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10 JOBS AFTER AN MBA DEGREE

The only reason why one studies is to be able to be financially stable in the future. This is the driving factor for most of our decisions. Getting a business degree is always a plus for a good start to a career.

MBA degrees have been attributed to be one of the most affluent of degrees. Even in the current job market, companies still revere a business degree.

Global companies are always looking for well-educated business graduates who can take their business forward. Each of these companies are further divided into departments and each of them is in turn headed by a B-School Graduate. The possibility to reach to that level is higher if you are passed out from a top business school.

Here are some of the high profile jobs that an MBA graduate can get:

Accountant: An accountant compile, prepare and analyze financial records. Every company and organization has an accountant. They are highly paid and revered. They are the ones that determine the finances of a company. The average salary for an Accountant would be £16,429 – £50,733 per year.

Advertising Executive: An advertising executive primarily work in the advertising field. They manage client accounts, coordinate with them, handle campaigns, understand the integrities of marketing and their various concepts. And advertising executive would get an average of £16,642 – £33,825 pay per year.

Business Manager: As a business manager, you are liable for your business and your company. You are overlooking the planning, direction, operations and efficiency of the employees. It is your job to delegate work and see that it is done. They get an average of £21,060 – £70,150 per year as their pay package.

Sales Associate: As a sales person your main work is to market your product and in turn sell it. While in MBA you are taught thoroughly the various concepts of marketing and how to deal and persuade clients etc. A Sales Associate is entitled to £12,404 – £37,386 per year depending on their educational qualification.

Financial Manager: They mostly work in banks, credit unions and various other finance companies. They could be a loan officer, investment officer etc. An average salary for a Finance Manager would be £25,000 – £65,000 per year.

Corporate Recruiter: These are people who are more widely known as Headhunters. They are those who hire CEO’s and CFO’s of a company for a company. Many top notch business let these people handle the recruiting and the salary negotiations. A corporate recruiter is entitled to an average of £17,187 – £35,869 per year.

Corporate Communications Officer: Every company has its own corporate communications department. They are the one that create implement and oversee communications programs. They are a common bridging gap between the company head and the employees and also a communication channel between the company and the outside world. They can ask upto £17,365 – £31,193 pay per annum

Human Resources Director or Manager: An HR personnel is the one whose main call of duty is to hire, retain and fire employees. They are the ones that determine the company codes and policies. They supervise every aspect of employee relation. £24,465 – £52,207 is the average salary of a Human Resource Manager.

Management or Business Analyst:  They analyze and evaluate operating procedures and in turn make recommendations based on their findings. They are often hired as a consultant to solve a specific problem in the company. A Business analyst can take up to £25,046 – £61,171 salary per annum.

Product Manager: They plan, develop and execute a plan for a particular brand or product or services. They deal with various aspects of the business and manage production, sale, advertising, promotion, research, development, purchasing, and distribution etc. of a product or services. A senior product manager could take upto £38,912 – £80,876 per annum

As the current job market goes, companies are using quite strenuous hiring strategies. They just don’t want anyone. They are making sure that they hire the best possible candidate for the job. If you are one of those dreamers who aspire to have a great start to a booming career – an MBA degree definitely helps you. Plus if as a business grad you salary is also higher than your peers who are not and if you grow in your company the opportunity to becoming the CEO is also available to you.

Author Bio:

Trisha is a professional writer and has been writing on a variety of topics. She is an ardent reader, a traveler and a passionate photographer. She wants to explore the world and write about whatever comes across her way | LinkedIn

Source for salaries: http://www.payscale.com/

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5 Things to Know if You are Interviewing with a ‘Future’ Bad Boss

It is important to get a job. But it is equally important to know if you are going to be a right fit for the organization and how is going to be your future manager. Many people believe that a boss can actually break or make a career. He can identify your strengths and make you feel committed to the company.

How to know this? Well, this becomes easier when you are interviewing with your ‘future’ boss. Hence, while he is evaluating you as a good fit for his company and team, the following tips will help you to assess if you are interviewing a bad boss.

The following signs will allow you to spot him:

1.      Intimidating body language

Body language speaks a lot about a person. Crossing legs on the table, too much-pointing fingers, or looking down at you are some of the easiest indications of an intimidating boss. No one wants a boss who will not offer much scope for growth. If he doesn’t let you prove your point, checking your resume repeatedly, or not maintaining eye contact, these signs herald that he is going to be a boss who is not much confident about his position, and will leave a little scope of work freedom for you.

