Wearing Cologne To A Job Interview

You’ve found what you think might be the perfect job. You’ve hired a professional resume writer to make sure your resume is exactly right. You’ve scheduled the interview. And you’ve spent an hour choosing just the right outfit to wear to the interview.

The big day comes. You get up early. You rehearse the questions and answers you’ve gone over 100 times during the week. You go over all of your notes on the company. You know this company inside and out. Your gas tank is full. You leave in plenty of time to allow for traffic or no parking.

Finally, the opportunity you’ve been waiting for all week is now here. You are shaking hands with the person that will decide whether or not a job with this company is a possibility for you.

After what seems like only 10 minutes, the interview is over. They say they’ll call you if they desire a second interview. You have no idea what went wrong. You practiced for a week. You spent hours on your research. Several friends agreed on the best outfit to wear.

What no one thought about was the cologne you’d put on that morning. You chose it because it’s a scent you always get complimented on. You so wanted to make a good impression that you knew this cologne would do the trick. What you hadn’t planned on was that the interviewer found almost every scent of cologne offensive. As soon as you sat down and the interviewer caught a whiff of the cologne you were wearing, the interviewer began their own plan of just how quickly they could get through this interview to get that scent out of their office.

The interviewer asked the questions routinely, never really hearing your answers. All the interviewer could do was keep saying to themselves "that scent is so bothersome, how do I get it out of here". The interviewer did not want to ask any more questions, they wanted the conversation over so that the scent would be gone.

I can not stress enough that no matter how much you believe you are wearing a scent that others will like, wearing cologne to a job interview could very well be the deciding factor in your not receiving that second interview.

When going on a job interview, leave the cologne at home.


By Audrey Okaneko

careers, Jobs Indonesia, Indonesia Vacancy

 

Job Interview Jitters

Filled with negativism, you don't know how to calm your nerves. Well firstly, don't put too much pressure on yourself and simply relax! Even if you are not able to answer a few questions its not the end of the world! If things don t go your way, there are many more interviews you can attend. Although most people are nervous to some extent, appearing nervous in an interview may hurt your chances. Successful job seekers appear confident and self-assured. Even though you may not feel that way inside, there are some things you can do to cope.

If you can identify the reasons why you might feel nervous, you may be able to keep yourself calm and composed. Some of the reasons that may be making your nervous are listed below with possible solutions to calm yourself:

Fear of the new job

You may be nervous because you maybe applying for a job for the first time or applying in a field which is totally new to you, or applying for one in an unfamiliar environment or company. It is ok to be nervous but remember that everywhere you have ever worked was new at one time and if this is your first job then you have to begin someday and being nervous is not going to help. Focus on the positives and look at this as a potential new adventure.

Social anxiety

If you are nervous about the people that you are going to work with and the work environment then this experience is called as social anxiety. Well you need not be nervous about that coz it will take you a few days to adjust to your new work environment and all you have to keep in mind that everyone there working with you is human. You are worthy of attention from the interviewer, so convey all your skills and accomplishments.

Fear of the competition

This is a deep-set fear in the minds of almost all job seekers. You may have think that your qualification is not worth enough for the job expectations and maybe everyone applying for the job deserve the post. But you are wrong. Never underestimate yourself and remember everyone probably shares that fear, to some degree. Many of these applicants are probably as nervous or more nervous than you are. Once you are there, remember that you have just as good a chance as anyone else applying for that job. Knowing that may help you to put things into perspective.

Lack of confidence

Many job seekers lack confidence and are not bold enough to face interviews openly and courageously. Well remember one thing that confidence is the key to success and if you are not confident about your skills and capabilities then you will never succeed in life.

Performance anxiety

You probably will be asked some questions that may be challenging, and you may be afraid that you will freeze or give an incorrect answer. Well to overcome this anxiety all you have to do is prepare yourself thoroughly. Think your answers through beforehand and if possible, research what type of questions this company asks during the interview. Preparation will help to dispel fear and will make you feel more confident and composed.

