killer resumes and acing the job interview for new graduates

[abcxyz]

to be honest, this is how i go through resumes of new graduates. if at any one step, the resume does not match the criteria, i junk the resume and the person does not get a call for an interview :

1) read cover letter - needs to grab me
2) good school? good school reputation?
3) check major - fit for the job?
4) check school activities - look for leadership roles and achievements (most important, actually)
5) good grades? (the least of my concerns, actually)


for interviews ---- looking for the following :

1) confidence
2) verbal communication skills - communicating his/her ideas, persuasiveness, correct grammar a must
3) quality of ideas and opinions (important!)
4) ability to handle pressure - i ask tough questions
5) being late for the interview and not dressing well for the interview is an automatic delete!

[mac_bolan00]

i encountered too many interviewers like you when i was still in makati. that's one reason why i'm working in quiet quezon city right now and have things going pretty much the way i want them to.

[bachelor_zone]

to abcxyz:What can u say about the graduates of East Asia College of Information Technology (an eduactional partnership of IBM Phils,IWI and SM shoemart).I heard from a friend that this is a good IT school.May nainterview ka na bang galing sa school na to?Am looking for a good school for my brother.Ano ba maganda?You mentioned above that ur looking for a candidate that came from a good school.Don't mention La Salle n Ateneo di namin kakayanin ang budget dun.The tuition fee of east asia is 18,000 per sem.Tri-mestral din sila.Ano ba magandang school basta di dapat lumampas sa 20 thou per sem and reputable naman.Asia Pacific in Magallanes.Ok din ba dun? Pls. share ur opinions.Thanks

Nasa topic pa ba ako.Medyo related naman eh.Patulan nyo na pls.

[jobls_prsn]

For abcxyz:
Would you go for the person with high grades and no extra curricular or the person with a lot of extra curiccular and low grades?

Do you have tips for writing a cover letter that grabs the attention of the HR person?

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by bachelor_zone
to abcxyz:What can u say about the graduates of East Asia College of Information Technology (an eduactional partnership of IBM Phils,IWI and SM shoemart).I heard from a friend that this is a good IT school.May nainterview ka na bang galing sa school na to?Am looking for a good school for my brother.Ano ba maganda?You mentioned above that ur looking for a candidate that came from a good school.Don't mention La Salle n Ateneo di namin kakayanin ang budget dun.The tuition fee of east asia is 18,000 per sem.Tri-mestral din sila.Ano ba magandang school basta di dapat lumampas sa 20 thou per sem and reputable naman.Asia Pacific in Magallanes.Ok din ba dun? Pls. share ur opinions.Thanks

Nasa topic pa ba ako.Medyo related naman eh.Patulan nyo na pls. sorry - have not interviewed anyone from East Asia nor Asia Pacific. so no opinion there.

am also not from IT. i guess among IT practitioners, certain schools would have a reputation and they should know.

what i know works for IT graduates is it helps a lot to have SAMPLES of your work, an original work that you have done. having your own website also helps. the websit and sample of your work ought to showcase your skills and/or interest.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by jobls_prsn
For abcxyz:
Would you go for the person with high grades and no extra curricular or the person with a lot of extra curiccular and low grades?

Do you have tips for writing a cover letter that grabs the attention of the HR person? i would consider both - person with high grades and no extra curricular; and person with lots of extra curricular but low grades.

high grades/no extra c to me means the person might have good intellectual abilities but might need to work on leadership or people skills. in the interview i will probe on leadesrhip and people skills.

low grades / lots extra c to me means the person might have good people/leaderships skills. in the interview i will probe on how responsible/irresponsible the person is. will also probe in intellectual skills and comunication skills.

i like cover letters that are :

* error free, absolutely no typo or grammar flaws
* shows the person did some research about the company and mentions a skill or interest that is specifically applicable to the company
* shows a lot of interest on the job
* has spunk, is confident

go check out monster.com (http://www.monster.com/) they have lots of tips there too.

[jobls_prsn]

thanks

[abcxyz]

what do hr practitioners think?

[DiyosA]

>3) check major - fit for the job?

Reality dictates it. You don't stand a chance to get employed if your degree is far from your actual abilities. For the convenience of the employers, they want concrete evidence (i.e., aside from the portfolio of your work) - your diploma. There are many graduates there with relevant courses anyway, they would say. The company wouldn't risk on employing "magicians" or say, those who are bullheaded and almost-technically qualified for a particular position.

For example, a self-taught artist.

[hodgepodge]

Do hr ppl know when "binobola" lang sila ng new graduates? How? Sometimes its really hard to strike a balance between sounding good, confident and pure "bola".

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by hodgepodge
Do hr ppl know when "binobola" lang sila ng new graduates? How? Sometimes its really hard to strike a balance between sounding good, confident and pure "bola". its really hard to tell if its "bola". but when i feel its "bola", i change the topic in the meantime, then go back to it after awhile and ask other qualifying questions. will also probe for more details. if the person is unable to provide details, "bola" iyon.

[Leigh]

I used to check and revise resumes for other students when i was still in college. I have observed that certain schools have certain resume looks...in Ateneo - it's usually just one page and just one line descriptions of their participation in activities. In DLSU, they have this resume with maximum of two pages.

Basically the resume should be error free, i always told the students that they should ask at least 2 people to read their resume before sending them to companies. Try to highlight your skills that you possess in relation to your activities in school.

for interviews:
- again, research always helps, get to know more about the company, visit their site or ask people about how's it working there. Also read about the industry the company is in, plus their competitors.

[aji]

Could anyone of you give me tips on how to deal with panel interviews? I'm having a big and serious one in a few weeks time. I need some views from the "experts". Thank you!

[aji]

Another thing, Should resumes contain high school achievements? I notice some of my friends include high school awards received way back in their freshman year (1st year HS- onwards). Is that proper? Would that clutter the resume or would that concretely show off your capabilities?

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by aji
Could anyone of you give me tips on how to deal with panel interviews? I'm having a big and serious one in a few weeks time. I need some views from the "experts". Thank you! treat panel interviews like any other interview. you need to do the same kind of preparation and mental attitude.

these things work :

> do some research on the company and products, form an opinion on them
> work on a few "images" you want to cultivate about yourself and make sure your examples about you and your answers go back to these images. work on a very few anjd select images, no more than 3 --- "leader", "fast learner", "good communicator" for example could be the images you want to cultivate. make sure these images are meaningful to the company, to the job and you can deliver.

panel interviews normailly mean they are in a hurry to hire. it also means you might not get another chance, so make sure you pass the panel interview.

it would be good to connect and cultivate a dialogue with one panel interviewer who appears to be the person who has the most power to hire.

but dont snob the others. dont ignore everyone elese bec if you do they will be antagonostic against you.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by aji
Another thing, Should resumes contain high school achievements? I notice some of my friends include high school awards received way back in their freshman year (1st year HS- onwards). Is that proper? Would that clutter the resume or would that concretely show off your capabilities? clutter on the resume is a good consideration.

but the more important consideration is ---- will including the high school achievements help your cause? will it improve the resume on the over-all? how meaningful are they? use your judgement.

also, if there is a noticeable difference between the high school and college achievements, be prepared to explain why there is a significant difference.

[aji]

Thank you abcxyz ! :D

[anwarlorenzo]

sometimes it pays to be spunky pala ;)

[ahock]

abcxyz

Can you also give info about applicants with experience already. What field are u into nga pala?????????:)

[aji]

Question: Should I recognize the panel when the panel interview starts? If yes, would that make me look bad if I didn't? If no, would that make me look good?

[candycandy]

I graduated 1999.. my first job with a British/American CEO and lastly my second job with a Filipino CEO.

My question is:
Why is it hard to please or win the interest of a Filipino employer? Been through with meetings with foreign clients and noticed that I can impressed them and have their YES so easily.. while others (Filipino client), they will examine your skills bit by bit before they give their answer.. mostly, NO pa. But some ok naman.

another Q:
People usually see me squinting and tend to think that I dont believe them. Na parang "kinikilatis" ko yung mga sinasabi nila. Marami tuloy nagagalit sa akin.

Sa mga companies, after interview hindi na ako tinatawagan.. I dont know but I feel that squinting is one major reason. Kasi di ba eye contact yung importante? I don't feel relaxed tuloy pag may interview ako kasi conscious na ako sa mata ko. What should I do?


Thanks for any help or advise.

[bepanthene]

Originally posted by candycandy
another Q:
People usually see me squinting and tend to think that I dont believe them. Na parang "kinikilatis" ko yung mga sinasabi nila. Marami tuloy nagagalit sa akin.

Sa mga companies, after interview hindi na ako tinatawagan.. I dont know but I feel that squinting is one major reason. Kasi di ba eye contact yung importante? I don't feel relaxed tuloy pag may interview ako kasi conscious na ako sa mata ko. What should I do?


Thanks for any help or advise.

Baka yan ang reason. Just try not to do it. alam mo naman, minsan pag may nakikita kang taong mukhang suplada, ang iniisip mo, talagang suplada siya pero hindi naman. mukha lang. kaya baka akala nang manga tao sa yo, galit ka or inaasar mo sila or something like that. :D

[candycandy]

hi bepanthene!!


maiiwasan ba yun?? ganun na talga ako makatingin eh.. unless you are my friend, you will understand.. Feeling ko pag nag-iiba ako ng tingin sa kausap ko.. parang crossed-eyed naman ako.. feel ko lang.. hehehe

ang hirap lalo na sa interview.. Nakakawala ng confidence :(

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by anwarlorenzo
sometimes it pays to be spunky pala ;) yes, all the time. companies want to hire the best among those in the job market

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by ahock
abcxyz

Can you also give info about applicants with experience already. What field are u into nga pala?????????:) essentially the same principles apply.

but the more work experiences you have, the less important what school you graduated in and your course becomes. what becomes more important are :

> the companies you have joined
> the experiences you have had
> career development
> promotions
> achievements
> business results of what you have done

[bepanthene]

Originally posted by candycandy
hi bepanthene!!


maiiwasan ba yun?? ganun na talga ako makatingin eh.. unless you are my friend, you will understand.. Feeling ko pag nag-iiba ako ng tingin sa kausap ko.. parang crossed-eyed naman ako.. feel ko lang.. hehehe

ang hirap lalo na sa interview.. Nakakawala ng confidence :(

Are you near-sighted? Before I started wearing glasses, I squinted a lot. Maybe you should get your eyes checked if you haven't already.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by candycandy
I graduated 1999.. my first job with a British/American CEO and lastly my second job with a Filipino CEO.

My question is:
Why is it hard to please or win the interest of a Filipino employer? Been through with meetings with foreign clients and noticed that I can impressed them and have their YES so easily.. while others (Filipino client), they will examine your skills bit by bit before they give their answer.. mostly, NO pa. But some ok naman.

another Q:
People usually see me squinting and tend to think that I dont believe them. Na parang "kinikilatis" ko yung mga sinasabi nila. Marami tuloy nagagalit sa akin.

Sa mga companies, after interview hindi na ako tinatawagan.. I dont know but I feel that squinting is one major reason. Kasi di ba eye contact yung importante? I don't feel relaxed tuloy pag may interview ako kasi conscious na ako sa mata ko. What should I do?


Thanks for any help or advise. i dont think race has anything to do with difficulty to persuade them or to get their trust. i have dealt with all kinds and it can go either way.

why do you squint in the first place? is that an eye problem? kung eye problem, see a doctor.

but if you squint bec u agree/disagree or believe/not believe who you are talking to, then you need to do something about it.

you really cant choose the people you deal with --- there will be smart ones and dumb ones; meron trying hard, merong puro pretend, meron ding really knowledgeable and skill full.

professionalism, good persuasive skills and maturity says you need to know ho to handle each person and be successful with each one.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by aji
Question: Should I recognize the panel when the panel interview starts? If yes, would that make me look bad if I didn't? If no, would that make me look good? what you mean by recognize? as in say hello? well u should say hello.

the first that they will probably ask you is --- tell us something baout yourself. its a dumb question but panel interviews for some reason start this way.

have a prepared answer to this question. its best that the answer immediately says "im the guy you want for this job".

anothertypical panel question --- "why do you think are you qualified for the job", another dumb question you need to prepare for.

[candycandy]

bepanthene and abcxyz i am far-sighted.. even now that im wearing my eyeglasses, i still squint. Matalim ako tumitig. Nakakaoffend daw talaga.

Turn-off ba yung Taglish?? or as long as you deliver well and express your thoughts that counts?
Mini skirts(4 inches above knees) on/off during interview? or masyadong maiksi na yun?

[Kaoru_Himura]

Originally posted by abcxyz


[QUOTE]the first that they will probably ask you is --- tell us something baout yourself. its a dumb question but panel interviews for some reason start this way.

How is the best way to answer this? Do you talk about your interests? jobs you've handled?

have a prepared answer to this question. its best that the answer immediately says "im the guy you want for this job".

anothertypical panel question --- "why do you think are you qualified for the job", another dumb question you need to prepare for.

This is tricky. What's the best way to sell yourself without sounding so full of yourself or sounding like 'nambobola'.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by candycandy
bepanthene and abcxyz i am far-sighted.. even now that im wearing my eyeglasses, i still squint. Matalim ako tumitig. Nakakaoffend daw talaga.

Turn-off ba yung Taglish?? or as long as you deliver well and express your thoughts that counts?
Mini skirts(4 inches above knees) on/off during interview? or masyadong maiksi na yun? you sure there is no medical reason for the squinting? go see your doctor.

if they say its a real turn-off, you need to learn to control it. how? hindi ki alam actually. if the squinting is brought about by your dismay on how dumb the person interviewing you, try thinking of good things about the person instead. that might help.

you need to be conscious of what you do and how you conduct yourself in meetings/interviews. i have learned to control many things. put your mind into it.

taglish? if the person your interviewing you talks in taglish, it is ok then. for me, the rule is --- it is safest that you use the language the interviewer is using; and the language you are most confortable with.

mini-skirts? personally, i wont have problems with that. you'd get a second, third interview even. ooops ---- ano nga iyong topic? he he he. just kidding.

the over-riding consideration is -- you want to look prefessional and sincere. so you dress up according to that. it really depends on the industry and the job you are applying for. if its marketing/brand management and advertising --- being trendy and daring is acceptable. or even in the liesure/travel industry. but not in the banking industry. merong mga companies and industries that tend to be traditional and conservative.

it is ok to be you, but you need to bend that just a little to suit the occasion and scenario.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by Kaoru_Himura
How is the best way to answer this? Do you talk about your interests? jobs you've handled?

answer that is job-related, your experiences and achievements, your skill sets.

"im a junior brand manager who has been involved in some marketing successes in the country. i have worked for companies who appreciate strategic thinking and demand on-time, high-quality execution."

or some bs like that. but NEVER LIE. bec they will probe and you will be found out. just SELL yourself. its in the choices of the words.


Originally posted by Kaoru_Himura
This is tricky. What's the best way to sell yourself without sounding so full of yourself or sounding like 'nambobola'.
there is a diference between sounding "full of yourself" versus confidence. show confidence not boastful. be factual, editorialize at the right topics. be SINCERE. a lot of it has to do with the WAY YOU DELIVER the lines. so practice, practice.

i went to ALL the interviews i was called for, even for jobs i dont like or companies i dont like. i went to get some practice. and id try out a few lines with companies i dont like just to see their reactions to it. then change it next time.

[candycandy]

Usually, eye-contact lang naman yung problem ko during interview.. thanks abcxyz.

How about the gestures?? And plus ba yung magdala ng print-outs of your portfolios??

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by candycandy
Usually, eye-contact lang naman yung problem ko during interview.. thanks abcxyz.

How about the gestures?? And plus ba yung magdala ng print-outs of your portfolios?? gestures are good. just make sure u have clean nails and hands. ha ha ha

yes by all means bring portfolios. make sure they really look good.

[candycandy]

abcxyz about resume.. Ok ba yung maglagay ng personal info like this:

*Proficient in ..
*Strong knowledge in..
* Involved in...

.. so forth or turn-off yung ganun?

[abcxyz]

these words are just fine as long as you can talk details/specifics.

[rhk111]

When the interviewer finishes asking his set of questions, they usually go out and asks the interviewee if they have any questions they would like to ask. I've learned to ask 2 things: First, I ask about what products the company is making or manufacturing, and second, what the job position is really like, what it's all about specifically.

abcxyz, do you have any other suggestions on the questions the interviewee could ask the interviewer?

[arnivorous]

Interview Questions and Ways to Answer Them

1) Tell me about yourself.

Answer this by stating your educational attainment, professional achievements and goals as well as your qualifications for the job. No beating around the bush but just straight to the point.

2) Why do you want to work here? What about our company interests you?

Show your enthusiasm and interest about the company. Talk about how your professional skills would benefit the company.

3) Why did you leave your last job?

Never ever say anything bad about your past job or your past employer. The best way to answer this is to state any one of the following reasons, provided they are true to your situation:

- The company wanted to me to relocate.
- It was just a temporary job.
- There was no possibility of advancement.
- I wanted a job better suited to my skills.

4) What are your best skills?

Give specific examples of what you can do best via real situations which happened to you before.

5) What is your major weakness?

One possible answer without really admitting your weakness is this: "I often worry much over my work. Sometimes I work late to make sure the job is well done."

6) What are your hobbies? Do you play sports?

If you said playing chess, that would be a point toward your analytical skills.

If you said reading, music, painting, that would be for your creativity.

If you mentioned any individual sports like swimming or running, that shows determination and stamina.

If you're into group sports like basketball, that shows that you can be a team player.

7) What salary are you expecting?

This is one of most touchy subjects for young guns. One of the best ways to answer this is ask a question instead of answering it. Sample answer: "I don't know. What are you planning on paying the best candidate?"

8) What have I forgotten to ask?

This is your chance to summarize your good characters and attributes and how they may benefit the company.

I hope these tips help. They helped me when I was looking for a job in the US. :)

What do you think abcxyz? :)

[candycandy]

Hi arnivorous.. BTW, where did abcxyz go?? :hmm:

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by rhk111
When the interviewer finishes asking his set of questions, they usually go out and asks the interviewee if they have any questions they would like to ask. I've learned to ask 2 things: First, I ask about what products the company is making or manufacturing, and second, what the job position is really like, what it's all about specifically.

abcxyz, do you have any other suggestions on the questions the interviewee could ask the interviewer? oh yes, you can use these questions they allow you to ask at the end of the interview several ways, one or or a combination of them : a) make more points for yourself, b) paybeck time! -- make the interviewer squirm, put him on the spot (this means you probably dont like the job so who cares if he gets pissed at you) or c) get answers to some of your questions.

its always best to do some research about the company and its products before the interview, so you might not want to ask that question on that coz it might make it appear youre not intetrested in their company/products.

here are some good questions (not these words exactly, but pick up the thoughts):

>> how finanacially stable is the compnay? did the company make money last year? why/why not? (shows you are interested about your future, that u wont join a company that is about to fold up)

>> what has been the key drivers of success for the company? what company is its biggest competitor, how is this company doing against that. (shows you are interested in the business side, not just employment)

>> how important is new blood/hiring of fresh grads to the company, any training programs? (will tell u if they will take car of you)

there are a lot more you can ask, but these are the guidelines :

> ask quetsions that make it sound you are interested in bigger things other than employment
> questions that say something about you, can add to building a good impression of you
> questions that when an answer is given, you can add to or contribute an idea to
> ask questions if you think you didnt do a good job during the interview and you want to improve your standing

you should do mock interviews with friends to help you out.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by arnivorous
Interview Questions and Ways to Answer Them

1) Tell me about yourself.

Answer this by stating your educational attainment, professional achievements and goals as well as your qualifications for the job. No beating around the bush but just straight to the point.

2) Why do you want to work here? What about our company interests you?

Show your enthusiasm and interest about the company. Talk about how your professional skills would benefit the company.

3) Why did you leave your last job?

Never ever say anything bad about your past job or your past employer. The best way to answer this is to state any one of the following reasons, provided they are true to your situation:

- The company wanted to me to relocate.
- It was just a temporary job.
- There was no possibility of advancement.
- I wanted a job better suited to my skills.

4) What are your best skills?

Give specific examples of what you can do best via real situations which happened to you before.

5) What is your major weakness?

One possible answer without really admitting your weakness is this: "I often worry much over my work. Sometimes I work late to make sure the job is well done."

6) What are your hobbies? Do you play sports?

If you said playing chess, that would be a point toward your analytical skills.

If you said reading, music, painting, that would be for your creativity.

If you mentioned any individual sports like swimming or running, that shows determination and stamina.

If you're into group sports like basketball, that shows that you can be a team player.

7) What salary are you expecting?

This is one of most touchy subjects for young guns. One of the best ways to answer this is ask a question instead of answering it. Sample answer: "I don't know. What are you planning on paying the best candidate?"

8) What have I forgotten to ask?

This is your chance to summarize your good characters and attributes and how they may benefit the company.

I hope these tips help. They helped me when I was looking for a job in the US. :)

What do you think abcxyz? :) very good answers

on the salary thing ---- its always good to have in your mind what salary you want. and when asked dont be shy saying it. be confident, make the interviewer feel you really deserve it.

whats the amount? make it a little better than norm --- a slightly higher amount than what the indsutry pays for the same position for someone with similar experience as yourself.

when asked that question on the first interview i answer this way -- i expect to get paid what the industry pays for the position. if probed further, i say --- i expect to be paid within the range of what those already in your company is getting at the same position. (of course these answers are lies!)

i try not to quote a price on the first interview bec i dont want to turn them off too early. i try to lure them in for a secomd interview. so giving an answer they like to hear on the first interview is a good thing.

its on the final interview or interview second to the final when i give them the bomb! when you reach this stage, they already like you so telling them the truth about salary is a good thing. at this stage, they like you so much, theyd give you what they want.