2.     Begins straight away with the interview questions

Talking ‘to-the-point’ is good. However, a formal greeting, introduction, and saying something in the context of the job interview are certain interview etiquettes that people expect. If he just starts shooting interview questions after a “Good Morning”, be sure that he is a boss who is more interested in work only and not employees. So, asking for leaves, pay hike or promotions could be a challenge for you.

3. Does not pay the needed attention

Taking out a suitable time to assess a job candidate is vital. Going out to attend phone calls, checking time frequently, reading mails are all the signs of disrespectful communication habits. He is impatient to listen to your thoughts and more often interrupts you to ask another question. He will be a difficult boss who is never going to take out time for you- for your queries or grievances.

4. Invading personal space

It is fine to know a bit about your background, your family, hobbies, or interests. However, if he is not respectful of your personal space, this is a red flag. He could be a boss who is less interested in work and more concerned about your personal matters.

5. His team behavior

When your interview is scheduled near his cabin, it is the time to observe his team behavior. If you find employees rushing to their seats when the boss is around, or avoid eye contact or any conversation with him, such a boss does not share a good working relationship with his team.

Though a bad boss cannot be the only reason to say NO to a job offer, however, knowing these signs can certainly help you to choose between two job offers.

Happy job hunting

Author Bio:

Swati Srivastava is an avid writer who loves to pen down her ideas and career tips for job seekers and professionals. Her blog posts, new stories, and articles are focused on the extensive domain of employment sector in the gulf. Currently, she is writing for Naukrigulf.com. Follow her @LinkedIn 

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Cracking the “Non-Verbal” Code of an Interview

Cracking the “Non-Verbal” Code of an Interview

Giving interviews is a tricky business. You are judged not only on the basis of your verbal skills, but on your non-verbal acumen as well. It is not just about the explicit meaning of words but about the implicit transfer of messages. Non-verbal behaviour involves interpersonal communication of a different level. It is but an un-intentional method of communication, playing at a very subconscious level.

Cracking the code of effective non-verbal communication is bewildering for the best of us. Its components can have you reeling in every dimension. From facial expressions and tone of voice, to body language and physical proximity, non-verbal signals give additional information and meaning over and above verbal communication.

dealing with criticise

1.      Kinesics

Kinesics refers to body language or body movements. This includes posture, gestures, hand movements, or body movements on the whole. The key attributes of this non-verbal component are:

  • Reinforces what a person is saying.
  • Gives additional information about the attitudes and emotions of a candidate.
  • Can conflict with what a person is saying. Hence, a skilled hiring manager can detect this discrepancy and catch you where you are weak.
  • Expressions of happiness, sadness, anxiety, etc. are globally recognized and can be sensed easily.

Examples of kinesics are socially and culturally diverse. Understanding the detailed nuances of body language is very important for effective job acquisition. For example, an Indian looking for an overseas job with a multi-national company must know how to acknowledge an employer of different nationality. Folding hands in Namaste may not be understood by the said individual, which could lead to an embarrassing start. Some other common examples are:

  • Glancing at your watch during the interview.
  • Tapping your feet – shows impatience and anxiety.
  • Fidgeting in your chair.
  • Coughing too much or clearing your throat every 2 seconds.
  • Moving your hands too much when enunciating.

2.      Oculesics

Bharatanatyam is all about eye movement, and so is an interview. The intensity of your glance, pupil dilation, frequency of glances, and blink rate can publicise hidden intent. A smile on your face can never mask the look of utter terror in your eyes when sitting in front of a panel. You can keep eye movements in check by focussing at a point close to the interviewers face; without staring at him directly. Oculesics matter in an interview because:

  • Eye contact is essential for giving and receiving feedback.
  • It lets the other person know that it’s their time to talk without having to say the words.
  • It is the bridge between listening and speaking.
  • It can be employed to convey silence, ignorance, and anger. For example: You look away when you want to avoid answering a question, you look down when you are unsure of what to say, and you look up when you are trying to remember a point.

3.      Paralinguistics

Para-language pertains to the tone and pitch of your voice. Girls are generally shrill and get squeakier in an interview. Boys on the other hand have a deeper baritone which all but disappears when it comes to answering questions. Being aware of how you talk, the speed and volume of your message delivery, and the pauses and hesitations between words is highly important. During an interview, if you put emphasis on certain words, they are sure to be picked up by the hiring manager.

