Deborah Weksberg, Career Coach, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

You had your interview for the job you should have been a shoe-in for, but you didn’t get it.  You feel bewildered, wondering why any employer would pass on someone who could step right into that job with no training.  Why doesn’t the employer value your knowledge and experience?  You feel hurt, disappointed and maybe more than a little angry that you were called in and “put through the hoops” for nothing.

Did you ever consider that you may be overqualified for the position? From the employer’s perspective, being overqualified is no bargain; in fact, it might lead to headaches.  An employer fears that very experienced employees might be bored with a less demanding job; they might leave for a more suitable one as soon as the economy picks up. Worse yet, they might want more salary or expect deferential treatment. Worst of all, they may be “know it alls” who will boss around other employees and disrupt the workplace with proclamations like “In my last job, we did it this way.”

Sometimes being overqualified is a euphemism for old. Age discrimination is illegal, of course, so employer won’t say openly that they want someone younger.  But they are mindful of challenges that some mature workers may present, such as lacking up to date skills, being technophobic, slower to embrace policy changes and maybe more apt to run up some big health care bills and inflate everyone’s premiums.

What can you do to neutralize the negative impressions your potential boss is having?

• Face it head on. Purposely query the boss about his/her reluctance so you can offer reassurance. If you can get to the heart of the matter, you might be able to address the employer’s concerns. You might say, “You seem to be concerned that I will chafe under a younger supervisor… I would have no problem with a supervisor of any age and I would particularly enjoy getting a fresh perspective.”
• What if the employer is not forthcoming?  Then you might need to drop into your conversation some artful allusions to a very physical hobby, your 4G smart phone or the interesting discussion you contributed to on LinkedIn. The fact that you ski, jog or play tennis plants the notion of health and vigor. Being up on current technology and social media cements your status as “with it” and up to date.
• If you feel the boss thinks you will be bored by a lesser position, you might say, “You may be worried that I won’t be sufficiently challenged by this job.  Let me assure you, this is the right opportunity and I look forward to having a new ladder to climb.”

Try to remember that the employer was interested enough in what was on your resume to bring you in for the interview.   Reservations, whether voiced or not, should be expected and overcome. Be proud of your skills and experience and cultivate an attitude of “I’m here to help in whatever capacity you deem best.” Convince the employer of your adaptability, energy and enthusiasm for taking on this new challenge. Allay any concerns and paint a picture of how you can contribute as a member of the team to help the employer see you as uniquely qualified rather than “over” qualified.

By Deborah Weksberg, Career Coach, Career Services, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

JCS offers a full range of career services.  For more information about JCS Career services click here or call 410-466-9200.

Ilene Lewandowski, Human Resource Manager, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

When our company holds its annual open enrollment period for benefits, it always amazes me how many employees don’t want to go to the information meetings.  “I’m not changing anything,” some say, or “The meeting is too long and boring,” or “The information is too technical.”  By avoiding the meetings, they are missing out on so much information that is important to understand about what kinds of benefits are being offered to them, how these benefits work, what has changed and what’s new this year.  Simply by not paying attention, many employees are missing out on what could be for them a very nice package of health, wellness and insurance products.

Learning about benefits is not a one-time thing that happens when you are first hired.  It should be an ongoing process of education because the realities of the workplace are changing.  For example, this year your company may have chosen a different provider for medical or retirement benefits, or it may have expanded the benefits available to part-time workers.  Your current plan may be with your spouse’s provider.  By comparing it with what is now being offered, you may conclude that making a change will be advantageous.  Organizations offer their employees opportunities to learn about their benefits and ask questions.  It’s up to employees to take advantage of these chances to be educated so that they can make informed decisions.

It’s true that benefits meeting are very technical in nature. Going over eligibility and coverage with a variety of products usually has employees tuning out and missing important information about benefits such as Flexible Spending for health care or child care.  This is one of the last tax breaks for middle class families, and if your company offers it, you should seriously consider it.  By taking the money out of your wages pre-taxed, you are lowering your tax base. The money is then returned to you when you provide a receipt for the service. Health care flexible spending will also pay out the entire cost of a health bill before all the money is taken out of your salary. Because you pay through payroll deduction, you avoid a large, out of pocket health care expense.

