PartnerIT by RSA Corp » IT Job Seekers

How Do I Win the Dreaded Telephone Interview?

George Black — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 14:43:45 +0000

That phone is going to ring any moment now and the voice at the other end of the line is going to hold my future in his or her hands. What can I say or do to make sure that I get the option to take the next step in my search for the perfect job?

We all have faced the challenge of the telephone interview. Some are one on one, some have a team of people sitting around a conference call listening for the knocking of my knees or the stutter in my voice. It is sheer torment, and I know that there must be a way to prepare myself for this challenge.

How about this? I call it 20 Questions. I put myself into the role of “interviewer “, rather than “interviewee” and write down 20 questions that I might ask if I were interviewing me for this job. After writing those questions down, I then go back and write the answers to those 20 questions.

Two things happen. I have the time, with no pressure, to organize my thoughts and get the answers down in a complete manner, that I want to share with my interviewer or interviewers. And secondly, and most importantly, I get the opportunity to walk away from the list for a while and allow the dynamic of, “wow, I wish I had said that” to occur. In having time for that familiar dynamic, I can then get the list out and add that thought to my answer.

Experience tells me that over 60% of these questions will be asked during the interview. After all, I know what the job entails and I know the skills necessary to win such a position. In knowing that, I know what I would want to know about a prospective candidate. The key is writing these down.

And you know what? Because I did something proactive to prepare, I can take the call in a much more relaxed and confident manner. I sound better, I respond better, and I am going to win this interview.

What other techniques do you use to prepare for a telephone interview?

Interviewing Tips: What NOT to Say About Your Personal Life (Video)

George Black — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 17:00:46 +0000

While being personable and open during an interview is encouraged, mentioning too much about your personal life could hurt your chances of landing that job. It is a good idea to keep your extracurricular list short and sweet.

Searching, Snagging, and Succeeding at a Stupendous New Job (Audio)

George Black — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 17:00:08 +0000

Episode # 17- George Black, CEO at RSA Corp, explains the steps to take when searching for a new job, tips to ace an interview, and how to ensure success at a new company.

Interviewing Tips: Why Just a “Yes” or “No” is Not Good Enough (Video)

George Black — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 17:00:15 +0000

A hiring manager’s job is to evaluate whether or not you are the best candidate able to perform the required duties. They will be able to more accurately judge your skills if you explain each of your answers to showcase your knowledge and experience. Never answer just “yes” or “no.”

To Be A Contract Consultant Or Not To Be A Contract Consultant? THAT is the Question. (Video)

George Black — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 17:00:49 +0000

Both contract work and permanent employment have their pros and cons. While being a contract consultant may not allow you to become part of a work family, you avoid office politics and get to experience different challenges with many different companies. Permanent employees, however, do not endure the stress of constantly looking for the next job.

Interviewing Tips: What Questions NOT to Ask in an Interview (Video)

George Black — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 17:00:24 +0000

During an interview is the time to focus on how your skills match the requirements and whether the job is right for you. Steer clear of questions about things like vacation days and breaks, until after you have been offered the job.

Choosing a Recruiting Firm (Video)

George Black — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 17:13:40 +0000

If you are highly qualified for specific jobs, a recruiter can help you find the best opportunity. For them to do this, however, both you and your recruiter must really trust each other. Working with a recruiter is a two-way street, and if you feel your recruiter is not being up front with you, it might be time to find a new one.

Interviewing Tips: How to Negotiate an Offer (Video)

George Black — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 18:00:21 +0000

The rule to negotiating an offer is: “He who mentions money first, loses.” You should be open to considering fair offers, but never mention a specific amount.

Interviewing Tips: How to Write a Strong Resume (Video)

George Black — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 22:53:02 +0000

Focus on facts when writing your resume. What have you done? How did you do it? And what did you accomplish?

IT Hiring Outlook 2010: Contract vs. Perm

George Black — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 19:25:06 +0000

Understanding the benefits of each staffing model can make the difference between boosting operational efficiencies and driving competitive advantage OR stalling necessary growth and improvement. Let’s compare typical models to determine which is best for which industry and how each model affects immediate technology needs, turnover, cost and employee lifestyle.

The current economic situation, layoffs and downsizing in 2008/2009 has created a huge surplus of job seekers. For companies with positions to fill and technology projects to complete, sifting through candidates can be a daunting process.

Both contract and permanent staffing models play a role in a down economy. Learn more about them in this complimentary mini eBook: IT Hiring Outlook 2010: Contract Staffing vs. Permanent Hire.

Read comments from hiring managers who are using different types of employees to control budgets and improve efficiencies.