How to find a job in any job market
Help to find a job, resumes, applications, interview tips. Step by step job search help
Q. Is it okay to ask if the company will help with moving expenses in this tough economy or is better off left unsaid?
Doug G
A. No matter what the economic situation, it doesn't hurt to ask. I would just do it at the end of the interview after you have hopefully impressed them. Make it clear that you would love the opportunity to have the job either way. Employers know that times are tough and I have worked for companies in the past that did offer some relocation assistance but we were told not to mention it unless we were asked. Remember to be sure and impress upon them that even if the company doesn't help with relocation, you will still move there because this job means that much too you.
Job search, cover letter, resume, application and job interview related questions and answers
Q. I have applied for dozens of state jobs and they have knowledge, skills and abilities that are required. I don't think that I am getting called because I am not being in depth when I list my KSA's? Any additional information would be appreciated
Kelly
A. When you look at the KSA's, make sure that you list them in a way that anyone would catch them on an application. Some examples:
They want customer service experience and you have it. List it as "served customers" or "handled customers questions" etc. Use the keywords that they do to get them to look at the KSA without too much effort. I can tell you from experience, they may be dealing with hundreds or maybe even thousands of applications, so you want to make you KSA's that match stand out.
Here are a few more examples:
Dependable
"Showed dependability by never being late for work and do all tasks as assigned to satisfactory levels.
Ability to handle a faced paced environment
"worked well under stress in a faced paced, constantly changing environment" I know this is vague but that is all that they need to say to typically award points. JUST MAKE SURE THAT YOU CAN EXPLAIN THIS IN AN INTERVIEW!
Works well with others
"Worked with focus groups for problem solving purposes to jointly reach any goal given to our group by management" or, "worked as a team player to complete projects and complete goals as ordered by management."
Just think of what KSA they want and if you have it, use the same keywords that they do if you can, or at least strongly elude to it.
Q. I get really nervous, almost nauseous at job interviews. I lose my train of though and don't do well at all. What can I do?
No Name
A. It is completely normal to be nervous at a job interview. Even seasoned public speakers, actors and performers can still get nervous even after doing it for years so don't be too hard on yourself. The best way to handle it is to practice for the part you are about
to play. Do practice interviews with friends, family and even people that you do not know so well. Next think about this, you are sitting in the interview because you were one of the best possible applicants already! That is something to be proud of. Most do not get that far in the process so you are top notch! Also, do not look at the interviewer as someone that is over you, they are looking to you for help in their
organization. They have a need, and you are there to fill it. You can be of assistance to them! Finally, look at the interviewer(s) as a friend. Act professional but you are with someone that needs your help and is just hoping that you both have a common goal, besides, most all of us love to talk about ourselves and that is what the interviewer wants to hear about...you! Be happy and proud, you have a lot to offer or you wouldn't have come this far in the process. I would say on average over the years we received 50 or so applications for each job and interviewed the top five. You are there to show them what a top grade job applicant can do! Be prepared and ready and look at things in a different light and go get em!
Q. I just want to say THANK YOU! i use your cover letter sample and resume tips to apply for a teaching job here in South Carolina. I am new and there are not a whole lot of job openings. I GOT HIRED! The principal said that my cover letter "caught her eye" with the bold print on line one and the testimonials were a great idea! Thank you again SOOOO MUCH!
Tammy M
A. I am so glad to hear that. I have to give the credit to my wife, she designed that particular resume. She is a school teacher as well. Thank you for letting me know!