By Prerna Salla

careers, Jobs Indonesia, Indonesia Vacancy

 

Telephone Interview Tips To Land Your Dream Job

Telephone interview tips can help you land your dream job. How? The amount of telephone job interviews conducted by employers has dramatically risen over the past five years and the trend shows no signs of slowing. This is mainly due to the fact that employers are searching for ideal candidates who live out of town, not just those who live locally. Chances are that you may have to "attend" a telephone interview. When you do, these tips will help you out.

Keep in mind that an interview conducted over the phone is just as important as one conducted in an office. You need to prepare for your interview just as you would any other interview. Review questions and practice your answers in front of a mirror or with a friend. Make a list of questions you want to ask. You might also want to study up on the employer you are interviewing with.

Always keep your resume and the classified job ad in front of you during the interview. This will keep vital information within reach. Avoid preparing a pile of documents. If you have a stack of papers in front of you, you will be tempted to browse through papers which will create a noisy distraction during your interview. It will be very difficult extracting information from a huge pile anyway. The key is to keep it simple.

If at all possible, use a home phone line for the interview. Cell phones can be unreliable. A home phone is both more reliable and free of static. Set aside time for the interview. Make sure you are in a quiet place and that will allow you plenty of time to talk. Your interviewer may request to conduct the interview through a video conferencing system on the computer. This is fine, but there could be technical difficulties if you don't make sure you are up and running ahead of time.

Make sure you set aside plenty of time for your interview. You never want to abruptly halt an interview or disrupt it in any way. One of the best telephone interview tips that you can follow involves getting into an ideal frame of mind before the interview. Schedule time before the interview to relax. Take steps to limit disruptions. Take the call in a private room located away from kids, animals and other potential distractions.

Try to speak up and pronounce your words clearly. Remember; the quality of your voice is your first and only impression. Speak passionately, but avoid becoming too animated or excited. This could make it difficult for the interviewer to understand you.

Another great tip is to dress for a telephone interview just as you would in an in-office interview. While no one will actually see you, you will feel more professional and your voice will convey this.

Telephone interview tips will only help you if you have time to prepare beforehand. If an employer cold calls you and asks to do an interview on the spot, politely ask if you can call back at a better time. Always give a time when you will call back.

By CK Tan

careers, Jobs Indonesia, Indonesia Vacancy

 

Job Interviewing: Ten Tips for Success!

Whether this job interview is your first or your 51st, it never hurts to brush up on your skills and do some advance prep work to ensure success. Learn how to play up your key strengths, minimize your weaknesses, and make a great impression overall. Here are ten tips from my arsenal of career advice.

1. Relax, you'll be more authentic and confident if you do.

The best suggestion I can give before an interview is to just relax. Easier said than done, right? It helps to remember that you have education, training, and experience working in your favor. Think of all the ways you provided value to your past employer. Did you land a huge account? Go above and beyond on a certain project? Take a deep breath, recall your accomplishments, and let go of the tension. Know that you're worthy... and who knows. Maybe you're even overqualified for the position!

2. Remember, you're interviewing them, too.

So many people view the job interview as a test - and they'd better pass with flying colors or they're in trouble! On some level, yes, you're being tested - but the "test" is simply to see if you're a good match for the company. It works the other way, too. This is your chance to see if theirs is the kind of corporate culture that fits your style. It's possible that you'll get there and find out you don't even want the job! Or, you might figure out that it's only worth it if they meet you at a certain salary amount. Ask lots of questions... know what you're getting into, and then weigh your options carefully.

3. Be prepared, know the company.

You'll notice that many companies not only have a specific "personality," but they're mighty proud of the little perks and quirks that make them unique. Do they have their own brand of soda, like Microsoft? Do they offer Flex Time for working parents? Find out if they're noteworthy in the news. Visit their company website and do your online research. Were they part of a recent merger? There is no better way to show your sincere interest than actually being interested. You might learn something really cool about this company that tells you, "Go for it!" Or, you could uncover some hidden dirt that makes you think twice before working there.