4.      Proxemics

Different cultures display different levels of closeness that is appropriate for building corporate relationships. Violating this “appropriate” distance can leave individuals feeling defensive or uncomfortable. “Space” issues can open portals to misinterpretation. The main categories of proxemics include:

  • Intimate distance – upto 45cm.
  • Personal distance – 45cm to 1.2m.
  • Social distance – 1.2m to 3.6m.
  • Public distance – 3.7m to 4.5m.

Understanding distances will allow you to approach others in an appropriate and non-menacing manner. Interviewers will understand how you feel about the situation and, if required, will change their behaviour accordingly.

5.      Chronemics

Understanding the language of time is exceptionally important in an interview. It not only makes for good interview ethics but bodes well for your personality in case you get hired. People perceive time differently across cultures. It pertains to punctuality, interactions, and willingness to wait. Your time-usage acumen can define whether you are suitable for a particular job profile or not. Chronemics can define status as well.

For example: a boss can take a break from work any time of the day, but you will have to take permission for a 5 minute stroll in the park. Time across cultures in divided into:

  • Monochronic time: Everything is scheduled, organized, and pre-planned. Events are conducted at one particular point in time. Germany, Switzerland, and Canada employ a monochronic culture.
  • Polychronic time: Multiple events are conducted at once, and scheduling time is more flexible. Africa, Latin America, and Asia exhibit a polychronic culture.

Conclusion

Non-verbal communication forms an integral part of any candidate’s profile. Most job seekers are unaware of their non-verbal behaviour; hence, making mistakes is quite a common affair. With practise and repeated interviews, you will not only understand how to conduct yourself, but will garner sufficient experience to read the interviewers expressions as well. An in-depth knowledge of the aforementioned components can lead to greater shared understanding, which is the true purpose of interaction and communication.

Author Bio:

Tina Jindal is a professional content writer who works on a variety of topics like employment, real estate, and education. She has been involved with renowned publications and has tried her hand at editing works on Cookery, Gardening, Pregnancy, and Healthcare. She loves to travel and is crazy about dogs. You can contact her @Gmail | LinkedIn

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Managing Interview Stress

Often people become stressed in new situations; anything from a first date to attending a social event. Stress can increase when all eyes are on you which is why public speaking and job interviews are one of most common stress inducers.

Stress can increase when the importance of the activity is high. This is why job interviews are highly stressful. The job interview situation is rare, which increase stress, for many the job interview has high importance as many people require a salary to pay bills and mortgages) and in the job interview you are the focus of attention which can multiply your stress levels.

Stress is part of your fight or flight response. Your mind perceives a future situation as stressful and creates an associated negative image – a job interview going badly with you stuttering, forgetting what to say and looking embarrassed. Your mind then releases chemicals in your body so you feel stressed and this feeling of stress reinforces the negative image – creating a stress loop

Breaking The Loop

As with any stressful “eyes on you” situation, practice makes perfect. If you practice your interview with an interview coach, predicting the interview questions, preparing answers, learning how to sell yourself and how to reinforce your unique selling point, as well as reflecting on interview answers and tweaking each answer until they are embedded in your mind you will come across not only as confident but as the ideal candidate.

The lack of practice is the number one reason why applicants are nervous in job interviews with 90% of interviewees only preparing for a job interview for 15 minutes! As any confident public speaker will tell the key to speaking (and communication is the number tool for passing job interviews) well is rehearsing and rehearsing and rehearsing. It is this repetition of practice that makes the confident orator look as if they are talking of the cuff about a subject or question they are asked, where in reality they have practised their delivery style, tone change, pitch, body langue and gestures, eye contact and how to get their point across.

This practice decreases stress while boosting confidence, self-esteem and your interview expertise.

Creating Positive Visualisations

Your mind’s eye creates negative images of job interviews that increase your stress levels. These thoughts and dreams can create so much worry and anxiety that some people will decide against attending the job interview.

If your perceived perception of your interview is damaging your chance of a job offer then this next technique, which only takes around 3 minutes to complete will give you back your confidence.

Step 1 – Think about your next job interview (this will be an anxious/nervous movie) image with most people seeing the image as an associated movie – seeing it from their own eyes.

Step 2 – Pause the interview movie and push the image away from you so you can see the edges of the image

Step 3 – Drain out the colour, turning the picture black and white and put a frame around the picture

Step 4 – Move the image future and future away from you until it becomes a dot  – at this stage your negative emotions will have vanished

Step 5 – Imagine yourself confident at an interview; make this image big and bright and bring it closure and closure to you until you start to feel these confident feelings.

