Toys ‘R’ Us hiring 45,000 for holidays
By Staff and wire

Toys “R” Us will hire about 45,000 employees to help with the holiday season.

The privately held toy company said yesterday that it is hiring more workers than in the past three holiday seasons because of an additional 600 smaller stores located in malls and shopping centers. Those “pop-up” stores are called Toys “R” Us Express.

The company is close to signing a lease for a pop-up store at the vacant CVS Pharmacy at Pi Alley in Downtown Crossing, the Boston Redevelopment Authority said.

The news comes at a time when unemployment remains high and seasonal work is viewed as an opportunity for a full-time position.

It also shows some optimism about holiday sales. Macy’s has said it will boost seasonal hiring slightly to about

Funny resume bloopers, but don't let this happen to you


Resume editing and writing is serious business, but everyone has horror stories when it comes to what they've seen in a job seeker's resume or (gasp!) inadvertently included in their own. While resume bloopers may make hiring managers chuckle, they make job seekers cry. Nothing knocks a candidate out of contention faster than these pitfalls:

Inappropriate e-mail addresses:

A candidate who applied for a law enforcement position used this e-mail address in his resume -- badtothebone@net.com.

A banking candidate used this one in his cover letter -- greedisgood@mail.com.

And unless sexykitten@net.com is looking for a job in adult films, this person should choose another address.

Typos that will make you squirm:

Spell check doesn't catch everything in resumes or cover letters, especially typos like these:


"I was hired to review the company asses in 2007."
The candidate meant to write assets, not asses.

"Delivered daily massages to appropriate personnel."
This administrative assistant meant to write that she delivered messages, not massages, to the appropriate personnel.

"As indicted, I have over 5 years of analyzing investments." Perhaps this person meant to "indicate" something else.

Far too much information:

Like the candidate who wrote in her resume under hobbies: Gambling in Vegas.

Or the one who included this under admissions in his resume: "Failed the bar exam 3 times, passed on the fourth go-around, proving my dedication."

And the candidate who began her cover letter with this: "I am going through a very nasty divorce and am currently unemployed. I need money fast and would really like this job."

Eye-rolling objectives:

Hiring managers are used to self-serving statements such as: "I am looking for an opportunity where I can use my education to further my professional goals." However, even jaded managers raised eyebrows at these:

"Looking for a full-time position with minimal time commitment."

"To get a job and pay my bills."

"I have no experience or skills, so I am willing to begin anywhere and learn."

It's unlikely that any of these candidates would have made it through to hiring. You should never treat your job search lightly or leave anything to chance.

With a daunting task as important as finding a job in this economy, your chances for success dramatically increase when you connect with an experienced, detail-oriented, professional editor who writes resumes every day. Use the tips in resume editing, writing and job-interviewing services they provide to make that impression flawless and memorable, in the best way.

The next words you might hear are, "You're Hired!" Copyright © ARAnet, Inc.

Read more: http://www.doityourself.com/stry/ara_funnyresumebloop#ixzz10w760FJI

Demand for Teachers Outpacing Supply

Top research institutions are committed to preparing America's next great generation of educators.

Article courtesy of the USC Rossier School of Education

According to the U.S. Department of Education, America currently has about 3.2 million teachers who work in some 95,000 schools. But more than half of those teachers and principals are Baby Boomers, and during the next four years, we could lose a third of our veteran teachers and school leaders to retirement and attrition.

These major demographic shifts mean that teaching is going to be a booming profession in the years ahead -- with school districts nationwide making up to 200,000 new, first-time hires annually.1


Innovative Teaching Programs
To help meet the growing demand for a new generation of well-prepared teachers who have acquired the education and training to significantly boost student learning, leading colleges of education across the U.S. are turning to innovative programs, emerging technologies and the power of the Internet to attract and prepare America's next great generation of teachers.

For example, the prestigious Rossier School of Education at the University of Southern California, which has graduated top teaching talent for more than 100 years, has reached beyond the physical boundaries of its campus to offer and deliver its highly regarded Master of Arts in Teaching program online (MAT@USC).

The MAT@USC combines interactive online learning with carefully selected field-based experiences in the area where students live, enabling them to earn a renowned master's degree from anywhere in the country. The program offers a course of study for aspiring teachers -- including the opportunity to earn a state teaching credential in their home state, and one for current educators who wish to take their careers to the next level.

