Thursday, September 30, 2010

Winning the Job Interview


Learn how to stand out from the competition

It has often been said that “your resume can get you an interview,” but in reality it’s your interview that can get you the job. In today’s challenging and competitive job market, employer’s have many candidates to choose from and therefore have become more discerning then ever before, which is why developing your interviewing skills is so important.

The person interviewing you is not only looking at your qualifications, but they are looking at what differentiates you from every other candidate. Answering the question, “what is it that you bring to this company and to this position that no one else can?” is what helps you stand out in a crowd.

As a professional interviewing coach with We Place People, this is one of the most important topics we discuss when preparing our candidates for interviews. With almost every question you answer, there must be something that you share that will make you stand out differently from everyone else and will ultimately make the company want to hire you! Remember, an interview is not just about what you have done, it’s about what you can do for that company. It’s what you can offer that your competition can not that will help make you the “candidate of choice.”

Determining who to move forward in the interviewing process is not always as cut and dry as one would think. The front line interviewers themselves are evaluated by the company on the caliber of the candidates they move forward in the process and if that person ultimately gets hired. They must ensure the candidates are qualified and they will be a “fit” for the organization, the position and the hiring decision maker. This is where you must “help” by sharing those skills, experiences, training, or qualifications that you bring to the organization that other candidates may not. It’s also the time to demonstrate your critical thinking process and how you approach and complete tasks, responsibilities, or projects. These are the same elements that you should prepare for when interviewing with the decision maker.

Here are some tips on how you can differentiate yourself:


1.Create a list of 5 interview questions that you are certain you will be asked in your interview

2.Carefully review the job description and learn about the company and position

3.When answering the interview questions and reviewing the elements of the job description you need to be able to describe:
a. What roles or responsibilities you had in your previous positions as they relate specifically to the position you are applying for and will resonate with the interviewer

b.How you specifically completed each function or responsibility

c.What the results were

d.What you have to offer that makes you stand out amongst others with similar backgrounds

In this job market, differentiating and separating yourself from others can help you standout in your next interview and get the job you want.

- Steve Goldberg
From www.net-temps.com

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Part-Time Medical Billing Professional Needed


West side Plastic Surgery offices seeking Part-Time Temporary for 3-6 months assignment. Requires 3-5 years experience in billing claims including workers comp. Will file claims electronically and send follow-up electronic claim submissions through Availity. Post charges. Post payments. Send statements. May follow up with patients for additional information or patient collections. Centricity/IDX experience helpful. Will handle all appeals.

Monday, September 27, 2010

Interview Success Means Getting Your Game Face On


We all know how draining the interview process can be. If you really want to kick butt and take names you better get your game face on. What does this mean? It doesn’t mean you should be a “face painter.”

Preparation: A successful interview can only be achieved with preparation; knowing your background and ability to articulate your achievements, goals and interests is critical to a positive interview experience. Your résumé can get you the interview – what you say, how you behave, and the impression you leave is what will get you the offer.

Experience makes the best teacher: Of course you are not a serial interviewer. You don’t run around interviewing just for the heck of it. It is a targeted effort; you interview for a short period of time to secure a position – it could then be years before you do it again. It is not possible to remain schooled in all of the ‘interview ins and outs’. My recommendation is to plan for the ‘real deal’ by interviewing for things you are not interested in. This will give you the practice you need for the opportunities that really matter.

Q&A: You will no doubt run into what I commonly refer to as ‘the stupid questions.’ You know, the Where do you see yourself in ten years? – What is your greatest weakness? – What do you do if you are being chased by a pack of hungry wolves? Okay. Maybe that last one is a stretch – or not. But, you know what I mean. You need to be prepared with an answer; and I don’t mean a trite, thoughtless, or clichéd answer. The power is hanging in the balance! You need to prepare to answer these and other similar questions. Your responses matter – no matter how useless you think the question is.

Know thyself: Know your background like the back of your hand; practice your interview skills with friends; respond questions in front of a mirror to examine your body language and facial expression. Get comfortable with the answers and your delivery.

Enthusiasm: Your positive approach during the process will go a long way in setting the appropriate tone. People want to work with people that give off ‘positive vibes’. And the flipside is true as well – nobody will hire you if you can’t find your tail. Your presentation and natural passion should shine through.

