Words to Use on Your Resume that Demonstrate Competency

Source : Peter Shankman

Honing Your Interview Skills

As you consider Co-op Ed placement or permanent job opportunities, the following link gives insights into some questions that an employer may ask at an interview that are considered "trick" questions. Be prepared to identify these questions and respond appropriately.  http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/careersandeducation/17-interview-questions-that-are-designed-to-trick-you/ar-AAaFk8I

One Interview Question That Reveals a Superstar Job Candidate

So Tejune starts every interview with a few basics. Assessing the candidate's hunger and drive is important, so he asks how candidates determine their goals as well as what motivated them then and what motivates them now.

He also looks for competitive people, so he asks about the last time they competed, what they like about winning, what they don't like about losing, how they feel when they lose--and what they do next.
Then he takes a step back:
"It sounds like you have the right degree, the right background, and the right skills, but in our company every employee has those qualities. That's a given.
"The problem is, I just don't see that extra something in you that all of our people have."
And then he throws down the gauntlet:
"I'm sorry, but I just don't think this is the right fit for you."

Then he sits back and waits.
What happens? Nine out of 10 people immediately fold. They say, "Well, I appreciate your time." They say, "I'm sorry you feel that way, but thanks for the interview."
But the true gems don't fold. They instead immediately rise to the challenge. After all, they want the job and know his company is the right fit for them. So they work hard to overcome his resistance.
They say, "I think you're wrong. I'm here for a reason. Here's what you're not seeing."
In short, superstars don't give up--which is exactly what you want every employee to do.
"It's one thing to have a pleasant conversation during interviews," Tejune says. "And I definitely do that. But at some point, you also need to turn up the heat and see how people respond. Anyone can do well when things go perfectly. Superstars rise to the challenge when things don't go their way."

View full article at  http://www.inc.com/jeff-haden/one-interview-question-that-reveals-a-superstar-job-candidate.html

The Personal and Professional Identity

The notion of having a  “personal” and “professional” identity on social media is practically a fallacy. As (aspiring) professionals, students must therefore appreciate the need to think and act responsibly in the use of the internet and in particular social media. Please watch the video below and share how your digital footprints can impact your professional life whether positively or negatively. https://www.commonsensemedia.org/video/modal/4241346

Preparing for Your Workplace Engagement.

Here are some personal and professional tip adopted from:

 http://personalgrowth.lifetips.com/cat/57062/being-professional/index.html

Body Language

Use positive body language at all times. You can convey this by smiling and paying attention to the person. Stop doing other activities and listen to the person's concerns. Attend to those concerns or direct the person to someone who can help if you are unable to do so.

 

Rude People

Be tactful with rude people. If someone at work is rude to you, be patient and courteous. Count to ten silently and slowly, then respond politely and positively.

 

Gum

Avoid blowing and popping gum in the office. This behavior is unprofessional and distorts the communication process between you and a fellow employee or customer. Furthermore, the popping or cracking sound of gum in the mouthpiece of a telephone should also be avoided since the sound is magnified and may have a negative effect on the caller.

 

Eating

Avoid eating at your desk especially when seated in a public area. If you eat onions or any other foods with strong odors, use mints or brush your teeth before interacting with others. Strong food odors are offensive to many people.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Coughing

Be discreet when coughing or yawning. These are necessary physical functions. However, when done with a wide open mouth, besides being unattractive and distracting, they are also unhealthy. Germs can be easily transmitted from one person to another in this manner. When coughing or yawning, cover the mouth; if possible use a tissue, and turn away from those around you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acquiring a Professional Look

It is very important factor to have a  polished professional look. Having your nails and your hair done is key. You don't have to pay someone to do this for you. A home manicure (pedicure if you wear open toe shoes) is sufficient. Make sure to take care of your hair and skin.

For women, simple accessories can make your outfit look better. For example, simple earrings and a light simple necklace when worn with a suit and can do wonders. A small thin bracelet and a simple ring can finish the look. You may not even need all these excepting a simple brooch. 

Do You Have the Skill -Sets that will Make You Globally Employable?

The world of work is very competitive. Strive to be on top of your game even if you think you are only on a Co-op Ed assignment. Remember, you want to make an impression that will say to the employer "This is someone who is right for my business."

 

You need these global employability skill-sets to be on top of your game:

1.    Communication

The ability to express your ideas, and convey effectively your messages, whether verbal or written,  while being confident at the same time. 

2.     Teamwork

 The ability to function as a team player, be dependable, flexible and interpersonal.

3.    Initiative and enterprise

Speaks to your display of creativity as well as your ability to think and act independently to enhance productivity.

4.    Planning & Organizing 

Being able to organize and use your time effectively.  You must be able to produce consistently high quality of work by paying close attention to every detail. Your ability to make an informed judgment is key.  

5.    Self Management

Being able to perform major duties with minimum supervision, accept responsibilities, be open to constructive criticisms and exert high levels of leadership skills.

6.    Learning

Being able to understand the goals of the institution, relate theoretical knowledge to practice and possess technical skills. 

7.    Work Ethics

You must possess a positive attitude towards work, further; ensure that you are present at work each day and punctual.

8.   Technology

Being able to utilize the technologies that are relevant to the job.

Résumé Template

There are many templates for creating a résumé. Here is one you can use to guide you. 

 Click here for Résumé Template