Other benefits offered by some companies that employees may not even realize they have are an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Long Term Disability (LTD). An EAP offers a discreet way for an employee to handle personal problems that may impact his or her work performance, or to get help with a family member’s issues.  EAPs are staffed independently by people who not employed by your employer, and they keep everything that is told to them in strictest confidence.  You need not worry about sharing your problems, and you can get some good advice. The LTD will pay a portion of your salary should you become disabled and unable to continue working.  Some companies offer a voluntary Short Term Disability (STD) that will cover you for three months with a portion of your salary if you are out of work.

Wellness is the newest area that many companies are embracing to hold down health care costs.  Free memberships to gyms are becoming popular, as are programs that are held on the work site to encourage employees to give up smoking or lose weight  Walking programs are encouraged, and contests for the biggest weight loss are helping to create a healthier work force.

Employees who take the time to learn the ins and outs of their benefit package can only help themselves and their families.  Taking advantage of all the benefit opportunities that may be afforded to you will enhance your home and work life.  So go to your benefits enrollment meetings, listen, ask questions, and do yourself a big favor by making educated decisions that will help you get the most out of your benefits

By Ilene Lewandowski, Human Resource Manager, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

To read “A Wake-up Call about Retirement Planning,” (Jan. 3, 2012), click here.

JCS offers a full range of career services.  For more information about JCS Career services click here or call 410-466-9200.

Faye Katz, Resume Writer, Career Services, Jewish Community Services

Although change in progressive companies is an inevitable reality, often bringing new opportunities and growth, many employees find change uncomfortable.  Dealing with the unknowns of change can catch employees off guard.  Whether it is a change in management, software systems, location, policies, procedures, mergers or acquisitions, employees need one vital ingredient for success: a positive attitude.

Reminiscing about the good ole days is not beneficial. Old rules and “the way things used to be” are replaced with new rules and “this is the way it is going to be from now on.”  If you are open to accepting change, you will transition into your new reality much more easily.

Management wants and needs employees who will eagerly implement their decisions. Resistance and a negative attitude towards change lowers morale and decreases productivity.  No one likes a naysayer; consistent negativity makes you a likely candidate for termination.  Instead, wait patiently to voice your opinion, and offer it only when it is sought out.

During mergers and acquisitions, it is important to make yourself as versatile and flexible as possible.  If your position becomes obsolete, let management know about other capabilities and skills you have.  Promote yourself as an asset to the organization, even if your position overlaps with another employee’s job description.

Technology is a fact of life.  You may find it challenging when your organization implements new technology or software, yet resisting new systems may cost you your job.  Transform your attitude and be thankful that your employer is willing to train you in new skills, which can only enhance your career.

In today’s tight job market, be grateful that you have a job and get on board with changes as quickly as possible.   View change as an opportunity to grow, meet new people or learn new skills.  Display confidence and alacrity to perform whatever management deems necessary.

Change in the workplace can be perceived as challenging or threatening.  But after the initial trepidation, many people accept the changes and find they are for the better.  If you embrace change with enthusiasm, excitement and a positive attitude, many new opportunities will present themselves, and you will be a productive and valued employee.

By Faye Katz, Resume Writer, Career Services, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

JCS offers a full range of career services.  For more information about JCS Career services click here or call 410-466-9200.

Lauren Schipper, Career Coach, Career Services, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

Occasionally we look back at times in our lives and say to ourselves, “Wow, I wish I had known to do that!” Often though, we enter new chapters of our lives without knowing these lessons. This is something that young adults are confronting more frequently when they begin college and are faced with the questions: “What are you going to college for, and what is your plan after graduation?” While it is difficult to land your dream job right after college, there are key things you can do during those four years that will give you a better chance of finding a job that will jump start your career.

