Dated October 05, 2005
(Questions answered on career concerns)
What are the career prospects for mechatronics?
PITRU SAMAN
Bapu Nagar
Mechatronic engineers have excellent employment prospects as the demand for qualified professionals with multidisciplinary skills combining knowledge of mechanical and electronic systems has increased in recent years.
Professional mechatronics engineers are typically found in positions where they are responsible for integrated computer controlled mechanical and electrical systems such as those found in the manufacturing and mining industries. They are also employed in electrical plants and companies where automation and process control is required.
Career opportunities in this fast-changing field exist in both private industry and publicly funded enterprises.
Mechatronics is an exciting and rapidly growing new area of engineering and career prospects are excellent.
Enumerate tips on how to write cover letters for resumes.
Aditya
Hagaribommanahalli
As a general rule, whenever you send a resume to an employer it should be accompanied by a cover letter. Although the main purpose of a cover letter is to explain to the employer why you are sending him your resume, an effective cover letter would highlight your skills and experience and persuade an employer to interview you.
Cover letters need to be well written with no grammatical or typing errors. It should enhance the resume and describe the candidate's knowledge and skills relevant to the position for which the person is applying. A good cover letter will be tailored to the requirements of the job.
It should the tell the employer:
Who you are
What post you are applying for and where you saw it advertised if applicable
Why you want the job or opportunity and why you are attracted to the organisation
How you feel that your qualifications and experience make you a suitable candidate
What you want them to do for you, e.g. ask about the possibility of arranging an interview or a visit (this will depend on your circumstances and whether you are making a speculative application or responding to an advertised vacancy)
What you hope will happen next, e.g. a polite, positive closing statement, saying you will telephone to follow up your letter or that you look forward to hearing from them
Focus one or two paragraphs in the body of the letter around your abilities that you think make you most equipped for the job. Give examples and cite experiences that prove that you possess these abilities.
Use a traditional letter format. Include your address, phone number, fax number and email address on your résumé and cover letter too. Proofread and spell check all your written application materials. Match the paper and font style of your résumé to your cover letter.
Could you provide me some tips on how to handle a difficult customer?
SRINIVASAN
Chennai
You first need to realise that you can't control anyone else's behaviour. You have control only over your own actions. But you can influence how customers respond to you to some degree. The following are some of the tips.
Never argue with customers when they are angry, displeased or complaining. If you allow a customer to push your buttons and lose control of yourself, you've lost control of the situation. Remember, you can lose a good customer if you show boredom, irritation, disdain or displeasure.
Tune in to the customer; don't look for the nearest exit. The customer wants to be listened to, acknowledged and understood. Maintain eye contact.
Show your attentiveness by standing or sitting up straight; lolling or slouching makes you seem inattentive and disinterested. Let the person talk, and pay close attention.
Repeat or paraphrase some of what you hear.
Show concern for the customer's feelings. Maintain a concerned, sincere and interested facial expression. Your voice, as well as your body language and expression, communicates your attitude. People respond more to how you say something than what you say.
When a customer tries to intimidate you, stay calm and ask, "What can we do to help?" This kind of question can also help you get away faster from a chatty, finicky or confused customer who monopolises your time.
When explaining the details seek clarification through an indirect approach ("There are a few questions before I can give you a refund.") or "I" statements ("I need additional information.") as much as possible.
Even if solving the customer's problem isn't among your job duties, never say this to the customer. Get all the facts you can, and then tell the customer how you can help.
Before you offer solutions, ask the customer how he would like the problem to be resolved. Offer choices whenever possible. ("Would you prefer to speak to the manager, or wait until I can finish dealing with these customers so I can give you more time?")
Finally, don't make promises you can't keep. Get help from someone who knows more, is calmer, or has more power and authority.
I am an engineering graduate and wish to enter the BPO industry. What avenues are open for me?
Bharadwaj
Chennai
The current BPO jobs are not just limited to call centres and help desks. Opportunities do exist for high-end jobs for MBAs, CAs, Engineers etc. Engineers are usually taken in technical support functions. Engineers are valued for their knowledge in the technical area and growth of careers is promising. Like in all industries, there are various hierarchies that one can climbs over the years.
I have completed my master's three years ago, but I still haven't managed to land a meaningful job. Should I opt for whatever option comes my way or should I continue my search?
Taruna
Hyderabad
The process can be tiring, frustrating and often demoralising. As a result, we often settle for the first thing that comes our way, even if it falls short of the ideal. The fact is, we hate rejection. But it's an inevitable part of the process. Chances of landing a job you love is not that easy and require a lot of effort.
Also, don't get stuck on the notion that there's only one job in the world that's right for you. Be clear about your skills and interests. At the same time, be flexible about how and where you'll apply them.
Networking comes to use in this area. The tolerance level for networking are comparatively better because employers are tired of answering phones and talking to people who just want their help in finding jobs.
Use the Internet for doing background research on potential companies to land a job that doesn't even exist. And there's nothing complex about it. It just boils down to being curious about your chosen field and looking for ways to be of use.
The FAQ column deals with career concerns addressed to the C&K Management Ltd. P.O. Box 2178, Secunderabad 500003 or emailed to faqs@cnkonline.com
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