To ensure that the integrity of the school's academic standards is maintained, and that students stay connected to their studies, the MAT@USC relies heavily on state-of-the-art web technologies to foster one-on-one interaction between students and faculty. The program's learning platform was designed with a nod towards the familiar user-interfaces on many of today's most popular social networking sites.

Grants to teach
Many leading research institutions have begun offering forward-thinking grants and incentives to future educators who make a commitment to teach where they are needed most. Rossier's MAT@USC, for example, offers the $5,000 Roy Romer Teaching Fellowship to graduates who teach full-time for at least five consecutive years in certain elementary and secondary schools that serve high-need areas.

No teacher left behind
Programs such as the MAT@USC are not only designed to instill knowledge, confidence and skill in teachers who can help change the future of American education; they are also accessible to all – regardless of location.

Now, people possessing the innate talent and desire to become great teachers can leverage the power of modern technology and the curricula of prestigious universities to help them achieve their dreams and goals. And that bodes well for future generations of American schoolchildren.

Job Alert

Job Title: Laboratory Worker
Department: Department Of Health And Human Services
Agency: Food and Drug Administration
Job Announcement Number: PH-BM-386611-COMP/MP

Salary Range: $11.84 - $17.94 /hour
Series & Grade: WG-3511-02/04
Promotion Potential: 4
Open Period: Monday, September 20, 2010 to Friday, October 01, 2010
Position Information: Full Time Career/Career Conditional
Duty Locations: 3 vacancies - Atlanta, GA
Who May Be Considered: US Citizens and Status Candidates
Job Summary:
Become a part of the Department that touches the lives of every American! At the Department of Health and Human Services you can give back to your community, state, and country by making a difference in the lives of Americans everywhere. Join HHS and help to make our world healthier, safer and better for all Americans.

This position is located in the Office of Regulatory Affairs (ORA) Field Laboratory of the Food and Drug Administration.
One or more positions may be filled using this vacancy announcement.

Commissioned Corps Officers in the Public Health Service and "qualified" commissioned corps candidates may be considered for internal placement provided they submit a cover letter indicating commissioned corps status, a current resume or curriculum vitae, and provide all other required information specified in the vacancy announcement.

Key Requirements:

• You must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
• Resume and supporting documents (See How To Apply section)
• This is a Bargaining Unit position
• Relocation expenses will not be paid


Major Duties:
The Laboratory Worker works in a laboratory, cleaning, drying, and sorting a large assortment of laboratory items such as glassware, instruments, and related items. Operates washing machines, cotton plugging machines and other equipment to ensure the proper cleaning and sterilization of laboratory items and equipment. Performs general cleaning assignments. Performs eyewash and safety shower checks.

Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, you must show how your experience or training enables you to perform the following job elements:
-Ability to do the work of a Laboratory Worker without more than normal supervision. (This is a SCREEN-OUT ELEMENT. Applicants who do not show they have this ability will be rated ineligible).
-Work Practices (includes keeping things neat, clean, and in order).
-Ability to interpret instructions.
-Ability to use and maintain tools and equipment.
-Dexterity and safety

ARE YOU USING YOUR EDUCATION TO QUALIFY? You MUST provide transcripts or other documentation to support your educational claims. Unless otherwise stated: (1) unofficial transcripts are acceptable, or (2) you may submit a list with all of your courses, grades, semester, year, and credit for the course. All materials must be submitted by the closing date of the announcement.
Foreign Education: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show that the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, visit:
http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html

Only experience obtained by the closing date of this announcement will be considered.
Status candidates must meet time-in-grade requirements (52 weeks at the next lower grade level).

How You Will Be Evaluated:
Once the application process is complete, a review of your resume and supporting documentation will be made and compared against your responses to the assessment questionnaire to determine if you are qualified for this job. The numeric rating you receive is based on your responses to the questionnaire. The score is a measure of the degree to which your background matches the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for this position. If, after reviewing your resume and or supporting documentation, a determination is made that you have inflated your qualifications and or experience, you may lose consideration for this position. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect your rating.

