rain. However, once the rain stops, look to the sky for your rainbow. Dr. Kerrie’s five recommendations for creating a balanced life. 1. Get up every morning, put on your business attire and leave the house. 2. Join a civic group and/or volunteer your time to help someone else. Remember, you aren’t the only one unemployed or facing hard times. 3. Expect someone to call you...reaffirm over and over in your mind that you will get a job today. 4. Eat healthy, exercise regularly, meditate, and read about your industry. 5. Finally, end your night with a sincere prayer, thanking God for another day and try to RELAX!!! THE PANEL INTERVIEW Do you fear panel interviews? A panel interview is when you have two or more key people at the organization interviewing you at the same time. Relax…read this manual and you will feel so much better…look at a panel interview as an opportunity to have (one) strong interview, instead of 2-3 different interviews. You can impress everyone now! 1. Direct your attention to each person on the panel. Upon starting the interview, get each person’s name (and ask for their business card or jot down the name), and then look at each person as you introduce yourself. This will help to break the ice and establish a connection to all of your interviewers. While fielding questions, avoid staring at a single
  • 36. P a g e | 36 Page 36 of 47 person (nothing makes you look more “frozen” than doing this!). Instead, make it a point to relax, smile, and shift your eyes to the others on the panel. Even if a single member of the group asks you a particular question, look around at the others while you answer it. Doing so will help you project a confident image and build rapport with the entire panel. (Remember…smile, but be yourself. Please don’t smile or laugh if nothing is funny. 2. Expect to repeat yourself. While one of your interviewers might understand your answer the first time, you can almost expect someone else to ask for clarification — or ask it again, later in the interview. Everyone has different verbal abilities, and many of us have different listening styles. What is clear to one panel participant may need further explanation for another person. In addition, each panelist comes to a group interview with a different agenda. You can expect a prospective peer to be interested in your technical or analytical skills, for example, while the boss might be more curious about why your last job was so short. You may also find yourself repeating information from earlier interviews. This is perfectly normal within the context of a multi-interview hiring process, so avoid coming across as impatient or noting that you’ve answered this query before. 3. Find out who you’ll need to impress the most. Within most panel interviews, it becomes obvious very quickly who’s on your side, and who still hasn’t made up his or her mind yet. (“Good cop, bad cop” is fairly common in panel interviews!) While it may be comforting to direct your answers and gaze toward the interviewer who seems more open to your responses, you’re better off tackling the naysayer first. Why? Because winning over the person most likely to reject you shows that you have the ability to read the audience, as well as problem-solve on your feet. Most employers are looking for leaders who will challenge issues head- on, ask numerous questions, and hone in on the thorniest problems first. If you respond well to
  • 37. P a g e | 37 Page 37 of 47 someone that throws challenges your way, you’ll come across as an unflappable professional ready to take on the demands of the job. In addition, most panel interviewers convene after a group interview to discuss the candidate and their impressions. If you’ve won over the toughest member of the group, the others may likely throw their support behind him or her. 4. Be prepared for at least one zinger question. Interviewers, like anyone else, tend to feel more comfortable (and perhaps bold) in a group. Therefore, you can almost count on being asked a question that might not be posed to you in a one- on-one situation. Of course, you’ll want to prepare for your interview by pulling out 3-5 “power stories” that demonstrate your abilities to perform the job. Arming yourself with these anecdotes will give you the ability to answer numerous behavioral-style questions common to both single- and multi-interviewer situations. Nevertheless, if there’s any question or situation that you would feel awkward explaining, prepare and practice a set of answers to it prior to your panel interview! This way, you won’t feel a sense of dread when the question finally comes up, and you’ll be better able to handle any curveballs thrown your way. 5. Thank all participants promptly upon leaving the interview. At the conclusion of your group interview, thank everyone personally, and gather business cards if you didn’t already do so. Then, as you’re sitting in your car post-interview, write thank-you notes immediately and bring them back in for drop-off to the receptionist. You’ll gain the advantage of having the interview fresh on your mind, and you will score points for your promptness and attention to professional courtesy. In summary, a panel interview is nothing to dread, especially since it offers an opportunity to establish rapport with your potential new co-workers and bosses. Arm yourself with a stack of success stories, answers to tough questions, thank-you notes, and a smile, and you’ll be on your way to a faster job offer.
