NEed a JOB!

RyanX said:
Keit said:
There are many sites that explain how to write a good resume, but the most important thing, as I said, adapting it to the company in question. Also important to search or find out about the company and what they do. If they have a website, see what kind of buzz words they are using and incorporate them into your resume while you describe your skills and prepare for the interview.
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In the tech world where I work, this is key. Although, I imagine it is probably true just about everywhere else. I know the one magic buzz word that would lead to a much higher probability of being hired in my department. I've told this to some friends, but they don't seem to believe me that one buzz word can make that much of a difference. But I've been part of the interviews and it really does have an impact.
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Ive worked in the tech field for about the past 9 years straight and would basically agree. But I think it's less about "buzz words" - which are really the latest/greatest implements of technology that are being heavily marketed - and more about using current or old-buzz words (tech acronyms) that relate specifically to the company in question. For instance, if you are trying to get a job doing tech-support for a law firm, they will probably care less about IPv6, MPLS, and Cloud Computing Services (although they may, especially on that last point) and will probably care more about "Windows XP/Vista", "VPN", and "T1/Ethernet/LAN" because these are the things they will actually be using to support their business, things they will need you to know. At my company, I am directly involved in the hiring of people for my department, I'm a participant / technical interviewer but not the decider. And where I work, I know our managers are using the find feature in Word to search resumes to the technologies we use. We get lots of applications, and we only accept digital copies so this makes it very easy to do; in fact its the first filter they apply when weeding people out.

My two cents :)
 
Sorry for so many posts in one place in such a short period of time, but this post really caught my interest.

I can't help it to point out that Nathaniel posted just today in this thread that he wants his account deleted. What strikes me as interesting is how much help, support and information he was given, chose not to listen to really at all (from what I can see) and now is leaving. One of the many things that makes this forum so great is all of the money-FREE advice and input you can receive from people who actually care. Even taking that into consideration, in my eyes, there was just this massive amount of help and advice given to Nathaniel, more than I usually see (probably has alot to do with subject matter since pretty much everybody has first-hand experience), and where did it go? Seems like it might've just gone down the drain, nothing to "catch" it. :(
 
Aaron said:
Even taking that into consideration, in my eyes, there was just this massive amount of help and advice given to Nathaniel, more than I usually see (probably has alot to do with subject matter since pretty much everybody has first-hand experience), and where did it go? Seems like it might've just gone down the drain, nothing to "catch" it. :(
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You are right Aaron, it can be frustrating when this happens. But everybody's efforts were not all in vain. The thread will remain in the forum archives to assist innumerable others who are having trouble looking for a job, and will really help someone one day. That's a great thing about this forum.
 
Hildegarda said:
Aaron said:
Even taking that into consideration, in my eyes, there was just this massive amount of help and advice given to Nathaniel, more than I usually see (probably has alot to do with subject matter since pretty much everybody has first-hand experience), and where did it go? Seems like it might've just gone down the drain, nothing to "catch" it. :(
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You are right Aaron, it can be frustrating when this happens. But everybody's efforts were not all in vain. The thread will remain in the forum archives to assist innumerable others who are having trouble looking for a job, and will really help someone one day. That's a great thing about this forum.
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You're right, Nathaniel was/is not the only one who stands to benefit from the advice shared here. It might've gone down Nathaniels drain, so to speak, but I don't think it was a wasted effort. Like you basically said, you never know who might find the info helpful. cheers :)
 
Aaron said:
Hildegarda said:
Aaron said:
Even taking that into consideration, in my eyes, there was just this massive amount of help and advice given to Nathaniel, more than I usually see (probably has alot to do with subject matter since pretty much everybody has first-hand experience), and where did it go? Seems like it might've just gone down the drain, nothing to "catch" it. :(
Click to expand...
You are right Aaron, it can be frustrating when this happens. But everybody's efforts were not all in vain. The thread will remain in the forum archives to assist innumerable others who are having trouble looking for a job, and will really help someone one day. That's a great thing about this forum.
Click to expand...

You're right, Nathaniel was/is not the only one who stands to benefit from the advice shared here. It might've gone down Nathaniels drain, so to speak, but I don't think it was a wasted effort. Like you basically said, you never know who might find the info helpful. cheers :)
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FWIW, I printed the piece that c.a. posted on the first page about successful interviewing strategies and passed it along to my dad, who has been unemployed for several years. He has had interviews with several companies in the last couple of weeks and he said he found that piece very helpful.