Benefits:
The Federal government offers a number of exceptional benefits to its employees. This link provides an overview of the benefits currently offered to Federal employees. http://www.usajobs.gov/EI/benefits.asp

Other Information:
If you are a veteran with preference eligibility and you are claiming 5-points veterans' preference, you must submit a copy of your DD-214 or other proof of eligibility. If you are claiming 10-point veterans' preference, you must also submit an SF-15, "Application for 10-Point Veterans' Preference" plus the proof required by that form. For more information on veterans’ preference see http://www.fedshirevets.gov/job/vetpref/index.aspx
Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered or exempt from Selective Service (see http://www.sss.gov/ ).
Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP): For information on how to apply as an ICTAP eligible see http://www.opm.gov/rif/employee_guides/career_transition.asp#ictap. To be well-qualified and exercise selection priority for this vacancy, displaced Federal employees must be rated at 85 or above on the rating criteria for this position.

How To Apply:
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:
1. Your Résumé
2. A complete Assessment Questionnaire
3. Other supporting documents:
- Veterans Preference Documentation, if applicable
- College transcript(s), if qualifying based on education
- SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action (if applying as a status candidate with current or
former Federal service)
The complete Application Package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on Friday, October 01, 2010.
To begin the process, click the Apply Online button to create an account or log in to your existing USAJOBS account. Follow the prompts to complete the assessment questionnaire. Please ensure you click the Submit My Answers button at the end of the process.

Note: To return to a previously Saved or Incomplete application you may use the following link: https://applicationmanager.gov/.
To fax supporting documents you are unable to upload, complete this cover page http://staffing.opm.gov/pdf/usascover.pdf using the following Vacancy ID: PH386611.

Fax your documents to 1-478-757-3144.

If you cannot apply online:
1. Click the following link to view and print the assessment questionnaire View Occupational Questionnaire, and
2. Print this 1203FX form to provide your response to the assessment questionnaire http://www.opm.gov/forms/pdfimage/opm1203fx.pdf and
3. Fax the completed 1203FX form along with any supporting documents to 1-478-757-3144. Your 1203FX will serve as a cover page for your fax transmission.

Required Documents:
The following documents are required and must be received by the closing date of this announcement:
1. Your Résumé
2. A complete Assessment Questionnaire
3. Other supporting documents:
- Veterans Preference Documentation, if applicable
- College transcript(s), if qualifying based on education
- SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action (if applying as a status candidate with current or
former Federal service)

Contact Information:
Philadelphia Services Branch
Phone: (215)861-3074
Email: PHILADELPHIA@OPM.GOV

Agency Information:
Philadelphia Services Branch
US Office of Personnel Management
600 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
USA

What To Expect Next:
Once the online questionnaire is received you will receive an acknowledgement email that your submission was successful. Based upon your score, you may be referred to the hiring official. If your name is referred to the hiring official, you may be contacted directly by that office for a possible interview. You will receive notice via email or by mail, if no email address was provided by you during the application process, once this process is completed (generally 4-6 weeks)

EEO Policy Statement: http://www.usajobs.gov/eeo

Reasonable Accommodation Policy Statement: http://www.usajobs.gov/raps

Veterans Information: http://www.usajobs.gov/vi

Legal and Regulatory Guidance: http://www.usajobs.gov/lrg

Job Alert

Department Of Health And Human Services
Food and Drug Administration
Job Title: Chemist


Salary Range: 32,722 - 64,450. USD per year
Series & Grade: GS-1320-5/7/9
Position Information: Full-Time Career/Career-Conditional
Duty Location: 1 vacancy – Atlanta, GA., Southeast Regional Laboratory

This announcement is open between: Thursday, September 20, 2010 – Friday, October 15, 2010.


The positions are being filled through the use of Federal Career Intern Program (FCIP) Appointment.

Become a part of the Department that touches the lives of every American! At the Department of Health and Human Services you can give back to your community, state, and country by making a difference in the lives of American everywhere. Join HHS and help to make our work healthier, safer, and better for all Americans.

• Do you want to make a difference in improving the quality of people's lives?
• Are you interested in learning and working in state-of-the-art scientific techniques for food and drug safety?
• Join the FDA team and be on the cutting edge of protecting our nation’s food and drug supply.

The position is for a chemist in the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, Office of Regulatory Affairs, Southeast Regional Laboratory, Atlanta Center for Nutrient Analysis (ACNA). ACNA performs nutrient profile analyses on domestic and import food products and dietary supplements for regulatory action.