• Get to know a professor or advisor. Academic advisors and professors have office hours for a reason, so don’t be afraid to use them. Even if you aren’t struggling in your classes, you can use this time to your advantage. A day will come when you need a letter of recommendation, either for your first job or for graduate school.  Developing a professional relationship with a professor or advisor who can truly evaluate your work ethic and intelligence will give you an advantage over other applicants.
• Apply for internships. Remember that an internship is meant for more than college credits; it’s a chance to get entry-level experience. If you are undecided about what specific career path you want to take, apply for an internship — or even two — during college that encompasses job duties or assignments that interest you. This will give you the opportunity to have a generalized idea of what a full time job in that respective field would be like.
• Choose electives wisely. When the time comes for choosing electives, avoid choosing the “easy A” elective. Select electives based on which ones are most relevant to your future career plans and those that will provide you with education your general courses do not. For example, if you’re a business major and you have an interest in working internationally, choose an elective that focuses on international business.
• Get some work and/or volunteer experience. Many of your first after-college employers will understand that it is difficult to work during college. However, they will want to see what you have to offer beyond your grade point average. If you can’t find the time to work during college, take advantage of volunteering. Volunteer work is typically flexible around your schedule and is a great way to obtain entry-level experience, in addition to references that you can use after graduation.
• Learn how to write a professional resume and a cover letter. Any potential employer will want to see your resume.  Although it may be short, you can present your education, skills and experience to date in a professional way.  A good cover letter can really make you stand out from other applicants for a job or an internship.  Take advantage of resources on campus such as the Career Center, or make an appointment with a Resume Writer or Career Coach at JCS, to get some guidance on preparing effective resumes and cover letters.

Many young adults will find it difficult at the beginning of college to see past the freedom, the new friendships and the opportunity to explore new adventures. However, keep in mind that you’re in college for a reason: to further your education and prepare yourself for a fulfilling career.  Although it takes work, you can always be ahead of the competition by taking advantage of the opportunities during college that will lead you to where you want to go.

By Lauren Schipper, Career Coach, Career Services, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

JCS offers a full range of career services.  For more information about JCS Career services click here or call 410-466-9200.

Tracey Paliath, Esq., Director, Economic Services, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

Before joining the staff at JCS, I spent a couple of years as a hiring manager at a midsize company here in Baltimore.  That job taught me a couple of things:  First, when you apply for a job, you must have an error-free resume (I routinely eliminated candidates with spelling mistakes in their resumes) and a cover letter that makes the case for why I should hire you (I never interviewed candidates who failed to include a personalized cover letter with their resume).  Second, even well-qualified candidates, who were selected over hundreds of others to interview for a single open position, often made the same basic mistakes in the interview that cost them the job.

Here is a list of “Top 5 Commonly-Overlooked Mistakes People Make on Interviews,” based on my actual experiences with candidates.  Although some of these tips may appear to address “small” issues, I can assure you that these are not insignificant to the employers who interview you.  All the examples used are things that several candidates really did or said on interviews that doomed their chances of getting the job.

1. Don’t ask for coffee.  Don’t even take a glass of water that you are offered unless you really need it.  Asking for coffee looks presumptuous, and communicates the idea that you expect customer service from the very people you are hoping to convince to hire you.  If there’s no coffee ready, or if they don’t have the fat-free milk you requested, the conversation becomes strained and you will be seen as “demanding.”  Even more importantly, drinks spill – it’s a fact of life.  And when you are nervous (as most people are during an interview), your hands get a little shaky, or you make a gesture to emphasize a point and – BAM! – liquid all over you, the interviewer, the interviewer’s stack of papers, etc.  How can you focus on answering questions and ace this interview if you’re sitting there with a wet shirt? The flow of the conversation will never recover.   Yes, you are human and it was a mistake, but why take the risk?  And by the way, don’t bring in your own water bottle and drink from it – not only can the bottle tip over when the cap is off, but water bottles do not project a professional image, which leaves the interviewer wondering if you are taking this interview seriously.

