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Job Interview

Psychology of the Interview

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Psychology of the Interview Written by: Carl B. Forkner, Ph. D.
Professionally edited by Kitty Carlisle

You crafted a beautiful resumé. You attended Career Connectors and got some great advice. You networked with professionals in your industry.

And then you get that call—a company that you have targeted for career potential wants you to come in for a face-to-face interview! Your next question…what do I do to win the interview?

The operable term here is simple—prepare—but the challenge becomes how to prepare. Most people meeting managers for a job interview know the basics—have copies of paperwork for each interview board member, get a haircut, shine your shoes, dress for success, etc. In other words, you are thinking about the same things that pretty much every other person going to an interview does. What you need to win the day is to make yourself special … you know, just like everyone else.

With this in mind, you must go beyond the traditional and the expected in order to have a successful interview; to do this, you have to quit focusing all of your time on things and shift some of that focus to people. This is where psychology comes in. How can we use psychology to make us unique to the interviewer and make a favorable impression? It is all about being human.

How Psychology Works

Humans are genetically predisposed to respond to visuals differently than other stimuli; from early childhood development, children master skills based on visual cues before they develop verbal language and well before the advent of reading and writing skills. The psychologist Jerome Bruner presented data that shows how visual communication has a significant impact on learning. Beyond the basic findings of Bruner’s studies, the effect of visuals on information retention showed that images may improve information retention and much as 6x over words alone—spoken or written.

Because of this phenomenon of the human condition, it is important to engage non-verbal, visual cues to help get your message across and make your interview memorable. Whether purely visual or visual, verbal, and tactile, you leave an impression with interviewers—starting with the first time you greet them and shake hands. Warm, dry hands inspire confidence. Cold, clammy hands are a turn-off. Go to a bathroom and wash your hands under hot water and then dry thoroughly. In cold weather, holding a hot beverage help warm your hands as well.

Be cognizant of what you wear to the interview—not just the type of clothing, but their colors. For example, a red tie is a clear symbol of power that could distance you from the interviewers. They may consider you arrogant, forward, or even hunting for their jobs—or that of their supervisors. A nice yellow tie sends a message of being approachable, while a pastel blue shirt conveys trustworthiness. For women, pastel blue tops and some sort of pastel yellow trim, pin, or other accessory send the same message.

What is most important, however, is putting it all together; in other words, it is about how you present yourself. Even though you make a first impression when you walk through the door, how you act and respond during the interview is paramount. The following behaviors can send the right message to interviewers, drawing them into a feeling of teamwork and comradeship, making them decide that you are a good fit for their organization.

Never lean back in your chair. Conversely, don’t lean forward or sit like you are made of stone. You need to portray a professional and alert—yet relaxed and comfortable—image to the interviewers. But remember that employers like candidates who exhibit characteristics of being calm under pressure! Hmmm … how do you portray a professional and alert, but not stiff or over-anxious, image to the interviewer? One of the best techniques for this is to apply counting and breathing to control enthusiasm and show a calm demeanor. Listen to questions in their entirety, count 1-2-3 before answering to give yourself time to collect your thoughts into a cogent response, and breathe deeply and slowly during the interview process.

Where are your arms and legs? One of the most easily transmitted non-verbal cues is whether you are closed to discussion or open to new ideas. These cues are most often sent by how you position your arms and legs. Crossing your arms across your chest sends a message that you are closed to discussion or acting in an authoritative, aggressive, or condescending manner—this can end your chances before you answer any questions. Having your arms comfortably in your lap or, perhaps, holding a note pad and taking notes during the interview sends a message of openness to discussion. When you sit, the relaxed position of having one leg up with the ankle sitting on the opposite knee presents an overly-casual, unprofessional message. Sitting with your legs uncrossed (but relaxed) or crossed at the knees sends a more professional message. As for hands and feet, don’t tap or swivel your feet during the interview—again, it shows nervousness and can send a message that you do not do well under stress. The same applies when fidgeting with your hands—a good way to avoid this is to have a note pad and pen in your hands to take notes.

Mirror the interviewer. In other words, mirror some of the movements that interviewers make when they communicate with you. But … only do this if you are comfortable and the motions are natural to you! If an interviewer picks up that you are purposely mirroring their actions throughout the interview, you will be perceived as being disingenuous and manipulative—hurting your chances at being hired (Baron, 1986).

