dated February 08, 2006
(Questions answered on career concerns)
Can you give me some tips on how to fare well in an interview so that it may lead to a job?
Rajesh Khatri
Hyderabad
Research the company beforehand so that you can showcase that knowledge during the interview. This will boost your credibility with the interviewer and may also help you to formulate intelligent questions to ask him or her.
Dress neat, dress smart. As it is difficult to know the culture of an office or its environment before you enter its portals, err on the side of conservative. Prior to your interview, prepare answers to common questions the interviewer is likely to ask, such as: what are your strengths and weaknesses, why do you want to work here, why should we hire you and the ever popular, tell me about yourself.
Secure your references. Find at least three key people -- former supervisors, colleagues, or instructors -- who are willing to serve as your professional references. Be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before the interview. Turn your cell phone off so it doesn't ring during your meeting.
Make a checklist of documents you will need for the interview and make sure you have them in your briefcase before leaving home.
The interview is your chance to shine, so now is not the time to be humble. Develop a 25-second sales pitch that enumerates your achievements. It should include your strengths, your abilities, and what sets you apart from other applicants.
Based on your earlier research, ask how the responsibilities of the open position relate to the company's goals and plans for the future. Candidates who show they've done their homework and are knowledgeable about the organisation often impress interviewers
After the interview, don't forget to send a handwritten note or friendly email thanking the interviewer for his or her time and consideration, as well as restating your interest and commitment to the position. If you don't hear anything after one week, call to politely inquire when they will be making a final decision.
I have been unemployed for some time now. I have recently been lucky enough to get an interview of my dreams, but I am so worked up about being a failure that I am not going to achieve my best standards. I have my own doubts. How can I control my nervousness and do well?
Prasad
Bangalore
You need to focus on building your interview skills. It is perfectly natural to get a little nervous before an important interview, but if you tend to be too apprehensive or get too worked up there are chances that you may risk your chances. Try to practice some mock interviews to ensure that everything goes on well.
Do not restrict yourself to just one interview; try out other options too. Choose jobs that do not matter to you - anything will do. All the other job interviews will help you to prepare for the real big interview, which you are looking forward to.
I wish to know about the nature and career prospects of technical communications.
Ravi Kumar
Guntur
Technical communicators make scientific, technical, and practical knowledge available to variety of audiences in many kinds of media (print, video, multimedia, and web media). Scientific journals, textbooks, emails, web pages, all are host to the exchange of ideas and deal with technical communication. Technical communicators are writers and editors, web page designers, managers, educators, and video specialists. They hold specialised positions. They work in areas of software development, information technology, business and finance, scientific research labs, scientific instruments, medical and pharmaceutical companies, home appliances, marketing, advertising, sales, design and manufacturing, publishing or communications.
What are the job opportunities for postgraduates in tool design?
Abu Yasin
Chennai
Tool designers apply their specialised knowledge of mechanics and structures to the design or modification of dies, jigs, fixtures and gauges that are used in the material processing and assembly operations of industrial tool production. Typically, tool designers work in the tool design or engineering departments of large manufacturing plants and industries. Tool designers are employed in manufacturing firms that include defence products, machinery, radio, TV and communications equipment, aircraft and parts, engineering and architectural services firms, business services firms, automotive firms and a wide range of other industries.
What do employers look for in an employee apart from his/her subjective knowledge of the job?
Gayatri
Banglore
While many jobs require a unique set of skills, there is a pretty standard set of qualities that most employers want in an employee. Increase your chances of landing the job you want by highlighting your "soft" skills as well as your technical skills in the interview. Employers look for a variety of strengths, including communication, leadership, problem solving, confidence, flexibility and energy.
They want to know that you can:
Communicate clearly and concisely both verbally and in writing.
You take the lead and assume the responsibility to get things done.
You can analyse and identify a problem and develop effective solutions. You explore new and innovative ideas in addition to tried-and-true solutions.
You know and like yourself. You recognise your strengths and know what you can accomplish.
You adapt easily to new situations and are open to new ideas.
You are a hard worker. You are willing to put the time and effort into accomplishing your objectives.
[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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