[abcxyz]

tip : send letters to three people a) the hr head, b) the president and c) the division head

[candycandy]

wala pa feedback?? hehehe

[abcxyz]

oo nga ano.

[diwata28]

let's revive this thread for the new grads

:)

[abcxyz]

any experiences for the new grads to share?

[IslaNegra]

an interviewer asked the age of my parents and i don't know how old are they. he was surprised that i don't know their exact age...so i was surprised as well coz he's like making a big deal out of it when i told him that i don't asked their ages and they're like 40 something, and when he asked me if i know their date of birth, i told him, yes of course! but i don't know the year of their birth...sheesh! i would have known their ages if i knew what year they were born. And personally, i don't really asks people's ages not even my bro. and sisters. he even insisted that i was their daughter and i should know...geeez! i told my dad about that incident and he said ''ayaw nya e diwag'' :D ..guy yung nag interview sa akin. haay, mga lalaki talaga ayaw mag patalo..aba di naman ako paaapi noh.

well, i have an upcoming interviews tomorrow...geez, it's so weird i wasn't really looking for work anymore since we're migrating already maybe late this year.....and then suddenly, companies are calling me for either a test or interview..hehe, well, i've got nothing to loose anywway so i'm going to try. I've been learning lots of places lately and other things as well, like what the company look like, their employees, etc...

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by IslaNegra
an interviewer asked the age of my parents and i don't know how old are they. he was surprised that i don't know their exact age...so i was surprised as well coz he's like making a big deal out of it when i told him that i don't asked their ages and they're like 40 something, and when he asked me if i know their date of birth, i told him, yes of course! but i don't know the year of their birth...sheesh! i would have known their ages if i knew what year they were born. And personally, i don't really asks people's ages not even my bro. and sisters. he even insisted that i was their daughter and i should know...geeez! i told my dad about that incident and he said ''ayaw nya e diwag'' :D ..guy yung nag interview sa akin. haay, mga lalaki talaga ayaw mag patalo..aba di naman ako paaapi noh.

well, i have an upcoming interviews tomorrow...geez, it's so weird i wasn't really looking for work anymore since we're migrating already maybe late this year.....and then suddenly, companies are calling me for either a test or interview..hehe, well, i've got nothing to loose anywway so i'm going to try. I've been learning lots of places lately and other things as well, like what the company look like, their employees, etc... yeah, dont fret about the interview. if this guy asking about the ages of your parents and making a big dral of it is someone you will report to, its not all worth it. youre better off not dealing with that guy.

yes, dont turn down any interviews or tests, no matter how small or boring. practice makes perfect.

[altair]

Originally posted by IslaNegra
an interviewer asked the age of my parents and i don't know how old are they. he was surprised that i don't know their exact age...so i was surprised as well coz he's like making a big deal out of it when i told him that i don't asked their ages and they're like 40 something, and when he asked me if i know their date of birth, i told him, yes of course! but i don't know the year of their birth...sheesh!

the interviewer might have been looking for somebody who has a keen eye for details. You need to be one if you are hired to do troubleshooting (be it a machine or an organization or a system) or detective work.

[soulthird]

Originally posted by IslaNegra
an interviewer asked the age of my parents and i don't know how old are they. he was surprised that i don't know their exact age...so i was surprised as well coz he's like making a big deal out of it when i told him that i don't asked their ages and they're like 40 something, and when he asked me if i know their date of birth, i told him, yes of course! but i don't know the year of their birth...sheesh! i would have known their ages if i knew what year they were born. And personally, i don't really asks people's ages not even my bro. and sisters. he even insisted that i was their daughter and i should know...geeez! i told my dad about that incident and he said ''ayaw nya e diwag'' :D ..guy yung nag interview sa akin. haay, mga lalaki talaga ayaw mag patalo..aba di naman ako paaapi noh.

well, i have an upcoming interviews tomorrow...geez, it's so weird i wasn't really looking for work anymore since we're migrating already maybe late this year.....and then suddenly, companies are calling me for either a test or interview..hehe, well, i've got nothing to loose anywway so i'm going to try. I've been learning lots of places lately and other things as well, like what the company look like, their employees, etc...

well, for one it really is bothering that you don't know the age of your parents. It can be reflective of your relationship with them, or just like what altair said, the attention you give to little details.

[the_BuGs]

Hmm hangang ngayon naalala ko pa yung first interview ko ehehehehe biruin mo first time kong mag apply ng work sabay yun dun kumuha sa akin ***** dahil din sa interview ko ehehehe


Payo sa mga fresh grads... tip ko lang muna sa inyo to.....

Pag tinanong kayo ng ganitong senaryo


1. Expectations nila sa iyo

Sabihin nyo lang na ibibigay nyo ng full 101 Percent! ang kakayahan nyo para mapagsilbihan ang company nyo ng maganda.
(haay eto sinabi ko nun eh... pero mahaba pagkasabe ko nun ehehehe)


2. Strengths and weakneses

Sabihin nyop strengths nyo shempre.. then yung weakness nyo dapat sabihin nyo rin pero DAPAT! positive pa rin sa strengths mo! yung weakness mo.


3. For the next Five or 7 years ano yung nakikita mo sa sarili mo?


Huwag na hwag nyong sasabihin mag .. me bzness na ako nun.. magtatayo ng bzness...etc... HUWAG NA HUWAG nyong sasabihn na magnenegosyo kayo dahil ang Ibig sabihin nun hindi ka tatagal sa COMPANY na pinagaaplyan mo... Dapat ang sasabihin mo Magiging isang Project Manager ka sa COmpany na yun!Basta sabihin nyo na Magkakaroon kayo ng mataas na position sa company na yan.


4. Sa Salary Expectations naman

Huwag kayong mahiyang magtanong kung magkano binibigay nila for fresh starter... Huwag muna kayo mag babargain ng salary nyo dahil freshy pa lang kayo... humiling *** kayo ng kaunting dagdag kung alam mong maliit.


At isa pa.. kung ano yung nilagay nyo sa resume dapat alam nyo rin kung paano i-defend yun






Eto na lang muna siguro

[* tinny gUrL *]

if you didn't ask the interviewer anything at the end of the interview, will it reflect negatively on the results of the interview? i had an interview kasi kanina and the interviewer asked me twice if i have any questions and in both instances, i answered NONE... not that i don't really have any questions but then when she asked me that, my question jst suddenly disappeared... i couldn't remember it, in other words... :(


--------------
bb'sEarth:tinyangel:

[survivor_fan]

nice thread thanks kung sino man ang nagsimula nito :)

[dekster]

I have a bunch of questions too :)

1) I had an interview for an OJT before and it seemed like it was going well untill I started thinking that the terms were rather disadvantageous for me. Anyway, I was trying really hard not to be too honest but I think my facial expression revealed too much... The interview was very relaxed and in fact the interviewer and I were getting along pretty well... I think at first my charm was working heheh but in the end, I guess due to my obvious hesitation, the interviewer asked me to think about it and call her as soon as possible regarding my decision...

The next day I decided I might as well take the OJT there since it was just an OJT anyway. I called the person who interviewed me but as I feared, she wasnt as enthusiastic. She just said she'd be in touch but as expected I wasn't called again...

My concern is this... would the company/HR remember this incident if and when I apply for a job there in the near future? Keep in mind that, that was my very first interview...

I was just trying to be honest cos I wouldn't have wanted to break a commitment in case another company, offering the terms I was looking for, would take me in...

2) Although I've experienced this only once: Kung mejo nababarok yung nagiinterview sayo... is it ok to slip in some tagalog words in the interview? I feel really awkward kasi whenever I'm talking to someone not as fluent (not sure if this is the approporiate word right now)... And besides... marunong naman ako magtagalog e! (Hope I'm not sounding cocky here:))

Finally,

3) Is a 3 page resume too long? Would it be ok to leave the title of your awards etc on their own or would it be better to include a short description of them? Finally, are fresh grads really supposed to include a section on the research papers they've prepared? I'm just following my school's format kasi e and so far... that's whats lengthening my resume...

Anyway... I'd appreciate any of your insights :) Thanks :)

[Starbreeze]

:cool:

dami pala tips dito... thanx.

keep posting.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by * tinny gUrL *
if you didn't ask the interviewer anything at the end of the interview, will it reflect negatively on the results of the interview? i had an interview kasi kanina and the interviewer asked me twice if i have any questions and in both instances, i answered NONE... not that i don't really have any questions but then when she asked me that, my question jst suddenly disappeared... i couldn't remember it, in other words... :(


--------------
bb'sEarth:tinyangel: you wont fail the interview if you are unable to ask a question.

while its NOT a negative, you may have lost an opportunity to score more points.

use this ask a question bit to do do any of the following :

> opportunity to reverse what you think was a negative impression you may have made during the interview

> opportunity to further highlight your strengths and achievements. you can never have enough of good things

> ask about the health of their business. ask questions like did the company make money last year. did business imrove. how is the business doing now? what were the drivers for success for the company. ask what the greatest threast to the business. this will give the impression you are truly interested in the company.

and when you get an answer to any of these that you can use to further your cause, do so. lets say they tell you customer service was a challenge, tell them what you think about it.

> often, i use this portion to make the interviewer feel stupid. i do this only if during the interview i decide i dont like to work for the company or i find the interviewer too arrogant that he/she needs to be pulled down to earth. i grill the interviewer on something he/she has said that i can prove wrong. i make the interviewer defensive. sometimes i succeed, sometimes i fail but boy it does feel good being able to get back to the interviewer.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by dekster
I have a bunch of questions too :)

1) I had an interview for an OJT before and it seemed like it was going well untill I started thinking that the terms were rather disadvantageous for me. Anyway, I was trying really hard not to be too honest but I think my facial expression revealed too much... The interview was very relaxed and in fact the interviewer and I were getting along pretty well... I think at first my charm was working heheh but in the end, I guess due to my obvious hesitation, the interviewer asked me to think about it and call her as soon as possible regarding my decision...

The next day I decided I might as well take the OJT there since it was just an OJT anyway. I called the person who interviewed me but as I feared, she wasnt as enthusiastic. She just said she'd be in touch but as expected I wasn't called again...

My concern is this... would the company/HR remember this incident if and when I apply for a job there in the near future? Keep in mind that, that was my very first interview...

I was just trying to be honest cos I wouldn't have wanted to break a commitment in case another company, offering the terms I was looking for, would take me in...

2) Although I've experienced this only once: Kung mejo nababarok yung nagiinterview sayo... is it ok to slip in some tagalog words in the interview? I feel really awkward kasi whenever I'm talking to someone not as fluent (not sure if this is the approporiate word right now)... And besides... marunong naman ako magtagalog e! (Hope I'm not sounding cocky here:))

Finally,

3) Is a 3 page resume too long? Would it be ok to leave the title of your awards etc on their own or would it be better to include a short description of them? Finally, are fresh grads really supposed to include a section on the research papers they've prepared? I'm just following my school's format kasi e and so far... that's whats lengthening my resume...

Anyway... I'd appreciate any of your insights :) Thanks :) what is ojt? on the job training?

do not accept a job if you are not totally happy with it. your first job is YOUR MOST important job. it will be in your resume forever. not to mention, your first job will be your foundation, it will teach you the basics. unless of course you really need the money....

yes most hr people will remember what happened during the first interview. but its ok --- prepare for the interview. what happened the first time will probably the first asked of you when you come back. so prepare for it.

too many filipino companies paying their employees poorly. so dont let them get away with it.

its ok to use pilipino specially if the interviewer speaks in tagalog. i use tagalog to interview sometimes just for kicks, to unsettle the person i am interviewing. its the equivalent of asking left field questions. i do that to see how fast the mind of the interviewee.

reasearch papers? i have not seen a resume that includes that. unless of course you are applying for a researcher job. i find that unusual. i guess it depends in the industry your trying to break into ---- in marketing/advertising, i would be more interested in leadership skills, communication skills and achievements than research papers.

this is my personal view : the real world at work is not really a geek's world. its more of street smart with applied intelligence than purely intellectual and scholastic.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by Starbreeze
:cool:

dami pala tips dito... thanx.

keep posting.

please post your recent experiences here ---- successes and failures and tell us how you did it. it will help others who might encounter the same thing in the future.

[tadeus]

Why does when I take it seriously I don't get hired but on the other way around I got hired.

Coincidence?

[altair]

Originally posted by tadeus
Why does when I take it seriously I don't get hired but on the other way around I got hired.

Coincidence?


When you take it seriously, you get jittery.

When you don't take it seriously, you loosen up and you come across as confident.

be confident, psych yourself up before an interview, you should picture yourself as the best candidate to be interviewed

let the FORCE be with you hehehe

[the_BuGs]

Kelangan nakatingin ka sa mata ng interviewer nyo lagi.

Ang tips ko lang lang sa mga freshy wag masyado maging boastful sa interviewer at arrogant.. kelangan cool lang kayo sumagot yung tipong nakangiti...then magbigay ng kaunting Joke... pero padaplis lang. Yan kasi style ko eh... yung tipong bibigyan mo ng kaunting kakulitan..*** maisip din ng interviewer masayahin ka at madaling mapakiusapan. Tsaka dun sa re-scheduling naman ng interview wag kayo matakot mag pa re-sched kung talagang hindi kayo pwede.

Ako aaminin ko me nabara ako na employer sabihn mo ng arrogant ako nun.Me pagka discreet yung guy eh.Tumawag sa cellphone ko nun thenn sabi me interview ako sa friday ng 3:00 PM eh ang sabi ko naman nde pde dahil me task pa akong gagawin(actually working din ako nun) .. aba tinarayan ba naman ako sabihan ba "hindi ka pwede i re-sched eh... at kung ayaw mo sabihin mo na lang at marami pang APPLICANT!" eh ang sagot ko... "Ok that's your decision no problem!..btw IT'S NOT MY LOST!.. IT's YOUR LOST!" ehehehehehhehehe langyang bading na yun tinarayan ako ehehehehe.

Magsasalita lang kayo ng ganyan kung me pagmamalaki na kayo...pero ako nung panahon na yun wala rin akong pinagmamalaki .. nainis lang ako sa tono ng boses nya sa telepono... hehehehehhe

[Bea19]

any advice on how fresh grads can even be considered since halos lahat ng companies ay may requirement na atleast 1 yr experience.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by Bea19
any advice on how fresh grads can even be considered since halos lahat ng companies ay may requirement na atleast 1 yr experience. you obviously wont beat those with 1 yr experience bec u dont have any.

so beat them on ther things :

> being a quick learner
> showing them you're a hard worker
> shows real interest on the job and the company

so do some research on the company you are targeting so you can say something on their business and how you can contribute.

do some research on the job and mention things you have done in college where skills you used are applicable to the job.

keywrod : research

[Bea19]

Haaay sana nga ganun kadali, minsan kse pag tingin pa lang sa resume na fresh grad di na agad kinoconsider for intrvw or testing e.

[Zzz_18]

abcxyz,

I have an MS degree in IT from a reputable university but no work experience (aside from a 3 month OJT) . How do I package that on my resume and cover letter? Will employers (especially those seeking applicants with 1-2 years work experience) be willing to consider my MS degree as equivalent to "work experience?" Is a master's degree useless without work experience?
Thanks!

[BLue{}FairY]

pray for me:angelwings:... may interview ako bukas... malaking tulong sa akin tong thread na to salamat sa nagsimula... keep posting... huhuhu... kabog:heartpump:kabog:heartpump:kabog:heartpump: wag sana akong kabahan...

[hodgepodge]

Question: What do they usually ask in the final interview which is usually a panel interview?:) Feeling ko kasi lahat na ng pwde tanungin natanong na nung 1st and 2nd eh.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by Bea19
Haaay sana nga ganun kadali, minsan kse pag tingin pa lang sa resume na fresh grad di na agad kinoconsider for intrvw or testing e. i agree its not easy. the reality of the situation is working against you.

BUT you need to make a go at it. these are suggestions on how to go around it or to fight it.

areas to work on :

> make sure your resume handles this issue in some way

> IT IS A GOOD THING if you get an interview and you know that they are looking for someone with experience. the fact that you are being intertained for an interview inspite of your experience handicap means there is something in your resume that got you there. figure out what that is and exploit it to the hilt.

better yet at some point in the interview, ask the question --- why are you interviewing me when you'te looking for someone with experience.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by Zzz_18
abcxyz,

I have an MS degree in IT from a reputable university but no work experience (aside from a 3 month OJT) . How do I package that on my resume and cover letter? Will employers (especially those seeking applicants with 1-2 years work experience) be willing to consider my MS degree as equivalent to "work experience?" Is a master's degree useless without work experience?
Thanks! your MS desgree SHOULD MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

but to be honest with you, if you were in the US, its harder to get an interview for someone with just an undergraduate degre. unfortunately in the philippines it might not matter much to most companies.

yes, package your MS degree to make it appear as equivalent to work experience. how do you do that? its hard for me to say bec i dont know what you did in your ms course.

having said that, here are my suggestions for your resume and during the interview :

> emphasize "case studies" you did in ms. say you enjoyed it the most bec it was realistic and close to the real thing.

> use words like "close to real work experience" , "tough situations", etc

> cite one or two examples of what your case studies or anything close to work experience and mention your specific contribution to solving the case. some smart idea you had.

>

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by BLue{}FairY
pray for me:angelwings:... may interview ako bukas... malaking tulong sa akin tong thread na to salamat sa nagsimula... keep posting... huhuhu... kabog:heartpump:kabog:heartpump:kabog:heartpump: wag sana akong kabahan... thanks for the good review on this thread.

tell us about your experience during this interview. might help you for the next one and others.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by hodgepodge
Question: What do they usually ask in the final interview which is usually a panel interview?:) Feeling ko kasi lahat na ng pwde tanungin natanong na nung 1st and 2nd eh. not sure i understood this. this is how i understood it --- same company, the final interview is a panel one. youve had 2 interviews already before the final interview.

there have been posts on this thread on how to handle panel interviews. look it up.

ask the same questions anyway. and maybe incorporate the answers they gave previously. or ask new questions based on the answers given.

[Britneys_Jugs]

HI abcxyz, hope you could answer my question.

Several companies I've applied for are looking for someone with experience. I still sent my resume, anyway. I highlighted my strengths yada yada yada, so that I could at least have a slight advantage. Do you think my resume will be a given a second glance? I know I have a lot to offer, my resume shows it, too. But, it just depresses me that they always look for someone with experience.


Hope you could help. Thanks

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by Britneys_Jugs
HI abcxyz, hope you could answer my question.

Several companies I've applied for are looking for someone with experience. I still sent my resume, anyway. I highlighted my strengths yada yada yada, so that I could at least have a slight advantage. Do you think my resume will be a given a second glance? I know I have a lot to offer, my resume shows it, too. But, it just depresses me that they always look for someone with experience.


Hope you could help. Thanks here's how it is from the employer's standpoint :

> you look to hire people to fill up SPECIFIC needs for the group and the company. these could be to (1) replace someone who resigned or someone who got promoted or (2) expansion, need someone to fill up a new position.

> when the above happens, you tend to look for someone with exeperience. you do that because you want the new person to hit the ground running, because you have no time for training or no time to lose. or at times, you dont know how to train.

> some companies very smartly purposely look for new graduates / those without experience. they do that bec they have a corporate philosophy that says they like to develop/promote from within. they also like to nurture people, they have a distinct culture that they want their employees to have. also, new graduates tend to be paid less than those with experience. or its a company who believes fresh blood / new thinking is good for their business and the future.

thats the basic thinking.

analize that and see how it applies to you and how you can go around it. these are the realities you face when you look for a job. while these are realities, they can be overcome by playing it smart.

some ideas have been posted here, but let me recap a few :

> make sure you have a well written resume. demonstrate real life skills and achivements, not too much theory.

> DO RESEARCH on the company you are applying for. do some tailor fitting SPECIALLY on the cover letter.

> pay extra attention to your COVER LETTER. the cover letter is THE FIRST DODUMENT they will read. so in the cover letter do a lot of tailor fitting, include something relevant and unique to the specific company (thats why research is important)

> when u get an interview --- apply the same principles. ANTICIPATE questions on your handicap of not having any experience.

ok, ok ----- i know that seems to be a lot to do. and it seems really tough. but what can i say? thats how it is in the real world. you know your handicap and you want to overcome it, so you need to work harder than most. be tough. and dont give up.

let me know if any of these make sense to you. or ask more questions so i can be more responsive.

[kevinCostner]

Just to share my thoughts......

I just had this Job application a week ago and the company I applied in called me three times in a span of two weeks, one for the technical test, the other one for the personality test and the latest is for the workshop.

There's nothing to loose, as many people might say, but not for me since i have a job now and absences in a probationary status is a big No, No- specially if you wanted to make an good impression on your bosses., I came to the appointments anyway not minding that I may not be regularized on my current job since I was very optimistic that I will be hired in the job i am applying for since the HR personnel consistently gives me a call and encourages me to come to those appointments though she knew that I have a job now. (anyway, i have no right to blame her in the first place since i submitted my resume not thinking of the consequences this application might bring out)

Ive already made three absences in my current job now just to give way to my application on this company since they offer a better, higher-paying job, (and more beautiful secretaries, i may add :D)

Here is the thing.. I had a good score on the Technical exams, i mean, I think, that I really did very well.