I am self employed, in the tech industry, and I found the discussion about networking to be particularly helpful. I get most of my work by word of mouth, so networking with other people is an important part of my business strategy. Several of the posts on this thread gave me food for thought.

So thank you to all who have posted on this thread, you helped my family and you helped me.

Seamas

*EDIT* - added a link to c.a.'s post
 
I had two teaching interviews this week and wrote thank you emails within one day to the interviewers, something I have not done in the past. I will call later today to check on the one job, the woman had told me a decision will be made by today. Normally if I had not heard from her, I would have waited a few additional days, but I will try to jump right on this and not wait (there is a holiday this weekend anyway, might as well contact her before this). I hope this helps! Thanks for the article, it really gave me some new ideas to try.
 
seek10 already mentioned it a little bit above, but I think it bears repeating, since it can be very helpful. Use LinkedIn _http://www.linkedin.com if you are a professional. It's a lot like FaceBook only for professionals. You can create a profile which can include education and work experience, etc. You can also upload your actual resume. It lets you 'connect' with other people and then see who they are connected to, so you can expand your network. You can also join groups, they have groups for just about every discipline and they sometimes list jobs that people in those groups are looking for. Join every group that is related to your field so you can see the jobs as they become available. This can be very useful because often it's the hiring manager doing the advertising. I have never needed it yet, but I have gotten offers through the site before, and I sometimes see jobs I might like listed in groups. Don't forget too that many jobs (here in the states at least) offer their employees referral bonuses if they can bring in a new employee, so some people out there have a nice cash incentive to refer people. FWIW
 
Thanks c.a. for quoting the article "The Art of the Follow-Up After Job Interviews". I just could apply it on the phone and it really had an effect on the other side!

I was a little bit more determined to get what I wanted, that is, I wanted to get another meeting, while being very polite. It really works!
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Hi Data, Excuse me for not having gotten back to you. Congratulation's, and hope it works out well for you. I felt that it was a good reference, and seemed to be logical to keeping the the possible employer informed of ones interest, with the follow up that can make a difference in becoming employed, that stood out. I thought i would add this from www.Buinessschooledge.com as follow up the do's and dont's, during the interview process. Good luck to all seeking to be gainfully employed.

35 Things To Avoid At Your Job Interview


As with everything in life, it can be very helpful to know NOT what to do just as much as what to do! If you’re new to job hunting, you've probably been reading about how to act during a job interview. You should also be studying how not to act.

If there’s a common complaint among many hiring agents and human resources professionals, it’s how many of today’s generation of job hunters show up for job interviews unprepared or come with a sense of entitlement. While confidence is never a bad thing, it’s not always a good idea to show up to a job interview with the wrong attitude.