 

2. Don’t talk on your cell phone while you are waiting in the reception area.  The receptionist hears everything, and she will report back anything you say that she finds questionable or unprofessional.  You might not think anything you say is inappropriate, but it doesn’t matter what you think; what matters is what the receptionist and hiring manager think.  If they think you have shown poor judgment based on the one side of telephone conversation that they hear, you will not get the job.  Nobody who is interviewing you should know that you are angry with your spouse or having a health issue, that your child care arrangements aren’t working out, or that your teenager did something very stupid last weekend for which he is now grounded.  Silence your cellphone before you even walk into the office so that it doesn’t ring before or during the interview.

 

 

3. Don’t negotiate the terms of the job before you even know if you are going to get it. Don’t request accommodations to pick up children from school by a certain time each day.  Just ask what the hours are and if there is flexibility.  If you get the job, then you can say “I remember you said there could be some flexibility in the hours.  Would you be open to my starting the work day a half hour earlier?”   Don’t try to negotiate a salary, either.  It’s fine to ask if there is a salary range established for the position, but don’t say “I need $60,000 and I think my credentials are worth it.”  Employers are much more willing to pay extra for someone who they see as solving a need they have, so show them you are that person and then talk about salary!   (For more on how to negotiate salary, click here for a blog by JCS Career Services’ Debora Weisbacher).

    

 

4. Look prepared! The employer figures you are at your best at an interview because you want to demonstrate that you want the job.  Whether you think it’s fair or not, employers make assumptions about your work habits and abilities based on what you do in an interview.   Didn’t bring your resume with you?  How will the interviewer trust that you will remember to bring important documents to an important client meeting?  Ignoring sections on an employment application, such as your GPA in college or salary range?  The employer assumes that you either have something to hide or that you can’t follow directions.  The job will go to the person who filled out the application completely and then wrote additional explanatory information, or who took the opportunity during the interview to explain something she wrote on the application.  If the employer asks a question, you will not be hired without giving an answer, and the hiring manager is not going to spend time chasing you down to get it.

    

 

5. Ask questions about the job and the company you are interviewing with, not just questions about the salary and benefits package and when you’ll hear back.  You need to make the interviewer believe that you care about the company and want to know how you can fit in and be helpful.  If you ask only about things of interest to you, then you are not presenting yourself as part of the solution.

 

Here’s the bottom line:  the minute you leave your house for an interview, you are “on stage.”  Drive responsibly and nicely and don’t be rushed; the person you cut off in traffic because you are running late may be the one you will be sitting across from for the interview an hour later!  You never know who you’ll come across in a parking garage, elevator, or lobby who may have the hiring manager’s ear, so treat everyone like they could be “the one” making the decision.  That includes administrative assistants and receptionists who often are the gatekeepers. A cordial “Good morning, how are you?” goes a long way to creating a positive impression.  But don’t try to be pals with them or ask a lot of questions. Remember they are professionals who have work to do.   No matter what the outcome of the interview is, treating everyone with kindness and respect will make you feel like a winner.

By Tracey Paliath, Esq., Director, Economic Services, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

JCS offers a full range of career services.  For more information about JCS Career services click here or call 410-466-9200.

Debora Weisbacher, Career Coach, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

Most job applicants wonder about when and how to bring up the sticky question of salary.  Some candidates are afraid to approach this loaded subject, or do so very gingerly.  Others will go straight to the point and ask an employer what the job pays, without first inquiring about the nature and details of the position.

Big mistake! If you bring up salary immediately, you have effectively just short-circuited what should be a gradual process.  But, you might say, “Why should I not ask first and find out what the job pays so I can see if it meets my minimum requirements?”  For one thing, asking prematurely makes it look like you are interested only in the money, and not in the position.  Just as importantly, you haven’t even given the employer a chance to talk with you about the parameters of the position.

On the other hand, many applicants are eliminated before they get a chance to be interviewed because employers often use salary as a way of pre-screening candidates.  These days, many job postings specify that they will consider applicants only if they send their salary history and requirements. In this case, you will have to address salary in your cover letter.  It’s usually better to give a salary range rather than stating that “salary is negotiable.” (Learn more in the tip below about using online salary guides to choose an appropriate salary range.)

If you get to first base and are invited for an interview, think of it as your opportunity to learn about the job, present yourself and your qualifications positively, and give the interviewer time to get to know you.