4. Take the pressure off... you have options!

Think of the job interview as an opportunity to cast seeds and check things out. This is a "get to know you" or feeling out phase, not a contest or do-or-die situation. Try to avoid becoming too attached to any one job. That old saying, "Don't put all your eggs in one basket" could not be more true than for the career search. Sometimes things take an unexpected twist or turn. You could be "90% sure" that you'll be on Company X's payroll next month... and suddenly the phone rings with an even better offer.

5. If they ask about your weaknesses, answer honestly.

Each person excels in some areas more than they do in others. If you are honest, you stand a better chance of being placed in the best possible career for you. So when the question about weaknesses comes up, tell the truth. Just be sure to spin it in a solution-oriented way that tells the interviewer you know how to overcome and manage such challenges. For example, if you're not detail-oriented, you could say so - but also add that you always give yourself extra time on projects that involve lots of detail. Or, you could say that you make a great "big picture partner and strategist" when paired with someone for whom little details are their strong suit.

6. Write a list of five key points you plan to express in your interview.

You're almost certain to feel more confident and at-ease if you prepare for your interview in advance. One way to do this is to make a list of your best qualities and accomplishments - what you bring to the table. On the day of the interview, two things can potentially happen. One, the interviewer will ask you specific questions where you can simply "slant" your responses around the points you planned to mention. Or, two, you'll end up talking about other things - but when the time comes that they ask for your questions or thoughts, use this opportunity to make your points.

7. Write a list of questions, things you need to know.

Sometimes when the pressure's on, it's hard to know what to ask. But do take some time to consider what's most important to you in your career and the company where you'll be spending the majority of your time. A good way to remember "what you want to know," is to flash back to the last job you had. Let's say you didn't care for the way you had four different managers to report to. On interview day, you can ask: "Who will I be reporting to and what's the general workflow for the department?" Asking good questions is a great way to find out if this new company offers similar perks as you had before - and if they'll fill the gaps where your old company fell short.

8. Find out who you are interviewing with.

If you know that you will be speaking to the head of Human Resources, keep in mind that you'll be asked more general questions. In this case, be prepared to talk about your career history and background as well as your personality, work style and unique qualities. If you have certain items that you'd like addressed, such as day-to-day responsibilities and what the positions demands of you, know that these questions are better left for your potential boss or the head of the department where you'll be working.

9. Do a quick mini-visualization beforehand.

Professional athletes do it - you can, too. Picture how you want the interview to go and the ideal outcome. Set your intentions. "I am going to show these people exactly why I'm more qualified than any of the other candidates who apply. I will do this by pointing out my accomplishments and core strengths, which are: X, Y, Z." Imagine that at the close of the interview, you're smiling, shaking hands with the hiring manager, and feeling on top of the world - like you really nailed it! Envision getting a callback from them that clearly indicates how impressed they were with your professionalism and capabilities.

10. Dress the part.

Look professional and wear something that shows your personality as well, depending on the type of job. Consider the environment. For example, many jobs where employees meet with clients and vendors require the gold standard suit and tie/skirt and blazer. Other places have changed with the times, and now offer "dress down fridays" or adopt "corporate casual" which means khakis for guys, and skirts or nice pants for the ladies. So If it's formal, be a little more formal. If it's not, tone it down and be casual yet crisp and neat. Look put together, cleaned up. Add a bit of personal style - maybe a favorite gold watch or silk scarf. Try to conceal things like unusual piercings or body art - unless of course, you work in an artistic field and that's the expected look.

Chances are after reading this, you're already feeling more confident about your professional abilities. Don't lose the momentum - go grab a pen and paper right now and begin to formulate your strategy for interview success. Go into this feeling proud of your many accomplishments. Know that even if it doesn't turn out to be the job of your dreams, that's okay. The career search is an ongoing process and learning experience. You're one step closer to landing the job you've always wished for!