Just how good are you at what you do? Many times you will know more than the interviewer(s) about the job and its associated tasks. This makes the process even more stressful because you may be compelled to dive deeply into a higher level of material than the interviewer(s) are able to understand—this is typically going to result in losing the interview. I inadvertently lost a potential job this way when an interviewer asked a question to which I knew information about their own company about which the interviewer had no clue (and the lead interviewer validated my information to her during the interview). One sure sign of this eagerness to show just how much you know is the urge to interrupt the interviewer and either predict what they were going to say next or, if you are really too bold, correct them. One simple rule on this one—don’t interrupt the interviewer!

Now that I have covered some of the “don’ts,” let’s focus on some of the “dos.” From the time you arrive for your interview, you must understand that there are more interviewers than the one(s) at the table with you. The receptionist will be asked their opinion of you—you have only one shot at making a good first impression! Courtesy and a friendly demeanor go a very long way because one of the unwritten metrics people will use to assess you is, simply, do I want to work with this candidate?

Every person with whom you come in contact has one thing in common—they are human beings with emotions, opinions, and skills. Take time to fit in ways to subtly compliment the interviewer(s). If you are in an office, perhaps there is a family picture, an award plaque, an article of sports memorabilia, or some other things that may provide common ground and start to move toward a relationship instead of purely an interview. If the interview is in a common area, such as a conference room, you can comment on pictures of their products, corporate recognition items, and so forth to start the relationship. BUT … in order to do these things effectively, you must be diligent in researching the company beforehand, including their website and social media platform sites. If you start the conversation without really knowing the material, again, plan on likely losing the interview.

cc-psychology-smileSmile during the interview, but sparingly. Studies have shown that candidates are judged to be more suitable for a position—especially those requiring a serious demeanor—if they smile less (Ruben, Hall, & Schmid Mast, 2015). These studies also found that smiling at the start and end of the interview, but having a more serious presentation in the middle of an interview, resulted in a higher desirability score from interviewers.

Be clear in your answers and questions. Remember the part about counting and breathing I mentioned previously? That works in your favor. Do not try to impress interviewers with fancy jargon or answers loaded with acronyms—even if they are relative to the position. You may be interviewing for an IT position, for example, but have interviewers from HR for your initial interview who do not understand those terms. A simple, affirmative presentation of what you have to offer is your best bet. Research has shown that candidates who speak clearly, intelligently, and logically are far more favored than those who immerse the conversation in technical jargon and seem to bounce randomly around an issue (Clark, 2008).

Enthusiasm counts! Do not be a monotone drone during the interview. Use inflections in your voice to indicate excitement and confidence. Research shows that these expressions significantly increase the candidate’s score, leading to a higher probability of call-backs and a favorable hiring decision (Young & Kacmar, 1998). Candidates with higher affect, energy level, and vocal inflections garnered more second interviews than those with lower affect, lack of energy, and less vocal character (Degroot & Motowidlo, 1999). Candidates who lack enthusiasm are often judged to be more anxious or nervous (Levine & Feldman, 2002), translating to a perception of lacking confidence and being less effective communicators (McCarthy & Goffin, 2004)—these are likely death blows to your hiring chances.

Always ask about company culture. A standard ending to interviews includes being asked if you have any questions for interviewers. The absolute wrong answer is “No.” Be sure to have two to three questions thought out (and written down) before the interview. One question must always be about the company’s culture; you are exploring whether the company is a good fit for you now, rather than the other way around. Other questions should have their foundations in your study of the company’s website and other resources, delving into areas relative to the position for which you are interviewing. Have a note pad out to write down answers—this shows that you are interested in what interviewers tell you in their answers.

Finally, make sure to thank the interviewer(s) and do so more than once. It is appropriate to thank them at the beginning of the interview for the opportunity, at the conclusion of the interview, and to send a follow-up email thanking the interviewer (or lead interviewer of a panel) within 24 hours after the interview is completed. Again, courtesy counts—the email shows that you are competent by doing follow-up to an event … and it shows a touch of business class.

The following list is a compilation of tips as listed on the American Psychological Association (APA) website (APA, 2016):

What to Do in an Interview

  • Present an air of confidence during your interview and understand what is expected of you.
  • Do your homework and find out as much as possible about the institution, department, and the faculty. Know the institution’s Web information.
  • Tailor your job talk to the attendees and make arrangements for any A/V support in advance.