• Don’t fixate on the salary right away.  Salary is usually not discussed in a first interview for a job.
• It is up to the interviewer to bring up the subject of salary.  That may occur only after a second or third interview.

Getting the salary you want

Once the subject of money has been raised, how should you proceed?  The reality is that salaries are negotiable.   Employers know this, and you should act on this assumption.

• If you did not have to state a figure in your application or cover letter, and if the interviewer asks how much you are looking to make, be ready to give a salary range, as opposed to a specific amount.  You want to avoid backing yourself into a corner where you cannot negotiate your way out.
• Your salary negotiations are more likely to be successful if you do advance research and preparation.  Research the numbers by going on the internet and using salary guides and calculators, such as www.salary.com, www.homefair.com, www.payscale.com, and Nace Salary Calculator, that will tell you the value of your skills and talent in the local marketplace.  Using the online guides, try to find a salary range that will keep you in the running and also garner the salary you wish to make.  The availability of these salary calculators has leveled the playing field somewhat between the employer and employee.
• Most experts agree that, if possible, you should get a firm offer of employment before you divulge the salary range that would be acceptable to you.  Knowing that the employer wants you for the job puts you in a stronger position to negotiate a good salary.
• Ask about the benefits that come with the job, and weigh their value as you decide what salary would be acceptable to you.

Don’t undervalue yourself, but do have realistic expectations.

Many job seekers, especially women, will accept the first offer made by the employer.  But often employers leave room for negotiation in their offers, expecting to get a counter offer.  So this is absolutely the right time to go ahead and ask for what you know your skills are worth.  And remember that your counter offer may include more than base pay.  You may ask for perks like bonuses, stock options, vacation time, flexible work schedule, telecommuting and other benefits.  Too many people rely on the employer to determine the fair remuneration for the job.  True, the employer is in the driver’s seat, but you certainly can and should advocate for yourself.

So, take the time, do the research, and polish your negotiating skills.  Then be confident and go for the salary and benefits you know you are worth!

By Debora Weisbacher, Career Coach, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

JCS offers a full range of career services.  For more information about JCS Career services click here or call 410-466-9200.

By Ronnie Green, Career Coach

Ronnie Green, Career Coach, Career Services, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore

Wouldn’t it be nice if we lived in a world where you could hand deliver your resume for a job you want, explain in person why you would be a great candidate for the position, and make sure the employer would take plenty of time to review your credentials?  The employer would be so impressed by the way you present yourself that he or she would spend considerable time finding the perfect job in the organization, just for you.  After all, you’ve explained that you have lots of wonderful employment experience, a stable work history and a track record of success.

Unfortunately, that doesn’t happen in a time when unemployment is at nearly 10%.  Employers get hundreds of applicants for each job listing.  The resumes pile up. Because most companies are short staffed, they are overwhelmed and often don’t have the luxury of time to do more than a quick scan of each.  So you need to get the employer’s attention — fast.  The way you do that is by presenting yourself through a great cover letter.

Here are the top 3 reasons why you definitely need to write a cover letter:

• Your application needs to STAND OUT from the crowd!
• This is your opportunity to make a personalized appeal telling why you are qualified for the job.
• You are helping the employer handle all those applications and move yours to the short pile.

An effective cover letter is the first impression the employer forms of you.  You’ve heard the saying that you never get a second chance to make a first impression.  Therefore, the letter has to be PERFECT!

Here are some important tips for writing a good cover letter:

• Personalize the letter and salutation.  (If you don’t have a contact name, don’t use “To Whom It May Concern”; instead, “Dear Hiring Manager:” is preferable.)
• Make sure the job title is listed in boldface in the body of the letter, as well as in the subject line, if you are emailing the cover letter.  Use a brief, catchy (but not cutsie) subject line such as “Accurate Bookkeeper.”
• Begin with a strong opening statement like: “Your need for an experienced bookkeeper is an excellent match with my five years of QuickBooks experience in a public accounting firm.”
• Customize the letter, using key words to match the requirements of the job for which you are applying.  Tell the employer that you have the exact skills the company is looking for.   List your skills in the exact order that the employer requested them.  Use bullets to tell the employer about your accomplishments.
• Demonstrate your understanding of the employer’s needs and what the job entails.  Consider writing your letter viewed from the employer’s perspective.   The employer has specific skill requirements, so it’s not about how convenient it will be for you to walk to work or how much you like the company’s products.
• A cover letter is also the place to explain exceptional circumstances such as why you are changing careers, returning to work after some time, or have gaps in your resume.
• Show energy and enthusiasm!
• Proofread carefully, and proofread again.  If there is even one typo, your letter will be tossed.   One way to check for accuracy is to have someone else read your letter before you send it.
• Send your cover letter either by email or snail mail, or better yet, both, to assure receipt.