Here are 35 Things To Avoid At Your Job Interview

1. Show up unprepared: Most candidates have several days to prepare for a job interview. This is plenty of time to freshen up your resume and references, and learn everything you can about the company and job for which you’re applying. Knowing the business and its major players is great way to give you the edge over other candidates.
2. Pay little attention to your appearance: Think your appearance doesn’t count? Think again! The trend may be for business casual, but it’s still proper business etiquette to wear a suit. When it comes to the job interview, it’s all about the first impression. The company wants to hire the best person to represent the business, mohawked and hardwared individuals usually don’t fit the description.
3. Have nothing to say: It’s frustrating to an interviewer to receive one syllable answers. Go into detail. Sell yourself.
4. Say too much: Give your interviewer time to talk. By monopolizing the conversation and not letting others get a word in edgewise, you’re showing yourself to be a poor listener and disrespectful to higher ups.
5. Give a sob story: No one cares how deep in debt you are. If you give your interviewers the impression you’re irresponsible or your problems are a distraction, you won’t get the job.
6. Tell jokes: A job interview isn’t the time or place to be a comedian. You need to show you’re serious about the job.
7. Lie: Don’t lie about education, qualifications, past employment or a prison record. These are all things that businesses look into nowadays. Lying during a job interview can also be grounds for dismissal later on.
8. Trash a former employer: This is one of the biggest mistakes made during interviews. When asked why they’re seeking new employment many candidates will complain about a past employer. Why would anyone want to hire a malcontent?
9. Blame problems on co-workers: If there was an incident at a past place of employment, own up to it as honestly as possible. Casting the blame on other people only makes you look worse.
10. Act too familiar with your interviewers: Don’t call your interviewers Bob and Suzy (even if it is their names). Unless invited to do otherwise, address them as Mr. Ms, Dr or another respectful title.
11. Give too many personal details: Do you think an employer would want to hire you if he finds out you like to go out and party every night or you’re getting over a drug problem? Your personal life has nothing to do with your job. Don’t divulge unnecessary details.
12. Fidget, bite your nails, drum your fingers or show nervousness: Employers are looking for confidence, especially if you’re expected to meet with clients or give presentations.
13. Chew gum: No one wants to listen to the equivalent of a cow chewing its cud.
14. Bring your breakfast, lunch or dinner: Not only is it impolite to bring a meal to the job interview, it’s the best way not to get the job. Your interviewer doesn’t want to watch you eat, nor does she want to wait until you’re finished chewing to learn the answer to her questions.
15. Be disrespectful: Even if you don’t agree, it’s best to hold your tongue. No business wants to hire someone who is disrespectful to others.
16. Turn in a messy application: If you’re asked to fill out an application, do so in a neat, tidy manner, filling in as many of the sections as possible.
17. Bring only one copy of your resume: You may have several people interviewing you. Bring several copies of resumes and other pertinent information. It’ll show you’re someone who comes prepared.
18. Sit before you’re offered a chair: Wait to be invited before sitting. You may not even be staying in that room.
19. Smoke or drink alcohol: If you’re at a lunch interview, refrain from smoking and drinking, even if invited to do so. The interviewer may be testing you. Some businesses frown upon smokers because they spend a lot of time outside and no one wants to hire someone who indulges in cocktails during his or her lunch hour.
20. Talk on your cell phone or read text messages: To not turn your cell phone or pager off for an interview is just plain rude. Your interviewer should have your complete attention.
21. Show up late: Being tardy for a job interview tells your potential bosses, you really don’t care enough to make an effort. If you have an emergency such as being caught behind a traffic accident or a subway stalling, call ahead.
22. Discuss money, time off or benefits unless an offer has been made: Though this is probably what you’re thinking about the most, you want to the potential employer to think it’s the least of your concerns. The job should be on your mind first and foremost, not the pay or vacation time.
23. Ask no questions: Your potential employer wants to know you’re interested in the job. If you don’t ask any questions, you give the impression you don’t care.
24. Bring your cute little dog on the interview: Pets don’t belong at interviews. They’re distracting and present the potential for disaster.
25. Brush hair, file nails, put on lipstick: Primp before the interview, not during.
26. Cut short the interview for another appointment: Your potential employer doesn’t expect to be your only job interview but he does expect you to block out enough time to give a complete interview. Leaving to go to another appointment is rude and tells the employer he’s not a priority.
27. Hit on the receptionist or pass your phone number to a cute guy: If you give the impression you’re more interested in dating than working you won’t get the gig.
28. Get too comfortable: Don’t put your feet up, put your arms behind your head, cross your legs or stretch them out in the aisle. A job interview isn’t the place to let your hair down.
29. Give vague answers: Don’t tap dance around issues. Answer questions to the best of your ability. If you can’t answer a straight forward question, this employer might wonder what you have to hide.
30. Use foul language: It should go without saying that foul language isn’t appropriate at an interview let alone a place of business.
31. Act as if they need you more than you need them: You’re not the only candidate. If you act smug or make the hiring agent feel inferior you won’t get the job.
32. Excuse yourself often to use the bathroom or phone: If you can’t attend the interview uninterrupted how will you do the job?
33. Forget to shake hands: A potential employer is looking for a good, firm handshake. Don’t overlook this important detail as it says a lot about your character.
34. Fail to follow up: Always follow up on the interview within a few days. It will show the employer you want the job, and also that you practice good business sense.
35. Fail to send a thank you note: It’s polite and makes a good impression.
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I saw in another thread a link to this one, and wanted to revisit it. I just moved cross-country to possibly one of the worst places of :evil: on the planet, Hollywood. I moved here to gain more performing opportunities as a musician and indeed I have a lot more already. Many people are pretty surprised by the amount of stuff I've gotten thus far, which all came out of networking, I didn't really know many people here before I came (and those I did have not gotten me any work yet). I think in the long run, comets aside, things could be better here for me making a living, at least in this field. I've also been really surprised so far at how nice people have been, willing to give me (or anyone) a fair chance, at least as far as music goes. This is definitely a new situation for me compared to the east coast US.

However, the rush of work I have right now is going to end very soon. I have some teaching opportunities lined up, but unfortunately they have not gotten me any students and it's difficult to place me in the middle of the year. Now that I just purchased a car (a necessary thing here, and something I've been avoiding for a while. But I finally went through with it and did it! It opens up many opportunities now) I will be able to do some networking- go to schools, leave materials, offer a masterclass on the instrument for free, meet band directors and students, etc. My money from my big gigs this month will run out in 2 or 3 months so I knew a few weeks ago that I would need something more permanent.