I am not saying anything revolutionary here. Companies and hiring managers want well
rounded candidates – people that can communicate effectively, work well with others, and can demonstrate throughout the process that they have the ability (through past performance) to drive results in a new position.

By CAREEREALISM-Approved Expert, Debra Wheatman

From www.careerealism.com

Friday, September 24, 2010

New Rewarding LVN Opening!!!

LVN for Otolaryngology clinic. Must have 1 years experince, be a self starter, team player and be willing to learn.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

5 Resume Tips: Do What Most Job Seekers Don't

When it comes to writing a great resume, there are no hard and fast rules or specific formats that you should adhere to; however, your resume should be targeted to each specific job that you are applying to. In addition, it must be concise, clear, command attention and stand out from the pack.

Include a Title for the Job You Want

Use a professional title for the position that you want. An improper job title will only serve to position you at a level far below the responsibility or salary level you are seeking to achieve. Including a job title can greatly increase the number of interview calls that you get for higher positions and improve your chances of clinching a higher salary – and when you start at a higher salary, your career growth is also accelerated.

Include an Executive Summary (what you can do for them) - Not an Objective (Me-focused)

An executive summary should be clear and well defined, consisting of a short paragraph or four to five bulleted points. It should focus on how your skills can benefit the employer, not on what the employer can do for you. Using action words will help to convey you as an intelligent and active individual capable of making contributions to accomplish company goals. Highlight your strengths and achievements clearly and quickly. Recruiters and hiring managers want to see information that is to the point, and hardly have time to dig for buried nuggets of information hidden in your resume.

Include Relevant Information

Let’s state the obvious - your resume is targeted at landing interviews. In effect, you are advertising your capabilities and experience. Therefore, you need to provide precise, accurate and relevant information. Your resume should be able to convey relevant information, but at the same time, the resume should also convey a message that if the hiring manager buys this product (YOU) it will lead to positive and direct benefits in specific areas where their needs exist (the job).

Brag - With PROOF!

When it comes to your resume, you can forget modesty. Brag if you have irrefutable proof that establishes you as an outstanding performer (notice I didn’t say exaggerate or lie). Give your resume an accomplishment-driven profile. Accomplishments are results you produce by resolving problems, or when you overcome a real or perceived obstacle. Mention any project that you spearheaded that served to heighten employee morale, revenues or company savings. Formulate 'Problem-Action-Result' (PAR) statements to convey your ability for producing similar or better results in your future employment.

Highlight Achievements - NOT Responsibilities

Although important, listing responsibilities should not form the focus of your resume. Responsibilities are passive - achievements project you as an active, dynamic individual. When you are seeking a higher position, your achievements rather than your responsibilities acquire crucial importance – so don’t clump the two together. Write a paragraph giving an overview of your responsibilities and then highlight your achievements with bullets. When you want to sell something, you must make it stand out.

Having a well-written resume is crucial when it comes to getting interview calls. Following the 5 tips above will ensure that you maximize your chances.

- Heather Eagar
From www.net-temps.com

Monday, September 20, 2010

10 Things You Must Do Before That Successful Interview


You've worked hard to get here. You've sent out 31 resumes, networked, attended job fairs, enrolled in school for more education – you've taken all the right steps.

Then, one afternoon the phone rings. “Yes, we'd like you to come in for an interview. Is next Tuesday at 10:00 alright with you?” Alright???!!! You can be there in 10 minutes! But you gather your composure, pretend to rifle through your “appointment book” and calmly reply, “Yes, Tuesday at 10:00 works for me. See you then.” Now what?

The sequence goes like this: the resume gets you an interview; the interview gets you the job. This is when you become more than a bunch of employment dates and workplace accomplishments. This is your opportunity to shine. It's show time!

Go in cold and you're working at a disadvantage. You prepped the perfect resume, now it's time to prep for that all-important interview. Here are ten steps you should take before you show up at the interviewer's door.


1.Review your resume.
Sure, you know it by heart. But what was it that caught the eye of this recruiter or the HR pro? Specialized experience? Unique training? A steady history of career advancement? Revisit your resume from the point of view of the interviewer. It may provide insight into the company's employee needs – something that would certainly be advantageous to know going in.