Then comes next the PERSONALITY EXAM, which i think is very odd since ive got to finish the test in 30 short minutes for a 120-question module.
I don't know if the company gives emphasis on the personality test but i damn sucked.. at some instance, i wanted to be an introvert, and at some instance i prefer to be an extrovert so that may look confusing when they find out what type of personality I have. IS THE PERSONALITY TEST OF THE APPLICANT A VERY BIG FACTOR IN HIRING THEM? I MEAN, Its just a Test,.. or does it really have a strong impact on the employers?

Moving on, here comes the Workshop.. I dont have any Idea at all what this workshop is all about. I even thought that It was an acting or singing workshop or whatever whimsical workshop I might think since the word "workshop" is stereotyped.. :D
anyway, i soon found out that the workshop is like a test of your communication skills, and your skills to reason out and make some firm judgement on the data that they will give you..

so then it came, all 9 qualified applicants has to point out their decisions and justify such decisions.. The thing that really sucked in me is that I am a born debater, so whenever some people made some "negative" remarks on my statements, i always follow it up with a further elaboration but I don't threw their statements in back in their faces. I mean, I just can't help but to elaborate. Is this a bad attitude?.. What kind of interpersonal skills should be "desirable" in these kind of matters??
Please help me..

(anyway, as of presstime, i am still waiting for their call, but it seems like i didn't make it in the workshop, I dont know why, but definitely, it is not because I am an introvert, That's a sure thing!)

It was one of those experience that did not turn out right but sure did give me lessons so that I may not be wrong again the next time...
I HOPE.. :)

PS..
CAN ANYBODY ANALYZE MY SITUATION NOW? Is it ethical to give them a call asking about my job application status?? or should i forget everything and move on??

Your advice would be greatly appreciated..
:)

[Britneys_Jugs]

TO abcxyz

Originally posted by abcxyz
let me know if any of these make sense to you. or ask more questions so i can be more responsive.

All the things you have pointed out are, I know, sad but true. I do research (it even took me a day to gather relevant data on companies where I submitted my resumes), I do check my cover letter (I always change it when necessary) so that I highlighted all my skills and experiences that'll be important for the job, and I do think my resume stands out among the rest. Most applicants (from where I've applied) didn't even have a cover letter! Still, it ain't enough. I know, I know, this is the real world, oh well, it really bites!


I have a follow-up question (here's the scenario):
I worked as a part-time office staff in my dad's company for over a year because I had only three days of classes during 4th year. Unfortunately, all I did was, surf the internet, answer the phone, and fax something, since most of the supervisors were afraid to order me around and let me to do something worthwhile, (although, I wouldn't mind at all!) knowing my dad was their boss. I always include this as a part of my working experience in my resume, however, I don't offer a lot of infos. I just include the name of the company, duration of my stay and my position.

These are my questions:
Do you think companies would merit my part-time job as a full-time job?

What do you think would be the best job description for this? Or more importantly, how could I make it sound interesting?

Do you think companies would still call me for an interview even if there's a minor (hehe, I prefer it as minor) hindrance (which in my case, is inexperience)? Or do you know any instance wherein a company was looking for an experienced applicant, but, in the long run, hired a fresh graduate?

Hope you could help me again. Thanks.

[computergeek]

sa totoo lang..

Im totally pissed off because I always get rejected on my job applications...

I am a fresh graduate though, and up to now, wala pa akong nakukuhang "matinong" trabaho. is there sopmething wrong with me??
Competitive naman ako, I pass most of the exams pero sa interviews ako nakakatay..
your posts are of a big help!!
:D

[phantom]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by kevinCostner
Just to share my thoughts......

bThen comes next the PERSONALITY EXAM, which i think is very odd since ive got to finish the test in 30 short minutes for a 120-question module. I don't know if the company gives emphasis on the personality test but i damn sucked.. at some instance, i wanted to be an introvert, and at some instance i prefer to be an extrovert so that may look confusing when they find out what type of personality I have. IS THE PERSONALITY TEST OF THE APPLICANT A VERY BIG FACTOR IN HIRING THEM? I MEAN, Its just a Test,.. or does it really have a strong impact on the employers?


Depends. For some, the personality test (PT) is a "must". It comes in handy when all the short-listed applicants share almost the same technical qualifications. The PT results might be the deciding factor in separating the wheat from the chaff, so to speak.

As to "faking" the test, a good psychometrician should be able to handle that. ;)

I once quit a job even before starting. Despite having aced 3 interviews (1 panel) and being told by the Project Director (foreign donor side) that I was hired and should start as soon as possible, the HRD Director of one Phil. government agency insisted for me to take all 4 personality tests before my hiring could be made official. (how's that for a run on? ) Well, I refused to take their psychological tests because of "prinsipyo". The HRD director insisted and even sanctimoniously lectured me on the importance of testing. I reminded her she was preaching to the choir leader. :D She then assured me they'd just have to "go through the motion" of testing because it was SOP. She even indirectly threatened me-- "no test, no job". Huh! In 2 days, I accepted a teaching position in Manila. You bet I couldn't wait to discuss about the principles of testing in one of my classes. ;)

Lesson? Don't follow me. :D Unless you're already experienced and very confident about your marketability, play the application game well. Or I should say-- dance with the wolves carefully. :D I don't mean for you to kiss employers'/recruiters' arses. Don't be too much of an upstart either. Makiramdam ka lang and keep the balance.

Hope this helps.

[phantom]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Britneys_Jugs
TO abcxyz


These are my questions:
Do you think companies would merit my part-time job as a full-time job?

No, sir. You don't have to indicate in your resume it's a partime/fulltime job though. Just put there the dates (1995-1998) and tell the whole story during the interview, if they're curious. :)

What do you think would be the best job description for this? Or more importantly, how could I make it sound interesting?

Was it an internship/practicum? Nothing wrong with stating that, especially if you're a new graduate. Your other option is not to mention it as an internship. Just put your job title in the resume and again... tell the rest of the story during the interview.

Do you think companies would still call me for an interview even if there's a minor (hehe, I prefer it as minor) hindrance (which in my case, is inexperience)? Or do you know any instance wherein a company was looking for an experienced applicant, but, in the long run, hired a fresh graduate?

It depends on the position you're applying. Here in the US, an internship is as good as job experience.

[kevinCostner]

Originally posted by phantom
[QUOTE]Originally posted by kevinCostner
Just to share my thoughts......

bThen comes next the PERSONALITY EXAM, which i think is very odd since ive got to finish the test in 30 short minutes for a 120-question module. I don't know if the company gives emphasis on the personality test but i damn sucked.. at some instance, i wanted to be an introvert, and at some instance i prefer to be an extrovert so that may look confusing when they find out what type of personality I have. IS THE PERSONALITY TEST OF THE APPLICANT A VERY BIG FACTOR IN HIRING THEM? I MEAN, Its just a Test,.. or does it really have a strong impact on the employers?


Depends. For some, the personality test (PT) is a "must". It comes in handy when all the short-listed applicants share almost the same technical qualifications. The PT results might be the deciding factor in separating the wheat from the chaff, so to speak.

As to "faking" the test, a good psychometrician should be able to handle that. ;)

I once quit a job even before starting. Despite having aced 3 interviews (1 panel) and being told by the Project Director (foreign donor side) that I was hired and should start as soon as possible, the HRD Director of one Phil. government agency insisted for me to take all 4 personality tests before my hiring could be made official. (how's that for a run on? ) Well, I refused to take their psychological tests because of "prinsipyo". The HRD director insisted and even sanctimoniously lectured me on the importance of testing. I reminded her she was preaching to the choir leader. :D She then assured me they'd just have to "go through the motion" of testing because it was SOP. She even indirectly threatened me-- "no test, no job". Huh! In 2 days, I accepted a teaching position in Manila. You bet I couldn't wait to discuss about the principles of testing in one of my classes. ;)

Lesson? Don't follow me. :D Unless you're already experienced and very confident about your marketability, play the application game well. Or I should say-- dance with the wolves carefully. :D I don't mean for you to kiss employers'/recruiters' arses. Don't be too much of an upstart either. Makiramdam ka lang and keep the balance.

Hope this helps.


It does help.....
Damn. it was the first time i took a PT so I'll study and review my lessons well next time... :D:D

[Britneys_Jugs]

Thanks Phantom! :) What's your opinion about my hanging question, abcxyz?


Question: (to abcxyz or to anyone who wants to share his/her views)

Is it ok to apply for several positions in just one company? I recently submitted my resume(s) in a company that has several openings, and applied for each position that I know I have the necessary qualifications to begin with. Can this be considered normal or do I look desperate enough to apply for all positions? Any opinion from any of you would be highly appreciated.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by kevinCostner
Just to share my thoughts......

I just had this Job application a week ago and the company I applied in called me three times in a span of two weeks, one for the technical test, the other one for the personality test and the latest is for the workshop.

There's nothing to loose, as many people might say, but not for me since i have a job now and absences in a probationary status is a big No, No- specially if you wanted to make an good impression on your bosses., I came to the appointments anyway not minding that I may not be regularized on my current job since I was very optimistic that I will be hired in the job i am applying for since the HR personnel consistently gives me a call and encourages me to come to those appointments though she knew that I have a job now. (anyway, i have no right to blame her in the first place since i submitted my resume not thinking of the consequences this application might bring out)

Ive already made three absences in my current job now just to give way to my application on this company since they offer a better, higher-paying job, (and more beautiful secretaries, i may add :D)

Here is the thing.. I had a good score on the Technical exams, i mean, I think, that I really did very well.

Then comes next the PERSONALITY EXAM, which i think is very odd since ive got to finish the test in 30 short minutes for a 120-question module.
I don't know if the company gives emphasis on the personality test but i damn sucked.. at some instance, i wanted to be an introvert, and at some instance i prefer to be an extrovert so that may look confusing when they find out what type of personality I have. IS THE PERSONALITY TEST OF THE APPLICANT A VERY BIG FACTOR IN HIRING THEM? I MEAN, Its just a Test,.. or does it really have a strong impact on the employers?

Moving on, here comes the Workshop.. I dont have any Idea at all what this workshop is all about. I even thought that It was an acting or singing workshop or whatever whimsical workshop I might think since the word "workshop" is stereotyped.. :D
anyway, i soon found out that the workshop is like a test of your communication skills, and your skills to reason out and make some firm judgement on the data that they will give you..

so then it came, all 9 qualified applicants has to point out their decisions and justify such decisions.. The thing that really sucked in me is that I am a born debater, so whenever some people made some "negative" remarks on my statements, i always follow it up with a further elaboration but I don't threw their statements in back in their faces. I mean, I just can't help but to elaborate. Is this a bad attitude?.. What kind of interpersonal skills should be "desirable" in these kind of matters??
Please help me..

(anyway, as of presstime, i am still waiting for their call, but it seems like i didn't make it in the workshop, I dont know why, but definitely, it is not because I am an introvert, That's a sure thing!)

It was one of those experience that did not turn out right but sure did give me lessons so that I may not be wrong again the next time...
I HOPE.. :)

PS..
CAN ANYBODY ANALYZE MY SITUATION NOW? Is it ethical to give them a call asking about my job application status?? or should i forget everything and move on??

Your advice would be greatly appreciated..
:) the WORST thing you can do to yourself is to BLAME YOURSELF or to feel something is wrong with you. when you dont get accepted for a job, it doe not mean you are worth nothing or that you have done something terribly wrong or you failed one or all the theings you did (interview, test, panel, workshop).

the truth is you hire someone using the BEST FIT principle, not as much as hire the best person for the job. now best fit could be anything, it could be budget (another applicant willing to work for less), or plain vibes (personality fits the job more) --- there's no one formula. interviewers like you are humans.

so when you dont get a job, dont be too harsh on yourself. learn from it, and move on. now whats an analogy ---- might sound corny but this reminds me of the gf-bf thing. you can't get all the women you court to be your gf. sometimes you like the person but no chemistry so you dont get into it. sometimes the thinking part does not work but the chemistry is great so you go into it. sometimes you really dont like the person but u cant put your finger into why so, so you dont pursue. but whatever happens, you learn from the situaion and you move on.


yes, by all means follow up your application and/or decision. its not good to be left hanging.

> you can follow up by calling them up.

> if you're queemish about calling, write a letter. and if you write a letter, make the letter work harder for you by including in your letter some smart comment about the company you're applying for or its business

by the way, IT IS ALWAYS SMART TO SEND A LETTER RIGHT AFTER AN INTERVIEW. do you guys do this? in that letter, remind them on your strengths. this is a good idea because the interviewer wil be reminded of you and shows real interest on your side.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by Britneys_Jugs
TO abcxyz
These are my questions:
Do you think companies would merit my part-time job as a full-time job?

What do you think would be the best job description for this? Or more importantly, how could I make it sound interesting?

Do you think companies would still call me for an interview even if there's a minor (hehe, I prefer it as minor) hindrance (which in my case, is inexperience)? Or do you know any instance wherein a company was looking for an experienced applicant, but, in the long run, hired a fresh graduate?

Hope you could help me again. Thanks.

nope a part time job cant be seen as a full time job. part time is part time. but you SHOULD mention it still. specially if you were able to contribute something to the business or depsrtment. but in this case as you mentioned, you didnt do much.

but that is NOT A LOST CAUSE. though you didnt do much in terms of actual work, you must have learned something about relationships at work or dealing with people. dont forget that the work place is made up of two basic components --- the work and relationships. think this through and figure out what you learned about work relationships.

let me just give you two points you can use : 1) i've learned that at work, i need to be more ASSERTIVE to ask for work because i like to work and i can do the job. and 2) that people tend to behave based on the info they know about others (that info was my dad's the boss).

work out the rest and how you can use them in interviews.

i cant help you on how to describe the part time work you did. be creative and inventive about it. but when you do that, make sure you can defend it and talk specifics.

if compnaies are purposely looking for experienced employees, its a tough for you to be called.

but IF YOU HAVE A KILLER COVER LETTER AND RESUME, you can get interviews. the reality is --- BOTH experienced and new graduates are first assessed through cover letters and resumes. another truth ---- EVEN EXPERIENCED APPLICANTS SUBMIT LOUSY COVER LETTERS AND RESUMES. what does that tell you? ---- all is fair in love and war, and jobs.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by Britneys_Jugs
Thanks Phantom! :) What's your opinion about my hanging question, abcxyz?


Question: (to abcxyz or to anyone who wants to share his/her views)

Is it ok to apply for several positions in just one company? I recently submitted my resume(s) in a company that has several openings, and applied for each position that I know I have the necessary qualifications to begin with. Can this be considered normal or do I look desperate enough to apply for all positions? Any opinion from any of you would be highly appreciated. did i answer the question?

for experienced applicants, applying for several positions in a few cases might not be a good idea. kasi may kaunting "specialization" involved.

but its ok for new graduates. many companies hire new graduates as management trainees --- they get you to work in several departments for a period of time and decide later on where to put you. BEST FIT.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by kevinCostner
Here is the thing.. I had a good score on the Technical exams, i mean, I think, that I really did very well.

Then comes next the PERSONALITY EXAM, which i think is very odd since ive got to finish the test in 30 short minutes for a 120-question module.
I don't know if the company gives emphasis on the personality test but i damn sucked.. at some instance, i wanted to be an introvert, and at some instance i prefer to be an extrovert so that may look confusing when they find out what type of personality I have. IS THE PERSONALITY TEST OF THE APPLICANT A VERY BIG FACTOR IN HIRING THEM? I MEAN, Its just a Test,.. or does it really have a strong impact on the employers?

Moving on, here comes the Workshop.. I dont have any Idea at all what this workshop is all about. I even thought that It was an acting or singing workshop or whatever whimsical workshop I might think since the word "workshop" is stereotyped.. :D
anyway, i soon found out that the workshop is like a test of your communication skills, and your skills to reason out and make some firm judgement on the data that they will give you..

so then it came, all 9 qualified applicants has to point out their decisions and justify such decisions.. The thing that really sucked in me is that I am a born debater, so whenever some people made some "negative" remarks on my statements, i always follow it up with a further elaboration but I don't threw their statements in back in their faces. I mean, I just can't help but to elaborate. Is this a bad attitude?.. What kind of interpersonal skills should be "desirable" in these kind of matters??
Please help me..


PS..
CAN ANYBODY ANALYZE MY SITUATION NOW? Is it ethical to give them a call asking about my job application status?? or should i forget everything and move on??

Your advice would be greatly appreciated..
:) PT --- there are no right or wrong answers here. and its damn hard to cheat (to get to a pre-determined outcome) bec pt designs take these into consideration. some questions are re-stated differently for the purpose of getting a good read.

on the workshop if i was the one hiring and you performed the way you said you did, i would have given you HIGH MARKS if i was there, you would passed in flying colors just because you participated. it says you are a person who is not afraid to speak your mind, has ideas, knows what you are saying and hopefully a good communicator. congratulations!

[kevinCostner]

Originally posted by abcxyz
the WORST thing you can do to yourself is to BLAME YOURSELF or to feel something is wrong with you. when you dont get accepted for a job, it doe not mean you are worth nothing or that you have done something terribly wrong or you failed one or all the theings you did (interview, test, panel, workshop).

the truth is you hire someone using the BEST FIT principle, not as much as hire the best person for the job. now best fit could be anything, it could be budget (another applicant willing to work for less), or plain vibes (personality fits the job more) --- there's no one formula. interviewers like you are humans.

so when you dont get a job, dont be too harsh on yourself. learn from it, and move on. now whats an analogy ---- might sound corny but this reminds me of the gf-bf thing. you can't get all the women you court to be your gf. sometimes you like the person but no chemistry so you dont get into it. sometimes the thinking part does not work but the chemistry is great so you go into it. sometimes you really dont like the person but u cant put your finger into why so, so you dont pursue. but whatever happens, you learn from the situaion and you move on.


yes, by all means follow up your application and/or decision. its not good to be left hanging.

> you can follow up by calling them up.

> if you're queemish about calling, write a letter. and if you write a letter, make the letter work harder for you by including in your letter some smart comment about the company you're applying for or its business

by the way, IT IS ALWAYS SMART TO SEND A LETTER RIGHT AFTER AN INTERVIEW. do you guys do this? in that letter, remind them on your strengths. this is a good idea because the interviewer wil be reminded of you and shows real interest on your side.

Thanks... That really made my day.. sometimes, i cant help but to think that there is something missing in me that is why i didn't make it to the job.. anyway, im just thankful that i still have one..
A big thanks...
:)

PS.. i just wish that i have read this thread before my interview, it sure is a big motivation..
;)

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by kevinCostner


Thanks... That really made my day.. sometimes, i cant help but to think that there is something missing in me that is why i didn't make it to the job.. anyway, im just thankful that i still have one..
A big thanks...
:)

PS.. i just wish that i have read this thread before my interview, it sure is a big motivation..
;) thanks for the compliment.

when things dont go my way, i tell myself "its their loss, not mine". try it, it works.

[Britneys_Jugs]

Thanks, too, abcxyz.

[kevinCostner]

Originally posted by abcxyz
thanks for the compliment.

when things dont go my way, i tell myself "its their loss, not mine". try it, it works.

gee. that was fast.. sorry for my ignorance, mam(?).. but are you an HR personnel yourself??
kind regards..
;)

[AnGeLJoLi]

Hi! Hope someone could help me here. :) (especially abcxyz)

I just had an interview last Tuesday and I do think it went smoothly. The interviewer, an HR head, told me to wait for a while so that the associate publisher could interview me, too (the interview with the associate publisher was quite unexpected because the scheduled interview was with the HR head only) and so that, practically speaking, I wouldn't go back and forth to the office. Unfortunately, the associate publisher was nowhere to be found and the interviewer told me that he would call within this week to schedule the postponed interview. He even asked me if I'm planing to go out of town this week. But up until now I haven't heard from him. If, by any chance, next week, he didn't call, is it ok to follow-up my application or should I let it go?

Any opinion would be highly appreciated. Thanks.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by AnGeLJoLi
Hi! Hope someone could help me here. :) (especially abcxyz)

I just had an interview last Tuesday and I do think it went smoothly. The interviewer, an HR head, told me to wait for a while so that the associate publisher could interview me, too (the interview with the associate publisher was quite unexpected because the scheduled interview was with the HR head only) and so that, practically speaking, I wouldn't go back and forth to the office. Unfortunately, the associate publisher was nowhere to be found and the interviewer told me that he would call within this week to schedule the postponed interview. He even asked me if I'm planing to go out of town this week. But up until now I haven't heard from him. If, by any chance, next week, he didn't call, is it ok to follow-up my application or should I let it go?

Any opinion would be highly appreciated. Thanks. YES BY ALL MEANS MAKE A CALL AND FOLLOW UP make the call as soon as possible. make the call tomorrow, friday. and ask if a schedule with the next interviewer has been scheduled.

calling signals your interest and assertiveness, very good qualities for anyone to have.

dont be shy. be confident. sound smart. dont be apologetic. good luck.

[silly_ka_jax]

Hello.

Do companies offer you the job right on the spot during the final interview or do they get back at you after a couple of days? The final interviewer told me I have a chance of getting in, do you think it's a "pambobola" or does it hold water? Although, I think my chances are not that big because the interviewer gave a specific scenario and told me to sell the product to her. I babbled on and on, I have no experience selling anything whatsoever, BUT the interviewer knows this because I just graduated. They didn't require any selling experience for the job. But, the job requires you to endorse the product. Do you think it's a minus point in my interview not knowing how to sell or market their product properly? Please kindly answer all the questions. Thank you.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by silly_ka_jax
Hello.