Copyright 2007 Hallie Crawford and Authentically Speaking. All rights reserved.

Want free tips, tools and expert advice on finding a career you're passionate about? Visit Certified Career Coach Hallie Crawford, and sign up for Hallie's monthly career newsletter, Creating Your Own Path, right now. Bookmark her career blog for recommendations on resume writers, online career tests and more career resources.

By Hallie Crawford

careers, Jobs Indonesia, Indonesia Vacancy

 

Body Language for Job Interviews

So carefully follow the body languages listed below and we guarantee you, as then you’re sure to give out the right signals to the interviewer.

The Typical Body Language
1. An equal handshake. Your handshake should be strong and confident. If you can match the interviewer's grip it avoids any dominant/submissive vibes.

2. Relax and be at ease. The way you sit conveys a lot of subtle information to the people on the other side of the desk. So sit straight and take a moment to be comfortable. If you look relaxed, it'll encourage your interviewer/s to feel at ease in your company.

3. Maintain eye contact. Keep it true and steady, but remember to blink. Make sure that your gaze doesn't drop below eye level. Don't keep turning your attention to the floor or the ceiling. It might be a blank canvas for your thoughts, but it appears as if you're evading a question.

4. Steer your body. If you are wearing a short skirt then crossing your legs is fine, but the best position is to 'point' at the interviewer with your knees or your feet. This shows that you're focused right in on them.

5. Use your hands. Be physically expressive when you speak and use your hands to roll out your answers or give shape to your ideas. This is also a good way to control nervousness.

6. Be open. Folding your arms across your chest conveys a nervous, negative and even aggressive attitude. Therefore be open in both body and mind.

Your actions speak volumes as to what is going on in your mind. The way you sit, stand, move around all show as to whether you are nervous, confused, scared or confident. Look at the following chart below and find out more about your body language.

Walking tall, erect and briskly = Confidence

Standing with hands on hips = Readiness, aggression

Walking with hands in pockets, shoulders hunched = Dejection

Hands clasped behind back = Anger, frustration, apprehension

Sitting with legs crossed, foot kicking slightly = Boredom

Sitting with arms crossed on chest = Defensiveness

Sitting with hands clasped behind head, legs crossed = Confidence, superiority

Biting nails = Nervousness

Touching, slightly rubbing nose = Rejection, doubt, lying

Stroking chin = Trying to make a decision

Pulling or tugging at ear = Indecision

Patting/fondling hair = Lack of self confidence, insecurity

Rubbing hands = Anticipation

Pinching bridge of nose, eyes closed = Negative evaluation

Tilted head = Interest

Open palm = Sincerity, openness, innocence

Tapping or drumming fingers = Impatience

By Prerna Salla

careers, Jobs Indonesia, Indonesia Vacancy

 

How to End Your Job Interview Gracefully

Many job applicants think the only thing left to do after an interview is to send a thank you letter. While sending an interview thank you letter is important, don't get complacent and think that is all you have to do at the end of your interview.

First and last impressions are the strongest, so you want to end the interview gracefully and do the proper follow-up. As a hiring manager, here are three things I want you to keep in mind.

1. At the end of the interview, I will almost always ask you if you have anything else to say. Most candidates stumble a bit with this one and end awkwardly. The best way to end the interview is to thank me for my time, summarize your qualifications and reiterate your interest in the position.

2. After the interview, do a personal debriefing. Write down the names and titles of everyone you met, your opinion of how you thought the interview went, questions you were asked that you found difficult, and any other information you learned about the company and the job. Even if you don't get this job, it will help you on future interviews.

3. Follow up the interview with an interview thank you letter to the Hiring Manager and anyone else who may have interviewed you. This shows you understand basic business etiquette and have good attention to detail.