2.Get back on-line.
The Internet served you well in the preparation of personalized cover letters targeted at the recipients' needs. Okay, visit the company web site again and start taking notes. Corporate officers, the latest press releases, the company's annual report. Gather as much information as you can on your soon-to-be-employer.


3.Study, study, then cram.
The more you learn about your callback company, the better you're going to feel walking in that door. Knowledge is power. Knowledge will make you more confident in your attitude and your answers. You know this stuff. You've studied it! Knowledge of company products, services, protocols and procedures shows the interviewer that you're proactive, with an eye for detail and an appreciation for the power of preparation. In other words, you'll make a positive impression.


4.Rehearse your interview.
How can you rehearse for something that doesn't have a script? Write one. You know the typical questions you'll be asked so write down some of your most insightful, witty thoughts regarding the state of your industry and profession. Be prepared to describe past positions, responsibilities and accomplishments. This is not a time for false modesty, so don't be afraid to highlight your professional strengths and play down your terrible typing skills. Remember: it's no brag if it's the truth. Ask your spouse, your child or a friend to play the role of interviewer so you become more comfortable speaking about yourself in front of others. Again, this is a confidence builder. The more you practice, the more confident you'll be.


5.Develop your list of questions.
Your interview shouldn't be seen as some type of interrogation. It's a “getting to know you” meeting, so feel free to ask questions. However, your first question shouldn't be “How much do I get paid?” or “How's the 401k plan, here?” Instead, ask questions that show you understand the job and the company's needs. Be quick to pick up on the interviewer's comments and ask relevant questions.

Interviewer: We've had some issues with field reports coming in late recently. You: How are the reports transmitted? (Oh, you're good. Very good.)


6.Dress for success.
An interview is a performance with people playing different roles. Your role is successful job prospect. Play the part. Whether you're female or male, the conservative business suit is the recommended attire for any interview. If your business suit needs a pressing, send it to the dry cleaners. If you don't own a suit (you'd be surprised at the number of us who don't) go out and get one. It doesn't have to be an $800 designer suit, but it should be conservative black, blue or gray.


7.Get cut or coiffed.
You'll have 15 minutes to make a good impression. Treat yourself to a visit to the local hair stylist. You bet looks matter. There will be plenty of time to show your talent once you land the job. For now, look like a success, feel like a success – be a success.


8.Practice positive visualization.
Professional athletes do it. So do actors, yoga instructors and new age thinkers who sleep under makeshift pyramids to absorb that mystical energy. It's called positive visualization – and it works. It really does. In the days leading up to the interview, picture yourself sitting opposite the head of HR. Picture yourself relaxed, comfortable, at the top of your game. Play that clip over and over in your mind until it becomes so familiar, it actually becomes a part of your self-image. It simply can't be stated too often – your confidence during an interview should be obvious and genuine.


9.Gather your materials.
The day before the interview, gather your materials and place them in a briefcase or attaché. Don't have one? Buy one or borrow one. It's another opportunity to project that professional image you wear so well. Bring extra copies of your resume in a manila envelop. Bring a pad and pencil to take notes. Bring a calculator (you never know). Bring your address book and copies of your business card. If you've been asked to provide additional information (school transcripts, e.g.) make sure you've got clean copies ready to hand over.


10.Sleep tight.
You've done it all. You've prepared yourself; you've built your confidence so you can look the interviewer straight in the eye. You are ready to rock ‘n' roll! Okay, too psyched. You'll never get to sleep. The night before the interview, go to bed early. Have some warm milk, cocoa or herbal tea (stay away from the 3rd scotch). Relax. Set the alarm and sleep comfortably in the knowledge that you're as prepared as you'll ever be. No, not every interview will be a success. You won't get the job every time – but don't take it personally. It's not about you; it's about the needs of the company. However, you can increase the chances of success by presenting a professional, prepared, and confident you to the interviewer. That's how you turn an interview into a job offer.

You're hired!

- Teena Rose
From www.net-temps.com

Friday, September 17, 2010

Administrative Assistant Needed!