If you repeat this exercise every day for 2 weeks your mind will change the associated emotions (from nervousness to confidence) attached to the thought of a job interview. When you next think of an upcoming interview your mind will focus on the new confident interview image you have created rather than the old nervous negative movie you use to play.

Being able to control how you feel during a job interview by using the visualising technique as well as rehearsing your interview answers and selling points, you will have a powerful combination that will help come across natural and confident during the job interview and this can only lead to more job offers.

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Improving Your Interview Skills

If you find that you aren’t being offered positions then you need to improve your interview skills. This article will give you several ideas on how you can build up your interview skills.

Interview Coach/Mock Interviews

The easiest way to improve your job interview skills and to see where you are potentially going wrong in the job interview is to meet up with an interview coach.

An interview coach will either complete a mock job interview, where you will be asked sector-led interview questions or they will assess your interviews skills by asking a verity of coaching style questions allowing you to explore, reflect and challenge yourself before helping you plan how you can come across as a stronger applicant during the job interview.

The interview coach will also teach you how to break down the interview question so you can first understand what criteria the employer is looking for as part of the answer and how you can structure the interview answer in 3 steps to ensure the answer delivers a big impact.

Some interview coaches are also trained to help you boost your confidence using a variety of techniques.

Confident Interview

A good question to ask yourself is “to pass interviews do I need to increase my confidence or is my confidence strong and I need to learn how to sell myself in the job interview?” This will allow deciding whether or not you need an interview coach or a confidence coach?

A confidence coach will teach you how to anchor confidence to the job interview. This internal resource can be used so you act at your best during the job interview. These techniques are used daily by athletes, sports professionals and even business leaders for multi-dollar meetings.

Toastmasters and Improve Classes

 The reason people become stuck in the job interview is due to being asked out of the blue questions that they didn’t expect or by being asked questions they didn’t prepare for. The interview coach will always reiterate the importance of practice. A great way to learn to think oin your feet by attending a group where you get the chance to think on your feet.

Acting improvement classes are great for learning this skill, as is toastmasters – a public speaking group where they do an exercise called table topics where you have to speak on an unknown topic for 2-3 minutes.

The key here is to practice answering off the cuff questions so you can learn to deliver confident answers. This is a key skill in all job interviews.

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The Interview Motivation Language Model

We are all motivated and influenced differently. But imagine that you could learn how your interviewer was motivated during the interview. In this situation the interviewee could easily frame their interview answer so the language used could have a greater impact, increasing your chances of increased job offers.

Motivational Traits

Today you will learn about motivational traits; how to uncover the interviewer’s traits and how you can use this to influence the job interview outcome.

NLP Mind Tricks

Achieving Goals or Solving Problems

Each of us are either motivated by Achieving Goals or Solving Problems (the glass is half full or half empty) we either see a problem that needs to be solved or we see a goal that needs to be achieved. This perception is key to understanding your interviewer’s mind and their own motivational model.

A goal-setter can easily be de-motivated when a team talk about the problems and issues they face. This is because we are all wired differently and in the interview situation, especially when the job offer comes down to the interviewers gut feeling about someone, understanding the interviewer’s motivational preference can secure you the job.

To detect how your interviewer is motivated you need to listen to the language the interviewer uses; how they phrase their questions and answers.

Interviewers motivated by Achieving Goals will often use terminology that represents this trait; goal, achieve, attain, get, achieve.

Problem Solvers on the other hand use opposite jargon and phrases; avoid, exclude, away from, problem, recognise

Problem Solver – Example Interview Question “if you were given a last-minute deadline, how would you solve the timing problem?”

Goal – Example Interview Question “if you were given a last-minute deadline, what would you do to ensure you achieved the deadline goal?”

To ensure you use language that motivates your interviewer you need to phrase your interview answers in such away that they make a real impact on the interviewer. To achieve this, you need to speak their language. If they talk using goals or problem solving language you need to incorporate this same language in your interview answers.

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Top 10 Nail Tech Interview Questions

Nail Technician Interview Questions

Why do experienced applicants fail job interviews? Often it is because they don’t understand what type of answer (or information) the employer requires from their pre-planned interview question. Often in a 45-minute job interview, the interviewer will ask around 10 nail tech job interview questions. Each question has been chosen to uncover if you meet specific criteria on the job spec.