Applicants must provide transcripts if there is a Basic Requirement stating that a college degree or minimum college credits in a specialty field is required.


For GS-1320 Chemist positions, you must possess one of the following:

A. Successful completion of a four year course of study leading to a Bachelor's or higher degree in the physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering that included 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by course work in mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics.

OR

B. Possession of course work equivalent to a major as shown in A above, including at least 30 semester hours in chemistry, supplemented by mathematics through differential and integral calculus, and at least 6 semester hours of physics, plus appropriate experience or additional education.

(The above also constitute the minimum qualification for the GS-05 level.)

Additionally, to qualify at the GS-07 level for a Chemist, you must possess one of the following:

A. A bachelor's degree in a field of study that meets the Basic Requirement AND meet one of the following provisions for superior academic achievement: 1. A standing in the upper third of my college class or major division (e.g. school of business). 2. A grade point average of "B" (3.0 on a 4.0 scale) or its equivalent for all courses completed (a) at the time of application; or (b) during the last two years of my undergraduate curriculum. 3. A "B+" (3.5 on a 4.0 scale) or its equivalent for all courses completed in a qualifying major field of study, either (a) at the time of application or (b) during the last two years of your undergraduate curriculum. 4. Election to membership in one of the national honorary societies that meets the requirements of the Association of College Honor Societies. Note: Grade point averages should be rounded to one decimal point. For example, 2.95 is rounded to 3.0, and 2.94 is rounded to 2.9. If more than 10 percent of your undergraduate course work (credit hours) was taken on a pass/fail or similar basis, your claim must be based on class standing or membership in an honor society.

B. Possession of one year of specialized experience, equivalent to the GS-05 level in the Federal service, utilizing standard lab equipment to assist in the performance of analyses and tests of material samples; collecting and entering scientific data into spreadsheets or databases; performing routine calculations of numerical data; and preparing graphs, charts, and straightforward narrative data summaries for inclusion in reports.

C. Possession of one year of graduate education with a major field of study in chemistry or a closely related discipline. (One year of graduate education is defined as 18 semester hours.)

D. A combination of specialized experience as described in B and graduate education as described in C that, when combined, equal 100% of the total requirement.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE GS-9:

In addition to meeting the Basic Educational Requirement described above, applicants must have one of the following:

A. A master's degree, or two years of progressively higher graduate level education leading to a master's degree, OR

B. One year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-7 grade level in the Federal Service performing routine scientific analyses and tests on food, drug, and/or cosmetic samples to identify contamination or to test for compliance with quality standards; observing and recording scientific data for inclusion in reports; applying standard laboratory methods and procedures to scientific studies; and interpolating missing data or resolving simple problems which occur during the conducting of scientific tests or experiments, OR

C. A combination of graduate education as defined in A and specialized experience as defined in B that, when combined, equals 100% of the total requirement


KEY REQUIREMENTS:

• You must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
• Resume and supporting documents.
• Relocation expenses will NOT be paid.
• No recruitment bonus
• May be required to work nights and/or weekends and/or holidays.
• Travel required: Some


MAJOR DUTIES:

• Perform a broad range of scientific tests and analyses on official samples submitted to the laboratory;
• Utilize state-of-the-art instrumentation including HPLC, fluorescence spectroscopy, ICP-OES, ELISA, GC-MS
• Prepare scientific reports related to sample analyses
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor


Desired Knowledge:
Please address the following Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) in your resume:
• Knowledge of basic chemistry principles and practices
• Ability to follow established analytical methods and evaluate scientific data
• Skill in oral and written communication

Benefits:

The Federal government offers a number of exceptional benefits to its employees:
• Federal Employee Life Insurance
• Federal Employee Health Benefits Plan
• Thrift Savings Plan
• Leave and Holidays

How To Apply:
Send a copy of your resume, responses to KSAs, three references, and transcripts to the following individuals via US Mail, or email:

Elizabeth Kage
Deputy Director of Science
60 8th Street NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: 404-253-1200 Ext 5209
Email: Elizabeth.kage@fda.hhs.gov

Anjum Waqar
Supervisory Chemist
60 8th Street NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: 404-253-1200 Ext 5209
Email: anjum.waqar@fda.hhs.gov


EEO Policy Statement

The United States Government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability and genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, or other non-merit factor.

