Is it safe to provide your Social Security & Birth Date on a job application?

Your Social Security Number and Birth Date will be used solely for the purposes of background investigation and/or employment qualification, will be maintained as confidential and will not be shared with the hiring manager.

Resume Bloopers

- "Don't have own vehicle, but have access to pubic transport" (what?)
- Under Value Offered - "Consciousness" (Conscientiousness is over-rated)
- One young job-seeker had an email address starting with' winged_angle" (hopefully no accompanying tattoo on same)
-applicant list hotpants@.... for employment application.
-client who listed under Technical Skills "rat-shit rench".
- (owner'sname)mybigfatazz@
-used the words "attention to detial"
-"I WILL DO WHATEVER THEY TALL ME
-applicant list "Very adept at measuring thickness and testing hardness"
-Proof read a resume for a gentleman who apparently "severed" pizza and sandwiches
-"Received at plague for employee of the year" -Reasons for leaving last job? "Maturity"
-"Responsible for ruining an entire department"


I am amazed weekly with some of what is written on resumes. Please proofread your RESUME before sending to an employer. It will make a huge difference for you to land an interview.

When describing your job on a resumé, do you use the -ing form of the word, the present tense or the past tense?

It should be 1st person simple present. The easy way for candidates to remember this is for them to remember the invisible "I" before each bullet point... [I] Manage quality improvement processes; [I] Oversee day-to-day operations of office, etc. That invisible "I" seems to be understood by candidates when they write in the past tense for older positions but for some reason they often seem confused when writing in the present tense. The same rules apply: the proper tenses are simple present tense and simple past tense. Employers know job descriptions.They don't know what their candidates accomplished in the job. 

Visit us at www.scarlettcareerservices.com to receive a free resume critique. 

    

A Lesson On Dressing For A Successful Interview

  It's easy enough these days to do the research needed to find out what people in a particular organization or type of organization typically wear to work.

A client who had worked in a small law firm that had a fairly relaxed dress code was pursuing his first role in a big firm. He told me that he spent time in the foyer of the building in which the firm he wanted to work to check out the people going out for lunch (the firm occupied several floors of the building). He noted the kinds of shoes, suits, shirts, ties, haircuts. That way, he already looked like one of them when he arrived for this interview.



But it really is those little things -- like white socks, or a poorly formatted resume, or calling the interviewer by the wrong name, or being a few minutes late -- that usually tip the scale.

Of course, there is a line where you have to say "this is who I am and if it doesn't work here, then neither should I" -- as someone with tattoos, I do not encourage people to pretend to be something they are not in an interview -- after all, you will have to work there every day, and a job where you have to hide your true self is rarely worth it. 

When someone ask in an interview what are your salary expectations, How should you answer?

It depends on who "someone" is. If you are speaking with a recruiter, you need to be forthright about your salary requirements, keeping in mind the whole benefit package, not just a dollar figure. If you are talking to the hiring manager or decision-maker, you have several options, but the best is to return the question with "Can you tell me what range you have budgeted for the position?"

You first need to answer a set of questions for yourself:

* What is the salary/comp package I think (I know) the company is offering for this position.

* What is a fair salary/comp package based on today’s market and how long I have been out of work?

1. At what figure will I definitely reject this job?

* What is the salary/total comp package I would like them to offer me?

* At what figure will I consider this job but not accept it on the spot?

1. At what figure will I accept this job on the spot no questions asked?

Then when speaking to a recruiter ask them to answer question 1 first based on their insider knowledge and then tell them your answers to questions 3 – 6 and find out about the total comp package at this company.

Now when asked about salary by the company the answer varies depending on how far along in the interview/hire process the question is asked. What you need to remember is this is a negotiation at all times so nothing is set in stone on either side until the deal is done.

This is why you need to know what’s in your mind first and play your cards close to the vest until an actual offer is made; as I always tell my candidates “You can’t accept or reject an offer that’s never made. Your job is to get the offer and then negotiate the terms before you accept it.”

When asked in the initial interview this question is generally a feeling out process, if asked during the final interview it is more serious. This is why you must know the interview and hire process for the company, preferably before or during the first face-to-face interview.