To gain a job as a Nail Tech, you need to know why the employer is asking a certain interview question. Below you will find 10 Nail Tech Interview Questions and an explanation of why the interviewer is asking this question.

Answer - Writing Solution to Problem on White Board

Interview Questions for a Nail Technician Interview

1. Tell me about your experience?

One of the most common asked questions in interviews normally asked at the beginning of an interview, this question gives you the opportunity to deliver a short statement about your experiences and skills relevant to the job position you are applying for.

  • Start with a “selling” line that will highlight your main strength and/or achievement
  • Keep each point brief as you can explain each point again in more detail throughout the interview
  • You want to interest the interviewer and get them to want to know more about you
  • End this answer with a reason why you’re looking for a new job

2. What the day to day duties of a nail technician?

This question is designed to check if you know about the required duties and skills for this role. Often applicants applying for this type of role may try to “bluff” the application and this question will uncover the applicant’s knowledge. To answer this question split your answer into 3 key sections; job overview, customer retention and your unique selling point

3. What experience do you have in this field?

For this question, you first need to read and understand the job specification, as this will tell you what experience the interviewer is looking for. Your answer should relate your experience and achievements to that of the job role. Often interviewees will talk about experiences that are not relevant to the job role, this will only lead to the employer becoming uninterested in you.

4. How would your colleagues describe you?

Interviewers enjoy hearing quotes, have a couple of quotes prepared from people at your previous job “David always said I was….” and use statements like: “In my last job I was always known for…”

By giving quotes from a named person can be as effective as giving the interviewer a written reference.

5. Aren’t you overqualified for this role?

Employers are always worried that an employee who is overqualified for a position, will take the job once offered and leave when offered a better-paid position relevant to their qualifications. Answer by stating how much you enjoy this type of work and how this is a career move, not just a job. It is also good to highlight that you would pick this job over one relevant with your qualifications. Never say you’re looking for work with less responsibility or stress – keep the answer positive. “For me, this is a career move, not just a job. I am really interested in this industry and would choose this role over one with higher pay, relevant to my passed qualifications”

6. Describe two or three major trends in this sector?

Passionate nail tech needs to know the latest trends and techniques used in the sector. This simple question is to uncover your knowledge. To stand out explain the pro’s and con’s of each trend, how you have used this technique and what you think will be the future trends. You can also relate to conferences, training and communities you belong to/have attended to show how for you this isn’t a job but a passion

7. What are your strengths?

This is one of the most common questions you will be asked. Give an answer relevant to the skills and qualities relevant to the position you are applying to. The interviewer is trying to find if your strengths match the job. For example, if you are applying for a job where accuracy is an important issue, one of your strengths could be that you have an eye for detail.It may useful to find different words to describe similar attributes and qualities in order to avoid repetition.

8. Why Should We Hire You?

A great question for selling yourself, if you have already talked about your skills and qualities, give a brief answer around your relevant experience-keep this general, as an example add up the number of years experience you have rather than giving individual dates. This answer should highlight the benefits you will bring to the organization. Think-what makes me stick out from the other candidates?

9. What techniques do you employ as a nail technician?

Employers like to get their money’s worth. The more you can offer in terms of skills, qualities and techniques the more likely you will be the applicant who id offered the job. To answer this question give real examples of techniques you use and also back this up by quoting past clients.

10. Do you have any questions for me?

Good questions to ask interviewers at the end of the job interview include questions on the company growth or expansion, questions on personal development and training and questions on company values, staff retention and company achievements.

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Interview Questions Broken Down and Dissected

Why do experienced applicants fail job interviews?

Often it is because they don’t understand what type of answer (or information) the employer requires from their pre-planned interview question.

During a 45-minute job interview, the interviewer will ask around 10 job interview questions. Each question has been chosen to uncover if you meet a specific criteria on the job spec.

The problem here is that most interviewees don’t really ask themselves “why is the employer asking this question?” “what skill or experience is the employer trying to uncover by asking this particular interview question?”

Instead most applicants will simply answer a question relating to past success they feel is important.

This is like giving someone who wanted a banana an apple, they are both fruit but its not what they really wanted. To be successful in the job interview you first need to figure out why the employer is asking this question, from this perceptive you can then deliver a powerful answer proving that you exceed the job specification.

Below is a list of common asked interview questions, the reason behind the question and to make things really simple an example answer. Remember the key to winning a job offer during the job interview is preparation.