DHHS is a Smoke-Free workplace.

Job Alert

Department Of Health And Human Services
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Job Title: Microbiologist


Salary Range: $32,722 - $64,450 per year
Series & Grade: GS-403-5/7/9
Position Information: Full-Time Career/Career-Conditional
Duty Location: Multiple vacancies – Atlanta, GA., Southeast Regional Laboratory
Open Period: Friday, September 20, 2010 – Monday, October 18, 2010

These positions are being filled through the use of Federal Career Intern Program (FCIP) Appointments

Become a part of the Department that touches the lives of every American! At the Department of Health and Human Services you can give back to your community, state, and country by making a difference in the lives of American everywhere. Join HHS and help to make our work healthier, safer, and better for all Americans.

• Do you want to make a difference in improving the quality of people's lives?
• Are you interested in learning and working in state-of-the-art scientific techniques for food and drug safety?
• Join the FDA team and be on the cutting edge of protecting our nation’s food and drug supply.

Transcript(s) are required.

For GS-403 Microbiologist positions, you must possess one of the following:

A. Degree: microbiology; or biology, chemistry, or basic medical science that included at least 20 semester hours in microbiology and other subjects related to the study of microorganisms, and 20 semester hours in the physical and mathematical sciences combining course work in organic chemistry or biochemistry, physics, and college algebra, or their equivalent.
OR
B. Combination of education and experience--courses equivalent to a major in microbiology, biology, chemistry, or basic medical science that included courses as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
(The above constitutes the minimum qualification for this job.)

KEY REQUIREMENTS:

• You must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
• Resume and transcript(s).
• May be required to work nights and/or weekends and/or holidays.
• Travel required: Some


MAJOR DUTIES:
As a Microbiologist, at the full performance level incumbent will:
• Perform scientific analyses and tests on a broad range of official samples submitted to the field laboratory.
• Prepare scientific reports identifying the sample and stating the methods and procedures used, any modifications of the methods including validation of data and the results.
• Select and make minor adaptations to procedures and accepted practices and handle unexpected conditions arising in the normal course of the work.
• Participate in inspections with an experienced investigator to assist, observe, and evaluate manufacturing processes, practices, and conditions.
• Performing scientific tests and analyses on a broad range of official samples submitted to the laboratory;
• Preparing scientific reports related to sample analyses; and
• Assisting in facility inspections
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor

Desired Knowledge:

Please address the following Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA) in your resume:
• Knowledge of basic scientific principles and practices
• Ability to perform basic analyses of scientific data
• Skill in oral and written communication

Benefits:
The Federal government offers a number of exceptional benefits to its employees:
Federal Employee Health Plan
Federal Employee Government Life Insurance
Thrift Savings Plan



How To Apply:
Send a copy of your resume, KSAs, and transcripts to the following:

Steven Simpson
Director of Microbiology
60 8th Street NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: 404-253-1179
Email: steven.simpson@fda.hhs.gov

Common Interview Questions and How to Answer Them - InterviewDestroyer


Question: Tell me about something you did – or failed to do – that you now feel a little ashamed of.

TRAPS: There are some questions your interviewer has no business asking, and this is one. But while you may feel like answering, “none of your business,” naturally you can’t. Some interviewers ask this question on the chance you admit to something, but if not, at least they’ll see how you think on your feet.

Some unprepared candidates, flustered by this question, unburden themselves of guilt from their personal life or career, perhaps expressing regrets regarding a parent, spouse, child, etc. All such answers can be disastrous.

BEST ANSWER: As with faults and weaknesses, never confess a regret. But don’t seem as if you’re stonewalling either.

Best strategy: Say you harbor no regrets, then add a principle or habit you practice regularly for healthy human relations.

Example: Pause for reflection, as if the question never occurred to you. Then say, “You know, I really can’t think of anything.” (Pause again, then add): “I would add that as a general management principle, I’ve found that the best way to avoid regrets is to avoid causing them in the first place. I practice one habit that helps me a great deal in this regard. At the end of each day, I mentally review the day’s events and conversations to take a second look at the people and developments I’m involved with and do a doublecheck of what they’re likely to be feeling.