Keep your job talk general and short. Don’t talk about all of the details, but show that you are aware of them.

  • Address questions about your job and don’t be afraid to admit you don’t have an answer.
  • Show interest in your interviewer’s work. Read at least one paper written by each person in your area.
  • Show respect to committee and department staff. Be flexible and polite.
  • Dress appropriately.

What Not to Do in an Interview

  • Don’t forget the goal of the interview is to see if there is a match between you and the department.
  • Don’t forget you are always being interviewed, even at meals, parties, in casual conversations, and graduate student meetings.
  • Don’t forget to check your time and not go over the time allocated for your job talk.
  • Don’t forget to ask people about their work.
  • Don’t forget to send any materials you promised to individuals as soon as possible.

In Closing

No interview is ever a non-stress environment. No interview is an automatic win or loss. In most cases—but not all—interviewers have set questions and processes that they follow and typically have experience doing interviews. In other words, YOU are the variable that they cannot control if you prepare effectively. Be yourself—not what you think they want you to be. Use a mirror to see how you look before going to the interview. Practice answers to questions you think might be asked—even have a close friend do a mock interview with you. Pay attention to how interviewers act—their non-verbal cues are as important to you as your cues are to them.

In short, prepare, be attentive, relax, and gather thoughts before answering, respect interviewers, and be ready to show how you are the company are good for each other. YOU CAN DO THIS!

References:

APA. (2016). Interview and Job Talk Tips. Retrieved from http://www.apa.org/careers/resources/academic/interview.aspx

Baron, R. A. (1986). Self-presentation in job interviews: When there can be “too much of a good thing.” Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 16, 16 –28. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1559-1816.1986.tb02275.x

Clark, C. (2008). The impact of entrepreneurs’ oral ‘pitch’ presentation skills on business angels’ initial screening investment decisions. Venture Capital, 10, 257–279.

DeGroot, T., & Motowidlo, S. J. (1999). Why visual and vocal interview cues can affect interviewers’ judgments and predict performance. Journal of Applied Psychology, 84, 986 –993. http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/ 0021-9010.84.6.986

McCarthy, J. M., & Goffin, R. D. (2004). Measuring job interview anxiety: Beyond weak knees and sweaty palms. Personnel Psychology, 57, 607– 637. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1744-6570.2004.00002.x

Ruben, M. A., Hall, J. A., & Schmid Mast, M. (2015). Smiling in a job interview: When less is more. The Journal of Social Psychology, 155(2), 107-126.

Young, A., & Kacmar, M. (1998). ABCs of the interview: The role of affective, behavioral, and cognitive responses by applicants in the employment interview. International Journal of Selection and Assessment, 6, 211–221. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1468-2389.00092

11/12/15 – The Power of You

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Written by Kevin Spear, MBA: @kevinhspear

Jessica Pierce (@JessicaPierceAZ) opened our session with an encouragement to find five connections while at Career Connectors. After all, this is all about connecting with people!

Jessica noted people stop looking for jobs during the holidays. Don’t stop! Employers are not taking the holidays off. It may be a good time to search while other job seekers are taking a break.

Keynote

Gloria Petersen, CPP (Certified Protocol Professional)

The Power of You

Gloria is founder of Global Protocol, Inc. She has appeared on numerous television shows and served as etiquette judge on The Learning Channel. Gloria has a series of books entitled, The Art of Professional Connections.

Gloria began with an encouragement to make it about us and project a commanding first impression. She brought up a participant to tell a little about himself. He was dressed sharply, with a suit and tie. He also had a good elevator speech.

Gloria encouraged us to go back when you were a child and write down what you were really good at, that gave you joy, that was your escape. That is key to where you should be today.

The Inside

When you were in school, what course of study were you really good at? What class did you really struggle at? These are the keys to your success. You were born with a gift of knowledge.

You are on the wrong track if you go after something just for money, for prestige, or just to get a job. Don’t make yourself something you were never meant to be!

When you look at a job you’re applying, peel the layers and see if the role has what you really want, what you are really good at.

Opportunity Not Happening?