Do companies offer you the job right on the spot during the final interview or do they get back at you after a couple of days? The final interviewer told me I have a chance of getting in, do you think it's a "pambobola" or does it hold water? Although, I think my chances are not that big because the interviewer gave a specific scenario and told me to sell the product to her. I babbled on and on, I have no experience selling anything whatsoever, BUT the interviewer knows this because I just graduated. They didn't require any selling experience for the job. But, the job requires you to endorse the product. Do you think it's a minus point in my interview not knowing how to sell or market their product properly? Please kindly answer all the questions. Thank you. yes it does happen that you're offered the job right there and then. if they ask you to wait for results, they probably want to finish interviewing all those on their list. but your shold follow-up. better yet, at the end of the interview, ask when you can follow-up.

no, its not necessarily "a minus" not knowing how to sell. i say that bec as you said the interviewer knew you were a fresh graduate and did not have previous selling experience. perhaps rather than selling skills, what the interviewer was looking for was comunication skills, confidence, analutical skills and thinking process. specially for new graduates, doing well on these can get you the job.

[silly_ka_jax]

Originally posted by abcxyz
yes it does happen that you're offered the job right there and then. if they ask you to wait for results, they probably want to finish interviewing all those on their list. but your shold follow-up. better yet, at the end of the interview, ask when you can follow-up.

no, its not necessarily "a minus" not knowing how to sell. i say that bec as you said the interviewer knew you were a fresh graduate and did not have previous selling experience. perhaps rather than selling skills, what the interviewer was looking for was comunication skills, confidence, analutical skills and thinking process. specially for new graduates, doing well on these can get you the job.

I've asked the interviewer when could I follow-up, but the interviewer misinterpreted the question and instead told me I have a chance of getting hired. Do you think it's merely "pambobola" on her part or was it partly true? She said, there were still two interviews left before she makes a decision. When do you think is the best time, like, days, to make a follow-up call?. What is the best thing you could say to follow-up an application without sounding too "makulit" and desperate? I don't know how to deal with rejection so, could you give me an overview on how they're gonna handle my call if I didn't get hired? The company has provided two choices of positions that an applicant would like to apply for. If, I didn't get hired for my first choice, would it be possible if they'd consider me for my second choice? I've already asked the interviewer about this and she said, yes, that's why they provided two choices of positions. But, i don't know, she might be pulling my leg or what. I believe, my skills are more appropriate for my second choice. Do I have to make a follow-up call regarding my second chocie?



Sorry if I sound so makulit.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by silly_ka_jax


I've asked the interviewer when could I follow-up, but the interviewer misinterpreted the question and instead told me I have a chance of getting hired. Do you think it's merely "pambobola" on her part or was it partly true? She said, there were still two interviews left before she makes a decision. When do you think is the best time, like, days, to make a follow-up call?. What is the best thing you could say to follow-up an application without sounding too "makulit" and desperate? I don't know how to deal with rejection so, could you give me an overview on how they're gonna handle my call if I didn't get hired? The company has provided two choices of positions that an applicant would like to apply for. If, I didn't get hired for my first choice, would it be possible if they'd consider me for my second choice? I've already asked the interviewer about this and she said, yes, that's why they provided two choices of positions. But, i don't know, she might be pulling my leg or what. I believe, my skills are more appropriate for my second choice. Do I have to make a follow-up call regarding my second chocie?



Sorry if I sound so makulit.
you have to BELIEVE in yourself that is very important not only during job hunting, most specially wehn you get the job. we are all bad at handling rejections -- but we all need to learn to suck it up and move on. ive posted a few on this topic here, scroll up, but to sum it up --- dont despair if you dont get accepted. often kasi its not just skills, or just interview performance, "best fit" din kasi. i posted domething about bf-gf thingy, go read that.

i cant tell you if it was bola, because i did not see her facial expression/body language when she said that. BUT, hardly would recruiters say that if they dont mean it. its easier to gauge if you were not preferred -- they tell you outright or dead silence.

follow-up as soon as you can. midweek? end of the week? any would do, depends how composed you are already. sound confident on the phone. and by all means ask about the 2nd option. say something like "am following up on the progress of my application regarding the two positions i applied for" not the words just the thought. so say it outright you are applying for 2 positions. get actual dates --- whens the next interview and with whom. or when do i call again to follow-up in case she does not know yet. the interviewer is a she? use your charm. using your charm by the way works for both female and male interviewers.

[Dr_Love]

Hi abcxyz,

How can this guy (http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=86978) sell himself?

Will they believe him?

TNX!
:)

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by Dr_Love
Hi abcxyz,

How can this guy (http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=86978) sell himself?

Will they believe him?

TNX!
:) there are NO limits to what you can do, thats for certain. dont know much about the job market and the internet/e-business but i think the internet is one industry where SELF PROMOTION can be done easily. its probably one of the few industries where you can actually DEMONSTRATE your skills and achievements. demonstrate i mean -- puwede kang mag show and tell (graphics designers is another) you can put up a portfolio and bring it with you to show prospective employers.

i might not know much about the tech stuff, but you can put all your work on cd, cant you? and you can put up your own website showcasing your work.

does not matter what your title is, its only a title --- as long as in truth you did it and you can defend yourself, then do it by all means.

what about as part of your portfolio, do something like a "dream" website, do a website for yourself for the sole purpose of showcasing your skills.

ive seen the cd/website portfolio tack a very effective one. i've witnessed this in all the jobfairs i observed in silicon valley. look at it this way --- if you put up a website showcasing your skills, the world is your audience!

[tomatosun]

abcxyz,

i was interviewed last week, and i asked them when i would know if i made it, they told me prob in 2 weeks. im wondering if it's ok to make a follow-up as soon as today or this week, coz im thinking of doing so but, won't i sound too makulit or somethin like that?

thanks :)

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by tomatosun
abcxyz,

i was interviewed last week, and i asked them when i would know if i made it, they told me prob in 2 weeks. im wondering if it's ok to make a follow-up as soon as today or this week, coz im thinking of doing so but, won't i sound too makulit or somethin like that?

thanks :) no such thing as makulit. go ahead and follow-up. just be nice. they will look at your follow up as being assertive.

[blue_querubin]

abcxyz:

when submitting a resume, is it alright if I staple the pages? a friend advised me to put it in a folder.

what type/size of envelope should i used when i send a resume by snail mail? i wanted to put it in a large brown envelope so that i wouldn't be folding the papers, but then again i thought it could be a bad idea.

help!

[abcxyz]

resumes : to staple it or not? fold it into a short envelope? put it in a folder then mail in big envelope?

not sure if one is better than the other. i guess its really your own personal preference. others may agree/disagree.

the other consideration of course is cost --- its more expensive to put in folder and mail in bigger envelope. but then again bec ur looking for a job, cost should not be a consideration,. its an investment.

i will tell you how i send my resume and why i send it that way. you can make up your mind.

> i DO NOT staple my resume. feeling ko lang using a staple makes it kinda look cheap. BUT i put my name, email addy, cell number and tel number on the header of every page. AND also "page x of x pages" (msword is cool!). so if the other pages are separated from the main page, they would know how to put it back. of course, they will eventually staple it, but im not going to do it.

> i DO NOT FOLD my resume. looks neater if not folded.

> i NO LONGER PUT MY RESUME inside a folder. i used to do that but most recipients will remove them from the folder anyway. but when i used to put my resume in a folder, i used to use CLEAR/TRANSPARENT plstic folders.

> but I DO USE nice looking paper. the thicker variety and nice feel to it. i use white for CL and use another color for resume.

> NEVER, NEVER give your resumes as is, to security guards. the security gurads wont care less. put it in an envelope and address it to someone in the organization.

> if its a job i really, really like and i got a good lead, i use couriers, not snail mail.

[blue_querubin]

thanks! just curious, why do you use different colors for your CL and resume? I always use the same color for both.

Dang! Stupid me, I always mail the "regular" way so I don't have any idea what couriers are. Explain!

Thanks.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by blue_querubin
thanks! just curious, why do you use different colors for your CL and resume? I always use the same color for both.

Dang! Stupid me, I always mail the "regular" way so I don't have any idea what couriers are. Explain!

Thanks. no real reason why i use 2 colors. i just feel doing so communicates "attention to details", "organized", "tries harder". i dont know if it works or if they get that at all.

courier --- have it delivered by messenger, like DHL. medyo expensive. the plus is its impressive and the secretary will unlikely hijack the mail.

again, i dont know if it works or not. maarte lang ako. so its really up to you.

[AnGeLJoLi]

Abcxyz,

Hi! I just got hired as an account executive for a fashion magazine. Problem is, I don't think this is the right job for me. What is the right way (if there's such thing) to decline a job offer? Should I state my reasons? I feel uncomfortable with the environment. I also believe my salary is another factor. They're offering me a P7,200 (taxable income) monthly salary. Is this enough for an account executive of a fashion mag? They want me to start on Monday, so I'll give them a call tomorrow to decline the offer. They just gave me several papers regarding requirements, etc. Do I have to give it back? I feel so guilty, but, I really do think, I'm not up for the job. How do I handle this? I'm really in deep sh!t right now. Please help me, thanks!

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by AnGeLJoLi
Abcxyz,

Hi! I just got hired as an account executive for a fashion magazine. Problem is, I don't think this is the right job for me. What is the right way (if there's such thing) to decline a job offer? Should I state my reasons? I feel uncomfortable with the environment. I also believe my salary is another factor. They're offering me a P7,200 (taxable income) monthly salary. Is this enough for an account executive of a fashion mag? They want me to start on Monday, so I'll give them a call tomorrow to decline the offer. They just gave me several papers regarding requirements, etc. Do I have to give it back? I feel so guilty, but, I really do think, I'm not up for the job. How do I handle this? I'm really in deep sh!t right now. Please help me, thanks! no your not in deep sh!t. youre in some good place, but not sh!t.

account executive for fashion magazine means (let me know if i get this right) you will be selling ad space to ad agencies? if this is what i think it is --- media and advertising can be fun specially for young people. you will meet lots of party-going type of people. you will dress nice and will meet interesting ad people. you need to be good in dealing with people, a kind of wheeler-dealer and will require good attention to details. i can say this because i am from marketing/advertising.

why dont you think its the right job for you? and what dont you like about the environment? what is the kind of environment do you see?

i also dont know if 7,200 is enough. but that sounds like on the low side for a fresh grad. the range is from 7,000 to 19,000. that depends on the school you went to, the grades you got, leadership qualities and the job, company and industry you are joining. ask around to find out if its the norm in the industry. ask among your classmates/batchmates and see what kind of salary they are getting. who among them are better than you and what are they getting. who are less capable and what are they getting.

BUT there are really no solid rules or benchmarks you can use. its all about HOW YOU FEEL about yourself and the job you are getting into. or what value you put on yourself. there are jobs you will take with lower pay but you feel good about it and yourself so you take it. there can also be those that pay so high and you still wont feel good.

take out GUILT and SHYNESS and EMBARASSMENT from the equation. go with what you want without guilt. these companies DONT really care that much about how you feel. its a business, they hire you because they know you can contribute something so they can make more money. if they are like that, whay would you give a sh!t? do they feel guilt when they retrench people? no they dont. so dont feel guilt at all.

when you turn them down, they will certainly ask you why. and yes you may or may not tell them the real reason. tell them you will work for your dad instead if you want to lie. or tell them the true reason.

wanna play with their minds for a bit? so you know you will turn them down eventually but call them and tell them u wont accept. and for the reason, tell them you feel the salary is too low and some other thing about the environment. and that you are considering another job offer from an ad agency. so ask them for another week to think things over. i bet you they will come back to you and give you a counter offer thats better than the 7,200. try this out. if this doesnt happen, well u just found a sneaky *** to turn them down.

[AnGeLJoLi]

Originally posted by abcxyz
account executive for fashion magazine means (let me know if i get this right) you will be selling ad space to ad agencies? if this is what i think it is --- media and advertising can be fun specially for young people. you will meet lots of party-going type of people. you will dress nice and will meet interesting ad people. you need to be good in dealing with people, a kind of wheeler-dealer and will require good attention to details. i can say this because i am from marketing/advertising.

why dont you think its the right job for you? and what dont you like about the environment? what is the kind of environment do you see?

I sent you a PM about it! Thanks.

i also dont know if 7,200 is enough. but that sounds like on the low side for a fresh grad. the range is from 7,000 to 19,000. that depends on the school you went to, the grades you got, leadership qualities and the job, company and industry you are joining. ask around to find out if its the norm in the industry.[/b]

I graduated from UST, with a degree far from Advertising or Communication Arts, but my extra-curricular activities were quite remarkable, so maybe they were impressed by them. The magazine is quite popular, (I also sent you a PM about it) and as the HR told me, the industry is going up. I don't know anyone from the advertising side because as I've written, my course is quite far. Since you're from advertising, how much do you usually pay an AE?

when you turn them down, they will certainly ask you why. and yes you may or may not tell them the real reason. tell them you will work for your dad instead if you want to lie. or tell them the true reason.

Is it ok if I lie? (as if they're gonna know naman) I'm quite a story-teller so, I have a wild story why I'm gonna decline their offer. I also don't know how to negotiate the salary since I'm a fresh graduate and all.


They gave me an overview of the typical day of an AE. It's definitely a field work, and mostly I wouldn't be in the office during work hours. Is this the same with an ad agency? That's another reason why I feel uncomfortable. I don't have a car, so that's why I have to commute when dealing with clients. I have no beef with commuting, but with the 7200 salary, they'll be giving me, I don't think that's enough. Mostly I would work overtime without pay (they stressed on that point). Is this reasonable?


Should I give it a shot or should I let it go? I don't wanna regret my decision. But, hey, that's life! Lastly, could you please answer all my endless questions? You could send me a PM regarding the answers or just post it here. Thanks, you've been a great help!

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by AnGeLJoLi
I sent you a PM about it! Thanks.

I graduated from UST, with a degree far from Advertising or Communication Arts, but my extra-curricular activities were quite many, so maybe they were impressed by them. The magazine is quite popular, (I also sent you a PM about it) and as the HR told me, the industry is going up. I don't know anyone from the advertising side because as I've written, my course is quite far. Since you're from advertising, how much do you usually pay an AE?

Is it ok if I lie? (as if they're gonna know naman) I'm quite a story-teller so, I have a wild story why I'm gonna decline their offer. I also don't know how to negotiate the salary since I'm a fresh graduate and all.

They gave me an overview of the typical day of an AE. It's definitely a field work, and mostly I wouldn't be in the office during work hours. Is this the same with an ad agency? That's another reason why I feel uncomfortable. I don't have a car, so that's why I have to commute when dealing with clients. I have no beef with commuting, but with the 7200 salary, they'll be giving me, I don't think that's enough. Mostly I would work overtime without pay (they stressed on that point). Is this reasonable?

Should I give it a shot or should I let it go? I don't wanna regret my decision. But, hey, that's life! Lastly, could you please answer all my endless questions? You could send me a PM regarding the answers or just post it here. Thanks, you've been a great help! no i didnt recieve your pm yet. send again, pls.

your course is ad and comm? you should be able to get a job in advertising. ae work in ad agencies pay very well, specially after 2 years. the big ones pay anywhere from 9,000 to 15,000. you should be able to use your many extra curricular activities. this shows leadership.

yes you can lie. how will they know? and yes you can negotiate for a higher salary. say it straight out ---- you thinks its too low. and have an amount you want. thats assuming you still want the job.

ad agency long hours? yes that can happen. happens most of the time. but i think its a much more rewarding and challenging job than in the magazine industry. you will be taken in as a management trainee, its not clerical so you wont get paid overtime but there are perks --- transpo and food allowance if you work overtime. and if you do client calls, agency pays for transportation. and some would have car plans after 3 years, depending on how fast you get promoted.

cant tell you what to do -- to accept or not. you need to ask yourself that question. it looks like you dont like the job and you're not happy with the pay. why accept then?

regrets? this wont be your last. so dont let that bother you.

[AnGeLJoLi]

Originally posted by abcxyz
no i didnt recieve your pm yet. send again, pls.

your course is ad and comm? you should be able to get a job in advertising. ae work in ad agencies pay very well, specially after 2 years. the big ones pay anywhere from 9,000 to 15,000. you should be able to use your many extra curricular activities. this shows leadership.

regrets? this wont be your last. so dont let that bother you.

Sent you a PM. It's quite long kaya napatagal before I sent it. I have to make a correction though, my degree is far from Communication Arts or Advertising so that's why it's really hard to decide if I should take this job or not since it's rare to find a job in advertising with my degree. Thanks again.

[candycandy]

Hey what's up?? looks like you've been active nowadays answering those questions huh! Well, it's kinda nice to know that you're still helping them (like me) on how to ace an interview and finding a job. Ang haba na ng thread mo :)

Anyways, me here sa isang consulting firm but of course still want to have a regular job not like this one as contractual. Actually abcxyz i have an interview sa isang big company on Monday and ayun im quite nervous pa din. I feel so confident naman ngayon na baka makaturn-off naman sa employer. Hay nakuh.. hhmm.. pero it's true. Kahit matagal yung hunting ko, there will always at least one job talaga that suits me well and ito nga iyon.. present work ko.

So paano kwento naman dyan. Thank you sa help mo.. :)

[hodgepodge]

Hey! Does anyone here works for a modelling agency? I got a call recently from a prestigious agency here in Manila. Can you guys tell me what's like working in one as an agent? And also what kind of skills and personality would fit in that kind of environment. Had to ask after reading Angeljoli's predicament.:D
angeljoli, good luck! :D

[AnGeLJoLi]

Originally posted by hodgepodge
Had to ask after reading Angeljoli's predicament.:D
angeljoli, good luck! :D

thanks, turned out to be ok. I refused the offer and what do you know, another one called me up awhile ago. this time, they're looking for an account executive in a semi-radio station. I still don't know, for me kasi, I'm damn determined to be a future AE of an ad agency. Oh well....

Goodlck hodgepodge. :)

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by hodgepodge
Hey! Does anyone here works for a modelling agency? I got a call recently from a prestigious agency here in Manila. Can you guys tell me what's like working in one as an agent? And also what kind of skills and personality would fit in that kind of environment. Had to ask after reading Angeljoli's predicament.:D
angeljoli, good luck! :D let me see if i understand this correctly --- you're asking about being a talent caster in a modeling agency? i assume this talent casting for the ad industry. having good and many contacts is important in this job. you are not expected to know lots already at the start, so in the meantime what is required is someone who is not shy about approaching strangers and asking them to come for an audition or casting call. you will need to be outgoing, friendly and approachable in this area. you also need organizational skills and must be able to coorfinate well specially during actual shoot already.

[hodgepodge]

Thanks abxyz! Honestly, I dont think my personality fits the job pero sayang, I mean, you get to meet a lot of beautiful and glamorous people in different events and gatherings, and also you get to travel a lot. Another question, if ever i get the job and take it, what will be the direction of my career or the next step if it progresses in this industry? Like for example, copywriter to editor, gets?:D

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by hodgepodge
Another question, if ever i get the job and take it, what will be the direction of my career or the next step if it progresses in this industry? Like for example, copywriter to editor, gets?:D thats an excellent question. before accepting a job, everyone need to ask that question.

i know of some talent casters who have become commercial producers in ad agencies. but they were talent casters in ad agencies, not independent talent agencies. this happens.

i also know someone who from being a talent caster in an ad agency became a commercial producer in ad agency then became a tv ad director. this in particular is very rare.

so directionally, it seems a talent casting job leads you to a production job.

BUT if you really want to be a producer, tv ad director, editor ---- why the need to be a talent caster first? you dont need to do that. you can go straight look for a commercial producer job in an ad agency or a production house.

[abcxyz]

not meaning to be offensive, but the truth is talent casters are either women or gays.

[hodgepodge]

abcxyz:
Yikes! Lalo lumayo! Im not even creative so i really cant imagine myself in a production job in the future. I thought it would go towards the marketing direction.:o

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by hodgepodge
abcxyz:
Yikes! Lalo lumayo! Im not even creative so i really cant imagine myself in a production job in the future. I thought it would go towards the marketing direction.:o where in marketing? either go straight to marketing (brand managemement, trade marketing or sales) or take an ad agency job (account servicing). why take the long route? go straight!

[little_witch]

hi abcxyz ! I am about to graduate this December and this thread has helped me a lot! Although I still have several questions..

Q#1: I have my resume ready and the list of companies I would want to work for. Are unsolicited resumes ever noticed?

Q#2: Furthermore, How should I state in my cover letter that I am searching for a position/place in their company when they are not even hiring?

Q#3: Is it always necessary to attach my transcript of records with my resume? Or should I provide it only when it is asked for?

Q#4: In which part of my resume should I state: Civil Service Eligible?

I havent even graduated and I'm really worrying about not getting a job soon after my graduation. :tanfish:

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by little_witch
hi abcxyz ! I am about to graduate this December and this thread has helped me a lot! Although I still have several questions..

Q#1: I have my resume ready and the list of companies I would want to work for. Are unsolicited resumes ever noticed?

Q#2: Furthermore, How should I state in my cover letter that I am searching for a position/place in their company when they are not even hiring?

Q#3: Is it always necessary to attach my transcript of records with my resume? Or should I provide it only when it is asked for?

Q#4: In which part of my resume should I state: Civil Service Eligible?