An effective cover letter has the power to persuade an employer that you are a qualified candidate for the job and to get you an interview.  In today’s job market, that would be the best of all possible worlds!

For more tips on writing an effective cover letter or for other job search tools, visit www.jcsbaltimore.org, or read the article, “10 Worst Cover Letter Mistakes.”

By Ronnie Green, Career Coach, Career Services, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

JCS offers a full range of career services.  For more information about JCS Career services click here or call 410-466-9200.

Mary Blake, Senior Manager, Career Services, Jewish Community Services

When I think of a mentor, I have fond thoughts of my first female boss who, without maybe knowing it, helped shape my work persona and get my career kick-started.  She had herself moved up into a position of authority and power that I envied and wanted to be in someday.  I would like to think that maybe I reminded her of her younger self: motivated, enthusiastic, untainted by bureaucracy and micromanagement.   However it happened, we were drawn to each other for support and encouragement and we shared a similar work ethic.

Not everyone may have had the positive experience that I did with a supervisor at an early professional age, but there is always the chance to look for this type of support in the workplace, or to become the one supporting another.  There is no clear instruction manual on how to become the ideal employee or how to perfectly guide your career up a steady path.  But one thing there is certainly plenty of in the world of work is opportunity.  We all have the opportunity to observe the world around us and to choose the parts of it that make us feel good and inspire us to grow and succeed.  And it is other individuals whom we observe, whether supervisors, co-workers, vendors or clients, who can teach us without even knowing it.

Now there are many professional mentor programs for students, entrepreneurs, and recent graduates, but not all employers have structured programs like these.  Most of the time, you have to create your own opportunity by reaching out and asking for assistance, or notice when someone new needs help and offer your guidance.  These are the unofficial support networks that keep the workplace running smoothly and help generation after generation of new employees blossom into productive, capable, experienced workers.

If you find yourself in a new job, struggling to learn the ropes, you may want to take a look around and find a co-worker who emulates the qualities that you desire to achieve.  If you are not sure who this may be, try setting up times to sit and observe several different co-workers perform their jobs, or ask a supervisor or experienced co-worker whom that person admires at work and why.  Before long you will start to recognize who seems to be able to do their job with finesse and ease.  The next step is to see if those people are willing to help you learn what made them so successful.  Offer to take these employees to lunch individually so you can learn about the work culture and history of your company, and about where they think the opportunities for growth lie.  Ask them about some of their recent achievements, and ask them for feedback on your work.  It is important to be open to suggestions and not think you have all the answers.  Most people love to give their advice to someone who makes them feel important!

If you feel that maybe you have topped out in your career or are working towards retirement, then you might be the one to reach out to newer staff to mentor them to achieve the successes that you have already enjoyed.  Is there someone you’ve noticed who seems like a younger version of yourself when you needed a helping hand or some advice?  Invite the person for coffee and find out his or her thoughts on the company’s training or orientation process.   If your company offers an organized mentor program, check into becoming a volunteer.  Although some corporately organized mentor programs are very successful, I believe that the best matches are ones we gravitate towards naturally.

Either way, you should take advantage of any opportunity to learn and grow in this age of corporate downsizing.  It is an invaluable way to expand your skills and knowledge, and a lifelong friendship may develop along the way!

By Mary Blake, Senior Manager, Career Services, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

JCS offers a full range of career services.  For more information about JCS Career services click here or call 410-466-9200.