You need rejections to find out what you’re made of. Does anyone want to hear that? Not as much as we need to hear it!
Determination is what it takes to beat the odds.  When Gloria went through a trial, she had to persevere to make it through the other side. That is the power of each one of us.

Reassess your image. You have to help people see what is on the inside of you with what message you are sending on the outside: perceptions

Make challenges work for you, not against you!

How can you stay determined?

  • Acquire: the skills
  • Utilize: your newly acquired skills
  • Learn: strategies to get beyond any uncertainties

People make perceptions on what they think they see: Perception

Don’t let your knowledge die with you. Write down your knowledge and experiences.

The Strategy Behind a Tie

When you have the perfectly tied knot, people tend to focus with what you are saying. For women, a scarf can give a similar effect. And remember: Posture sells confidence!

Seven Steps to Impressive Greetings and Confident Interaction

  1. Check your appearance and stance
    • You should dress for an interview more formally than the job you are applying.
    • Wear your confidence like a power jacket. In fact, wear a power jacket, whether you are male or female, a business jacket makes you look more powerful and confident.
  2. Exchange names
    • Greet to acknowledge someone’s presence
    • A person’s eyes and smile set the tone of an interaction
    • You never know who you are greeting
    • You are at an advantage when you actively meet and introduce people to others
  3. Repeat names accurately
    • Include the last name along with the first
    • Yes, it’s hard to remember names, but so crucial. After all, we’re scared of last names
    • Beware of international names and respect name preferences
    • Repeat the name at least three times
  4. Deliver a confident handshake
    • Don’t get rushed!
  5. Make a courtesy comment
    • Ask about their position or title
    • Discover a commonality
  6. Ask for the business card
    • Ask for theirs before you offer yours
    • If you don’t have a business card, get at least a name card for yourself
    • Include your LinkedIn profile
  7. Take your leave and follow-up

These seven steps will help anyone exude confidence in an interview.

Hiring Companies:

International Cruise & Excursions, Inc.,
Jason Brambier, Corporate Recruiter
@ICEJobs

Jason said that ICE has a similar model as Expedia, except for cruises. They are located in Scottsdale. Some of their benefits include a gym, nail salon, and massage therapist. They sent 200 employees to travel on one of the new Princess Cruise ships. Employees can take cruises for up to 50% off retail price.

They also do many charity events such as Christel House and Phoenix Animal Care Coalition.  They have a large sales center. They assist inbound callers with their travel plans. Average inbound sales rep makes $50,000 a year. Outbound callers can make six figures.  Jason explained you are selling fun and vacations, not boring necessities!

Besides sales roles, they are looking for:

  • Director of Purchasing
  • Procurement
  • Senior Accounting Clerk
  • Accounts payable
  • Administrator coordinator
  • Software developers
  • Executive Director of Talent Management
Workway
April Miller, Market Director
Gina Gumaskas
Recruiting Manager
@Workway

Workway performs staffing and recruiting, specializing in finance and administration.  They focus in the banking and credit union industries.

Why work with Workway?

  • They are expert in marketing your specialized skills
  • You won’t pay a fee
  • They guide employees and follow up during your job search and hiring process
  • It is a candidate-focused model
  • They offer tutorials and training within and outside the company

Current opportunities:

  • Underwriters
  • Tellers
  • Loan processors
  • Client Care Specialist
  • Director of Marketing
  • Controller within the Hospitality industry
  • Branch Manager
  • HR positions

You can join their network without an intensive application process. The application is all online at www.workway.com.

State Farm,
DeAnne Prigmore, Recruiter
@StateFarm

DeAnne began at an entry-level position with State Farm.  State Farm’s mission is to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams.  They have very competitive benefits including 401K and pension, work life, and wellness.

They have more than agency positions in Phoenix:

  • Claims
  • Customer Care Center
  • Systems/IT LinkedIn contact: Rich Ortiz, Recruiter
  • Creative Services: Graphic Designer

You can apply at http://www.statefarm.com/careers.

The Marina Heights campus is under construction but one building is occupied. It will have five buildings and 2 million square feet. It will hold 5,500 employees. It will be open to the public and will have shops in the courtyard as well as wifi.

Charles Schwab,
Shannon Grimes, Talent Attraction Manager

Charles Schwab’s mission was to bring Wall Street to Main Street. Today, they’re still true to the original values, yet have expanded.  They like to see the world through clients’ eyes.