I havent even graduated and I'm really worrying about not getting a job soon after my graduation. :tanfish: i commend you for thinking about getting a job even though you have not graduated yet. its good to be well prepared. just dont worry about it. you may think about it but dont worry.

> sending unsolicited resumes is fine. many does this and happens all the time. but having said that --- since many do it, it means your resume OUGHT to stand out. thats why a well written resume is very important.

> your cover letter SHOULD state what job you want. don't worry about whether a position is open or not. if they like you, they will call you with or without a position open.

> not always necessary to enclose a transcript of records. this just adds bulk to the resume and additional cost on photocopying. the employer will ask for it it once you get hired. but bring a copy during interviews. and state in your resume if you got honors or deans list or your standing among the graduates ("top 10% of graduates")

> civil service eligibility? i dont know really. maybe under "honors/special acheivements" ?

[little_witch]

THANKS abcxyz!
I am not really "worrying" about it but sometimes, it just hits me how a lot of my friends from upper batches are still unemployed. Some really opt not to work but as for me, I dont think I'll ever be content not doing anything.

Thanks again for the help! :beam:

I guess all I have to do is to polish, polish, polish and polish my resume and cover letters!!

[Ives]

hello abcxyz! i sent you a PM. nyways, i was just asking if there are sites where we can see or view sample (but effective :) ) cover letters. thanks...

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by Ives
hello abcxyz! i sent you a PM. nyways, i was just asking if there are sites where we can see or view sample (but effective :) ) cover letters. thanks... try monster.com and hotjobs.com

there are samples there but they may not be directly applicable. a few of the ideas are too american. but most are very useful. extract the principles and apply to your own.

read this thread, scroll up for some tips on cover letters.

[Ives]

salamay po, sir :)

[manoyfrancis]

In one of my interviews, I encountered a question: What do you see yourself in the future? or something like that...
What is the best suitable answer for that kind of question?

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by manoyfrancis
In one of my interviews, I encountered a question: What do you see yourself in the future? or something like that...
What is the best suitable answer for that kind of question? there are two principles you should apply : a) say what they want to hear and b) say something that makes sense from your point of view --- the direction your background, course and interest seem to be taking.

of course you want to say something that communicates desire for a bright future, loyalty to the company, good future and progress for the position you are applying for. they want to hire someone who will do good in the company.

i once said to someone interviewing who i didnt like "i want to have your job", just to rattle the guy.

[blue_querubin]

abcxyz:

when an interviewer tells you "i'll call you next week" yada, yada, ... they say it actually means "you didn't get the job." I'd like to believe that this is just an age-old myth since I'm so hoping this company I want to work for would really call me back. What do you think?!

[soulthird]

Originally posted by blue_querubin
abcxyz:

when an interviewer tells you "i'll call you next week" yada, yada, ... they say it actually means "you didn't get the job." I'd like to believe that this is just an age-old myth since I'm so hoping this company I want to work for would really call me back. What do you think?!

sometimes they do call back, but some don't. i've got some friends who were told to expect a call within a week and if they don't call then sorry.

actually it could be that they just want to have many applicants interviewed/tested before they could make their next move. it's not always the case that when they say they'll call you next week, it's over. good luck!

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by soulthird


sometimes they do call back, but some don't. i've got some friends who were told to expect a call within a week and if they don't call then sorry.

actually it could be that they just want to have many applicants interviewed/tested before they could make their next move. it's not always the case that when they say they'll call you next week, it's over. good luck! i agree.

hard to tell if thats bad or good. it can go either way. they could be interviewing others and will make a decision after all are interviewed.

you can CALL them next week and ask so you know for sure. your calling them shows initiative, interest and assertivenes, good things all.

sometimes, at the end of the interview, i ask how i did. if good, then i ask for next steps. if bad, it gives me a chance to try and change the bad impression to a good one. it also shocks them when you ask them how you did in the interview and thats fun!

[hello_pain]

man it took me a long time to finish reading this thread! interested kasi **** ako. alam mo na, freshgrad, trying to look for a job. :D anyway i applied for a job at a consulting firm in makati. they actually called me bcause i was referred by my school and that they are actually looking for sum1 living in a certain province. i took the test and 2 interviews. i followed up my application recently and the HR consultant said that "the job is not yet filled. to tell you honestly we were given more time by the management to screen more applicants." is this good news or a bad news? i mean, isn't it hopeless? will they be bound to look for someone better? i really like the job that htey are offering. its an engineering position and i want it pretty bad. i also said what was my salary expectation during the first interview because they asked. the truth is i dont know what the salary bracket is so i just said what i expected. i also did a fumble with the second interviewer who is the project manager. he asked me if i could drive. i said yes its just that i didnt hav a drivers license yet but in fact i dont (..know how to drive and dont hav a drivers license). but then he asked me, "what if they asked you to drive in california?" and i mistakenly said that i wud because they asked. isn't that a trick question? i think it is.

anyway to those who would be able to answer my question and give this a feedback, THANK YOU!

to those who are reading and posting in this thread; wouldn't it be bad if abcxyz turned out to be a freshgrad looking for a job and was in fact only voicing his opinions and stories told to him by someone. :rotfl: kawawa naman ang lahat who trusted him to answer all their questions. :D joke ***. :D

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by hello_pain
to those who are reading and posting in this thread; wouldn't it be bad if abcxyz turned out to be a freshgrad looking for a job and was in fact only voicing his opinions and stories told to him by someone. :rotfl: kawawa naman ang lahat who trusted him to answer all their questions. :D joke ***. :D this is really funny.

i'm actually a monkey trained to type. ideas posted here are from a PRECOG who is presently in my bathtub.

[hello_pain]

abcxyz:

question ***. if i inquired about my status of application and the HR replied, should i sent her a message back thanking her for acknowledging my letter? i dont want to annoy the HR person.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by hello_pain
man it took me a long time to finish reading this thread! interested kasi **** ako. alam mo na, freshgrad, trying to look for a job. :D anyway i applied for a job at a consulting firm in makati. they actually called me bcause i was referred by my school and that they are actually looking for sum1 living in a certain province. i took the test and 2 interviews. i followed up my application recently and the HR consultant said that "the job is not yet filled. to tell you honestly we were given more time by the management to screen more applicants." is this good news or a bad news? i mean, isn't it hopeless? will they be bound to look for someone better? i really like the job that htey are offering. its an engineering position and i want it pretty bad. i also said what was my salary expectation during the first interview because they asked. the truth is i dont know what the salary bracket is so i just said what i expected. i also did a fumble with the second interviewer who is the project manager. he asked me if i could drive. i said yes its just that i didnt hav a drivers license yet but in fact i dont (..know how to drive and dont hav a drivers license). but then he asked me, "what if they asked you to drive in california?" and i mistakenly said that i wud because they asked. isn't that a trick question? i think it is. as long youve not been told you are no longer in the running and the position has not been filled up, it is good news.

next time you call, ask the hr person how you have done. and ask if they can progress your application. nothing wrong with asking them to get up one step ahead of everyone.

dont worry about the driving question. they wont judge you on that question alone. BUT if i were you i'd get a drivers license right now. and learn how to drive. if this is a job you like and will involve driving isnt it a good idea to learn it now?

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by hello_pain
abcxyz:

question ***. if i inquired about my status of application and the HR replied, should i sent her a message back thanking her for acknowledging my letter? i dont want to annoy the HR person. you dont need to.

but if you like to send another letter, do so AND add in the letter an idea that yoou have about the job or to company, something that will make them notice you. you want every letter to have some added value for your cause.

[abcxyz]

for those who posted here --- have any of you accepted a job offer yet?

[hello_pain]

hey abcxyz!

salamat sa mga payo!:)

wala pa rin ako trbaho.:) kc nmn e hndi pa ako ng-aapplt. trying to read books on basic electronics and trying to learn autocad to make me more attractive to employers.

abcxyz give some tips nmn on salary negotiations and if you have some idea kung magkano starting salary ng mga fresh engineering grads.

slamat uli.:)

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by hello_pain
hey abcxyz!

salamat sa mga payo!:)

wala pa rin ako trbaho.:) kc nmn e hndi pa ako ng-aapplt. trying to read books on basic electronics and trying to learn autocad to make me more attractive to employers.

abcxyz give some tips nmn on salary negotiations and if you have some idea kung magkano starting salary ng mga fresh engineering grads.

slamat uli.:) salary negs --- most important is that you are decided on what amount you will settle for.

do some research -- ask around to find out what others are getting at the position you are applying with similar experiences. industry rates in other words.

ask your peers, people of the same age (classmates) and see where it stands.

but like i said the bottom line is how you feel about it. sometimes its not the money -- it can be the experience and the fullfilment.

[Krakista]

This is not for new graduates. In the IT industry, it is common to have 80 hour workweeks. In certain cases, two years of 80 hour workweeks can be equivalent to 4 years of work experience. So how can one project and package such considering that one does not attach his/her time cards to the resume?

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by Krakista
This is not for new graduates. In the IT industry, it is common to have 80 hour workweeks. In certain cases, two years of 80 hour workweeks can be equivalent to 4 years of work experience. So how can one project and package such considering that one does not attach his/her time cards to the resume? find some place in the resume to say that. better yet, express those long hours in terms of OUTPUT or PROJECTS completed. the long hours spent, i assume are productive hours, meaning there is output and this output i assume can either be measured in terms of number of projects completed, or maybe speed -- given the lomg hours a certain project completed sooner than normal, or in some other meaningful IT way.

here's a caveat --> since youre an IT practitioner and i assume long hours for IT is STANDARD among all IT practitioners/companies -- when you apply for another IT poistion, since it is standard practice, the prospective employer will not be impressed by it. everybody does it, why will it matter? if its normal practice, it wont stand out.

i might not know the IT industry too well, BUT the impression i get is that I will be much more impressed with an IT person who is able to finish projects, level of creativity and innovation, and intuitiveness in the porjects than.

most ITs i have met are too "bookish", too techically-oriented and does not seem to think of the end-user who is most likely a naive end-user.

[AnGeLJoLi]

Hello abcxyz,

I've been offered a job at a start-up advertising/research company (the company is fairly new, like they just started last May or June). Would it be advisable to accept the job knowing it's a start-up company plus, I'm a fresh graduate? They don't even have an office yet. Here's the thing, I also have a pending application with another media-related (but highly stable and popular) company, although let's just say, I have a 70/30 chance of getting in. Which company do you think, would highly train me? what company should I choose? I might be letting go of another opportunity this time. Thanks.

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by AnGeLJoLi
Hello abcxyz,

I've been offered a job at a start-up advertising/research company (the company is fairly new, like they just started last May or June). Would it be advisable to accept the job knowing it's a start-up company plus, I'm a fresh graduate? They don't even have an office yet. Here's the thing, I also have a pending application with another media-related (but highly stable and popular) company, although let's just say, I have a 70/30 chance of getting in. Which company do you think, would highly train me? what company should I choose? I might be letting go of another opportunity this time. Thanks. this is not an easy question to answer. at the end of the day, you will need to look for the answers and make a decision on your own.

look for this :

what is it hat you think is right/best for you?

if its training that you want, a start-up will most unlikely give that to you. geez, even established companies dont give much training, how could a start uo give you that?

start-ups by their very nature is unorganized and will have more need for seasoned/experienced people rather than inexperienced ones. i dont mean to be harsh, but start-ups tend to hire fresh graduates more for their low wages.

but then again - it depends on who are the key players in that start-up company. are they wizards and gurus? do they have something to give in terms of training? do they have a reputation?(pm me who they are and ill tell you if i know them. and give u my opinion of them.) when it comes to training, it really depends on who is the person giving u the training.

you are of course better off joining an established company. it will give you more security and the challenges you will face and things you will learn will benefit you more. start-ups will teach u how to run after business, how to be practical and aggressive. but extablished companies will make u a better professional all around.

are these two companies on the same industry? is it the career you want?

no offices yet? does not sound good. you can apply in other small or medium sized agencies with better prospects.

who are these people? pm me, maybe i know them. (maybe its me!)

[AnGeLJoLi]

Hello abcxyz

Sent you a PM>. Thanks. :)

[AnGeLJoLi]

Hello abcxyz,

Please check your PM again. I have another problem and I think you're the best person who could help me with this. Thanks. :)

[BLue{}FairY]

tanong lang po.... mayroon po bang bumabagsak sa final interview?

salamat po...........:)

[RiDeR]

nice thread! very informative! thanks abcxyz!

although i'm not a freshgrad and i've been working for about a year now, i just like to ask some questions that have been in my mind during my job-hunting times.

is it really a no-no to attach grad pics on your resume? sabi kasi ng iba, magmumukha ka raw mayabang. and is it okay pala to just scan your picture and paste it to your word document?

will you gain additional points if you included in your resume your previous summer jobs? i've worked for four summers before 5th grade to 2nd year high school.

and lastly, i was asked how honest was i? hindi naman ako nambobola eh and i am not a saint to say that i'm 100% honest. what is the best way to answer this?

thanks!

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by RiDeR
nice thread! very informative! thanks abcxyz!

although i'm not a freshgrad and i've been working for about a year now, i just like to ask some questions that have been in my mind during my job-hunting times.

is it really a no-no to attach grad pics on your resume? sabi kasi ng iba, magmumukha ka raw mayabang. and is it okay pala to just scan your picture and paste it to your word document?

will you gain additional points if you included in your resume your previous summer jobs? i've worked for four summers before 5th grade to 2nd year high school.

and lastly, i was asked how honest was i? hindi naman ako nambobola eh and i am not a saint to say that i'm 100% honest. what is the best way to answer this?

thanks! dont know about whether attaching or not attaching a pic matters. how you look shouldnt influence hiring, its the skill sets and experience (or potential) that should matter. unless of course physical looks is an important factor (i.e. modeling job). having no pic on a resume has not stopped me from calling someone for an interview. boils down to a choice really.

yes i think mentioning your previous summer jobs will help, most specially for new grads and new workers. summer jobs speak of being industrious, may mean you have matured and would most likely take a shorter time to adjust to a corporate setting. MANY new grads and young workers fail in their first jobs because they were unable to adjust to the new envoronment. having had summer jobs may mean, youve learned th ropes and will therefore be able to concentrate better at the job function. when you mention summer jobs, dont forget to mention what you learned --- skill sets or attitudinal.

honesty? its a trick question. and a cheap one. so a cheap question deserves a cheap answer. so let them hear what they want to hear. tell them you are.

if im asked this question, id answer --- yes i am basically an honest person. i obey the laws, even traffic laws. and i admit to something i dont know how to do something or when i make a mistake. i do that so i can ask for help and learn how to do it and not make the same mistake again.

did you notice the equally cheap trick i did in answering the question?

[RiDeR]

Originally posted by abcxyz
dont know about whether attaching or not attaching a pic matters. how you look shouldnt influence hiring, its the skill sets and experience (or potential) that should matter. unless of course physical looks is an important factor (i.e. modeling job). having no pic on a resume has not stopped me from calling someone for an interview. boils down to a choice really.

ah ok. we were told at school kasi not to attach grad pics as much as possible. and yung friend ko rin is an hr practitioner and sabi niya nayayabang daw siya pag ganun. well, it depends na rin sa practitioner di ba?

Originally posted by abcxyz
yes i think mentioning your previous summer jobs will help, most specially for new grads and new workers. summer jobs speak of being industrious, may mean you have matured and would most likely take a shorter time to adjust to a corporate setting. MANY new grads and young workers fail in their first jobs because they were unable to adjust to the new envoronment. having had summer jobs may mean, youve learned th ropes and will therefore be able to concentrate better at the job function. when you mention summer jobs, dont forget to mention what you learned --- skill sets or attitudinal.

ok. i'll still include them kahit matanda na ko. imagine, i worked at an early age although money wasn't tight. i just told the interviewer that i needed money to buy a family computer and i don't want to ask my mother for money. hehe! totoo naman eh!

Originally posted by abcxyz
honesty? its a trick question. and a cheap one. so a cheap question deserves a cheap answer. so let them hear what they want to hear. tell them you are.

if im asked this question, id answer --- yes i am basically an honest person. i obey the laws, even traffic laws. and i admit to something i dont know how to do something or when i make a mistake. i do that so i can ask for help and learn how to do it and not make the same mistake again.

did you notice the equally cheap trick i did in answering the question?

oh gosh, you're good! galing! pareho din pala ang style when you are asked what your weaknesses are: dapat yung mareredeem mo yung sarili mo.

thanks for the reply!

[lala_23_ph]

abcxyz,

how do you politely ask for your interviewer's business card (so i could email him a thank you letter afterwards)?

[abcxyz]

just ask for it right out after the interview and while asking for it, hand your own business card, that way he/she willl get the message

[lala_23_ph]

thanks for the advice abcxyz! i read your pm already.

[rabbaddal]

Resume:

> One page bullet descriptions will do, except if you are applying for an IT position and think that listing your certifications and seminars attended would be of value. Resume readers / evaluators are trained to zero-in on what's important to their company so shotgun-listing of all of the applicant's qualities will not be helpful.

> Unless the company explicitly asks for it, do not include your picture. It consumes too much space considering that you have to limit the resume to one page. Keep a set of passport-size photos handy in case the company asks for it.

> In the part where you describe your most recent job, it helps to devote approx. 2 bullets to summarize 2 very important projects / transactions / deals / etc. that you took part in, and what exactly you did in those instances. Employers like to get a better idea of what an applicant has done to gauge his fit for the job. Make sure, however, that whatever you're summarizing is pertinent to the job you're applying to. For example, if you are applying for a marketing job and were a club officer in school, you can talk about a couple of projects and teams that you led. Something like: "Organized December movie premiere of "007"; led team of 5 people in executing the project; planned budget; delegated responsibilities; solicited funds worth PHP500,000 from sponsors; marketed even to students and alumni; sold out all tickets; generated 35% profit." - very apt for a brand management application because a career in brand is project and team-intensive.

Interview:

> It will make it easier for you to know the job that you're applying for. Don't leave it to the interviewer / recruiter to figure out where to put you because with so few jobs available, other applicants who show more focus will look more attractive. Before stepping into the interview, have up to approx. 3 fields that you want to get into in mind (ex. brand management, sales, creatives), in order of preference. If the interviewer asks what kind of job you're interested in, give one (your most preferred, of course). If he/she asks what other fields you're considering, then mention the others. Don't digress too much from your preferences or it will make you look out of focus. Be ready to defend your choice of field, citing specific instances mentioned in your resume where you demonstrated the qualities that are fit for the position (ex. school projects for brand job). This implies that your homework in getting to know your chosen field better, such as attending career talks, doing informational interviews with people in the industry, doing a practicum in the field, relating your own school experience to the job you're applying for, etc.

> Be ready for a soft case interview (ex. how would you market a soap bar?). If you did your homework and immersed yourself in the career you're applying for, this shouldn't be any trouble. For example, US college students applying for investing jobs start reading The Wall St. Journal as early as their freshman year (this is but one of many other things that they do to prep themselves up for the time that they have to hunt for jobs).

Some things to keep in mind:

1. At the end of the day, the company is hiring somebody primarily to do a job. The more you can demonstrate that you are fit for the job, with what little experience you have, the better.

2. The more you can talk substantively about the position and your interest in it, the more you avoid BS discussions on things like why the school you attended is an advantage, "values", etc. If you feel some questions might force you to give BS answers, try to link them back to your career goals and once again, be ready to back it up with demonstrated accomplishments. For example: "I believe that everyone should get value for their money spent. When I organized the "007" premiere, I made an effort to secure the best venue with the latest AV equipment at the most affordable rates."

3. If you are still in college and plan to pursue a career in business, it helps to read the Asian Wall St. Journal as frequently as possible. Zero-in on the headlines, "Money & Investing" section, and "Markets" section. I don't think one would have to read the entire paper cover-to-cover. Also subscribe to / read magazines / journals that cater to the field you are targeting. Watching business-focused programs in Bloomberg and Channel News Asia will also help.

4. Generic "I don't know what I really want to do" applications are becoming passe. Employers are increasingly looking for applicants who show more focus and thought in terms of the careers they want to pursue. Students will have to assume a greater burden in positioning themselves in the job market.

[elixir]

hi abcxyz! need your advice on something. i sent you a PM already. thanks!

[abcxyz]

replied

[elixir]

hi abcxyz!sent u a pm in behalf of elixir....thanks!

[18th_Angel]

scenario: during your previous job you arrived at a contract that says that you're not suppose to divulge the projects you've done for the company for three years.. then suppose you left your job there and applied at other companies..
How would you say about the projects that you did? how will the company that you will be applying next will know that you have such experience working in that area without divulging it? Is it ok to turn the question down, like say.. I cannot answer that question because I'm bound by my contract... is that a good alibi? THanks.

[rabbaddal]

Originally posted by 18th_Angel
scenario: during your previous job you arrived at a contract that says that you're not suppose to divulge the projects you've done for the company for three years.. then suppose you left your job there and applied at other companies..
How would you say about the projects that you did? how will the company that you will be applying next will know that you have such experience working in that area without divulging it? Is it ok to turn the question down, like say.. I cannot answer that question because I'm bound by my contract... is that a good alibi? THanks.

In most cases, you may be able to talk about the nature of the project without divulging details such as name of the client, name of campaign, etc. Just tell the interviewer that you can't divulge details then go on to tell him/her how many projects you performed and of what type these were. If you were into IT integration, you can say that you did, for example, 3 CRM projects for telecoms companies and 2 payroll software projects for banks, the number of people you worked with and what your exact role in the projects were. Then if they ask for more info. that you think will be sensitive to your contract agreement, politely tell them that you can't divulge.