Sometimes I’ll see things that do need more follow-up, whether a pat on the back, or maybe a five minute chat in someone’s office to make sure we’re clear on things…whatever.”

“I also like to make each person feel like a member of an elite team, like the Boston Celtics or LA Lakers in their prime. I’ve found that if you let each team member know you expect excellence in their performance…if you work hard to set an example yourself…and if you let people know you appreciate and respect their feelings, you wind up with a highly motivated group, a team that’s having fun at work because they’re striving for excellence rather than brooding over slights or regrets.”

New Open Position

Pearson is an international media company with world-leading businesses in education, business information and consumer publishing.

We help children and adults to learn, business people to make good decisions, and readers to wise up or wind down with a good book.

Job Opening:
Regional Sales Manager- Southeast Region

Location:
Atlanta, GA
Miami, FL
Raleigh, NC

10 Keys to a Dynamite Resume

To help you construct a better, more powerful resume, here are ten overall considerations in regard to your resume’s content and presentation:

1.Position title and job description. Provide your title, plus a detailed explanation of your duties and accomplishments. Since job titles are often misleading or their function may vary from one company to another, your resume should tell the reader exactly what you’ve done.

2.Clarity of dates and place. Document your work history and educational credentials accurately. Don’t leave the reader guessing where and when you were employed, or when you earned your degree.

3.Explicitness. Let the reader know the nature, size and location of your past employers, and what their business is.

4.Detail. Specify some of the more technical, or involved aspects of your past work or training, especially if you’ve performed tasks of any complexity, or significance.

5.Proportion. Give appropriate attention to jobs or educational credentials according to their length, or importance to the reader. For example, if you wish to be considered for an engineering position, don’t write one paragraph describing your current engineering job, followed by three paragraphs about your summer job as a lifeguard.

6.Relevancy. Confine your information to that which is job-related or clearly demonstrates a pattern of success. Concentrate only on subject matter that addresses the needs of the employer.

7.Length. Fill up only a page or two. If you write more than two pages, it sends a signal to the reader that you can’t organize your thoughts, or you’re trying too hard to make a good impression. If your content is strong, you won’t need more than two pages.

8.Spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Create an error-free document that’s representative of an educated person. If you’re unsure about the correctness of your writing (or if English is your second language), consult a professional writer or editor.

9.Readability. Organize your thoughts in a clear, concise manner. No resume ever won a Nobel Prize for literature; however, a fragmented or long-winded resume will virtually assure you of a place at the back of the line. Be sure to select a conventional type style, such as Times Roman or Arial, and choose a neutral background or stationery. If your resume takes too much effort to read, it may end up in the trash, even if you have terrific skills.

10.Write and Re-write. Finally, I suggest you write several drafts, and allow yourself time to review your work and proofread for errors. If you have a professional associate whose opinion you trust, by all means, listen to what he or she has to say. A simple critique can make the difference between an interview and a rejection.

PSI Group

InterviewDestroyer
Question: What are your greatest strengths?

TRAPS: This question seems like a softball lob, but be prepared. You don't want to come across as egotistical or arrogant. Neither is this a time to be humble.

BEST ANSWER: You know that your key strategy is to first uncover your interviewer's greatest wants and needs before you answer questions. And from Question 1, you know how to do this.

Prior to any interview, you should have a list mentally prepared of your greatest strengths. You should also have, a specific example or two, which illustrates each strength, an example chosen from your most recent and most impressive achievements.

You should, have this list of your greatest strengths and corresponding examples from your achievements so well committed to memory that you can recite them cold after being shaken awake at 2:30AM.

Then, once you uncover your interviewer's greatest wants and needs, you can choose those achievements from your list that best match up.

As a general guideline, the 10 most desirable traits that all employers love to see in their employees are:

A proven track record as an achiever...especially if your achievements match up with the employer's greatest wants and needs.

Intelligence...management "savvy".

Honesty...integrity...a decent human being.
Good fit with corporate culture...someone to feel comfortable with...a team player who meshes
well with interviewer's team.

Likeability...positive attitude...sense of humor.

Good communication skills.

Dedication...willingness to walk the extra mile to achieve excellence.
Definiteness of purpose...clear goals.

Enthusiasm...high level of motivation.