  • 38. P a g e | 38 Page 38 of 47 ARE YOU READY FOR LUNCH? The Lunch Interview…You never know when you will be asked out on an lunch-Interview date…Relax…read on! As if the job interview were not already stressful enough—enter the lunch interview. Not only are you being judged on your skills, qualifications, and experience, your table manners are being scrutinized too! Never fear. It is possible to wow a potential employer without getting indigestion. Here’s a quickie list of guidelines, roughly in the order in which you’ll need them. 1. A lunch interview is not about your eating…it is about building rapport…Read on!!! 2. The morning of the interview, be sure you listen to current news or wherever it is you get your information. This is recommended for all interviews, but lunchtime interviews often involve more chitchat. 3. Dress as you would for a normal interview. 4. Make an effort to arrive first and wait in the lobby, not at the bar. 5. No matter what time you arrive, check to see if your party is already there. You never know. 6. Wait for everyone to be seated before you put your napkin in your lap or open your menu. 7. First hurdle: Beverages. Your interviewer is likely to let you order first. Avoid the booze. Consider sparkling water. It’s both grown up and non-alcoholic. Depending on where you live, iced tea is also a good choice. 8. Do not drink straight from a bottle or through a straw, especially if you are a woman. 9. Second hurdle: Entrées. Don’t order the most expensive thing. Don’t order the cheapest thing. Don’t order anything that is ostentatiously huge or smelly or crunchy. 10. Instead, order a smallish dish that you can easily and gracefully eat with a knife and fork. (Avoid spaghetti, spareribs, fried chicken, tacos, lobster, and big fat sloppy sandwiches.)
  • 39. P a g e | 39 Page 39 of 47 11. Order quickly and with no fuss or interrogation of the server. Do not make an issue of your food allergies, your weight, or your likes and dislikes. 12. If you’ve brought a portfolio or other papers, mention that you have them and let the interviewer choose when to bring them out. After the plates have been cleared is usually a good time. 13. Be polite to the servers. The way you treat them says a lot about your character. 14. If something is a little wrong with your order, let it slide. This is one meal that is really not about the food. 15. Eat your dinner roll by breaking off a small piece at a time. 16. Don’t eat too fast, or as if you’re ravenous. Don’t wipe your plate with your bread. 17. Don’t eat extremely slowly either, though you will probably be eating less quickly than your interviewer (a good reason to order something small). 18. Do eat something. If you don’t, you’ll look nervous. Try to finish at least half. 19. Do not ask for a doggie bag. 20. Here’s an advantage of the lunch interview: You can ponder your answer to a difficult answer while chewing! Do take small bites, though, so there’s not an awkwardly long lag time while your interviewer is waiting for you to swallow. 21. Only order dessert if the interviewer does. 22. In case Mom failed to mention it: Don’t talk with your mouth full. Don’t put your elbows on the table. Sit up straight. Use a napkin. 23. At the end, don’t wad up your napkin. Fold it loosely and lay it on the table next to your plate. 24. Be graceful about letting the interviewer pick up the tab. You were invited! 25. Don’t forget to mention the meal in your thank-you note. LEARN THE SKILLS TO BE SUCCESSFUL AT CAREER FAIRS
  • 40. P a g e | 40 Page 40 of 47 It isn't often that a bunch of employers will gather for several hours in a purposeful effort to meet you and other job seekers. So when a career fair is held in your area, it's smart for you to attend. Even so, to get something from the experience beyond free key chains, colorful pens, and other gadgets, you need to understand the purpose of the career fair and the role you and the employer play. Four preparation things you should do before attending the career fair… 1. Developa Strong Resume: Highlight your skills and accomplishments. Your resume should be error free, concise and quality resume paper. Don't forget to make several copies, since you'll probably visit with more than one employer. 2. Get or Make Business Cards: You can buy blank business cards at stores like Office Depot, and then use a computer and laser printer to create some personalized cards. List your name, contact information, and perhaps the career you'd like to pursue or your key skills. (It would be nice to have your own resume business cards…ask me how to get these cards…) 3. Get a list of companies attending the career fair and do your research on companies you are most interested in: Nothing impresses an employer less than a prospective candidate asking, "So what do you guys do?" Instead, be one of the few attendees that know something about each of the companies. The more informed you are, the more likely you will be positively remembered. 4. Developa 30-Second Commercial: "Tell me a little about yourself." You're likely to get that invitation from many of the employers at the fair. So spend a little time beforehand figuring out your response. Think of your reply as a 30-second, self-promotional commercial you'll deliver to each employer who asks. (Attend my workshop and I will teach you what to say…it works.)