It pays to know the range the company is looking to pay as well as the general range of the position in your location.

Whenever possible I suggest answering the question with a question of your own prefaced with your desire for the position.

Example:

I’m very excited about working for XCVV & Co. and see this as a good match for me and the company, that is why I did my homework to answer this question I knew you’d ask before coming for an interview. However I do not know your total comp package so I could not factor that in and that will have a bearing on my answer and how flexible I can be.

What I found is the salary for this position for someone with my experience and skills is between $70k-$90k, which I believe is fair; can I assume this position falls into that range as well?


Another great resource for salary information is www.salary.com. You input the title of the role you are interviewing for and the zip code of the role; it gives you 5-15 job descriptions. You then read til you find the one that BEST matches the role you are interviewing for, click the green button at the top and it will give you the bell curve for salaries for that type of role in that zip code. You can then decide where in that range you REALISTICALLY fall based on your experience, you can then use that salary info for that question to cite a range. While a company MAY be able to consider your past range as additional information when it comes to an actual offer, the reality is that the range for that role in that company is based on the value of that role to the company, not what you were paid previously. You will need to know a salary range before your first conversation with the company, most recruiters will ask this and they do need a number. You may also be asked this as part of your online application; if you cite a # too high above the range for that role, you won't be considered.

LinkedIn to replace Resume

For lower income, less experienced, non-professionals a resume may be their only tool. Your profile in LinkedIn should contain much the same information as a resume. Branding is not in everyone's ability to establish. We have blogs, personal websites, etc. Those venues are being utilized by companies, recruiters and anyone else with an agenda on who they are seeking. A resume and the exercises used to populate it are still in demand. For those who are career changers or good in several different fields because of ability or their own interests in life will find it difficult to target one thing for everyone. LinkedIn would be the most popular venue where Branding is a must. One profile, one direction, but with industries failing and many employers seeking the best of the best in a particular field, some can be overlooked; so LinkedIn can continue to be the networking tool to help you go and find the people you need to connect with. The fact that Recruiters are using it to find candidates will also limit their choices because at the time of the search, the perfect candidate is trolling and not specific enough to get caught. Candidates should still reach out, find those who can help and use the Social Media for that purpose. How do you stand out from the crowd? Go to the leaders, not wait to be found.

Yes, recruiters and hiring managers look at LinkedIn profiles to get the gist of someone's experience, see their photo and read what people say about them. LinkedIn is a very important tool for a job search and for building your professional brand.

But depending on a social profile to present your experience tailored to a specific opportunity is a bad idea, and when you sit down in an interview, as Perry says, the interviewer is not going to be using your LinkedIn profile as a guideline, nor can they take notes on it.

A resume is your chance to present yourself for a specific job. It's your marketing document and it presents the information you want them to have about you in the way you want them to see it. It will be evaluated and filed digitally, but not showing up to an interview with one printed on paper is a big mistake. A great resume creates the impression you want, gives the information you want to give, and can be the tipping point for getting the offer.

Sample Cover Letter (Introduction)

Hi,

I would like to share my resume with you.

I am interested in applying for [add position here]. I think I would be suitable for this position because [add reasons here]. I am currently [add current position]. The best times to reach me are [insert days and time].

Kind Regards,

Ivy Winters

Ask SCS:Adding the Pursuing Course to Resume

I’ve already completed my B.E. in Aeronautical & have been working since April 2011. Now (this January 2013) I joined a MBA (Project & Operations) Course Part Time and I would like to know whether it would be good enough to highlight it in my resume. Or will the HR think it as a distraction that I am trying to hold on to the studies and put the resume to hold.

If at all I am adding it to the Resume,

how to make it look or how do I put it.
Should it go before the degree or after it.
how do i define the Course period (presently pursuing or just 2015)

SCS Says: I recommend that you add it above your education section. You can entitle it, "Post-Graduate Studies" and then list the course and the name of the school.  

Rule of thumb is that valuable information for the employer is always included and useless information is omitted.

Experience or Education on top of your resume?