They serve:

  • Investors (9.5 million)
  • Advisors (7,000)
  • Employers (1.5 million workers served)

Schwab has their largest employee base in the Phoenix Valley. They were the recipient of 18 awards in 2014 for employee-friendly workplaces. They close the gap between the power of investing and their clients’ ability to experience it.

Careers:

  • Broker Training Program (AFSP)
  • Estate Services Professional
  • Senior Specialist, Operational Risk

In Phoenix, they hire for almost every area of the company.

They also have:

  • Technology Roles
  • Operations
  • HR
  • Public Relations

Values:

  • Meritocracy: Schwab is very open to rewarding those who do a great job
  • Financial Fitness: Access to programs that help you become financially fit
  • Sabbatical: After four years of service

You can apply at http://tiny.cc/careerconnectors.

Resources

Dynamic Worldwide Training Consultants
Rodger Brubacher,
Director of Continuing Education @DWWTC

DWWTC is a certification training school preparing students for the workforce.

  • Professional Development
  • Project Management
  • Six Sigma
  • Medical Front Office Administrative
  • Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)
  • Digital Marketing & Social Marketing Strategist
  • Information Technology
  • Cyber Security

They have prime partnerships through various institutes.

They have instructor lead programs as well as hybrid online training and virtual classroom platform.

  • Low student to instructor ratio (typically 6:1)
  • Post graduate assistance
  • Online certification test prep materials
  • 95% of students pass certification exams on the first sitting
  • They use Pinterest to supplement materials

There are funds through Workforce Development, Veterans and Trade Adjustment Act.

Closing

Jessica Pierce closed the session with these announcements:

Our next events will be:

New sponsor: New Horizons Learning Center

Ted Robison has the LinkedIn Workshop on Wednesday, November 18th, 1–5PM at the City of Phoenix Business Services Center. The event is full, but there is a wait list.

9/3/14 – A Commando’s Guide to Finding a Job in the New Economy

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written by Ian Salsman

KEYNOTE

Close your eyes. Tight. Take a deep breath. For a few seconds, imagine that you are a vase—stay with me now. Don’t picture an old, dusty vase but one that ready to accept a new bouquet of fresh flowers. Think about it. Now open your eyes, forget everything you understood about yourself in the past, and accept everything new!

This was the message from Mike Hayes at Career Connectors. Having conducted over 5,000 personal interviews, he has a full understanding of what it takes to get through an interview. He is often asked the same questions—over and over—regarding the job hunt. From this, he decided to write a book—which can be found for $2.99 on amazon.com (http://amzn.com/B007KAE4AA) entitled “The Difference Between Being a Tool and Having a Tool.” 

Although it sounds bleak, the job market is still on life support. While it is true that jobs are being added, the $15/hour jobs are being replaced with $9-$13/hour jobs, entry level jobs geared for the young adults entering the workforce are being held by the experienced age bracket who just an income, and it still taks a lot just to get a job.

However, not all is lost. You are in the driver’s seat and you can make a difference.

Here are 10 of the tips and advice and—ahem—commands to follow as you engage in your job search (albeit in no particular order):

  1. MAKE SURE YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION IS CORRECT—and up-to-date.  It is surprising how many times a candidate is called back but the email address or phone number leads to dead ends or the wrong person. Your resume is an advertisement. It reflects who you are. It won’t get you the job but it will create a first impression.
  2. IF SMOKE, DON’T! It is expensive, of course, but it carries an aroma that smokers no longer detect on themselves. Your potential employer can.
  3. DON’T APPLY FOR JOB FOR WHICH YOU ARE NOT QUALIFIED.
  4. HEED EMPLOYMENT GAPS—especially those that are longer than six months. Employers want to know what you have done during that time. Volunteer to stay engaged, join Toastmasters to help communication skills, and so much more.
  5. Even when it comes to staffing companies, NEVER TURN DOWN AN OPPORTUNITY TO INTERVIEW. It is good practice. 50% of scheduled interviewees don’t show up. That does not sit well with interviewers and is disastrous for any future interactions with that company.
  6. HEED ALL OF THE INFORMATION ON A JOB POSTING. Often people still ask how to apply for a job when instructions are clearly listed. People often are unaware of what is listed online regarding the desired position.
  7. SOCIAL MEDIA. LinkedIn, especially, is a must complete with a professional headshot, current information and a professional layout. Facebook is a minefield so be careful.
  8. STOP BRINGING YOUR RESUME TO NETWORKING EVENTS. The last thing anyone wants to do is talk with someone who is there only to look for a job. Build a rapport with elements of commonality. That relationship building is key.
  9. KEEP A RIGID “JOB SEEKER” SCHEDULE. Get up at the same time every day and go to “work” everyday.
  10. HAVE A JOB SEEKING “BUDDY.” This is someone with whom you can share your “baggage” so you are not carrying it into an interview. This is someone with whom you can practice interviewing. This is someone to whom you can be accountable.