Will assist 8 Project Managers and Marketing Manager. Organizational skills a must and previous experience in engineering or as project secretary is highly desirable. Will be compiling data and reports, producing multi-volume proposals, manage calendars, handle travel arrangements, process expense reports, and act as backup to the front desk Receptionist. Must be able to think on feet and work with little to no direction. Intermediate to advanced Word, Excel, Powerpoint, and DeskTop Publishing skills but also open to performing a bunch of grunt work.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Getting Past the Telephone Screening Interview

Better know how to get past the telephone screening interview since it's growing in popularity among HR folks.

When an employer calls to say, "We'd like to discuss your qualifications a bit," what they are really saying is, "We want to know more about your exact skills and verify your resume, before we offer you an interview." Human Resources professionals refer to this interview as the Screening Interview. In today's job market this kind of screening process has become very popular and is frequently used. This initial employer contact is designed to narrow the pool of acceptable candidates, and you don't want to be one who is not scheduled for the in-person interview.

Telephone Interview

The interviewer hopes they will catch you off guard with their initial call. Employers typically phone in the evenings or on weekends. I've personally conducted a lot of these for employers and I'm amazed at how many people say it is okay to talk when there is obviously TV, loud children, and other distracting events going on around them. Preparation is the key to success. Remember that if you don't pass this screening, you're sunk.

When you get this type of call, tell the person you are just finishing something and ask if you can you call them back in ten minutes. Then prepare yourself. Find a quiet spot, get your resume out and think about the questions the interviewer will ask. The employer's objective is to clarify experience and salary expectations. Mentally rehearse your answers. Have a pen and paper in front of you. Jot down the caller's name and take notes as they ask you questions. Smile, so your voice sounds friendly.

The interviewer's job is to validate an applicant's background (after all, too many people lie on the resume). Employers need to hear that you have the experience needed to do the job. Demonstrate that you do with answers that offer examples of your past performance, and that reiterate your top strengths and key selling points. Be concise -- keep answers less than 60 seconds and, above all, sound interested and enthusiastic about the job. The worst thing you can do is to sound monotonal, robotic, uninterested, and dull. This can happen unconsciously if you get nervous, so actively work to sound self-assured and enthused.

The screening interview seeks to weed out the unqualified and overpriced. The disadvantage here is that the human resource person often is not specifically familiar with all the details of the job. They are generalists and seek to validate job experience, not job potential. Be sure to structure answers to demonstrate how you have done the work in the past and how you focus on self-improvement and making contributions to your employer. To move to the next level you must convince this person that you CAN do the job.

One Major Caution

Be ready for any salary questions. These are tricky. Revealing your financial desires can be used as a measuring stick to screen you out because they can clue the interviewer to your "real" skill level. It's always best to avoid answering any questions on salary until you have been offered the job. If questioned, respond to the interviewer by inquiring, "What is the range this job pays?"

Keep this adage in mind: Whoever mentions money first loses. Don't let it be you.

SOURCE: Book "60 Seconds and You're Hired!"

- Robin Ryan

Career Counselor and Best-Selling Author
From www.net-temps.com

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Wow! Was that a Marathon or an Interview?

Your legs wobble as you wipe a stream of sweat from your eyes. The fatigue is getting to you, and you’re almost ready to fall over before you ever reach the car. No, you didn’t complete a marathon, but you did just finish an interview. I might be exaggerating a bit, but for many of you out there, this is a feeling you’re all too familiar with.
I’m in HR. I’ve seen plenty of interviews from “this” side of the table. But it is so radically different to be an interviewee. I’ve started using the following tips to prepare for an interview just like I would a ten mile race, and I encourage you to give them a shot.

Know the course
Study the company intently. There is an amazing amount of information out there that’s just waiting to be researched. If the company has a blog, look there first. You’ll get an inside look at how they operate and what they do. It also may give you a hint as to what the culture is like. Remember, you’re interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you.

Simulate race conditions
Practice your questions and stories just like you’re sitting in front of the interviewer. The last time I interviewed for a job, I spent about five hours preparing for the interview. When questions came up about my work history or habits, I had a quick illustration to elaborate on any answer if need be.