Confident...healthy...a leader.

How to Get Better Online Job Search Results

It can be tough to figure out the nuances of the online job search. With the option to search by keyword, location, industry, company or all of the above at once, it's hard to know which query will return the best search results for you.

In the absence of knowing the best method for getting targeted results, many people default to what they DO know about their job search: the title of the position they're looking for. While searching for "marketing assistant" or "pediatric nurse" may seem like a good way to get direct hits on the jobs you want, searching by job title actually eliminates a lot of positions that may be exactly what you're looking for.

Why? Because job titles often aren't standardized across different companies and industries. One company's software engineer is another's database programmer. The job descriptions might be exactly the same, but the positions may have different titles.

In order to get the largest number of relevant search results, try one of these methods instead.

1. Search by keyword

Instead of simply searching by a job title, develop a list of keywords that represent both the type of job you're looking for and the work you're qualified to do. The list should be comprised of functions you've performed at previous jobs, duties you'd like to perform at your next job, as well as relevant skills and experience.

For example, if you're looking for software engineering position, your keyword search terms may include:

Software design

Software languages

Algorithms

Linux

.Net programming

Network security

Computer science

Master's degree

Instead of searching the term "software engineer," use the terms above terms to find job results that match what you're looking for.

2. Combine keywords with Boolean search terms

While searching by keyword will bring up a broad range of search results, combining keywords to create a "Boolean search" will allow you to narrow down your results.

Though the term may sound complicated, Boolean search is actually a simple way to combine search terms in order to form strings of keywords. They're surprisingly easy to conduct once you understand the basics.

The basics:

Put quotes around terms you want to keep together. For example "software languages." This will ensure that your results are returned with listings that contain this specific phrase, not just the words software and languages somewhere in the listing.

Combine words using plus (+) and minus (-) signs.

For example, if you're searching for a job where you can put your Master's degree to good use while working on software languages, your search may be: "Master's degree" + "software languages."

However, if you prefer not to use the JAVA language, your search may look like: "Master's degree" + "software languages" - JAVA.

To make your search even easier, Boolean searches also enable you to search root words. Meaning you won't have to conduct separate searches for "programmer" "programmers" and "programming." Instead, type in the root of the word, with an asterisk, to search all forms of the root word. For example, you might search "software language" + program*.

3. Try an advanced search

If you're not sure exactly what you're looking for, or you're interested in a job function, but not a specific industry (i.e. an administrative position in any sector), start with a broad search -- you can always narrow it down as you figure out what you want and don't want.

On CareerBuilder, for example, you can type in a general keyword, like "administrative" and then narrow it down through a variety of search categories. If you realize you'd prefer to work as an administrative assistant in a medical office or at a school, for example, you can specify this in the advanced search.

Similarly, if you are only interested in jobs that pay over $50,000, you can enter in your salary requirements as well.

The more fields you enter values for, the fewer, but more targeted, your search results will be.

Kaitlin Madden is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com and its job blog, The Work Buzz. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues. Follow @CBForJobSeekers on Twitter.

Overqualified? The Pros and Cons of Accepting a Job With Less Money or Prestige

The employment market is still extremely tough, even for highly skilled individuals. The level of competition among job seekers has caused many professionals to consider applying for positions for which they may consider themselves overqualified. Sometimes, this approach may seem like the only way to land a job at all.

But should you do the same? Following are some pros and cons to help you decide whether you should seek a position that may not offer the money or prestige of your former job.

Pro: You can make a mark

If you take a job that you may perceive as a step down from where your career had been, one thing is virtually guaranteed: You won't be overlooked. Chances are you can bring valuable perspective, new ideas or suggestions for improvement to the role because of your professional experience. As a result, you're likely to gain a higher level of visibility than you might otherwise. You might even be first in line for a promotion if the right opportunity emerges.

Accepting a staff position when you were formerly a manager also could help you build certain skills that have been underdeveloped or overlooked. For instance, if you've been in a leadership role for several years, you may not have had a chance to do hands-on work in your field for some time. This could expose you to technologies or processes that have evolved since you were last in an individual-contributor role. If you go back to a management role later, this experience in the trenches can be invaluable.

Con: You might be bored

If you accept a less challenging or demanding position than you had before, you could quickly grow bored with the job. Be sure you'll be comfortable and satisfied with less challenge and, likely, less reward.