[keneshea]

nice thread...sumakit ang mata ko dahil pinilit ko tapusin lahat...hehehehe...


Ako naman...sobrang takot ako sa mga interviews, lagi akong pasado sa mga exams and sometimes nagto-top pro hindi ko alam kung dahil ba sa pag-English ako takot o kung saan man...I am working in a Technical Call Center right now and I am always talking with International clients, US, Canada, Aus, and even UK...sabi nga ng mga friends ko bakit ako natatakot eh fluent naman me sa english...***** takot ako kasi hindi ko alam kung paano ako magstart everytime the ask me those typical questions...kaya hanggang ***** eh andito ako at hindi ko alam kung makakaalis pa me dito...Kasi alam naman natin na kelangan din natin humanap ng may mataas na sweldo na work and right now I want to have a job that will compensate me well specially with this type of job that everytime I am setting up their network eh I am pulling my hairs out sa sobrang complicated minsan at sa sobrang hirap...I really don't know what to do right now...I have a pending application and I am waiting for them to call me but I don't know where to start the preparation... hehehehehehe....

[abcxyz]

^^^ practice! practice! i suggest you do mock intriviews with a friend so that you will get used to inerviews. also, preparation, preparation. make a list of potential questions and form the answers already in your mind so that during the interview you can just recall them. it also helos that going into the interview you have already decided in your mind what are the two to three themes you'd want to talk about during the interivew. these themes are the images you want to create in the mind of the interviewer. things like --- effective leader, creative and assertive. once you have these figured outm then try to get all your answers to make an impression of being a good leader, creative and assertive.

dont forget the two "p"s in interviews : practice and preparation! two important words.

[keneshea]

I can think of the things that I want to say and all the so called scripts are already there but the moment the interviewer asks me questions then everything just pops up like a balloon...hay...thanks for the advise and hopefully it would help me....Thanks! :)

[lala_23_ph]

keneshea,

so you've got the preparation right. abcxyz's right, the key is to practice, practice, practice. basta try ka lang ng try, you'll get better. actually nakaka-relate ako sa yo eh. we have the same experience...pasado sa exam, sablay sa interview, hehehe!! good luck! :)

[keneshea]

:) sobra kaasar un diba pro wala **** magawa kasi nga kulang sa practice...sana lang eh makuha ako sa opening ng bago naming site sa Cagayan de Oro...hehehehe...kung hindi naman eh sa ibang company...

[lala_23_ph]

kenesha,

so the same company naman pala eh. e di you have better chances coz you're there already...good luck! try and try until you succeed! :)

[keneshea]

meron akong application for the same company for higher position and sa iba din...thanks!

[c0re21]

Originally posted by abcxyz
salary negs --- most important is that you are decided on what amount you will settle for.

do some research -- ask around to find out what others are getting at the position you are applying with similar experiences. industry rates in other words.

ask your peers, people of the same age (classmates) and see where it stands.

but like i said the bottom line is how you feel about it. sometimes its not the money -- it can be the experience and the fullfilment.


im currently working in a call center as tech support rep. anyway, im still an undergrad (graduating this december, thank GOD!) and currently looking for a "real job"... hehehe!! i applied in an engineering firm that manufactures hard drives and the position that ive applied for is somehow related to the job that im in(sumkinda, support engineer for their products)... would it be OK if i ask them to at least "offer" me a salary that is "slightly" higher than what im getting? (well, it is a fact that call centers offers higher compensation than other companies) the point is, they're considering me for the position based on my experience, right?

[abcxyz]

you can ask a potential employer any salary you want. the question of course is if that company is willing to pay it and are you worth it. and how realistic the amount is.

it is always good to tell the truth about what your present salary is. and this is the truth ----> your present salary + 25% = truth.:)

if the company you are appplying for thinks you are worth it, they will pay what you want, just to get you. SELL YOURSELF WELL. and yes, you can leverage your present experience as something very useful for the next job. this is probably your ace. so think this through and make sure you can articulate this point very well.

it is fair for you to ask for the salary you want. but be prepared for disappointments. and be even more prepared to sell yourself. its all about selling yourself! you need to make your potential employer think that their company will fall apart if they don't hire you and you are God's gift to the position that it is their loss if they dont get you. emphasize what you can CONTRIBUTE to the job and the company.

[rabbaddal]

Originally posted by keneshea
I can think of the things that I want to say and all the so called scripts are already there but the moment the interviewer asks me questions then everything just pops up like a balloon...hay...thanks for the advise and hopefully it would help me....Thanks! :)

The caveat with relying mainly on practicing standard questions is that you may end up structuring so much that your side of the conversation could collapse like a deck of cards once the interviewer asks an unexpected question, or the company you're applying to could find somebody else who shows more focus and knowledge more attractive - something very likely in a competitive job market. At the end of the day, the interviewer/recruiter wants to hear what you've done and what you really know - even if they don't show it at first - because they are hiring somebody to do a job first and foremost. Talk about what you know about the company, the job you're applying for, and what the company can offer you that your previous job can't (which precludes that you have done your homework such as background research, talking to people in the industry, immersing yourself in industry publications and positioning yourself in your present job/situation to take your career to the next level).

Like I mentioned in my earlier post, the more you can talk substantively about the position you are applying for, the less you will need to resort to discussions on vague topics like "leadership", "teamwork" and "well-rounded personality", among many others - and consequently the less you will have to depend on practice and scripts to SOP questions. Citing demonstrated qualities will give the interviewer more confidence and comfort that you are indeed the right person for the job. Should the interviewer bring up vague topics, try to steer it back to what you've done, citing specific instances in the past where, for example, situations/projects/assignments where you were a leader or where you worked with teams.

If there's anything to practice, it would only have to involve articulating the important facets of what you already know and can demonstrate to the needs and requirements of the job. Being a project leader, for example, can be used to demonstrate your fit for a manager's job. If you focus on the tangibles, your interview will turn into a very pleasant conversation where you can speak about yourself and abilities naturally and confidently, and your interviewer will find your story more believable.

[vandarkala]

Be yourself, know what you're talking about and substantiate the content of your resume. If all else fails, think social desirability. More than above average speaking skills are a plus and can usually put the job in the bag. Confidence and stature are key ingredients as well.

[c0re21]

Originally posted by abcxyz
you can ask a potential employer any salary you want. the question of course is if that company is willing to pay it and are you worth it. and how realistic the amount is.

it is always good to tell the truth about what your present salary is. and this is the truth ----> your present salary + 25% = truth.:)

if the company you are appplying for thinks you are worth it, they will pay what you want, just to get you. SELL YOURSELF WELL. and yes, you can leverage your present experience as something very useful for the next job. this is probably your ace. so think this through and make sure you can articulate this point very well.

it is fair for you to ask for the salary you want. but be prepared for disappointments. and be even more prepared to sell yourself. its all about selling yourself! you need to make your potential employer think that their company will fall apart if they don't hire you and you are God's gift to the position that it is their loss if they dont get you. emphasize what you can CONTRIBUTE to the job and the company.

yeah... i just had an interview and its quite funny coz in the beginning, i was the one "begging" for a position in the company... HRO inteviewed me as well as the eng'g head and the vice chair. at the end, they were the ones who are negotiating with me (coz of the salary)... it's kinda weird though. and during the interview, i was stunned by the question on how i could CONTRIBUTE to the company... i had not much to say...

[abcxyz]

Originally posted by c0re21
yeah... i just had an interview and its quite funny coz in the beginning, i was the one "begging" for a position in the company... HRO inteviewed me as well as the eng'g head and the vice chair. at the end, they were the ones who are negotiating with me (coz of the salary)... it's kinda weird though. and during the interview, i was stunned by the question on how i could CONTRIBUTE to the company... i had not much to say... how you could contribute to the company?

the short answer is - its all of you : you're whole resume and your person (attitude and personality).

the basic premise is that this company is hiring someone because they have a need for that person. and they are talking to yoou because they want to know if you can fulfill their need or if you can contribute something they dont have at the moment.

BUT, its NOT enough to tell them who you are and what you have done for you to be hired - you need to tell them why you are better than everyone else they are interviewing. thats the key! you have to make them feel that you are the answer to all their problems, no one else.

[18th_Angel]

*bump*

[henryx]

Karaniwan, sino ba o kanino(anong posisyon sa kumpanya) ba ipinapadala ang cover letter at resume thru mail?

[abcxyz]

^^ this has been answerd before. scroll up.

but since this is such a long thread already and its just a short answer --- i'd recommend you send 3 copies : the president, hr director and the department director

[henryx]

^^ Okies!

tyvm!

[chalupsky]

INTERVIEW:

If you had already your preliminary interview ( HR & Supervisor), then they say that they will call you for your final interview ( Manager). Will they really call you? Like for example a week has passed , still you didn't hear anything from them. Then you followed it up, they said, they will just call you up. Is there still something to expect? Or nevermind?..

thanks!


Thanks!

[April_Loves_Gin]

^^^

In my case, they usually call within the week especially if the position needs to be filled up ASAP. But, I also had an experience when I followed up after two weeks of not receiving any calls from the HR Dept. The HR Dept. immediately scheduled me for a final interview with the Manager and got the job. The long and short of it, if you have already followed up and still got no response after that, it's better not to expect. :)

[Thousand Trees]

In my personal experience, I had this interview with the HR. The HR personnel said that I have to give her three days at the most before she calls back. Three days are gone, and still no call. About a week, they called me. It could be that they wanted to see more qualified applicants before they get to decide on my fate. But come to think of it, if they really want you, they'll prioritize you and keep you away from other potential employers. What if there's a better opportunity (sort of like almost simultaneous opportunity) from another company and you are pretty confident about your chances of getting a job from them?

The bottom line here is if you want the job badly, it altogether changes your perception on the result of your interview. Of course, you'll be optimistic and keep your chances up if you really love the job. The same goes to whether or not call the HR yourself and ask them about an update regarding your application. I say you only do that if you badly need or want the job because otherwise you are like shoving yourself into their throats.

[abcxyz]

good points given here. here's where i am :

> follow-up as often as your emotions can handle it. following up is a show of interest, thats a good thing.
> but don't hold out on any other interviews or job offers. pursue and entertain others.

in other words : do BOTH

[simpleonly]

I am not a fresh graduate but I am wondering if you could give me ideas about the ff:

An ASSISTANT REVENUE OFFICER ("ARO") position within our department was advertised externally - (which I believe I am qualified to do). I am planning to apply in a most discreet way as possible anyway, simply because if I fail, I don't want everybody in the department to know)

1. What is the most effective way to keep my application highly confidential?

2. Should I tell my immediate supervisor that I am planning to apply for the job?

3. I heard that the person handling it has resigned because of stress. I am interested to know what specific problem she encountered so that I could determine if I could cope up with it. How would I go about it w/o being nosy? Would I ask the Revenue Officer? HR Manager? Interviewers - ( i.e. in case I would be invited for an interview)?

In addition to this, I heard that an A/P-Paymaster position (which is really my forte), will soon be advertised - this is high paying than ARO and I'll be happier to get this. But of course, I will apply for both (ARO & A/P-Payroll Master) coz I can never be sure of where & how I stand (I'm a foreigner & I'm new in the company). What strategy do you think I should do to win either of this - but preferably the A/P-Paymaster job?

Hope I did not confuse you.

Thank you very much :)

[abcxyz]

I am not a fresh graduate but I am wondering if you could give me ideas about the ff:

An ASSISTANT REVENUE OFFICER ("ARO") position within our department was advertised externally - (which I believe I am qualified to do). I am planning to apply in a most discreet way as possible anyway, simply because if I fail, I don't want everybody in the department to know)

1. What is the most effective way to keep my application highly confidential?

2. Should I tell my immediate supervisor that I am planning to apply for the job?

3. I heard that the person handling it has resigned because of stress. I am interested to know what specific problem she encountered so that I could determine if I could cope up with it. How would I go about it w/o being nosy? Would I ask the Revenue Officer? HR Manager? Interviewers - ( i.e. in case I would be invited for an interview)?

In addition to this, I heard that an A/P-Paymaster position (which is really my forte), will soon be advertised - this is high paying than ARO and I'll be happier to get this. But of course, I will apply for both (ARO & A/P-Payroll Master) coz I can never be sure of where & how I stand (I'm a foreigner & I'm new in the company). What strategy do you think I should do to win either of this - but preferably the A/P-Paymaster job?

Hope I did not confuse you.

Thank you very much :)

> first of all, i do not think there is a way you can keep this a secret. you can try but word will get out for sure. things like these somehow finds a way to get to other people's ears.

> i think it is best that you tell your supervisor about it first. better for your sup to know about it before you make the move rather than your sup getting the news from the sup in the other deapartment. your sup might feel sligthed if you didnt do it that way.

and turn talking to your sup about it to an advantage. if he believes in you, he might even make a recommendation in your favor. or give you tips how to succeed in what you do.

the question though is this --- whats the best approach you can do so that its easy sailing at minimum and to your advantage at the most. suggest you set your sup up first. make sure that the day you talk to him is the day he feels good about your work and you. use a bit of psychology here. you know him, i don't so i cant give you specifics. make him look good out of your wanting to get to another job. something like -- his good training has prepared you for a better challenge. don't over do ego massage, it migth backfire. just do enough.

> doing research about the new position is always a good thing. talk to the girl who quit if you can. (when you do that, the secret will be reveled!). talk to others. find out as much as you can about the function so you can sell yourself better for it.

> not sure its a good idea to apply for two at the same time. its always better to just go for one. applying for two seem to say you are not sure what you want. of course we know its better pay, but bosses generally like to fool themselves and dont want to hear such bs. apply for the one that you really like and where you think you are best suited. or you better chances at getting. don't know what your priorities are. so start from there -- determine what are the most important things to you. when thats set, decide which of the two prospects is best fit to your priorities.

not one of your questions, but go on a fishing expedition. make it csual, jokingly or something less formal and very discrete, maybe you can fish from him whats the position thats better for you.

since you are aiming for a move up, make sure you give your sup and your company ample reasons to give in to your desires. in other words, perform well in your present job and advertise (discretel, do not boast) your achievements.

good luck.

[simpleonly]

Thank you very much abcxyz. Much appreciated ;)

[chalupsky]

In my personal experience, I had this interview with the HR. The HR personnel said that I have to give her three days at the most before she calls back. Three days are gone, and still no call. About a week, they called me. It could be that they wanted to see more qualified applicants before they get to decide on my fate. But come to think of it, if they really want you, they'll prioritize you and keep you away from other potential employers. What if there's a better opportunity (sort of like almost simultaneous opportunity) from another company and you are pretty confident about your chances of getting a job from them?

The bottom line here is if you want the job badly, it altogether changes your perception on the result of your interview. Of course, you'll be optimistic and keep your chances up if you really love the job. The same goes to whether or not call the HR yourself and ask them about an update regarding your application. I say you only do that if you badly need or want the job because otherwise you are like shoving yourself into their throats.

hi! thanks thousand trees and for all those who gave their inputs! oh well, till now , i'm patiently waiting. I've been following it up with the HR and they said that they are still looking for other applicants. And that they'll just give me a call. But it's almost close three weeks. I remember when i was interviewed, they said that the position shld. be filled asap daw.. hayyy.... anyways i'll follow it up again, sana di sila makulitan. Thanks again!

[Thousand Trees]

I have a question. I am a fresh graduate and I don't have any work experience just yet. How should I answer the question: "Tell me something about yourself?". As I have read in the previous post, all the way back in page 1, it's about you as an employee and your accomplishments in the other companies you have worked for.

I am starting with a clean slate so to speak.

[moonshine]

in the case of someone who has reached 3rd or 4th interview and testing level (from speaking to the HR person to the boss) but then always seems to not get the position, what could the person be doing wrong? this has happened a few times to a still-jobless friend of mine--- getting his hopes up only for them to be dashed. i can't help thinking: i wonder what he did wrong.

[abcxyz]

I have a question. I am a fresh graduate and I don't have any work experience just yet. How should I answer the question: "Tell me something about yourself?". As I have read in the previous post, all the way back in page 1, it's about you as an employee and your accomplishments in the other companies you have worked for.

I am starting with a clean slate so to speak.you can of course relate only things that you have actually experienced. so answer that question within the context of what you did in school. more importantly things that you did that demonstrates your skills and attitude that is applicable to the job. you got to the interview with the interviewer knowing full well you have no work experience it the first place. and thats whats expected of you. do your reseacrh abot the job and the company.

[abcxyz]

in the case of someone who has reached 3rd or 4th interview and testing level (from speaking to the HR person to the boss) but then always seems to not get the position, what could the person be doing wrong? this has happened a few times to a still-jobless friend of mine--- getting his hopes up only for them to be dashed. i can't help thinking: i wonder what he did wrong.don't think anyone can answer that question except your friend. ask him how the questions went and how did he answered them. that might tell you something. and try to find out who made it to the job. its probably the way he answered questions. but that's a really wild guess without any basis at all.

BUT, i think (you) and your friend need to change your attitude about job hunting. it does NOT matter how many inteviews you experience that turn you down, the only thing that matters is that you go the job you want. its not a contest about who gets a job with the least number of interviews. its common for many people to get dozens of interviews only to be accepted by one or two. the fact that he went as far as the final leg means a lot and is a good thing. i am so sure very many more just reached the resume stage and didn't even get to be interviewed at all. not making it in the final cut does not make him less of a person/employee. like finding a spouse, you just need to find your one true soulmate.

[Thousand Trees]

Here's another thing: I have submitted several applications to my highly preferred companies. However, given the expected stiff competition on these companies, for even a single slot at the very least, (since these companies are multinational companies and are definitely big names in its respective industries) I am afraid I am already leaning to the fact that I have a very slim chance of at least getting noticed by it. It's either you have a very impressive resume or you have someone connected with these companies to back your application up to get an advantage, am I correct? The question is: When should I start looking for other opportunities that will give me more probabilities of getting hired?
The real dilemma here is that I really want to get into my preferred potential employers but as I have said, the odds aren't quite good. On the other hand, if I explore my other options where my odds are pretty good, I am in effect taking a risk of getting a job and then suddenly getting calls from the companies I really want to be in. For how long should I assign a period of time to wait for the development of my applications to these companies?

[abcxyz]

i would suggest that you NEVER stop looking until you get the job you want. DO NOT DELAY or WAIT for replies. you only do the waiting and delays when the company actually tells you they will hire you and they are just waiting for final approval.

this truth might hurt, but this is the truth --> if a company REALLY thinks you are the person right for the job, THEY WILL NOT DELAY hiring you! they also know the job market is highly competitive, i.e. they also know IT IS HARD TO GET GOOD PEOPLE. they know that there are just a very few good people available in the market and too many companies are looking for the same good people they want. thus, when they think you are the perfect fit, you will get the offer immediately. (i've hired people on the spot myself, even before i get clearance from the president of the company i work for.)

[whitelightning]

hi, i graduated just last december (IT course)..I was interviewed twice already by the head of the company's IT dept..And dun sa last interview ko he told me that it will be my final interview and that his purpose is not to make a job offer yet, he just wanted me to know everything that there is to know about the company and the position i'm filling in and siempre yung expected salary ko so that i could give the position much thought in case na offeran daw nila ako na i-hire nila. Tapos he told me that one of his staff will just call me after a week or two for the job offer..more than a week has passed, should i give them a call? ibig sbhin ba ng pag tanong nya sa kin ng expected salary ko ay he's really considering my application?

[tidus1203]

I dont think if he/she asking you of your expected salary equates to getting hired. In fact laging tinatanong yan sa mga Application forms. Give it one more week kapag 2 weeks wala pa try calling them na pero most likely baka di na kasi kung talagang kukunin ka nila sila pa mismo tatawag sayo.

[mr. yotsuya]

5) being late for the interview and not dressing well for the interview is an automatic delete!

DEFINITELY! hehe...i remember my very first interview was for Accenture in MSE and I was late for 5 minutes. hehe...bye bye chances...

don't worry if you do not get a reply from a company you're interested in. it's really funny sometimes cause i got an appointment for interview in a company i applied in 2 years before! hehe...consider job hunting as "saturation bombing". you're bound to hit your target if you throw more bombs at it.

[mr. yotsuya]

you can of course relate only things that you have actually experienced. so answer that question within the context of what you did in school. more importantly things that you did that demonstrates your skills and attitude that is applicable to the job. you got to the interview with the interviewer knowing full well you have no work experience it the first place. and thats whats expected of you. do your reseacrh abot the job and the company.

i think it's also okay to ask your interviewers (especially during the later interviews wherein you get to talk to the plant manager himself/herself or dept manager) what kind of work they really do. sometimes, even if you research about the background of companies (especially engg companies), you find out later that the kind of work they really do was not what you were expecting (especially if your a fresh grad who knows nothing about the biz). i always ask in my interviews what kind of work they really do (not what is stated in the internet or what i heard from others because those are usually just general ideas, but of course i show them first that i am not totally ignorant of their company's profile.).

[abcxyz]

welcome to the new batch of graduates

[sharingan]

when i was asked "why should we not hire you?"

sagot ko: "because im going to be threat in your position",ayun tanggap ako!

[dewy]

i just read somewhere na pag-girl *** mag-iinterview, you should wait for them to extend their hand instead of you extending your hand for a handshake? or dapat ba you should be the first to extend your hand to the interviewer whether girl or boy? thanks

[tidus1203]

I dunno about the psychology of it pero I always extend my hand first.