Tell me about yourself?

One of the most common asked questions in interviews, normally asked at the beginning of an interview, this question gives you the opportunity to deliver a short statement about your experiences and skills relevant to the job position you are applying for.

  • Start with a “selling” line that will highlight your main strength and/or achievement
  • Keep each point brief as you can explain each point again in more detail throughout the interview
  • You want to interest the interviewer and get them to want to know more about you
  • End this answer with a reason why you’re looking for a new job

“I’ve been working in Sales for 8 years. I have a great understanding of selling insurance to the public and businesses. My innovative sale techniques have increased profits by 25% year on year for the past 3 years. I am now ready for a new challenge and with your company having a great reputation, I believe this is the opportunity I have been waiting to apply for”

Why did you leave your last job?

Be positive with this answer and smile – employers like to hear that you left for a good opportunity or reason, a chance to do something special or for a good career move.

  • Start the answer with a look back
  • Explain what you enjoyed about your previous role
  • Give a Positive reason for leaving

“I enjoyed working at Company Name and really enjoyed the interaction of working with a wide range of individuals-I feel I gained a lot of transferrable skills from this experience, which I can use in this role. It was a hard choice to leave but I felt that this great opportunity is the next obvious step for me”

What experience do you have in this field?

For this question you first need to read and understand the job specification, as this will tell you what experience the interviewer is looking for. Your answer should relate your experience and achievements to that of the job role. Often interviewees will talk about experiences that are not relevant to the job role, this will only lead to the employer becoming uninterested in you.  

“I have over 6 years experience as a nursery nurse, in that time I have gain an NVQ Level 2 and 3 in child care. I have worked with children of all ages including groups of children with disabilities. I understand the importance of “health and safety” and “every child matters” and use my creative skills to organise games and activities to teach young children new skills while keeping them entertained. Recently I also won an award for employee of the year”

Do you consider yourself a successful person?

Yes, is the answer you should always give and then follow this up with the reason why. Explain when you have achieved something you felt was “big” or goals you have set, completed or currently moving towards.

“Yes, I would say I am successful. Once I am given a task to do, I always put a hundred percent into achieving it. Soon after giving birth to my baby boy, I attend an AAT night course and had to study while bringing up my son. This was a large amount of work, but as I am good at managing my time, I was able to pass my course with flying colours.”  

How would your colleagues describe you?

Interviewers enjoy hearing quotes, have a couple of quotes prepared from people at your previous job “David always said I was….” and use statements like: “In my last job I was always known for…”

By giving quotes from a named person can be as effective as giving the interviewer a written reference.

“In my last company I was always known as the person who got things done. I remember overhearing my Manager Sharon, saying ‘if you need a job doing quickly and efficiently to get me to do it”

Are you applying for any other jobs?

 Of course you are, every interviewer knows you are looking for work and it’s highly unlikely that you only have one interview lined up. Explain why you are looking for other work and follow this up by telling the interviewer how much you want to work for their company. Employers like to offer jobs to people who will accept them and/or not leave after a couple of weeks for a better job offer. Why? Recruitment can cost companies around 33% of their profits!  

“Yes, I am looking at other jobs in this industry as I know this is the type of work I will excel in. I have researched your company and feel this is the type of company I would really fit into”

Are you willing to put the interest of the organisation ahead of yours?

 This is a test of employment loyalty; the interviewer is looking for someone to put there all into the company, employers may want you to come into work at a drop of a hat. If asked this question, answer using a confident voice.

“Yes, I want to put my all into this job and organisation”

Describe yourself as a person?

This is a great question to be asked, as it is open for you to really sell your skills and qualities. When answering this question, talk about the skills, qualities and experiences the company require (taken from the job specification) and answer the question by telling the interviewer how you have these required skills. Use real-life stories and examples to highlight your strengths.  

“I am a keen and driven person; once I start a task I always put a hundred percent into completing it. I have often been told I am approachable and a good listener who completes goals quickly and efficiently”    

Do you have a work philosophy?

Don’t be tempted to give a deep long answer here, keep it short, sweet and positive;

“I would say my work philosophy is; getting the job done to a good standard”

 Aren’t you over qualified for this role?

Employers are always worried that an employee who is over qualified for a position, will take the job once offered and leave when offered a better paid position relevant to their qualifications.

Answer by stating how much you enjoy this type of work and how this is career move, not just a job. It is also good to highlight that you would pick this job over one relevant with your qualifications. Never say you’re looking for work with less responsibility or stress – keep the answer positive.