Also keep in mind how your previous roles may affect your relationships with managers and co-workers. You may very well have more experience or more impressive credentials than your supervisor. Are you OK with being told what to do and how to do it, even if you feel more qualified than your supervisor to make decisions? Respect the chain of command, be open to others' opinions and avoid bragging about your advanced qualifications if you want to establish solid working relationships within your team.

Pro: You may reignite your passion

In the middle of a busy career where you've always been focused on the next move up, a step down can give you a new perspective. Working in a capacity you haven't for a while -- programming again after moving far enough up the information technology ladder that you were managing people instead of code, for example -- can also give you fresh insight into what you enjoy most about your profession. You may even find, for instance, that you like programming more than managing others. Many people seek this kind of career change because it allows them to find a long-lost passion or improve their work/life balance.

Should you pursue a role for which you think you may be overqualified? There's no right or wrong answer, and in many cases it comes down to economics. It's a complicated decision, and one that depends heavily on your personal situation and career goals. Any experience is a learning experience, and weighing the pros and cons can help you make the right choice.

Con: You could set yourself back professionally

Prospective employers often do not hire workers with more experience than they seek because they worry these professionals will leave as soon as a better job offer comes along. If you are one of those people, you risk burning bridges with your new employer by confirming his initial fears about hiring you.

Consider also that employers look for a pattern of growth when hiring. Going backward a step or two could raise a red flag for future employers. They will likely understand that a difficult job market prompted you to accept the role, but just know that the topic will almost certainly come up.

Robert Half International is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of 360 offices worldwide. For more information about our professional services, please visit www.roberthalf.com. For additional career advice, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/roberthalf.

Copyright 2010 Robert Half International All rights reserved. The information contained in this article may not be published, broadcast or otherwise distributed without prior written authority. Story Filed Wednesday, September 01, 2010 - 11:42 AM

Phone interview tips and advice - Careersearchtoolbox.com


Phone interviews are becoming much more common. Here are some phone interview tips and advice.

Be prepared, you must practice for this as much as you do for a face to face interview if not more. The phone interview is the time for you to do your best because a successful phone interview will lead to a face to face interview which is where the magic happens and deals are made. Do your best to devote all of your attention to the interviewer and avoid any and all distractions and interruptions. Always ask the interviewer what the next step is, how you will be notified and what the time frame is.



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Common Interview Questions and How to Answer Them - InterviewDestroyer

Question: Tell me about yourself.

TRAPS: Beware, about 80% of all interviews begin with this “innocent” question. Many candidates, unprepared for the question, skewer themselves by rambling, recapping their life story, delving into ancient work history or personal matters.

BEST ANSWER: Start with the present and tell why you are well qualified for the position. Remember that the key to all successful interviewing is to match your qualifications to what the interviewer is looking for. In other words you must sell what the buyer is buying. This is the single most important strategy in job hunting.

So, before you answer this or any question it's imperative that you try to uncover your interviewer's greatest need, want, problem or goal.

To do so, make you take these two steps:
Do all the homework you can before the interview to uncover this person's wants and needs (not the generalized needs of the industry or company)

As early as you can in the interview, ask for a more complete description of what the position entails. You might say: “I have a number of accomplishments I'd like to tell you about, but I want to make the best use of our time together and talk directly to your needs. To help me do, that, could you tell me more about the most important priorities of this position? All I know is what I (heard from the recruiter, read in the classified ad, etc.)”

Then, ALWAYS follow-up with a second and possibly, third question, to draw out his needs even more. Surprisingly, it's usually this second or third question that unearths what the interviewer is most looking for.

You might ask simply, "And in addition to that?..." or, "Is there anything else you see as essential to success in this position?:

This process will not feel easy or natural at first, because it is easier simply to answer questions, but only if you uncover the employer's wants and needs will your answers make the most sense. Practice asking these key questions before giving your answers, the process will feel more natural and you will be light years ahead of the other job candidates you're competing with.

After uncovering what the employer is looking for, describe why the needs of this job bear striking parallels to tasks you've succeeded at before. Be sure to illustrate with specific examples of your responsibilities and especially your achievements, all of which are geared to present yourself as a perfect match for the needs he has just described.

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