The Best Question of All to Ask the Hiring Manager

Early in my career, a very experienced Hiring Manager shared with me the best question ever to ask at the end of your interview. Here it is: "I'm convinced this is the job I want. What do I need to do to convince you that I'm the best person for the job?"

This is a great question. It shows your interest in the job and it flatters the Hiring Manager's selling skills (yes, if you're a good candidate I'll want to sell you on the job). It also gives you one last chance to sell yourself by addressing any specific suggestions I may have about how to "convince" me you're the best candidate.

If you feel the interview went well, try using this question. I asked this question myself once when I was interviewing and, to my surprise, the Hiring Manager replied, "Well, I'm pretty well convinced already." I was offered the job the next day.

You're selling yourself at the interview, so you have to be certain you ask for the sale! For more interview tips, click here.

Good luck at your next interview.

By Tom McBroom

careers, Jobs Indonesia, Indonesia Vacancy

 

Kiat Memulai Bisnis dengan Modal Kecil (siapapun bisa melakukannya)

Sebuah kendala yang umum dalam memulai bisnis sampingan adalah modal. Mungkin Anda mendapati banyak peluang bisnis yang menjanjikan, namun keterbatasan modal memaksa Anda untuk membiarkannya lewat begitu saja. Bagaimana cara mengatasi hal ini?

Ada beberapa alternatif yang dapat Anda tempuh. 

1. Yang pertama adalah mencari investor. Untuk ini, Anda biasanya perlu membuat proposal bisnis kecuali kalau investor tersebut adalah keluarga atau teman dekat Anda. Jalan ini baik untuk ditempuh jika usaha yang hendak Anda rintis membutuhkan modal besar. Namun karena menggunakan modal dari orang lain, ada baiknya Anda berhati-hati. Jangan asal mengambil peluang usaha. Pastikan bahwa Anda mengerti seluk-beluk usaha itu dan berbagai kendalanya. Jangan sampai Anda meminjam modal yang cukup besar dari orang lain namun Anda akhirnya gagal karena kurang persiapan.

2. Alternatif kedua yang dapat ditempuh adalah mencari peluang bisnis yang hanya membutuhkan modal kecil. Dalam hal ini, Multilevel Marketing (MLM) adalah sebuah alternatif yang menjanjikan. Mengapa? Sebab berbagai MLM yang ada biasanya hanya membutuhkan modal kecil. Sebuah MLM yang cukup terkenal, misalnya, hanya membutuhkan investasi kurang dari 50 ribu rupiah untuk mengikutinya. MLM juga cocok dijalankan sebagai usaha sampingan karena ia tidak membutuhkan waktu sehari penuh.

Untuk alternatif MLM ini, Anda perlu berhati-hati dalam memilih. Jangan sampai Anda terjebak dalam bisnis berkedok MLM yang ternyata menipu. Banyak bisnis MLM yang tidak lebih dari sebuah skema piramida untuk mencari "korban" sebanyak-banyaknya. Untuk itu, Anda harus memastikan bahwa MLM tersebut memiliki produk yang jelas dan dibutuhkan orang. Jangan sampai bisnis tersebut hanya mengandalkan pemasukan dari iuran anggota baru.

3. Untuk alternatif bisnis dengan modal kecil, bisnis Internet juga bisa menjadi pilihan. Banyak orang yang telah berhasil membangung bisnis Internet yang menguntungkan. Satu keuntungan dari bisnis Internet adalah kemungkinan mendapatkan passive income. Sekali bisnis Anda jalan, Anda dapat terus menerima pemasukan tanpa perlu bekerja keras lagi. Namun tentu saja, Anda harus bekerja keras saat membangun di awal.

Manakah di antara alternatif tersebut yang sebaiknya Anda pilih? Ya, semuanya tergantung situati dan pertimbangan Anda. Namun satu hal yang pasti, jangan biarkan keterbatasan modal menghalangi Anda untuk membangun sebuah usaha atau bisnis sampingan.

peluangbisnissampingan.com

careers, Jobs Indonesia, Indonesia Vacancy