When you go to a networking event, and someone asks you "what do you do" ... what do you say?

So often, it's My name is 'x" and I'm a "x". (Bad form)

And there are many ways to do an elevator speech or what I call a Business Snapshot --- so let's describe what you do this way... with saying the name of your company or your title!


I'm (first name). I help ______who_____ to do ____what are the results____ by providing ____what services".

What advice do you give someone who goes on an interview and never receives any feedback from the employer or recruiter, and then sees the same job posted days later?

Before you leave your interview, ensure that you get contact details such as a business card from the recruiter and/or hiring manager. Follow up! By phone if possible; if not, via email. Reiterate your interest in the position and ask when you can come in for a 2nd interview. A candidate should always send a thank you for the interview note within 24 hours after any type of interview.  If a candidate doesn't hear back from the employer after being interviewed, it is okay to follow-up one time, 1-2 weeks after the initial interview with a call or email. You might even toss a few quick points into the conversation about why you're an ideal candidate. For example, "Nico, is it possible that we could schedule our 2nd interview? I'm quite interested in the position because of my wealth of experience in ____, _____, and ____." Keep it short and simple!



If they were to actually tell you that you're not a candidate they're interested in, ask why. This feedback can be invaluable in (1) explaining to them that you really do have that experience yet, somehow, it wasn't discussed during the interview, or (2) using that feedback to better position yourself for future interviews.

Call them and say something like, "I've given more thought to this position and have a few more questions for you".

Do not ask about the hiring process, but take the time to show that you have insights, have done your homework and are enthusiastic about the position.

Remember that people hire people they like so build rapport with the decision maker and influencers.

Ask them what the biggest challenge someone would face in this position in the first 6 months and detail how you have successfully faced those challenges before.

Finally, before getting off the phone, just ask, "Based on my credentials, am I considered a candidate for this position?" Better to know than wonder. 

Where does one get "entry level" experience?

 Entry level experience can be obtained via unpaid/paid internships or even volunteer work at a non-profit organization (even if it's for only 2-3 hrs a day/week).  Additionally, I would recommend finding a reputable temporary agency and getting a temporary job. Even a 3-6 month assignment could give you enough experience to land a permanent job. I would say that almost all employees start out as temps/coordinators/assistants and work their way up. Either that, or they have business experience and end up "falling into the role". Stay positive and an opportunity should come up!

Ever Go To The Bathroom While On A Phone Interview? What Makes A Great Phone Interview?

Prepare for a phone interview just as you would for a regular interview. Compile a list of your strengths and weaknesses, as well as a list of answers to typical interview Questions. In addition, plan on being prepared for a phone conversation about your background and skills.

 
Keep your resume in clear view, on the top of your desk, or tape it to the wall near the phone, so it's at your fingertips when you need to answer questions.
Have a short list of your accomplishments available to review.
Have a pen and paper handy for note taking.
Turn call-waiting off so your call isn't interrupted.
If the time isn't convenient, ask if you could talk at another time and suggest some alternatives.
Clear the room - evict the kids and the pets. Turn off the stereo and the TV. Close the door.
Unless you're sure your cell phone service is going to be perfect, consider using a landline rather than your cell phone to avoid a dropped call or static on the line.

Practice Interviewing

Talking on the phone isn't as easy as it seems. I've always found it's helpful to practice. Have a friend or family member conduct a mock interview and tape record it so you can see how you sound over the phone. Any cassette recorder will work. You'll be able to hear your "ums" and "uhs" and "okays" and you can practice reducing them from your conversational speech. Also rehearse answers to those typical questions you'll be asked.

During the Phone Interview

Don't smoke, chew gum, eat, or drink.
Do keep a glass of water handy, in case you need to wet your mouth.
Smile. Smiling will project a positive image to the listener and will change the tone of your voice.
Speak slowly and enunciate clearly.
Use the person's title (Mr. or Ms. and their last name.) Only use a first name if they ask you to.
Don't interrupt the interviewer.
Take your time - it's perfectly' acceptable to take a moment or two to collect your thoughts.
Give short answers.
Remember your goal is to set-up a face-to-face interview. After you thank the interviewer ask if it would be possible to meet in person. 

Dress Professionally
I would also like to recommend that the interviewee dress professionally for a telephone interview -makes them feel more prepared and professional. It is natural to think if an employer cannot see how I am dressed during a telephone interview, I can dress casually, but dressing in "work attire" for the interview, improves your morale

After the Interview: Send a thank you follow up letter & Reiterate