“For me, this is a career move not just a job. I am really interested in this industry and would choose this role over one with higher pay, relevant to my passed qualifications”

What are your strengths?

This is one of the most common questions you will be asked. Give an answer relevant to the skills and qualities relevant to the position you are applying to. The interviewer is trying to find if your strengths match the job.

For example, if you are applying for a job where accuracy is an important issue, one of your strengths could be that you have an eye for detail.  It may useful to find different words to describe similar attributes and qualities in order to avoid repetition.

“I have often been told that I have an eye for detail and that I am very accurate and precise. This was very important during my last role where I worked on large business accounts”

What are your weaknesses?

Again, another commonly asked question.  A frequent mistake to make when answering this question is to say something negative like “I can sometimes let things get on top of me”. Be positive and sell yourself with every interview question, turn a negative into a positive. For example,

“In the past I felt I needed to improve my typing skills, because I aspire to be the best I can, I have recently enrolled on a typing course”.

This will show that you can identify your weaknesses but at the same time, you are willing to improve. Most importantly: do not mention a weakness that is any way related to the job you are being interviewed for! This might sound obvious but it is a common mistake!

Do you have a dream job?

Rather than mention a job, talk about duties and skills you like, to impress the interviewer theses have to be relevant to the job they are offering. Also state how your dream job would be somewhere where the team all got on, where you love the work, where you can contribute to the work.

“I have always wanted to work within an organisation with a reputation for excellence, like this one. My dream job has always been a role where I can solve business problems and make a difference with other organisations. What is really important to me, is to work within a good team in a company that is moving forward”

Have you ever had to fire anyone?

 Don’t worry this is only asked for management positions; Firing someone is always serious, when ask this question you need to answer seriously.

The employer here is looking if you quickly fire people or support and develop your staff/team.

If you have never fired an employee you should answer this question in a future presence.

  • The key here is to say how you new your member of staff did not have capability to complete the role
  • Explain what steps you took to try and improve the employees skills/job duties
  • And how finally after giving the employee every opportunity to progress you had to let them go

“In my last management role, one of my team wasn’t meeting her targets. Through appraisals we found her strengths and areas of development and from this wrote out an action plan for us both to follow, including putting the member of staff through some needed training.

Over several months we monitored her work and any improvements and continue to have regular meetings with the staff member.  

After several months we didn’t notice any significant improvements and from this started the grievance procedures, while continuing to monitor the staff member’s performance and following the action plans. In the end we felt we had done all we could to support the member of staff and in the end had to let her go. The member of staff actually agreed this was the best choice and thank us for all the support over the last several months”

 Have you ever been asked to leave a position?

 Be truthful, employers will find out when they ask for a reference. If you have give a brief answer and stay away from giving any negatives about the company you worked for.  If the answer is no, Say “No, never”

“Once, several years ago, once I had left university I had a part-time job, the role didn’t suit me as I enjoy being kept busy. I think the manager knew I was going to be moving on”

Why Should We Hire You?

A great question for selling yourself, if you have already talked about your skills and qualities, give a brief answer around your relevant experience-keep this general, as an example add up the amount of years experience you have rather than giving individual dates.

This answer should highlight the benefits you will bring to the organisation. Think-what makes me stick out from the other candidates?  

 “I have over 8 years experience in this industry and I have always achieved my target, by hiring me you will get both my experience and my large client base. In my current role, I have achieved year on year profits since starting their 3 years ago”

 

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Overcome the Lack of Experience and Secure a Job After Graduation

Fresh graduates nowadays are nowhere as optimistic as they used to be. The job market is getting more competitive, student loan rates are going up and every job post seems to require years of experience.

Many college graduates find themselves stuck in a circle: they cannot get a job because they don’t have the experience, and they cannot get experience because they don’t have a job.

The truth is, there are many things you can do to overcome the lack of experience. Hiring managers need to know that you have the skillset and commitment they need. Often, working experience and past references are the easiest ways to show off those qualities. However, they are not the only means available. You can prove your worth in many other ways. Here a few things you can do to prove yourself to potential employers:

1.       Internships

Internships are often reserved for college students and newly graduate, so there is usually no working experience required. While working as an intern, you will naturally gain real-life experience and get connected to professionals in your fields.