  • 41. P a g e | 41 Page 41 of 47 1. Introduce yourself and Shake Hands: In many ways, a career fair is a test of your social skills. While employers are almost always friendly and outgoing, they'll expect the same of you. If you haven't done much ice breaking before, practice in advance with a career counselor or friend. (Attend my workshops and I will teach you these skills 2. Dress Appropriately: In most cases, you'll want to dress professionally to attend a career fair. Sometimes business casual is fine, but don't go too casual. When in doubt, overdress. 3. Ask Intelligent Questions: If you've studied up on the organizations, you'll probably have some questions you'd like to ask. Not only will you get some answers, but you'll also show yourself to be someone who does his or her research. 4. Focus on What You Can Offer, Not What They Can Offer You. You'll be a refreshing change to most hiring managers if you tell them what you can do for them and their organizations instead of asking what they can do for you. (Be yourself) 5. Leave Your Resume and Profile Card with Each Hiring Manager: Then be sure to grab each one of their cards Steps to take after a job fair 1. Take Notes: After the fair concludes, jot down notes about conversations you had with company representatives. If you wait too long, the conversations will start running together in your head, and you'll forget what you said to whom. 2. Follow Up on Promises: If, for example, a company representative expressed interest in looking at your Web site, make sure to email the URL like you said you would. 3. Send Thank-You Notes: Write or email each of the people you met and thank them for their time. Reiterate your interest in the company and your relevant skills and experience. Most job seekers fail to take this simple step, often losing out in the end to those who did express their thanks. There will be a few other times in your life when employers make such a concerted bid to get your attention. So when they participate in a nearby career fair, make the most of the opportunity to present yourself favorably, gather useful information and meet new contacts. Your small investment of time and effort - before, during and after - might very well turn into an opportunity INTERVIEW QUESTIONS ASKED TO EDUCATORS TOP 100 Teacher Interview Questions Hiring Managers Ask All The Time
  • 42. P a g e | 42 Page 42 of 47 1. First, tell us a little bit about yourself. (Almost every teacher interview begins this way.) 2. Describe your college experiences. 3. Tell us about your experiences working with students at this age level. 4. Describe your philosophy of teaching? 5. Why do you want to become a teacher? 6. Describe three of your strengths and explain each one. 7. Describe three of your weaknesses as a teacher. 8. In what ways do you encourage creativity in your classroom? 9. Tell us about a lesson in which you've used differentiated instruction. 10. How do you teach kids to utilize higher-order thinking skills in your classroom? 11. What do you do to prepare your students for state or standardized tests? 12. Do you make learning fun for students? How? 13. If I walked into your classroom on a typical afternoon, what would I see going on? 14. How do you measure student performance in your classroom? 15. Describe a successful lesson. Tell why it was successful. 16. What would you do if a student wasn't handing her homework on a regular basis? 17. How much homework do you give? 18. Besides lecture, what methods of teaching do you use? 19. Tell us about your discipline philosophy. 20. What are your classroom rules? How do you make students familiar with the rules? 21. What daily or weekly routines would be incorporated in your teaching? 22. One student hits another student. What do you do? 23. A student throws a pencil across the room. What do you do?
  • 43. P a g e | 43 Page 43 of 47 24. Explain what you would do if a student was swearing in your class? 25. What would you do if a student was complaining about an assignment you've given? 26. What would you do if a parent complained about an assignment? 27. Describe some methods of "positive reinforcement" that you might use in your classroom. 28. Would you describe yourself as a "tough" teacher or an "understanding" teacher? Explain. 29. How would you create a behavior modification for a student with ongoing behavior problems? 30. What are some ways you can avoid behavior problems? 31. Without giving any names, describe the most challenging student you've ever taught. 32. What would you do to calm an angry parent? 33. Do you have an example of a parent newsletter that you can show us? 34. In what ways do you communicate with parents on a regular basis? 35. A parent calls you because they are worried about their child's low grades. What would you say to the parent? 36. A parent writes a note and tells you that their daughter could not complete their homework assignment because she had a dance recital the night before. What do you do? 37. How do you keep parents informed of their child’s progress? 38. How do you use technology to enrich your lessons? 39. How computer literate are you? 40. Do you think it is appropriate for children in school to be using the Internet? 41. Give an example of a time when you've worked on a team. 42. Describe one time when you've acted as a leader. 43. How do you feel about team-teaching? 44. What can you do for a student that is extremely gifted? 45. Describe a gifted student.