There. 10 is a good number. Spend your time doing instead reading of tips on how you should be ding it. Be a Commando!

HIRING COMPANIES

City of Phoenix

Al Jernigan, Business Consultant and Alicia Springs, Career Advisor

Al Jernigan reiterated Mike Hayes’ statement about keeping your information accurate and current enlightening us with staggering statistics regarding how many times they follow up but the phone number is incorrect.

One of the biggest needs are those in the IT industry—people who know more than one programming language, how to work different platforms, desktops and mobile clouds. Those familiar with the wearable technology such as Google glass and Samsung’s SmartWatch are becoming in demand as are “Big Data Experts”

8 Hot jobs for 2014:

  • Business intelligence designers
  • DevOps experts with cloud and mobility skills
  • Linux pros
  • Mobile developers
  • .NET and Java developers
  • Business Analysts and Project Managers
  • Small and midsized business (smb) IT pros.

Visit their ONESTOP CENTERS.

AZ Dept of Economic Security

Sheri Banner, HR Recruiter

You have to be specific with regards to your job description. She gave their specific process for handling hiring. Be honest on your application…..if you were let go, tell them why. Entry level will give you an opportunity for raises. Where you start out, will not likely be where you end up. The state prefers to hire/promote within their own ranks. Apply through the job website.

APC Services

Tiffany Radloff, Business Development Manager

APC has offered professional and technical service consulting for the last 20 years. They seek to positively impact their employees and partner with their clients. Tiffany shared  three specific awards the company gives employees as a means of honoring hard and dedicated work and commitment. SAS  Consultants, Project Managers, Business Analysts and others are presently needed. Go to www.apc-services.com to apply and browse open positions.

Revana

Octavio Duarte, Talent Acquisition Specialist

REVANA is an inside professional inside sales organizaiont and nationally recognized leader in outsource sales. With clients such as Facebook, ATT, Sony and Direct TV, they continue grow offering a substantial benefits package. Presently Inside and Outside Sales, and Sales Managers are needed. Go to www.revanajobs.com to apply.

Resources

Dynamic Worldwide Training

Rodger Brubacher

Roger Brubacher and Dynamic Worldwide have many training courses to engage you in developing skills and working your certifications. They are one resource approved by the Maricopa Workforce Connection for funding.  These courses are offered in-person and online by certified instructors and so can be flexible to meet YOUR needs.

02/13/2014 – HIRE ME – Please!

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By Debbie Webber (contact via linkedin)

The event was opened by Jessica Pierce, Executive Director of Career Connectors, who introduced Janice Hurley-Trailor.

Keynote Speaker

Janice Hurley-Trailor is an image expert/consultant, author, speaker and executive coach based in Scottsdale. Her presentation was entitled HIRE ME – Please (Use the Visual, Verbal and Body Language Skills to Get Your Career Back on Track)

Ms. Hurley-Trailor began her presentation by impressing upon the audience that if you are unemployed, your job is to find a career that best fits your goals. Although the “un-“employment rate is currently 6.6%, that means that the employment rate is 93.4%, so the odds are in your favor that you will find a job.

Our professional image is made up of three areas: Visual, Verbal and Energy. The presentation focused on three questions that emphasized these three areas.

First—How Are You?

People are drawn to attractive and successful people, not needy people. Your answer should be at least “really good” and you must convince yourself to MEAN it. Position your current situation as positive in your head and you will project an upbeat, energetic and successful person to those you encounter.

Second—What Type of Job are You Looking For?

Your response to this question should be in five words or less—short and concise.

Third—How Do You Want to be Perceived?