Anyone can memorize the easy questions and answers to questions like “tell me your greatest strength.” it takes more serious, introspective preparation to answer questions like “tell me about a time you were on a deadline and someone else dropped a rush assignment on your desk.” See what I mean?

Commit to knowing everything you can
Read career blogs and pay attention to people who have relevant experience. Bob down the street might be a nice guy, but if he’s worked at his job twenty years straight, then his career advice is probably best left alone. I prefer to find people who have experience hiring people, because they know what hiring managers really want to see from a job seeker.

By CAREEREALISM-Approved Expert, Ben Eubanks
From www.careerealism.com

Patient Services Technican - Temporary

Nationally recognized clinical laboratory facility in the Medical Center area seeking Phlebotomist on a contract basis. Candidate must exhibit proficiency in blood collection by venipuncture and capillary technique from patients of all age groups. Will also perform urine drug screen collections. Must have a phlebotomy certification from an accredited agency and a minimum of one year phlebotomy experience.

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

X-Ray Tech Needed!

XRay Tech needed for downtown area. Digital Processing experience needed. C-Arm helpful This is a part-time position working Thursdays and Fridays. Experienced X-Ray Tech, please email right away!

Thursday, September 2, 2010

The Job Interview is Not Just About the Job Duties

"CAN HE DO THE JOB?

The first item of business for an interviewer to determine is if you have the qualifications to perform the duties of the job. That is the basic part of interviewing - to determine if the qualifications and experiences fit the requirements of the position.

"DO WE LIKE HIM?" "WILL HE FIT IN?"

The next item of business is to find out if this person is a good "fit" for the job. In other words, will he fit into the team and the company culture? Although this is the more subjective part of the interview, it can make or break your chances of getting the job.

The way you answer a question could be sending the wrong message. Are you describing yourself in the best light?

QUESTION: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?

On the surface this appears to be a straightforward question, but if you answer too hastily you may end up sounding like every other candidate. What makes you unique? How can you make yourself stand out and be remembered?

Interviewers ask this question for a couple of reasons; to hear where you place the emphasis in your description, and to see how quickly and creatively you can think on the spot. SPICE UP YOUR ANSWERS

Don't leave the interviewer with the same old answers everybody else gives. Think about new ways to get your message across and sell yourself.

"I am a high energy person." This answer needs more detail and energy.

"I am a person who is energized by challenges and problems."

"I'm a hard worker." The most common phrase used. No imagination.

"I do whatever it takes to get the job done; sometimes working 10 hour days."

"I am a quick learner." An overused phrase which has lost its effectiveness.

"I can hit the ground running and come up to speed faster than anyone I know.

"I'm analytical." A lack luster answer, that doesn't reveal much information.

"I'm a whiz at analyzing data and transforming it into useful information."

"I'm very organized." This is a very understated answer.

"I am a person who can bring order to chaos."

"I'm reliable." This answer needs more information to get the point across. "I pride myself on my record of never missing deadlines."

"I'm good with customers." The answer needs clarification – good in what way?

"I build great relationships with customers – they always ask for me."

SCRIPTING EXERCISE

Describing your personality is like writing ads for a product. What makes you unique? Are you the type of person who would fit into this organization? Your job is to convince your interviewer that you are that person. Make a list of personality traits that describe you. The qualities you would like the interviewer to remember after the interview. Use some of the same words in the job posting. Requirement: "Must have five or more years experience, managing a diverse population of employees."

Your Answer: "I work well with all types of people."

This is a rather flat statement and not specific. Try a new slant using more powerful words.

"I am a person who values others' qualities and contributions. My employees would tell you that I am a very fair manager who listens when they have something to say."

The more specific you are with your answer, the better your chances of leaving a lasting impression. Interviewers talk to several candidates in a single day. What will make you a memorable candidate?

In today's competitive job market it is worth taking some time to think about how you can describe your personality in a way that will make you stand out. The buyer needs to be sold on your uniqueness and abilities. When you sound like everybody else, you look like everybody else. Distinguishing yourself from the pack will give you an edge. A little work before the interview will put some zip in your pitch.

To your job interview success!

Carole www.interviewcoach.com

From www.net-temps.com