Here is a quick fact: 85% of companies use internships as a way to recruit for full-time positions. Therefore, besides gaining experience, there is a chance that you will be able to score a job offer before even getting your diploma.

2.       Volunteering experience

If internship opportunities are hard to find in your area, look for volunteering experience as well. Most non-profit organizations, and sometimes even businesses, depend on volunteers during the busy season. Major in accounting? Check with your local library or Chamber of Commerce and see if they have a volunteering tax support program during tax season. Education major? Look for after-school programs and tutoring opportunities.

Do not worry either if your volunteering experience isn’t too relevant to your field. Most volunteering positions require commitment, leadership, and teamwork, which are always beneficial in the eyes of hiring managers.

3.       Professional Networks

While still in school, students can easily find student groups or associations on campus that are focused on their fields. Joining these groups is a great way to expand your network and learn more about the career you chose. Plus, membership in a professional network will look good on your resume, and can also be a great conversation starter during an interview.

4.       Professional Certificates

While your diploma is worthy proof of your academic abilities, having professional qualifications or certificates show your interest in the field. Advanced certifications also show your willingness to learn, which is a major plus if the employer is looking to give further training on the job. You can also use these certificates to steer the conversation away from your lack of experience and focus on your ambition and learning capabilities instead.

In the end, what employers are looking for is how well you will meet their needs in the business operation. By being creative and showing your capabilities in different ways other than working experience, you can certainly overcome the lack of experience. If you have any of the qualifications or experience above, be sure to highlight them in your resume and during the interview. Remember, it’s not only about what you have done, but also about what you will be able to do for your new employer.

Author bio:

Vanessa is a professional blogger and copywriter, who is passionate about education, lifestyles and travel topics. Currently, she is working with Interesting Facts, an online collection of random facts on different topics.

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Know the Effective Tips to Decide the Career Option After 12th

 

Are you confused about your career goals and what to do after 12th?

You need to start planning from now as there are plenty of attractive options present in front of you. There are various institutes and colleges calling you for various courses. But you need to choose your subject as well as your institute very carefully. You need to plan stepwise like this:

Higher Education in the Same Stream:

You may select higher education in the same stream which you have gone through in your 12th. If you have dealt with pure science including Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics, you can take chances for the professional courses like Information Technology, Engineering, and Design etc or opt for some pure science degrees in Physics, Statistics, Maths and Chemistry.

If Biology was one of your subjects in science during 12th, you can go for various medical degrees. You can exhibit your skills in the financial sector if you are from a commerce background. Specializing in your favorite subject with Humanities in your background will also help you to proceed into the educational sector in the future.

Entrance Exam:

After 12th, you become eligible for various entrance exams. Various colleges and institutes conduct their own admission procedure. You need to prepare yourself well and appear for those exams. The registration process takes place both in online and offline mode. You have to select the one which is better suitable for you.

 

Higher Education in Different Stream:

You can switch your stream at this point. According to your interest and aptitude, you should select your option at the right time. Sometimes you may be forced to take one or the other subjects in your 12th to keep your options open. But after the exam, it is the high time that you choose your career path very consciously.

Professional Course:

The medical and engineering courses are two of the well known professional courses after the 12th. Besides these, you may also choose Hotel Management, Journalism and Mass communication, Web or Fashion Design, Management or Law. You need to choose your subject according to your strength and personality and not by any social pressure.

Vocational Course:

When you see different workplaces, you will observe that 80 % of the employees are not satisfied and happy with their work. This is all because of wrong career decisions. You can opt for vocational courses like travel and tourism or office administration. Though they are not in line with your regular stream of study, they can be a lucrative career in future.

Alternate Options:

You need to plan well in advance about the alternative options if you do not get the subjects of your choice.

If you are not able to confirm your seats in the undergraduate course, you can study some related course for the time being and take up your subjects of interest during your post-graduation. For example, if you are interested in Media but could not pursue the journalism course during Bachelors, you can take up journalism in your Post graduate level of course.

If you are unsure about your talent and aptitude, you may take up the Psychometric assessment test to identify them easily.

This test will not only reveal your talent but also your personality. It will help you to map exactly where you stand. If you are still in a dilemma, you can consult a good career counselor to help you decide the right course for you.

They are professional experts who will guide you in the right path at the right time. Above all, you always need to believe in your strengths for achieving success.

Author Bio: Emma Stevenson is a well-known career guide and she shows the right career paths to all the young students. If you are in a dilemma about what to do after 12th, this article will definitely help you in your future endeavors.