Lisa P. Cohn, PHR, Employment Specialist, Career Services, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

Do you want to advance in your career at work?  How about a nice raise or bonus?  Are you looking for a new challenge or interested in learning transferable skills?  Do you want to make some new connections in the business world or attend a conference?  If you have answered “yes” to at least one of these questions, then you should invest in yourself through professional development.

A Hidden Opportunity

Some careers, such as accounting, require professional accreditations; others, like social work, require Continuing Education credits.  For employees who don’t have to meet such requirements, the benefits of seeking out avenues for professional development are not always obvious, and may even seem like an inconvenience that has to be squeezed into a busy schedule.  But, you have the chance to turn this hidden opportunity into a professional advancement opportunity!

Reap personal benefits.

At some point during your career, a job may become routine.  By pursuing professional development, you can avoid boredom and at the same time gain immeasurable benefits.  Professional development helps you enhance your current skills and acquire new ones, as well as advance at work and expand your personal and professional network.  You can make yourself stand out positively in your job or in the community.  And engaging in a new experience will make your job a little more fun, and definitely not routine.

How do I start?

First, make a commitment to yourself to start taking advantage of your own professional development and career choices.  Create a weekly or monthly personal action plan to map out your goals, meetings, networking events and other upcoming activities.  Make yourself accountable for these goals by setting due dates, or by partnering with a peer or friend to help you stay on track with deadlines and goals.

Make professional and social networking a priority.  Join a trade association or industry related group, attend a career development workshop, volunteer in the community, or attend a local conference.  These experiences will help you grow your career.  As a plus, you may qualify for continuing education credits or other professional development certification requirements.  Proactively seek out and attend weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly networking events in your field.    If it’s in your budget, consider enrolling in a class at a local trade school, college, or university.   If you have a packed day, meet a peer, friend, or co-worker during your lunch break.   And if you haven’t yet done so, join LinkedIn, a social professional networking site. (See resource section below.)

Take advantage of the human capital around you.   Build a new relationship, or develop a current one at work or with a peer in your field.  If you are an experienced employee, consider mentoring or coaching a new employee or an individual going through a career transition.  If you are looking for support and encouragement, seek out a mentor or coach at work or through a professional group.  Participate in a committee that you are passionate about at work.  Make an appointment to meet with your Human Resource representative to discuss your professional development, and inquire about helpful work resources, such as career books and training programs.

The road to success

As both a Human Resource and Career Services professional, I see the direct link between employees’ professional development and their increased work satisfaction and personal fulfillment.  When you are actively invested in advancing your own career, the positive energy filters in to other areas of life, including relationships.  While it is important and necessary to concentrate on completing daily job tasks, we also need to focus the same dedication on achieving our goals and actively developing our professional careers.  I challenge you to make your own goals a priority as the first step toward success!

Helpful Online Resources

• www.linkedin.com-  Professional social networking website
• The JCS Entrepreneur and Business Meetup-  Provides current and future business owners with the opportunity to meet other local individuals who want to advance their businesses through monthly round table discussions, networking, collaboration and brainstorming.  For a schedule and pre-registration for upcoming Meetups, visit www.meetup.com/JCSEBM or call 410-843-7433.
• Greater Baltimore Committee (GBC)- Hosts SpeakerNet, a network of regional business and community leaders on the front lines of economic success

By Lisa P. Cohn, PHR, Employment Specialist, Career Services, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

JCS offers a full range of career services.  For more information about JCS Career services click here or call 410-466-9200.

Marc Englander, Career Coach, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

We hear it everywhere:  “It’s a tough job market….  There are hundreds of applicants for every opening…..  How can I stand out from the crowd? “

With all this competition, there’s another dynamic that you need to know about.  Interviewing has changed.  Chances are, you are not going to have the conventional interview that was common ten years ago.  Today, if you want to be successful in your job search, you’ll need to know about new trends and practices.   The better you understand the interview process, the more likely you are to succeed in being viewed as a desirable candidate.