When reading resumes, I scan the resume. Do the dates line up perfectly? Is an applicant skipping anything? Make it neat, succinct, use concrete examples. A well written cover letter will do much more for you than a resume in my book. I am also much more likely to read someone's resume if they have an objective. It tells me a lot when they know what they are looking for. If you have to write an objective for each resume you submit to each company, you would be doing yourself a huge favor. Every company wants to hire people that want to work for them. If you can structure your objective as to why you want to work for their organization, it will make a difference.

I recommend putting whichever you have more of on top. If you're a recent graduate with not so much experience then education should go on top. But if you've had many years of experience, that should go on top.

Relief for Long Termed Unemployed in NYC

Long Term Unemployed will NOT be Able to be Discriminated Against in NYC.
Read this article for the details on the new law.

NYC Law Aims to Protect Unemployed from Discrimination

How many years of experience should a candidate be reasonably expected to have for an entry-level position?

An entry level position by its nature is 0-3 years of work experience. Entry level jobs that require 2-3 years of experience is a common issue for college students who are just entering the workforce. Its often difficult for them to gain relevant work skills while attending school full time. On the other hand, employers want to make sure they hire someone who is capable.

So what's the solution?
I believe that employers should look for well rounded candidates who not only did well academically, but was also actively developed themselves by participating in student clubs, volunteering, working part time or full time, even in another field.


Personally, I've found that years of experience (generally) does not make all candidates equal. Some companies have given "novice" people more "seasoned" responsibilities while some "seasoned" people cannot perform "novice" duties. Years of experience does not necessarily equal maturity, ability to perform, experience or any other predictor of success. The transferable skills are valuable and should definitely be considered in accessing candidates.

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. 

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

What annoys you when reading jobs posted by companies online?

Should client reveal his age up front?

It is illegal for an employer to discuss age period. Age should never be discussed during and/or after an interview. Additionally, it should not be placed on neither the resume or cover letter. According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), Age discrimination involves treating someone (an applicant or employee) less favorably because of his age.

The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) only forbids age discrimination against people who are age 40 or older. It does not protect workers under the age of 40, although some states do have laws that protect younger workers from age discrimination.

It is not illegal for an employer or other covered entity to favor an older worker over a younger one, even if both workers are age 40 or older.

Discrimination can occur when the victim and the person who inflicted the discrimination are both over 40.

The Telephone Interview... Easy?

I think one has to have a certain skill set to successfully sell themselves in a phone interview setting. Because you're unable to pick up on body language or visual aids, you must rely on the confidence and clarity in your voice. Being prepared should be obvious because you would hopefully do the same in a face-to-face interview. It's just the absence of visuals that sometimes make phone interviews uncomfortable for some people.

My Advice: Market your education, skills, and knowledge with the position in which your applying for and Be YOURSELF..

What would you do if a company ask your password in a job interview?

But I don't wanna use a picture on LinkedIn

For LinkedIn to be at 100% compete you need a picture, and if you are not at 100%, LinkedIn will not be optimized.A photo is essential especially if you are job searching or open to new opportunities.Your picture allows people to connect with you--even if only subliminally. Not having a photo is like saying, "How I dress shouldn't matter." Linked In is about personal branding--and so is job seeking.

Why candidates don't join usually even after accepting the job offer ?

1.Current employer may counteroffer in an effort not to loose you

2.Candidate receives two additional offers with additional benefits to include medical, dental, etc.

3.Candidate wants to see their current market value as it relates to their current position and/or salary

4.Any personal reasons(Travel,environments,work hours,etc..) 

Rule of thumb- Always keeping your options open with 2-3 offers on the table. Weigh all your options and take the best offer possible including salary, benefits, and additional perks. Never burn bridges with your current employer regardless of your situation being bad, good, and/or in different. 

Your Body Language During an Interview SPEAKS LOUDLY!

We all want to impress the Hiring Manger.

We all speak what the Hiring Manager would like to hear and would impress enough to give the job. We all are scared if any one of our answer annoys the Hiring Manager. As we are so much confused between what we have to say and what would be the idle answer an employher would like; behaving natural is tough but again it is the solution too.

No panic, No mistakes. Just be yourself!! Be attentive, speak truth and show your willingness to do every thing.