Why should you send a follow-up "Thank You" letter?

Follow-up by phone & email. I am of the mind that a Thank You letter should be hand-delivered whenever possible. If not hand delivered, perhaps couriered over the next day, no later.

Delivering the letter in person, dressed appropriately of course, shows a keen and sincere interest, as well as giving the opportunity to 'be seen' once more, & provides one with a chance to observe the work environment 'in action'.

Also, a 'hand written' thank you has a very powerful and memorable impact vs. an email. Personally I always hand write a Thank you for a in-person interview, and email one for a telephone interview.
Take a control position once you nail the interview and keep in mind that 'inter-viewing' is always a 'two-way street'.

A thank you letter is like breathing to me, it is a common professional courtesy, and another marketing tool for you to shine with your writing abilities, and keen interest in the position.

When you do receive the dreaded 'merge reject letter', I would suggest, (depending on the level of the position and what transpired during the course of the interview in terms of 'rapport' building),

* ask the interviewer direct questions as to why you were not chosen, and

* 'ask for a referral' to any firm or professional they know that may need someone with your particular skill sets & personality profile. At the very least, 'keep me in mind'.....

Remember, THEY contacted YOU for an interview - obviously you did something right to make that happen - they were impressed enough with you on paper - why wouldn't another firm be.....

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

Paid Sick Leave on Its Way in NYC?

Deal Reached to Force Paid Sick Leave in New York City


It will be interesting to see if this mandate will force employers who lump all leave benefits together (PTO), to distinguish between sick, personal and vacation days, even if the leave time exceeds the 5 days mentioned in the article.

Another question regarding leave benefits given to new hires, how will this be regulated. Would this mandate require an employer to provide the 5 days on the first day of work? Or would an employer still have the option of providing the 5 days over a course of time for new hires as long as it is still within a year?

The Companies Hiring The Most Right Now

Here are the 10 companies hiring the most right now (for jobs that pay $60,000 or more):

1. Amazon: 2,407 openings
2. Oracle: 2,350 openings
3. Microsoft: 2,089 openings
4. Dell: 1,862 openings
5. JPMorgan Chase: 1,761 openings
6. IBM: 1,755 openings
7. PwC: 1,571 openings
8. SAIC: 1,537 openings
9. CRST International: 1,378 openings
10. Apple: 1,374 openings

Source:forbes.com

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.

SCS Asks Employers......

What are the glaring mistakes or ways applicants sabotage themselves when attempting to secure a job with your company? 

• Mistakes in their resume

• References don't give consistent answers

• Sloppy attire

• Incomplete applications

• Don't send thank you note promptly.

......... and more.          

If you are contemplating or in the throws of a job search; what are your greatest challenges or roadblocks?

If You Are A Job Seeker; What Questions Should You Definitely Ask During An Interview?

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

What annoys you when reading jobs posted by companies online?

HURRICANE SANDY AFTERMATH OCEAN BREEZE ANGEL RELIEF STATEN ISLAND NY

Should An Older Job Seeker Use LinkedIN? What Are The Risks And Rewards?

 I strongly recommend that all job seekers research social networks sites such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. Additionally, utilizing LinkedIN will afford you the opportunity of connecting with many employers as well as building your professional network. Before using LinkedIN, you should ensure that all your employment history is current and up to date. I have noticed that most employers are utilizing LinkedIN as a way of researching applicants. LinkedIN is your one stop shop for networking as well as applying for positions. It is the official job site as Facebook.

Election Day Action Items!

Here are four action items for on election day!

1. Have A Voice & Vote -- Head to the polls today and let your voice be heard!

2. Get Election News from CNN Online -- See all of CNN Online's reporting on how the results of presidential election might impact you, comparison of the candidates and more here: http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2012/11/06/polls-open-on-election-day/

3. Send Pics from the Polls -- Are you headed to the polls today? Are you in line as we speak? Send us your pics from the polls! Email your pics to scarlettcareerservices@gmail.com

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.

Donate to Hurricane Sandy

Want to know how you can donate to Hurricane Sandy relief efforts in New York, NC, DC, Philly, Baltimore and the rest of the entire East Coast? Click Scarlett Career Services  to see a few of your options.  

Those personally impacted by the storms are in our thoughts and prayers.

Deroll Scarlett
CEO, Scarlett Career Services

Jermaine Cooke
COO, Scarlett Career Services