Planning & Organising Skills

Planning & Organising Skills

This is the ability to manage self others and resources available resources, including time, to reach a specific

goal.

Do I Have These Skills?

You'll need to be able to prove to employers that you actually have these skills/competencies. In interviews they will ask 'competency questions' that begin with phrases such as 'tell me a time when ............. ' or 'give me an example of .............. ' Your answers are the evidence that you have what it takes.

To find out how well developed your skills are already you could try this simple exercise:

Rate yourself on each of the skill/competency stated below by using the following Rubric:

1 = I do this very well. I am consistent and successful in it

2 = I am good at this. With some practice I can make it perfect!

3 = I am getting better, but still need to work on this a bit more.

4 = I am not particularly good at this - yet!

Skills: 

• Accurately estimates time and effort required to complete a task.

• Identifies and organises systems and required resources.

• Organises personal time to carry out responsibilities.

• Maintains adequate preparation time for scheduled meetings/deadlines.

• Develops schedules and timetables with clear, specific milestones and deadlines.

• Establishes how to measure results and milestones for self.

  

Your ultimate aim is to score 1 is all areas!!

When planning and organizing be sure to prioritise!

Five simple ways to prioritise:

1.       Identify critical tasks.

2.       Arrange tasks in a logical order.

3.       Establish priorities systematically, differentiating between urgent, important, and unimportant tasks.

4.       Use a "to do" list, task plan, or similar planning devices to note action plans, deadlines, etc.

5.       Monitor & adjust priorities and/or eliminate tasks on an on-going basis.

Adopted from: http://navyadvancement.tpub.com/12045/css/12045_31.htm

Top 10 Things to Avoid In an Interview

        1. Arriving Late

Arrive at least 15 minutes early. Take the time to freshen up in the rest-room.

2. Saying too much-or too little

Speak when it is appropriate.  Do not try to take control of the conversation, but DO ask enough questions to demonstrate your interest in the company and its values.

3. Inquiring about vacation time

It’s really not appropriate to ask these types of questions on a first interview.  Wait until a time that you feel certain you are a top candidate for the position before getting down to the nuts and bolts.

4. Not being clear that you want the job.

Your attitude throughout the interview should signal to the interviewer that you are enthusiastic and   interested in the job.

5. Not being thorough in your answers regarding skills and qualifications

Give clear examples of your experiences and skills in a way that directly relates to the job you are applying for. Where and when possible use the opportunity to demonstrate your skills through a portfolio presentation.

6. Using these phrases “Umm”, “you know” and other street slangs

This is a BIG turn-off for employers.  Take a few seconds to thinking through your answer before you respond to questions. Practice before the interview, either in front of a mirror or with a friend.

7. Wearing Street clothes to an interview.  

Never wear jeans, or other casual wear to an interview.  Dress conservatively, and do not over-do it with the jewellery, make-up and perfume /cologne. Tattoos, where possible, should be hidden Portray a professional image.

8. Weak Handshake

Your handshake must be firm but not too vigorous.  You want to show that you are confident.

9. Not being prepared ahead of time

Potential employers are impressed when you demonstrate that you have done some research on the company, and that you are aware of its challenges and how you as an employee can positively impact these challenges. 

10. Don’t try to change the tone of the interview.

If the interviewer is all business or very direct, respond in the same manner.  Never try to lead the conversation in a different or more casual direction. Keep in mind that your resumé most likely landed you the interview, but acing the interview will be what will most likely land you the job!

-------

Adapted from http://tbassociates.wordpress.com/2011/01/26/top-10-things-to-avoid-in-an-interview/