Obviously, we all want to be perceived as professional, intelligent and approachable. Our first impression is made within a tenth of a second of the first meeting, so be very aware of your presentation. Following are many of the tips and expert advice from Ms. Hurley-Trailor.

  • Be well-groomed. Get clothes that fit, tailoring them if necessary. Laced shoes are appropriate for a man in a suit. Be aware of the current styles (including ties) and discard your out of date clothing. The color blue in a dress shirt projects the best impression.
  • Do not wear perfume or cologne to a job interview. Women should wear skillfully applied make up.
  • You must have an actual style to your hair—and for women the shorter your hair the more confident you are perceived.
  • Women’s skirts should hit the middle of the knee, and NOT be tight. Suit jackets for men or women should be no longer than the middle of your rear. Short sleeves are too informal, so always wear long sleeves unless your suit or jacket will not be removed.
  • A woman’s shoes (for an interview) should be closed toe—no straps and avoid the color red. And no dangling earrings. Both men and women should always err on the side of conservatism.
  • The person who initiates a handshake has the most confidence. Make eye contact while you shake hands, and match the pressure of the other person’s handshake. The web of your hands should meet. Your hand should not be cold—hold a cup of coffee if necessary to warm them.
  • When exchanging business cards, pause to obviously read the card and make sure to make eye contact.
  • Your mindset is the most important piece of you getting a job. The story in your head is what you will tell and intuit to other people, so make that story positive and upbeat.

First impressions are vital, so make yours count!

Hiring companies

Appointment-Plus

Jennifer Rojas, Human Resource and Recruiting Manager

Appointment-Plus helps businesses become more successful by providing a robust cloud-based scheduling system that alleviates appointment schedulers and calendars. The system keeps track of customer information, allows customers to self-schedule and allows wide scale customization. Founded in 2001, the company has grown to 70 employees and was recognized by INC Magazine. The company culture strongly encourages a work – life – family balance and offers a full range of benefits, among them health insurance and 15 PTO days/year. Various sales and customer support position are available. Apply here  or send resume to careers@appointment-plus.com.

International Cruise & Excursions, Inc. (I.C.E.)

Jason Brambier, Corporate Recruiter

I.C.E. is a global leader in the travel industry, second only to Carnival in sales of cruises. I.C.E. is a broker for all the cruise lines, with 800 agents who sell to previous cruise customers. Jason explained he is recruiting for full time sales positions, with a median income of $52k a year. He is also looking to fill non-sales positions of accountant, accounts receivable, web developer, coordinator, scheduler and senior financial analyst. I.C.E. offers health and convenience benefits onsite, such as massage therapists, a nail salon, nurses, a cafe and other concierge services such as dry cleaning and pet insurance. Jason can be contacted at 602.635.5129.

Education Management Corporation (EDMC)
Mark E. Pierce, Manager of Talent Acquisition

EDMC manages four academic brands from offices in Pittsburgh and Phoenix. The four brands are The Art Institute, Argosy University, Brown Mackie College and South University. Mark represents Argosy University, and spoke about the quality of EDMC’s mission and their goal of quality community growth—it’s all about the students. Argosy culture emphasizes personal growth, promotions and opportunities for their employees. They offer a robust benefits package along with FREE EDUCATION. Mark is looking to fill administrative rep positions, finance counselors, virtual academic counselors, and a center reporting coordinator in Phoenix, with several other higher level positions available in other cities. Apply here.

Closing

Jessica encouraged attendees to complete their DISC assessments to help them on their career path by highlighting their communication styles and their desired ideal work environment.

Future Career Connectors events:

  • Kimber Lanning with “The Upside of a Down Economy,” on Wednesday, Feb. 19 in Phoenix with DES, Hotfoot Recruiters, Global Tranz and Revana
  • Dusty Parsons with “Twitter – A Love Story” on Tuesday, Feb. 25 in Gilbert with Intel Corporation, Clearcall Solutions, Charles Schwab and Insight.
  • Bill Markham with “12 Minutes Which Win Every Interview,” on Thursday, March 13, 2014 in Scottsdale with Echo Global Logistics and Charles Schwab

 

Check the events calendar for details and exact locations

10/15/2013 – Get Prepared. Get Dynamic. Get Hired!