I have sent out over 300 job applications at this point, a month into being here. I have focused on areas that I have background experience in: office work such as receptionist/administrative assistant work (have 6 years of this plus another 2 years at a library desk job); environmental/biology/geological field work (couple of short internships and a environmental geology degree); waitressing (4+ years); and music-related jobs, whether they be performing, recording, or teaching (I have a BA and MM in music). I also have filled out applications at just about anywhere I can think of: coffee shops, grocery stores, retail establishments, cleaning/maintenance, etc. It is really quite frustrating to not hear back from many of these jobs. I have not been super diligent about following up but most places I've gotten in touch with again at least once, usually with no response back (inevitably I am told the manager is out or that they are still reviewing apps, they will get back to me. or, that the position has been filled).

I have only had two places indicate interest. The first one had a phone interview, which I blundered- the ad did not have the work schedule, and I asked what the hours would be. When I mentioned that I would have to leave an hour and a half early for a gig I had scheduled on one date (which was two weeks after the day I talked to her) she said, it sounds like you are not very serious about the position. I have 20 other applicants with availability, sorry, goodbye. :umm: I guess I should not have said anything until after I got hired. Finally I have a job interview tomorrow for a part office, part maintenance position with very unclear hours. Not what I'd love but I sure in heck hope I get it, I need something.

I've been talking with lots of people (friends, new acquaintances, people at the bus stop, etc) and it just really seems like things are getting pretty bad here in Southern Cali and in the US in general. There really aren't many entry-level jobs and even those are being bombarded with many people with lots of experience. Places can afford to do things that are really discriminatory. Most places want you to send a picture before they even consider you for a position. I have been told many times that I don't have the right "image" for various jobs or enough acting experience for working in restaurants (uh, hello? don't you care about whether or not I have waitressing experience?) As one may expect, looks are really important here and I've been berated countless times for not having enough makeup, not looking "done" enough, not having fancy enough clothes or shoes, etc. It has been really hard for me especially with no income (my holiday gig pays once it is over at the end of the month) to figure out ways to deal with this. If I had to encounter this sort of situation several years ago I would have flipped out/given up by now. As it is I am trying to deal with the programs that come up (I guess this whole one of feeling pretty or not- I think it has to do with my wanting others to perceive femininity/adulthood in me is one example- definitely some narcissism here) and sort of use the scene in general here as a "petty tyrant" of sorts. I have to When in Rome... a little bit, at least. It's not going to define me or change me, I'm still myself inside, playing a role is one way to think about it. The interesting thing, though, is that the things I am getting good responses toward really are things that I seem a better fit for, whether it be for a random craigslist gig that leads to me meeting some other good connections that give me work, or even this job interview I have tomorrow, which is located down the block from the house of a teacher I study with. There's also the possibility now I will do a doctorate degree in music, a scholarship may become available at a school that is highly respected and probably the best fit for my current interests (lots of world music, and a teacher who is a breathing specialist!) So I hope that with due effort maybe DCM will lead me towards something that's more suitable for me, that might benefit a lot more people in the long run. Trying to maintain a positive attitude, or at least a non-negative one, is something that is difficult for me but I am getting much better at. Trying not to expect anything... :cool2:
 
D Rusak said:
I've been talking with lots of people (friends, new acquaintances, people at the bus stop, etc) and it just really seems like things are getting pretty bad here in Southern Cali and in the US in general. There really aren't many entry-level jobs and even those are being bombarded with many people with lots of experience. Places can afford to do things that are really discriminatory. Most places want you to send a picture before they even consider you for a position. I have been told many times that I don't have the right "image" for various jobs or enough acting experience for working in restaurants (uh, hello? don't you care about whether or not I have waitressing experience?) As one may expect, looks are really important here and I've been berated countless times for not having enough makeup, not looking "done" enough, not having fancy enough clothes or shoes, etc. It has been really hard for me especially with no income (my holiday gig pays once it is over at the end of the month) to figure out ways to deal with this. If I had to encounter this sort of situation several years ago I would have flipped out/given up by now. As it is I am trying to deal with the programs that come up (I guess this whole one of feeling pretty or not- I think it has to do with my wanting others to perceive femininity/adulthood in me is one example- definitely some narcissism here) and sort of use the scene in general here as a "petty tyrant" of sorts. I have to When in Rome... a little bit, at least. It's not going to define me or change me, I'm still myself inside, playing a role is one way to think about it. The interesting thing, though, is that the things I am getting good responses toward really are things that I seem a better fit for, whether it be for a random craigslist gig that leads to me meeting some other good connections that give me work, or even this job interview I have tomorrow, which is located down the block from the house of a teacher I study with. There's also the possibility now I will do a doctorate degree in music, a scholarship may become available at a school that is highly respected and probably the best fit for my current interests (lots of world music, and a teacher who is a breathing specialist!) So I hope that with due effort maybe DCM will lead me towards something that's more suitable for me, that might benefit a lot more people in the long run. Trying to maintain a positive attitude, or at least a non-negative one, is something that is difficult for me but I am getting much better at. Trying not to expect anything... :cool2:
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D R,