Alex Freund, “The Landing Expert,” founder of his own career coaching company, writes and teaches career search and interviewing skills.  In a recent webinar, Freund discussed how interviews have changed.*

Employers today choose from a variety of options when interviewing candidates.  You may be interviewed by one or more people who play different roles within the organization, and any of a variety of interview formats may be used.  If you do well on the first round, you may be invited back for a second interview of a different kind.  Being realistic and knowing what the employer’s goals are and what your goals are for each kind of interview will help you make the most of each opportunity.

Who Will Conduct the Interview? Any of the following people may interview you:

• A Human Resources Staff Member

This is typically a very general interview that is the first step in the hiring process.  The interviewer acts as a gatekeeper whose purpose is to determine whether the applicant fits the criteria for the job.   Your goal is to make it to the next level.

Tip: Make sure you state how you fit all the qualifications mentioned in the job description.

• The Hiring Manager

Sometimes called the recruitment manager, this is the person who makes the final decision about who will be hired for a specific position.  It could be the boss, a department director, or someone in HR.  In this interview, your goal is to communicate your skills and qualifications for the job.

Tip: At the end of the interview, the applicant usually will be asked, “Do you have any questions?”  Take this opportunity to showcase your abilities.  If this question is not asked, take the initiative: speak up and summarize your qualifications, stressing how you could benefit the organization.

• A Multi-Person Panel

Being interviewed by several people at once can be intimidating and challenging.  The good news is that you probably wouldn’t have been invited for this kind of interview unless you are considered “in the running” for the position.

Tips: Find out in advance who will be on the interview panel.   Note their names and positions within the company. Then look on their websites or their Linked-in profiles.  If you are not given their names in advance, it is considered proper and professional to ask for that information.

Instead of panning back and forth to address the group, look and speak directly to only one person at a time on the panel.   Try practicing this way of speaking with some of your family or friends in advance.

What Interview Format Will Be Used?

In addition to, or in place of, the standard face-to-face interview, other formats are being used today:

• The Phone Interview

Telephone interviews are done to save time and cost to the company.  They typically last for 10- 20 minutes, sometimes longer.  The goal is to select a few of the best candidates from many applicants.  The person conducting the phone interview will determine whether you progress to the next level.  Since you can’t be seen, you need to compensate and shine your brightest.

Tips: Use a land-line phone, not a cell phone, to avoid any technical problems.   To project your voice well, stand up while speaking on the phone.   Post your resume and two minute elevator speech on the wall right next to your phone.

• The Video Interview

Video interviewing (Skyping) is becoming a common practice because it adds the advantage of a visual image.  However, it’s only as good as the technology being used.

Tips: Direct eye contact is very important, so practice first.  Set up your computer in front of an uncluttered background to avoid distracting the interviewer.   Wear plain clothing — no multi-colors or stripes.  Beware of background noises and avoid interference from pets and children.

• Interviewing on Your PC (Personal Computer)

This interview is automated, without a human being monitoring at the time of the interview.  You will be instructed to open a link, and you may see an automated image of a person asking questions.  Typically you’ll be asked about five questions and given about two minutes to type in your answer to each question.  You will be have an opportunity to review and revise your answers before submitting them. The whole interview takes about ten minutes.

Tips: Since the PC interview is timed, express yourself clearly and succinctly, covering all key points.  Be sure to proofread and spellcheck your responses.  Typos and other errors detract from your professional image.

Some aspects of the interview process are beyond your control.  If it doesn’t always go your way, don’t blame yourself.  Preparing for an interview with realistic expectations and strategies will help you make the best impression you can.

By Marc Englander, Career Coach, Jewish Community Services, Baltimore, MD

*Parts of this blog are summarized and excerpted from “Interviewing in the 21^st Century,” a Webinar on 11/21/2011, with permission of Alex Freund.  To learn more, visit www.landingexpert.com or http://landingexpert.posterous.com, email alex@landingexpert.com

For more tips on successful interviews, see these blogs by Jewish Community Services Career Services professionals:  “How to follow up after an interview,” by Tova Jaffee (7/19/2011) and “Illegal questions in interviews,” by Tracey Paliath (7/5/2011).

JCS offers a full range of career services.  For more information about JCS Career services click here or call 410-466-9200.