[simpleonly]

> first of all, i do not think there is a way you can keep this a secret. you can try but word will get out for sure. things like these somehow finds a way to get to other people's ears.

> i think it is best that you tell your supervisor about it first. better for your sup to know about it before you make the move rather than your sup getting the news from the sup in the other deapartment. your sup might feel sligthed if you didnt do it that way.

and turn talking to your sup about it to an advantage. if he believes in you, he might even make a recommendation in your favor. or give you tips how to succeed in what you do.

the question though is this --- whats the best approach you can do so that its easy sailing at minimum and to your advantage at the most. suggest you set your sup up first. make sure that the day you talk to him is the day he feels good about your work and you. use a bit of psychology here. you know him, i don't so i cant give you specifics. make him look good out of your wanting to get to another job. something like -- his good training has prepared you for a better challenge. don't over do ego massage, it migth backfire. just do enough.

> doing research about the new position is always a good thing. talk to the girl who quit if you can. (when you do that, the secret will be reveled!). talk to others. find out as much as you can about the function so you can sell yourself better for it.

> not sure its a good idea to apply for two at the same time. its always better to just go for one. applying for two seem to say you are not sure what you want. of course we know its better pay, but bosses generally like to fool themselves and dont want to hear such bs. apply for the one that you really like and where you think you are best suited. or you better chances at getting. don't know what your priorities are. so start from there -- determine what are the most important things to you. when thats set, decide which of the two prospects is best fit to your priorities.

not one of your questions, but go on a fishing expedition. make it csual, jokingly or something less formal and very discrete, maybe you can fish from him whats the position thats better for you.

since you are aiming for a move up, make sure you give your sup and your company ample reasons to give in to your desires. in other words, perform well in your present job and advertise (discretel, do not boast) your achievements.

good luck.

Hi abcxyz,

I proceeded with my application for the ARO for the ff: reasons:
- it was advertised first & I'm not sure when the AP/Payroll job will be advertised.
- i have no assurance that I'll get the latter job so I thought, why take the risk of giving the former a miss.

Anyway, I got the ARO job. I started part-time last 23 Mar & at the moment, I still do my old job part-time until they find my replacement.

This week, the latter job was advertised and it's $80/day highpaying than ARO. What do you think of that?

Anyway, I settled not to apply for that because as I said, I have just started. I was thinking, it's like money vs integrity. I am happy & excited with the ARO job. I'll also meet lots of people in the community w/ this position.

With the latter job, I'm thinking that because I've done that sort of job before, it'll be boring for me this time.

Nakaksilaw lang kasi *** money. $80 per day is still $80.

What do you think?

[abcxyz]

Hi abcxyz,

I proceeded with my application for the ARO for the ff: reasons:
- it was advertised first & I'm not sure when the AP/Payroll job will be advertised.
- i have no assurance that I'll get the latter job so I thought, why take the risk of giving the former a miss.

Anyway, I got the ARO job. I started part-time last 23 Mar & at the moment, I still do my old job part-time until they find my replacement.

This week, the latter job was advertised and it's $80/day highpaying than ARO. What do you think of that?

Anyway, I settled not to apply for that because as I said, I have just started. I was thinking, it's like money vs integrity. I am happy & excited with the ARO job. I'll also meet lots of people in the community w/ this position.

With the latter job, I'm thinking that because I've done that sort of job before, it'll be boring for me this time.

Nakaksilaw lang kasi *** money. $80 per day is still $80.

What do you think?only one thing to say --- CONGRATULATIONS! you got what you aimed for. i think your thought process was spot on! let me go through the specifics :

I proceeded with my application for the ARO for the ff: reasons:
- it was advertised first & I'm not sure when the AP/Payroll job will be advertised.
- i have no assurance that I'll get the latter job so I thought, why take the risk of giving the former a miss. the thinking is correct.

Anyway, I settled not to apply for that because as I said, I have just started. I was thinking, it's like money vs integrity. I am happy & excited with the ARO job. I'll also meet lots of people in the community w/ this position. yup, at this point it will be money vs integrity. and you know what? the money you can get another day. and if you do a good job where you are now, it will come sooner than later. you have set up yourself in that company for the long term.

BUT if you lose your integrity now, it will be harder for you to get it back. or you might not get it back at all.

I am happy & excited with the ARO job. I'll also meet lots of people in the community w/ this position. this i think is the MOST important thing, you are in a job you are happy and excited about. you will be sepending at least 8 hours of a day on your job, being happy and excited for at least 8 hours a day is a great thing!

With the latter job, I'm thinking that because I've done that sort of job before, it'll be boring for me this time.

Nakaksilaw lang kasi *** money. $80 per day is still $80.

What do you think?i understand the point about the "nakakasilaw". but you said so yourself - you are in a job ou find exciting and happy about. add hard work to that and you will soon get to that pal level. and not applying for the 2nd job and lose your integrity has allowed you to avoid getting a bad mark on your reputation and attitude.

you are in a much better position where you are now. screw the $80!

[tinskie]

hey abcxyz,

i just had this interview from this company, the questions that were asked were not really hard but then i think i answered way too honestly.

i was asked what my least favorite subject was, i answered PROGRAMMING. even if i was being interviewed for a programming position, i still said this. now i am thinking, i think i just gave myself my own rejection.

during interviews, does honesty count (let's say aside from my srengths, i also tell my weaknesses) or do i just have to say the good things, those things that employers would like to hear???

and also regarding the cover letter, do i really need to attach them in my resumes? the resumes i'v been sending out have no cover letters with them.

[upnextlevel]

hey abcxyz,

i just had this interview from this company, the questions that were asked were not really hard but then i think i answered way too honestly.

i was asked what my least favorite subject was, i answered PROGRAMMING. even if i was being interviewed for a programming position, i still said this. now i am thinking, i think i just gave myself my own rejection.

during interviews, does honesty count (let's say aside from my srengths, i also tell my weaknesses) or do i just have to say the good things, those things that employers would like to hear???

and also regarding the cover letter, do i really need to attach them in my resumes? the resumes i'v been sending out have no cover letters with them.honesty can be both good and bad. well, depending on the situation.

not to be honest about facts (experience, scholastic, personal data) is definitely bad. you will get caught eventually and is grounds for termination.

now, when it comes to skills, abilities and opinions, well i would not say not being honest is a good thing. i will put it another way - a job interview in essense is a SALES PITCH. in an interview you are selling yourself.

in your particular example, telling them programming not being your favorite subject while applying for a programming job could be well, LETHAL.

unless ---- you have on the job experience and proof/evidence that says you are a damn good programmer inspite of it being your least like in school.

unless --- later in the interview process, you sort of take back that negative comment and turn it into a positive. example -- programming was my least favorite but in my present job, i have learned to like it. and in fact i think i am quite good at it. i have done some pretty smart programs.

every resume should be accompanied by a cover letter. i normally dont read applications without cover letters. i dont like to read resumes and try to guess what job the person wants. the cover letter is some sort of an intro and the one that will create a first impression. scroll up to know how to make good cover letters.

[simpleonly]

only one thing to say --- CONGRATULATIONS! you got what you aimed for. i think your thought process was spot on! let me go through the specifics :

the thinking is correct.

yup, at this point it will be money vs integrity. and you know what? the money you can get another day. and if you do a good job where you are now, it will come sooner than later. you have set up yourself in that company for the long term.

BUT if you lose your integrity now, it will be harder for you to get it back. or you might not get it back at all.

this i think is the MOST important thing, you are in a job you are happy and excited about. you will be sepending at least 8 hours of a day on your job, being happy and excited for at least 8 hours a day is a great thing!

i understand the point about the "nakakasilaw". but you said so yourself - you are in a job ou find exciting and happy about. add hard work to that and you will soon get to that pal level. and not applying for the 2nd job and lose your integrity has allowed you to avoid getting a bad mark on your reputation and attitude.

you are in a much better position where you are now. screw the $80!

thanks for all these abcxyz, much appreciated :)

[mac_bolan00]

they called me through my jobstreet account.

i can always tell if the interview went bad. towards the end, the idiot interviewer will say, "we're lookng for a proper 'fit' into our group..."

i was never great with interviews. :D

[ruffee_cola]

how you could contribute to the company?

the short answer is - its all of you : you're whole resume and your person (attitude and personality).

the basic premise is that this company is hiring someone because they have a need for that person. and they are talking to yoou because they want to know if you can fulfill their need or if you can contribute something they dont have at the moment.

BUT, its NOT enough to tell them who you are and what you have done for you to be hired - you need to tell them why you are better than everyone else they are interviewing. thats the key! you have to make them feel that you are the answer to all their problems, no one else.

still seeking for your additional advise & help.

1 how you could contribute to the company?

2 "why should we not hire you?"

3 prepare a proposal (about the company's profile & website) and strategies on how you may be an asset

thank you.

[abcxyz]

i was never great with interviews. :Dwhy not? what makes u say that?

[abcxyz]

still seeking for your additional advise & help.

1 how you could contribute to the company?

2 "why should we not hire you?"

3 prepare a proposal (about the company's profile & website) and strategies on how you may be an asset

thank you.need more info before so i can give you a better answer. what is the context of these questions? did u actually experience this? tell the story of the whole thing.

on #3 -> clarify the question for me pls. you were asked to prepare a proposal re the company's profile and website? you were asked how you may be an asset? what has the "strategies" good to do with it?

[rabbaddal]

still seeking for your additional advise & help.

1 how you could contribute to the company?

2 "why should we not hire you?"

3 prepare a proposal (about the company's profile & website) and strategies on how you may be an asset

thank you.

Questions 1 and 3 are just a way for the interviewer to ask you to demonstrate how your skills, qualities and interests fit the job description. If you are applying for a marketing job, show them what you've done in the past that would help the company increase its market share. If you are applying for an IT job, talk about your certifications and/or past challenging projects that you've finished ahead of schedule. At the end of the day, a recruiter is looking for somebody who can deliver tangible results in order for them to meet their business targets. #3 specifically appears to be a case-type question. They want to see an on-the-spot back-of-envelope demonstration of your skills, just like how a newspaper would require an applicant for a journalist position to write about a certain topic on the spot. Best you know the kind of job you're applying to very well before youshow up for the interview.

As for #2, if you handled #1 and #3 well enough, then there should be no reason for them not to hire you.

[mac_bolan00]

why not? what makes u say that?
the thing is i have precious little patience with pretentious yuppy scum whose ambitions outstrip their abilities.

it was the head of the requesting group (an MNC) who interviewed me. position was for a sr. financial analyst (that sets me back around 7 years). he must be almost 10 years younger than me and hasn't gone around as much. we talked shop:

him: "what's the IRR when NPV is zero?"

me: "the discount rate used."

him: "so what's the resulting IRR?"

me [a little confused]: "IRR IS the discount rate that turns NPV to zero."

him [persistent b@st@rd--told me he graduated from the PMA]: "so what is it?"

me: ????? "it depends of course. i have to know the profile for cash-in/cash-out, the time horizon, the profile of each period's PV. you sometimes have multiple IRRs because of that."

him: "so you don't know?"

me: "NO I DON'T!" [mutter, mutter, mutter]
***
i told my PhD-friend about it and he asked me from what school that idiot got his MBA. i explained that the guy's young and is part of the 'excel' generation. he probably didn't study the mechanics of discounting that well, to which my friend said, "he's not young, he's stupid!"

[abcxyz]

^^^ not worth your time, then. neither is that company worth working for. good u didnt get in.

[xxtoyxx]

it frustrates me kapag I know the interview is good, and I never get a call from the company, and the weird thing is kapag mediocre yung interview, I get a response. :P

maybe my "good" is mediocre to them, and vise versa. oh well.

i backed out from an offer from the company where i had my mediocre interview, hoping the other company would reply.

Question: Is it okay to ask for a compensation na mas malaki sa current salary mo if you are trying to enter another career field?

[abcxyz]

Question: Is it okay to ask for a compensation na mas malaki sa current salary mo if you are trying to enter another career field? YOU SHOULD ALWAYS ASK FOR BETTER PAY ALL THE TIME. but thats the easy part. you can ask but you dont know if you will get it. to get it though, is to SELL yourself well. impress the hell out of the company who is making you an offer.

[xxtoyxx]

thanks abc :)
hopefully in the near future, i would undergo negotiations. :)

[abcxyz]

thanks abc :)
hopefully in the near future, i would undergo negotiations. :)i am with you on that one. i share your hopes and cheer you on!

[TheDreamer]

Naku mahaba tong storya ko but if anyone can share their inputs lalo na from the thread starter, it would be very much appreciated!

I have a few questions of my own but I think it would be best to describe the scenario first – it is rather complicated. Will try to keep it short.

For my first job after getting my degree, I worked for a big retail firm as a department head for a specific unit in one of their major branches. Four months into the job, I was transferred to a new branch as part of the setup team. This transfer exposed me to how a branch is built in retail operations. By December 2005, I was regularized and the evaluations were sent in by my former branch manager which highlighted an above average rating. The recommendation read “Employee is very efficient. She can be given bigger responsibility in operations in the future.”

The Senior HR Manager (the same person who was my 3rd interview back when I was still applying to the company) called me up on my mobile a few days after that and well, it was like an interview again. She was asking how I was doing in my current position and how my relationship is with my current branch manager (I was 3rd in command inside the branch) and how my learning curve is doing. Eventually, she brought up the possibility of me being an assistant branch manager for the new branch. They are still in the process of doing evaluations and all but she just would like to have a talk with me regarding it. I answered in the best way possible without putting anyone in bad light (I was not comfortable with my current manager then – still adjusting to her attitude he he). As for the position, since there was no solid offer yet, I said something like I would prefer being assigned to a bigger branch as assistant branch manager saying in effect that the challenges in the larger branch would be more challenging for me. (2 departments in the new branch, 4 departments in the larger branch).

I resigned 3 months after the call (Last day ko April 3). Why? If I was having such a great time in my job – why did I quit? The major reason was that the timekeeping sucks and my payroll were not always given at the right amount. Blame it on the timekeeper they say, but it was de-motivating. Here I was putting in 54 hours a week with around 20 hours in overtime (both paid and oTY) and I’d see deductions? The last straw was when I received a total of gross of 4thou for my February salary. GRABE! Then subsequent overtimes approval forms that we usually attach to our timecards were LOST by the timekeeper. It seems that it was an accepted practice in store operations. Hindi ko masikmura yung sistema ganun.

So there, I resigned for "personal and educational reasons" – just in case I would still like to be back with the company. Well – I lied really he he... I told them that I’m going to Australia for an assessment with a university, hoping for a chance to get my Masteral there. The firm did not ask further but stated that if in the event I don’t pass, I am still welcome in the organization. Also, during the exit interview, I viewed this as the right venue to air out my complaints. It was noted, sealed and marked confidential for further viewing of someone else.

While I was doing my transition, one of my buyer friends from the Merchandising Group called me up. She had recommended me to the Div Merchandise Manager for a buyer position. My former and current manager also told me that they are recommending me for this position if I plan to return.

I was not supposed to be “back from Australia” until the 21st of April but my former manager saw me at Katipunan the other day! I just told her that I’m already back and did not pass the assessment and that I am currently resting muna. She asked me if I’m interested in the buyer position and I said “If negotiations with the company goes well and if there would be concrete actions to solve my complaints before, I will consider.” Afterwards, she texted me saying “Cha (Senior HR Mgr) was asking for your home number last week and I gave it to her, hope you don’t mind. I did not tell her or anyone else that you’re here na, I know you are still busy.”

So yun. Whew. Here are my questions….

1) How do I express my interest to the Senior HR Manager for the buyer position? There are actually no external hiring for this but internally, the branch managers and my buyer friend told me that a buyer is resigning and they would like to hire someone from the department head level.

2) Will my resignation be a negative reflection with the buyer position if and when brought up in an interview? Specifically my complaints? How do I positively answer it? Might it be an indicator of something? Napa-paranoid kasi ako.

3) I am also applying to multinational firms and if ever, how do I answer the question “Why did you resign from your previous job?” I don’t want to bad mouth naman the company I worked with – ang panget. Besides, it might be reflective of me diba? Naka 10 months ako into the job.

4) Do you have any idea how much is a buyer’s salary? How do I negotiate for a higher rate?


Grabe, pasensha na. Hope hindi sumakit mga mata nyo :) Thanks in advance for the advices!

[mac_bolan00]

your time keeper, the pay master and probably the accountant ARE SKIMMING MONEY FROM EMPLOYEES' REGULAR PAY. you should have documented all irregularities and reported them to the cops and to DOLE.

[ruffee_cola]

i'm a fresh computer sci grad. im currently looking for work related to web designing / programming

what is the best/better way to answer this:
- why should we hire you?
- what can you contribute our company?

-----------

last time i emailed a company, they reply this:

My company is interested on your application. We will set an interview
with you next week.

Please also visit CompanyWebsite.com for your
familiarity with the company. Your knowledge and insight on the
company's direction counts. We suggest that you study it very
carefuilly and prepare a proposal and strategies on how you may be an asset.

what action should i do with this email. (i prepare i list on my comments on the technicalities of their site, i also re-designed teh existing site)

thanks a lot...

[abcxyz]

1) How do I express my interest to the Senior HR Manager for the buyer position? There are actually no external hiring for this but internally, the branch managers and my buyer friend told me that a buyer is resigning and they would like to hire someone from the department head level.

2) Will my resignation be a negative reflection with the buyer position if and when brought up in an interview? Specifically my complaints? How do I positively answer it? Might it be an indicator of something? Napa-paranoid kasi ako.

3) I am also applying to multinational firms and if ever, how do I answer the question “Why did you resign from your previous job?” I don’t want to bad mouth naman the company I worked with – ang panget. Besides, it might be reflective of me diba? Naka 10 months ako into the job.

4) Do you have any idea how much is a buyer’s salary? How do I negotiate for a higher rate?

1. Listen first for the most part at the beginning when the HR talks to you. Wait for an opportunity to ask the HR if there are other openings available.

Question - did your former manager put in her recommendation of you in a formal way? Is the HR manager in possession of an actual document that recommends you for the post? Ask your former manager if you can mention to the HR that you know she has given a recommendation for you. In facr CONVINCE her that its ok. If all the answers are yes, then you SHOULD state your interest to the job and even suggest to the HR to TALK to your former manager and ask her her assessment of your work (this is an INDIRECT WAY of telling the HR - "read the recommendation letter, you dork!)

2. Your resignation and complaints SHOULD NOT matter. People resign all the time. And they also return to companies they resign from all the time.

Your complaints are valid, so it should not matter. BUT thats not how it is in many companies. Caution on this one.

On one hand - I think you did the wrong thing NOT bringing up the issues about the timekeeper and wrong salary computation in a formal way with our bosses and HR. It is your rigth to bring that up and it is only fair that you did. We are talking here take home pay and thats very important. If you reported it, you could have done your company a favor and may have contributed in helping the company improve its system and fire the $#%@%! timekeeper. That timekeeper is doing damage to your company and all companies appreciate it when they are able to improve systems and weed out the bad eggs.

Having said that, here's a suggestion how to handle it ---> STICK TO YOUR STORY for resigning, which is you went to Australia. Put that as the MAIN reason. When your complaints come up, mention that as a MINOR issue. Weave an acceptable story around that. Remember - STICL TO YOUR MAIN STORY.

BUT, do not accept the job unless the timekeeper issue is discussed with the HR and a promise that it will be fixed. If you let that issue go and no action taken, you will be in the same situation before and you might have to "go" to australia for a 2nd time.

3. Your application to other companies - I agree. Again STICK TO YOUR ASUTRALIA STORY. Be consistent with your story - what is major and what is minor.

4. i dont know salary ratees for a buyer. but yes, you should negotiate for a higher rate. here's a way to handle salaries - they normally ask what salary you expect. you can answer ---- better than my previous rate because the new job is at a higher level and within range of the salary ranges of buyers in the company and within the industry. you may ACTUALLY ASK what these ranges are. all HR people know industry salary levels.

good luck

[tianak_me]

THE CHAIRMAN AND CEO
XYZ Company

Dear sir,

I am very pleased to inform you that your company is one of only five companies in the Philippines qualified to bid for my services. Negotiation for gross monthly salary should begin at 100,000 Pesos. Am expecting a call from you as soon as possible in order to put you ahead of other applicants.

Very truly yours,

Tyanak_me

[abcxyz]

i'm a fresh computer sci grad. im currently looking for work related to web designing / programming

what is the best/better way to answer this:
- why should we hire you?
- what can you contribute our company?i think the answer to these two questionsis the same answer. the question is basically asking you to "sell yourself". that will mean your strengths that they can use. this could be in two areas --- technical strengths and attitudinal strengths. technical means what you learnd in school about web design and programming. attitudes - are you a leader? are you creative? are you hard working? are you smart? fast learner?

My company is interested on your application. We will set an interview
with you next week.