I can relate to this harrowing process of filling out endless applications and resume submissions with little or no feedback in return. I went through something similar in 02 after the dot com bust. I was applying for jobs all across the US and there were very few bites at the time. I think out of 500 resumes sent out, I got a total of two phone interviews. I imagine the situation today is worse for a lot of people. That's pretty shameful if restaurant managers are looking for waitresses with acting experience! Go figure, it's Hollywood! :evil:

It sounds like you've got a couple plan B's and C's in the works if things don't pull through with finding steady employment. It seems like focusing on music in some way would be the best route, since that's where your talents are. Is there any way you could consolidate your costs somehow, like living with other fellow musicians who are in the same boat as you? Splitting the cost of rent and utilities and such.

I just had to purchase a new (used) car recently too. Driving these days is not cheap, but it is a necessity where I live. :/
 
Yes, I am splitting an apartment with a roommate. It is still very expensive here, the prices are similar to NYC or Boston (except that you do get a lot more space for your money). I picked a spot that was slightly more expensive area than some suburbs since I knew I didn't have a car at first. I'll be looking for something cheaper when my lease is up in a few months (luckily I got a 6 month lease). My roommate is a musician too, he is working two "day jobs" but unfortunately he can't help me out yet- one is being a lawyer and the other a paramedic. Still, I've got the word out to friends and colleagues that I'm looking for work. Even though I haven't gotten a position yet, it really seems like it's the best way.

I hope at least gas is not as expensive where you live! :halo:
 
D Rusak said:
Still, I've got the word out to friends and colleagues that I'm looking for work. Even though I haven't gotten a position yet, it really seems like it's the best way.
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Do you have an online presence related to the job you're looking for? E.g. website, facebook page, twitter account, etc.
If I was looking to hire, I would want somebody to be active in the field/industry sphere that they are looking to be in or get into.
Could you do a free concert in a coffee shop that is frequented by movie or music types? Or shoot some videos of yourself and put them online?

Domi
 
D Rusak said:
I saw in another thread a link to this one, and wanted to revisit it. I just moved cross-country to possibly one of the worst places of :evil: on the planet, Hollywood. I moved here to gain more performing opportunities as a musician and indeed I have a lot more already. Many people are pretty surprised by the amount of stuff I've gotten thus far, which all came out of networking, I didn't really know many people here before I came (and those I did have not gotten me any work yet). I think in the long run, comets aside, things could be better here for me making a living, at least in this field. I've also been really surprised so far at how nice people have been, willing to give me (or anyone) a fair chance, at least as far as music goes. This is definitely a new situation for me compared to the east coast US.

[SNIP]
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I lived out in LA in order to get some experience in the electrical field as I have grown tired of computers, like many being in and out of work many times due to the turbulent industry. Ironically, I was in a super stable city job there but chose to move back to NYC for less pay as I had a local network here (friends, family, and some forum members). I also had a hard time meeting real people. Sure, people were friendly, but later on I found the passive side... in the east coast people were straight honest if they didn't like you, there- they pretended they did and talked behind backs.

For your music, I suppose LA is best. For the geology degree maybe northern california is better as that area seems to be more into the environmental stuff. But then, a lot of those jobs are government funded and it seems government things are held back.

Anyway, good luck and glad you aren't signing longer leases. I was renting a room month to month and that was the best thing to not be tied down to a contract!
 
D Rusak, Remember that it's the squeaky wheels that gets the grease. Keep on keepin on. Perhaps life means that by persevering, you will find it may place you at the right place at the right moment, as there good guys out here in Hollywood. It's a matter as others have said in continuing to network as your doing. One thing about musicians, they know real and hear fake.

It was session the i once read that stated that STO take of there own. That is a great compass to navigate, and live by. As well as living the STO life as well as is maintaining the STO perspective. That will be a real challenge in sin city.

Best of luck in your goals.
 
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