  • 44. P a g e | 44 Page 44 of 47 46. How would you recommend a child for special education services? 47. Most classes have students with a wide-range of reading abilities. What can you do to meet the needs of students with high reading abilities and low reading abilities at the same time? 48. Tell us a little about your student teaching experiences. 49. What is your least favorite age/grade/subject to teach? Explain. 50. What is your favorite age/grade/subject to teach? Explain. 51. What are some of the most important things you learned when student teaching? 52. What was the most satisfying moment throughout your student teaching? 53. What was the most frustrating thing about student teaching? 54. Describe one college course that taught you the most about being a good teacher. 55. Who influenced you to become a teacher? 56. Describe the biggest challenge you've ever had to face. 57. What books are you currently reading? 58. A student confides in you and tells you that his parent abuses him. He asks you not to tell anyone. What do you do? 59. What is your definition of a life-long learner? How can you promote life-long learning in your classroom? 60. Would you be willing to help out with extra-curricular activities? Which ones? 61. Have you ever been a substitute teacher in this school district? 62. What do you look for in a principal? 63. How do you communicate with administrators? 64. Would you like to be part of our new teacher mentor program? 65. What kinds of in-services would you be eager to attend? 66. List five adjectives that accurately describe yourself. 67. What professional teaching organizations do you belong to?
  • 45. P a g e | 45 Page 45 of 47 68. Have you ever received an award for anything in your lifetime? Describe. 69. Describe the differences between a good teacher and a great teacher? 70. What were you like as a student? 71. If you teach a lesson and your students don't seem to be "getting it," what do you do? 72. How do you provide support for students who are not performing as well as they should? 73. What can you do to meet the needs of students who do not speak English? 74. In what ways can you teach students to be accepting of one-another? 75. How would you teach conflict resolution to your students? 76. Name a book that you'd like to read to (or with) your students. Describe the book and tell why you chose it. 77. How do you feel about working in an inclusion classroom? 78. How do you meet the needs of a student with an IEP? 79. How would you teach the writing process? 80. Describe a high-interest project that you might assign to your students. 81. What can you offer our school that other candidates cannot? 82. Do you think you are a flexible person? Explain. 83. What do you like to do when you're not teaching? 84. How do you incorporate writing into your curriculum? 85. Can you show us what your lesson plan book would look like? 86. How closely do you follow your lesson plans? 87. Where do you plan to be ten years from now? 88. What part of this job are you looking forward to? 89. What part of this job scares you? 90. In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges that teachers face today?
  • 46. P a g e | 46 Page 46 of 47 91. Why do you want to teach in this, particular district? 92. How can you make your teaching connect to students' real-world experiences? 93. Tell me about your references. Who are they and how do they know you? 94. If I were to call your references, what might they say about you? 95. How can teachers reach out to the community? 96. How do you make sure you are teaching to the state standards? 97. What kinds of materials and supplies would you need to do your job well? 98. How do you feel about noise in your classroom? 99. Are you a good teacher? 100. What would you students say about your teaching style? KNOW YOUR RIGHTS AS A JOB CANDIDATES HERE ARE SOME ILLEGAL QUESTIONS TO LISTEN FOR:  ARE YOU A U.S. CITIZEN?  WHERE WERE YOU BORN?  WHAT IS YOUR SPOKEN LANGUAGE AT HOME?  HOW MANY CHILDREN DO YOU HAVE?  ARE YOU MARRIED,DIVORCED OR SINGLE?  WHAT RELIGION DO YOU PRACTICE?  HOW OLD ARE YOU?  DO YOU PLAN ON STARTINGA FAMILY SOON?  DO YOU HAVE ANY ILLNESS?  DO YOU DRINK OR SMOKE SOCIALLY?  HOW IS YOUR CREDIT?  DO YOU OWN OR RENT WHERE YOU LIVE?
  • 47. P a g e | 47 Page 47 of 47 WHY SHOULD HIRING MANAGERS BUY YOUR PRODUCT.pdf God is ordering your steps..pdf Sample Client Resume.pdf Sample Client Resume 2.pdf Sample Client Resume 3.pdf Sample Client Curriculum Vitae.pdf Sample Client Resume 5 - Copy.pdf Sample Client Resume 6.pdf Sample Client Resume 7.pdf Sample Client Curriculum Vitae 8.pdf Sample Client Resume 9.pdf Sample Client Resume 10.pdf Sample Client Curriculum Vitae 11.pdf RESUME FEE PACKAGES.pdf Dr. Mayberry Bio& BusinessBrochure.pdf Dr. Mayberry'sLeadership& TeachingPhilosophy.pdf