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Written by Bethany Wolf

Opening Remarks

Executive Director of Career Connectors, Jessica Pierce, opened today’s event held at the Gilbert Campus of Central Christian Church. After welcoming many new participants, Jessica described how Career Connectors started as a volunteer organization and seeks to empower individuals to increase their confidence and reach their professional goals.

Keynote Speaker

According to keynote speaker, Don Thoren, the fundamentals to getting hired involve preparation and a positive, energetic attitude. It’s about taking a pro-active approach and stretching outside of your comfort zone.

As a consultant, trainer and speaker with over 30 years of experience, Don has inspired countless professionals in transition to help them prepare for and succeed in their job search. In today’s keynote, Don discussed how to get prepared and be dynamic in order to get hired.

Get Prepared

You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

Appearance does matter when interviewing for jobs.  What type of first impression are you making on a potential employer? Are you dressed professionally? Do you show confidence by smiling and having a positive attitude?

Don suggested thinking about your voice and how it impacts other people. If your voice tends to get high and pitchy under stress, Don offered this tip: Tilt your chin slightly down. It helps to lower and relax your voice during in-person interviews. For telephone interviews, Don advised to look at a picture of a person while interviewing over the phone. It gives a sense of personalization so you feel you are actually speaking to a real person not just a voice at the end of the line.

Research is also key to getting prepared. Show the company you can relate to them. Do your research to determine how you can apply your skills to the types of processes they have in their organization and how your previous experience can help make the company better.

Don stressed the importance of knowing the company’s “play book” – who they are,  what they do, the issues they are facing, business strategy, and the jobs they are hiring for. Additionally, it’s important to understand the company’s culture. Use keywords and phrases during your interview that will resonate with your potential employer. A good place to find keywords is on the company’s website. This increases the probability they will hear you and think you are a good fit with their company, and people are complimented when you take the time to learn something about them.

Get Dynamic

Are you a thinker? Have you got a strategy? Are you alert? Enthusiastic? Let the company know you are the person they are looking for. Show your energy and avoid complacency.

Don asked participants to think about what dynamism looks like to the person you are interviewing with. Getting dynamic means having a passion for the company’s mission. It’s about having the right attitude and open body language.

He then walked participants through a laughter exercise to  get people energized and activated. A positive outlook and the ability to laugh demonstrates you have a great attitude and are the person the company needs on their team.

Partners

LocalWork

Ryan Naylor

LocalWork is Arizona’s fastest growing job board. It helps connect local seekers with local jobs. Local small businesses can build a web page using LocalWork resources so that job seekers can learn about their companies. LocalWork also produces job fairs. Typically there are over 1000 jobs for hire at a single event.  Tools for job seekers include video resumes, verified letters of recommendation, and social media resume sharing.  The next job fair will be held November 4 at the Phoenix Airport Marriott from 10:00am-2:00pm.

Hiring Companies

Appointment Plus

Jennifer Rojas

Appointment Plus helps businesses be more successful. Career opportunities include product and sales marketing managers, IT, sales reps and customer support. Most important to Appointment Plus is that their employees feel like they are making a difference and bringing their best game.  Video link: www.appointment-plus.com/videos/appt_plus_epiphany-672.mp4

NESCO Resource

Kelly Perkins

NESCO is a staffing agency on the front-end of who is hiring in the Phoenix area. It helps place job seekers with contractual and full time work with top employers in the market, mostly with an engineering and manufacturing focus.  Current opportunities in professional, administrative and industrial divisions. NESCO is also looking for skilled trades people.

Charles Schwab

Shannon Grimes

Charles Schwab is a client-focused company bringing wall street to main street . It helps make investing accessible. It’s largest employee-base is the Phoenix area. Current opportunities in B2C  include financial advisors and retirement plan support. B2B opportunities include custodial and business support to independent advisors. B2B is the fastest growing part of Schwab. You can upload your resume to the company’s website. Schwab uses Gallup’s Strengths Finder Assessment to determine best fit for employees.

Closing Remarks

Jessica encouraged participants to take advantage of the full range of services on offer at the event. These included professional resume writing services,  taking the DISC assessment, visiting with recruiters,  and talking with educators about national certification programs.

The next Career Connectors event will be held Wednesday, October 23, 2013 at 9:00am in Phoenix. Check out the Events Schedule on the website for further details and information on how to register.