Informational interviews are a great networking tool when conducted correctly. In our previous posts on networking meetings, we walked you through goal setting, setting up and preparing for informational interviews. Now, how to effectively make the most of your time with your contact. Read More
Setting Up and Preparing for Informational Interviews
Informational interviews are an important part of a successful job search. In part one of our series, we established some of the goals for setting up informational interviews. Now, how to set up these meetings, and prepare for them. Read More
Answering the Interview Question “Who Has Inspired You?”
Everybody has had a mentor, hero, or supervisor who has been inspiring. Interviewers sometimes ask applicants “Who inspired you?” or “Who has been the biggest influence on your career?” or “Who is a role model for you in your professional life?” While it may not necessarily be a tough question to answer, it can throw you if you’re not prepared. Read More
Entering And Exiting Networking Conversations
For many people (including myself), networking at social and professional events can seem like a very intimidating process. Two of the trickiest parts: How do enter into a networking conversation, and equally important, how do you properly end one?
Starting a conversation can be the most intimidating part of networking. It sets the tone for everything else. How do you determine when a good opportunity has come up to start a conversation? Read More
Should I Put Volunteer Work on My Resume?
Volunteer work is a great way to get involved and help make your community a better place. It might also help land you your next job. Many people don’t think to put volunteer work on their resume because it’s not a “regular” paying job. When writing your resume, include any skills or experience that will help demonstrate that you are the right match for the job. Take advantage of volunteer work by doing the following: Read More
Answering the Question “Where Do You See Yourself in Five Years?”
Where do you see yourself in five years? It’s a question many people face in interviews, yet don’t take the time to prepare for it. You may be tempted to envision where you’ll be in five years on a personal level, but that’s not an appropriate way to answer the question. Read More
How To Answer “What Do You Know About Us?”
“What do you know about us?” It’s a common but puzzling question that gets asked at many interviews. Last week we talked about how to research companies. Today, how to present the information you gathered in a way that shows you did your research and highlights why your skills and background would be an asset to the company. Read More
Revealing Questions to Ask in a Job Interview
We’ve all heard you should come to an interview prepared to ask questions. But asking the right questions and responding to what you hear can be the secret to landing the job. While questions show your preparedness and interest, they are also a critical way to learn what the hiring manager is really looking for. Read More
How to Find a Job in a Different City
Job seekers have lots of reasons for considering work in other cities. It could be for personal reasons, seeking a stronger economy, or hoping that there will be more demand for their skills.
Whether you are certain you want to move or are considering it, there are some special techniques you can use when looking for work in another city: Read More
Transition from Being a Big Company Employee to Working at a Startup (Part 2 of 2)
A couple of weeks ago, I attended a talk by Bryan Starbuck (on Twitter @BryanStarbuck), a serial tech startup entrepreneur and a former Microsoft Engineering Manager, about how to transition from a big company (Microsoft, Google, Amazon, etc.) employee to a career at startups. Bryan provided great insights and practical advice for people interested in this process. I’d like to share with you a summary of this talk and the main takeaways. Read More