Please also visit CompanyWebsite.com for your
familiarity with the company. Your knowledge and insight on the
company's direction counts. We suggest that you study it very
carefuilly and prepare a proposal and strategies on how you may be an asset.

what action should i do with this email. (i prepare i list on my comments on the technicalities of their site, i also re-designed teh existing site)

thanks a lot...i actually hate qiestions like these. i get very skeptical everytime companies ask me to do somehing for them before they hire me. i think many companies just want to get freebies from you. BUT do not take my word for it. you need to decide what to do with it.

it is VERY GOOD what you have done. if you are as skeptical as i am and like me do not like beaing cheated, at the minimum DO NOT SEND BY EMAIL what you have prepared. if you send it by email, they might steal your ideas and not hire you just the same.

i would suggest you reply to their email and tell them you have something to show them and would like to SHOW/DISCUSS what you have prepared IN PERSON.

i do that all the time when i am interviewed. i prepare something to show them my skills and show during the interview. so i show it to them and some HRs/presidents stupidly ask me if i can leave a copy with them! here's my answer -- i refuse to leave a copy and tell them "what i showed you is what i get paid for, sorry i cant give you a copy". CAUTION - i can say things like that becuase i am very senior in what i do. it might be different with u becuase you are a fresh graduate.

but then again - why would you want to work for a company who likes to steal from people? only you can decide if you like to refuse them when they ask you for copy of your work.

good luck

[TheDreamer]

1. Listen first for the most part at the beginning when the HR talks to you. Wait for an opportunity to ask the HR if there are other openings available.

Question - did your former manager put in her recommendation of you in a formal way? Is the HR manager in possession of an actual document that recommends you for the post? Ask your former manager if you can mention to the HR that you know she has given a recommendation for you. In facr CONVINCE her that its ok. If all the answers are yes, then you SHOULD state your interest to the job and even suggest to the HR to TALK to your former manager and ask her her assessment of your work (this is an INDIRECT WAY of telling the HR - "read the recommendation letter, you dork!)

2. Your resignation and complaints SHOULD NOT matter. People resign all the time. And they also return to companies they resign from all the time.

Your complaints are valid, so it should not matter. BUT thats not how it is in many companies. Caution on this one.

On one hand - I think you did the wrong thing NOT bringing up the issues about the timekeeper and wrong salary computation in a formal way with our bosses and HR. It is your rigth to bring that up and it is only fair that you did. We are talking here take home pay and thats very important. If you reported it, you could have done your company a favor and may have contributed in helping the company improve its system and fire the $#%@%! timekeeper. That timekeeper is doing damage to your company and all companies appreciate it when they are able to improve systems and weed out the bad eggs.

Having said that, here's a suggestion how to handle it ---> STICK TO YOUR STORY for resigning, which is you went to Australia. Put that as the MAIN reason. When your complaints come up, mention that as a MINOR issue. Weave an acceptable story around that. Remember - STICL TO YOUR MAIN STORY.

BUT, do not accept the job unless the timekeeper issue is discussed with the HR and a promise that it will be fixed. If you let that issue go and no action taken, you will be in the same situation before and you might have to "go" to australia for a 2nd time.

3. Your application to other companies - I agree. Again STICK TO YOUR ASUTRALIA STORY. Be consistent with your story - what is major and what is minor.

4. i dont know salary ratees for a buyer. but yes, you should negotiate for a higher rate. here's a way to handle salaries - they normally ask what salary you expect. you can answer ---- better than my previous rate because the new job is at a higher level and within range of the salary ranges of buyers in the company and within the industry. you may ACTUALLY ASK what these ranges are. all HR people know industry salary levels.

good luck

Thanks, I'm sticking with the story :lol: The Senior HR Manager is requesting for a meeting tomorrow at the Head Office. Will keep all of your insights in mind. :)

[abcxyz]

Thanks, I'm sticking with the story :lol: The Senior HR Manager is requesting for a meeting tomorrow at the Head Office. Will keep all of your insights in mind. :)come back here and let us know what happened. good luck.

[ruffee_cola]

thanks abcxyz...

[honeybfly]

I am a seriously confused person right now, can anyone pls give me advice regarding my career dilemma?

Here's my story:
I'm currently working in sales for a multinational consumer goods company. I have been on the job for almost five months already but I'm seriously considering giving my resignation because I want to shift to a finance career.

I'm not happy/satisfied with my current job because of:
(1) my area assignment (which is far from where my family lives),
(2) I feel I'm underpaid considering the work hours and travel involved-I'm a monthly salaried employee but I'm averaging more than 65 hrs/wk..I even have to work weekends to finish reports
(3) I'm concerned about my health, I feel very tired, I lack sleep and have been experiencing heart burn attacks recently which I attribute to stress and pressure from work.
(4) My parents, especially my mom, is not ok with me going home between 11pm-1am every night then having to leave by 6-7am the following day.

I went into sales because I enjoyed my marketing/selling jobs for my organizations back in college. However, academically, I feel I did well in my finance, economics and P/OM subjects.. I enjoyed doing research and preparing reports/recommendations/analysis for these subjects back then.

Now, because of my current situation at work, I feel that a sales job is not suited to me and I want to shift to a finance/research position. However, I'm worried that resigning with less than 5 months of work experience in my current job would reflect badly on me.. The reason for this is that I resigned from my first job (after graduation last year) after 1.5 months (I felt cheated and I quit because the job involved working graveyard hrs and this information was not divulged to me during the job offer) ..

Should I quit my current job then start looking for a finance/research position? Or should I stay at least a year before I start considering a career shift?

p.s. I feel disloyal about looking for another job while currently employed. Is this normal?

[abcxyz]

^^^ resigning now, at 5 months and resigning later after 12 months wont matter. it has about the same "effect". both are short for any job. but much does that matter?

companies will hire you or not hire you for how long or short your previous job is. you are still young, it wont really matter to companies who will hire you.

what is more important is that you are in job that means something to you. and in one that makes you happy and makes the most of your skill sets. if you're not into that kind of situation, get out of it. sooner the better.

is it not possible for your present company to move you to finance? or research? or to whatever you want to do?

[TheDreamer]

Category buyer na ako starting May 2 for my firm! Thanks for all the tips here and all the advices as well!!!! :D :D :D

[abcxyz]

Category buyer na ako starting May 2 for my firm! Thanks for all the tips here and all the advices as well!!!! :D :D :Dwow, thats really beautiful news! CONGRATULATIONS for a job well done! its always good to hear things we post here have actual use in the real world! very glad you got what you aimed for.

[honeybfly]

Congrats TheDreamer! Goodluck with your new job:)

[eL_dAsiK_oo1]

tanong lang about resumes.. Kelangan pa ba ng PERSONAL DATA? tsaka kung kelangan ano ba pwede ilagay dun?

:dj:

[henryx]

Ang inilalagay ko lang ay age, civil status, birthday at birthplace. Mapuno ko lamang ang isang page kong resume. :D

Okay lang ba ito?

[mesmerizer]

first of all, i want to thank you guys for sharing work-related experiences and answering all the qs here

i want to know how to turn down an interview

i just did..i submitted my resume to this school for a research work
after one day, someone texted me about my application
he said that if im interested, i wud reply to him
but i didnt coz i was not interested and was not prepared thaT TIME
..im still doing our thesis

i thought of re-schedulling my interview but im not really interested, so what's the use
(my friend who is working there told me to submit my resume..even though i didnt want to..nahiya lang ako kasi nga naman sa dami ng kakilala niya, ako lang ang kinontak nya...at ang tinawagan pa nag niya *** isa kong classm8 para tanungin *** new number ko
na dati niyang orgmate pero hindi naman niya inalok na mag-apply dun..kahit sa friendster, hinikayat niya rin ako, kahit *** secretary sa college namin na pareho naming kakilala, binilinan niya rin na mag-apply ako dun)
so paano pa ako makatatangggi di ba?



siguro ngayon alam nya na hindi ako sumipot sa interview..

[upnextlevel]

Ang inilalagay ko lang ay age, civil status, birthday at birthplace. Mapuno ko lamang ang isang page kong resume. :D

Okay lang ba ito?you forgot college you graduated from and degree.

no real rules here. except that if you are applying a job in the US, you are not required to put age and status. it is illegal for companies to ask these questions from applicants.

[upnextlevel]

first of all, i want to thank you guys for sharing work-related experiences and answering all the qs here

i want to know how to turn down an interview

i just did..i submitted my resume to this school for a research work
after one day, someone texted me about my application
he said that if im interested, i wud reply to him
but i didnt coz i was not interested and was not prepared thaT TIME
..im still doing our thesis

i thought of re-schedulling my interview but im not really interested, so what's the use
(my friend who is working there told me to submit my resume..even though i didnt want to..nahiya lang ako kasi nga naman sa dami ng kakilala niya, ako lang ang kinontak nya...at ang tinawagan pa nag niya *** isa kong classm8 para tanungin *** new number ko
na dati niyang orgmate pero hindi naman niya inalok na mag-apply dun..kahit sa friendster, hinikayat niya rin ako, kahit *** secretary sa college namin na pareho naming kakilala, binilinan niya rin na mag-apply ako dun)
so paano pa ako makatatangggi di ba?



siguro ngayon alam nya na hindi ako sumipot sa interview..just tell them you are no longer interested in the position. thats the fairest way to say it. but you say this to companies you dont mind burning bridges.

[mesmerizer]

i will have my interview next week, no definite day or time yet
my interview was scheduled tomorow but I have to attend the rehearsal for my

graduation
the interviewer told me that he will call me tomorrow to arrange my schedule
..im really interested to work in that company but the problem is the shedule..my

schoolmate who is already working there told me that most of the newly-hired are

assigned in the night to early morning shift, from 10:00 pm-6 am just like where he was

assigned when he was just starting..

my mom told me to decline the offer because:
1.of the schedule...she told me that "alas-diyes ng gabi?...kahit sa ayala pa ang

workplace..delikado pa rin..kung lalaki ka ,papayagan pa kita..at baka di mo kayanin

ang pagpupuyat"

2.of the place..it will take me two hours and a half just to get there

but I just told the interviewer that I am really interested even if my mom is against the idea of me working there...

what Im planning to do is to talk about my sked during my interview...
i would like to know how can I tell to interviewer that i would like to be assigned during the day.....when will i ask him about this??

what if they wont assiged me during the day..how will i decline their offer?

[mesmerizer]

i will have my interview next week, no definite day or time yet
my interview was scheduled tomorow but I have to attend the rehearsal for my

graduation
the interviewer told me that he will call me tomorrow to arrange my schedule
..im really interested to work in that company but the problem is the shedule..my

schoolmate who is already working there told me that most of the newly-hired are

assigned in the night to early morning shift, from 10:00 pm-6 am just like where he was

assigned when he was just starting..

my mom told me to decline the offer because:
1.of the schedule...she told me that "alas-diyes ng gabi?...kahit sa ayala pa ang workplace..delikado pa rin..kung lalaki ka ,papayagan pa kita..at baka di mo kayanin
ang pagpupuyat"

2.of the place..it will take me two hours and a half just to get there

but I just told the interviewer that I am really interested even if my mom is against the
idea of me working there...

what Im planning to do is to talk about my sked during my interview...
i would like to know how can I tell to interviewer that i would like to be assigned during the day.....when will i ask him about this??
what if they wont assign me in in the regular shifft..how will i decline the offer..eto na naman ako..

[abcxyz]

^^^yup, you are confused. you need to clear up your head and figure out what your priorities are. if its difficutl for you to figure out the positive side of things, go to the other end - at minimum, determine what are the few "to die for" items or said another way, what are the "non-negotiable" items. that means what is it that when you don't get it, you will definitely not accept the job. do not accept the job unless you are totally convinced its a good job and its something you like. u will be wasting not only the employer's time, but more importantly your own.

how to decline the offer? just tell them what makes you not want the offer. they will negotiate with u if they really want you. but dont let them talk you into it. you need to want it yourself.

by the way, the two and half hours commute i think really sucks! look at it this way - 5 hours commuting, 8 hours working. thats 13 hours!

[bee_tin]

hi....i want to say thanks to everyone..this thread really helped me in my interview...: ) i have a question though...the interviewer asked me "what would make you give up on something" to which i answered, "normally, i wouldn't give up on something as i would try to always make it work but under circumstances where i have exhausted all possible means and the result is still not successful, i might consider giving up on it..."

pwede na ba un? hay, hirap sagutin yung question...siyempre i don't want to sound like i wouldn't try enough di ba...

[mesmerizer]

your advice enlightened me
thank you so much :)



^^^yup, you are confused. you need to clear up your head and figure out what your priorities are. if its difficutl for you to figure out the positive side of things, go to the other end - at minimum, determine what are the few "to die for" items or said another way, what are the "non-negotiable" items. that means what is it that when you don't get it, you will definitely not accept the job. do not accept the job unless you are totally convinced its a good job and its something you like. u will be wasting not only the employer's time, but more importantly your own.

how to decline the offer? just tell them what makes you not want the offer. they will negotiate with u if they really want you. but dont let them talk you into it. you need to want it yourself.

by the way, the two and half hours commute i think really sucks! look at it this way - 5 hours commuting, 8 hours working. thats 13 hours!

[abcxyz]

hi....i want to say thanks to everyone..this thread really helped me in my interview...: ) i have a question though...the interviewer asked me "what would make you give up on something" to which i answered, "normally, i wouldn't give up on something as i would try to always make it work but under circumstances where i have exhausted all possible means and the result is still not successful, i might consider giving up on it..."

pwede na ba un? hay, hirap sagutin yung question...siyempre i don't want to sound like i wouldn't try enough di ba...a good answer.

next time you are asked this question, spend a lot of time explaining how you will try to solve a certain problem. use this as an opportunity to demonstrate your thinking and leadership skills.

[mesmerizer]

I have read in this thread that most fresh grads are hired as management trainees and that is true..i just read some companies looking for management trainees in jobstreet.com

What exactly does a management trainee do?
What other position can I apply for as a BS Economics graduate? Especially in a bank?
Mama ko kasi ang kulit..apply raw ako sa BSP at sa ibang bangko.. kahit ayoko kasi first job ko ito..pero susubukan ko na rin

Thanks


Fresh grad din ako pero payo ko sa mga kapwa ko fresh grad..if you area applying for a position..as much as possible..keep it confidential ..apply for the position alone…
Mahirap na kasi na marami kayong mag-aaply at tiyak naman na hindi lahat ay makukuha…para walang samaan ng loob…
Hindi pa naman nangyari sa akin ito sa aktuwal na paghahanap ng trabaho…
pero noong naghahanap kami nang mga kaklase ko ng practicum station..mga siyam kami....tatlo lang kaming nakuha….siyempre *** iba sumama ang loob…
paano pa kaya pag trabaho na talaga ang pinag-uusapan.

since I know a lot of alumni. I also know a lot of job openings….
I always share the job openings to my classmates . I text those who have a number on my phone book or sometimes I post job vacancies thru our yahoo group or friendster…
I just want to help them, hehehe siguro nadala ko *** pagiging student officer at class officer…I am concerned with them..kahit sila hindi :)

Minsan **** ako na mismo ang pinapapili kung sino lang ang sasabihan ko…ako naman fair..hindi porket kaibigan kita..kung hindi ka naman qualified…siyempre nakakahiya dun sa kakilala ko…
To tell you the truth I was hurt..coz even my friends didn’t reply or tell me that they have applied in a position I told them about…….. they think that I not telling them all about he job vacancies I know..…now I decided that maybe I just keep things to myself especially when it is about job vacancies..

[dothe101]

Dreamer, category buyer ka saan?

heheehe, was in retail before. feeling ko i know whee u work.

[flare]

Can you help me? How do you respond to the question "What do you like best about our company?" especially you don't know anything about the company itself at all?

[abcxyz]

Can you help me? How do you respond to the question "What do you like best about our company?" especially you don't know anything about the company itself at all?then you should find out more about the company. you have to do research on companies you apply a job to, always.

[abcxyz]

new graduates who just got a job this year - how are you guys doing?

[tvholic]

Kainggit may work na ***..fresh grad turned bummer in the loose ako *****..I've been looking fo a job for the past 4 months now..so far puro interview pa lang..meron na sana before nasulot naman *** position..kainis!

[tennisace]

to be honest, this is how i go through resumes of new graduates. if at any one step, the resume does not match the criteria, i junk the resume and the person does not get a call for an interview :

1) read cover letter - needs to grab me
2) good school? good school reputation?
3) check major - fit for the job?
4) check school activities - look for leadership roles and achievements (most important, actually)
5) good grades? (the least of my concerns, actually)


for interviews ---- looking for the following :

1) confidence
2) verbal communication skills - communicating his/her ideas, persuasiveness, correct grammar a must
3) quality of ideas and opinions (important!)
4) ability to handle pressure - i ask tough questions
5) being late for the interview and not dressing well for the interview is an automatic delete!
Most HR people I know are corporate automatons. They ram resumes into a pre-fabricated template. Those that don’t fit gets filed under T (for trash). Why else do we have the phenomenon of blending facts and half-truths (and sometimes outright lies) into resumes? In interviews, the interviewee runs into the same cookie-cutter interrogatories. Tons of books, websites and written articles disclose standard pre-fab responses. The problem with HR people is that they themselves are employees, and since they act as the company’s employee gatekeepers, it is not unheard of for these folks to go on a power trip and play god with applicants, consciously or sub-consciously.

If I were an applicant, I’d send in my slightly-doctored resume to avoid being a three-point shot into the trash can, but I’d also send in a certified letter to the head of the company summarizing what I know about the company and my ideas of how to make the company better in the context of the position being offered.

If I were conducting an interview, I only have to ask three questions:

---Before sitting down for the interview, I’d give the prospective employee a tour of the facility and study the applicant’s demeanor, human interaction and facial expressions, particularly the eyes. I’d also bring the applicant to the area where the job is going to be and give them a brief on how the company expects that job to be done.---

1) Why don’t you tell what you know about this company and give me your insight on what you’ve seen (in the facility tour)?
2) Why don’t you give me an insight on how we are currently doing this job?
3) Holding up a paper clip, I ask the applicant, “What am I holding?”

Why these nonsensical questions? Because:
A) The responses to these questions cannot be scripted. They are as individual as each applicant.
B) If the applicant doesn’t know anything about my company, they’re simply looking for a job. I’m looking for people who understands what the company is all about and why they chose to consider it.
C) After the tour, if the applicant has no comment, is afraid to make a comment or gives the basic “the place looks nice” response, they’re simply concerned about getting a paycheck. I’m looking for people who has the balls to speak their minds and offer solutions.
D) If the applicant says I’m holding up a paper clip, they’re simply concerned about playing it safe and keep the boss happy. I’m looking for one who has the aptitude to be intuitive, and who has the ability to look beyond what’s obvious.

But then again, I'm not an HR person and I haven't been an employee for a long time. So I could definitely be wrong, and my opinion regarding the matter can, in fact, be nonsensical.

[globalhegemon]

tennisace That makes sense though, but most HR people here in our country are too stiff and traditional, especially with those with Pinoy bosses/owners. :rolleyes:

[abcxyz]

the economy seems to be starting on an uptrend and that means more jobs would be available, new ones and better ones both. so i thought reviving this thread might be useful for people who might want to take advantage of the good news.

[coldsiren]

double post

[coldsiren]

is it okay to apply for a management trainee position in genereal when submitting resumes to big companies?

i'm looking for a CAREER right now and i've had 4 different jobs in 2 yrs. i resigned after 3months on my 1st job, i only spent a month on my 2nd job because i was just a substitue for someone else. aside from that, i had to leave for my 3rd job w/c lasted for more than 2 months because it was project based. i was an entrepreneur/ operations manager for more than a yr before i decided to go back and be an employee again.
right now, i'm having a difficult time looking for work. i usually pass the exams and initial interviews. however, during interviews i'm always asked why i resigned. i tell them the truth that i resigned due to health reasons due to the graveyard shift. i think the hr and line managers think i'm sickly, but i'm not, i rarely get sick. i just felt that i had to resign at that time because of my health. i even presented a medical certificate when i resigned.
is resigning due to health reasons a hindrance to a job seeker?

[abcxyz]

^^^ yes, companies might not hire you for health reasons. they think they will waste the time to train you only to resign after a few months.

i also think the fact that you have had 4 jobs in 2 years may also be a factor.

i would :

> lie. dont tell them you quit bec u got sick. think of another reason.
> make your reasons for quitting into things that can be counted positive for you. tell them you are looking for a stable job and that company you resigned from didnt seem to be stable. or something like you have bigger ambitions. or you were not challenged enough.

of course when you mention these things, they wll probe further. be prepared for more answers. good luck.

[flare]

^^^ yes, companies might not hire you for health reasons. they think they will waste the time to train you only to resign after a few months.

i also think the fact that you have had 4 jobs in 2 years may also be a factor.

i would :

> lie. dont tell them you quit bec u got sick. think of another reason.
> make your reasons for quitting into things that can be counted positive for you. tell them you are looking for a stable job and that company you resigned from didnt seem to be stable. or something like you have bigger ambitions. or you were not challenged enough.

of course when you mention these things, they wll probe further. be prepared for more answers. good luck.

What about those who were laid off due to company problems? I've worked for a 3 month contract and due to the said problems, they let me go along with some of my co-workers.

Will this really factor on my application?

[abcxyz]

What about those who were laid off due to company problems? I've worked for a 3 month contract and due to the said problems, they let me go along with some of my co-workers.

Will this really factor on my application?lay-offs due to company problems is not a problem. make sure you explain exactly what were the company problems. everyone knows lay-offs and retrenchments happen.a

actually if you do one hell of a job in selling yourself, the employer will actually not care why you left your previous job.

caution : some companies call your previous employers to ask about you. so that means you might be caught lieing. be smart and be prepared when you lie.

[eveRything]

To abcxyz: are there times where you consider people w/ good wor experience but w/o a bachelor's degree? do you even give them a chance to reach an interview?

[jb_uy]

hey guys, just wanted to ask, is it ok if i include in my resume as work experience a job that i had only for 3 days? it is related to a position that i want to apply. i had to resign because at that time i was working two jobs and i hardly got enough sleep. had to sacrifice one.