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#JobSearch : Three(3) Tips To Help You Ask Great Follow-Up Questions In A #JobInterview . If You Want to Stand Out, Ask Quality Follow-Up Questions.

November 10, 2020/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

Great job interviews rely on asking great questions. You have the opportunity to make your conversations worthwhile by adding value, and you can do that with your questions.

Here are three things that will improve your follow-up questions and help you to stand out:

1. Listen, and think about nothing other than what the other person is saying.

People like it when people listen to them. The person feels like the other person cares about them and what they have to say.

If you are thinking about starting a conversation but there is something bothering you from earlier in the day, stop and take the time to think about what is bothering you. You don’t want to go into a job interview or any discussion not being fully present. If you are in the middle of an important conversation and your mind starts to drift elsewhere, try to refocus your thoughts on the current conversation. Remind yourself that you can come back to other thoughts later; it is more important to focus on the present conversation.

If you have control over where the conversation can be held, consider a place that is quiet and with little distractions. If distractions arise mid-conversation, ask the person if they would be willing to continue the discussion elsewhere. If you know you have a habit of drifting to other thoughts during conversations, consider practicing the art of listening with a friend or family member.

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What Skill Sets Do You have to be ‘Sharpened’ ?

Article continued …

2. Reflect beforehand.

In addition to acting and reacting in real time by listening, you can also ask pre-planned questions. Before important conversations, dedicate some time to think about what information you want to know from that interview or discussion. Take 20 minutes to focus. By reflecting beforehand, you can develop more insightful questions. Better questions demonstrate your desire to know more and that you care.

3. Ask questions that require more than a “yes” or “no” answer.

A great way to bring an otherwise productive conversation to an abrupt end is by asking a question in which the respondent only needs to answer “yes” or “no.” Instead, focus on asking open-ended questions that further the discussion. Don’t ask, “Do you have a collegial work culture?” Instead, ask “Would you describe the work environment?” Asking questions that beg descriptive answers demonstrates interest. You want to know more than a “yes” or “no.” Showing interest sets you apart.

If you want to stand out, ask quality follow-up questions. Great interviews and conversations involve a speaker and a listener and questions and answers. Take advantage of asking great questions to stand out. Listen, reflect beforehand and focus on questions that share more information than just a “yes” or a “no” response.

Forbes.com | November 10, 2020 | Avery Blank

#JobSearch : How To Answer This Awkward Interview Question. Where Do you See Yourself in Five Years?

October 20, 2020/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

Where do you see yourself in five years? Anyone who thought they knew where their lives would be five years ago is probably re-evaluating their plans right now. Five years ago, we had no idea our world would change as much as it has due to a global pandemic.

Yet, unfortunately, “where do you see yourself in five years?” is a question job interviewers still tend to ask in job interviews. Often, interviewers ask this question because they want to know if you actually do want the specific job you’re interviewing for and they want to know if you see yourself at their particular company for the long haul. This question allows them to get insight into your personal career goals to see if it aligns with the role and company. As a job candidate, it can be tricky to know if you should be brutally honest or fake and flattering when posed with this question.

To make answering this question easier, here are the only three things you need to focus on the next time you’re asked this awkward question:

Focus on what work you want to do

It may sound compelling to let the interviewer know that you plan to have a much higher senior title in five years or that you plan to start your own company or something similar, but these options aren’t the best way to approach this question. If you mention to the interviewer that you plan to have a specific job title at the company in five years, you might be shooting yourself in the foot before you even get the job. It’s uncertain if the particular role you might mention would even be available five years from now. If you mention that you plan to do your own thing five years from now, the interviewer might assume that they’re merely a stepping stone for you and that you’re not truly invested in the opportunity.

Instead, you want to focus on the responsibilities you hope to partake in over the next five years. Next time try something like, “In the next five years, I see myself growing and becoming an expert in [job function/industry]. I see myself still working on challenging projects like [specific projects mentioned in the job description or interview] and probably taking on even more challenging work as I learn and develop even more skills.”

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What Skill Sets Do You have to be ‘Sharpened’ ?

Article continued …

Focus on how you want to feel

While you can’t predict where exactly you’ll be five years from now, or the role you’ll have, or that you’ll even be at the company you’re interviewing for now, you can visualize how you’d like to feel about yourself and your career five years from now. Focusing on how you want to feel when answering this question also gives you the chance to subtly infuse the elements that are important to you in your next career move. Plus, if the company’s culture and values align with your career goals (as they should), this will give you the chance to further prove to the interviewer that you’d be a great addition to the team.

Here’s an example of what you could say: “I see myself feeling excited about the work I do. I see myself working with colleagues and a manager who still inspires and empowers me to keep growing and stretching myself to achieve and exceed expectations.”

Focus on how you want to contribute

Companies want to hire problem solvers and team players and this question is a great opportunity to show that you have a strong desire to make an impact over the next five years. Focusing on how you plan to contribute is a creative way to do that without predicting the future and mentioning specific details that may or not happen five years from now.

To show how much you intend to be an asset, you can say something along the lines of, “I see myself continuing to be an asset to my clients, team and all the other people I’ll have the honor of working with over the next five years. That’s why I’m so excited about the opportunity to join your team as a [job title you’re interviewing for now] because I know I can jump right in and add tremendous value now.”

Yes, this question may seem awkward and intrusive. But, when answered the right way, it’s a great opportunity for you to share a little more about you and to drive home the key factors that make you a great candidate for the position. By only focusing on these three things, you’ll be able to answer this question with more confidence and authenticity, and you’ll likely increase your chances of getting hired.

Author: Adunola Adeshola coaches high-achievers on how to take their careers to the next level and secure the positions they’ve been chasing. Grab her free guide.

Forbes.com | October 15, 2020

#JobSearch : Five(5) Questions You Should Ask In A Job Interview. Got that Interview? MUst REad!

July 11, 2020/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

When you finally see that job interview request pop up in your inbox, it can be tempting to start thinking about all the ways you can please and impress the interviewer, especially right now in a competitive job market.

But, now is not the time to forget that interviews are your chance to interview the company, too. So many companies and industries have changed due to the pandemic. It’s your duty to ask insightful questions to ensure you make the best-informed decision for you. At the very least, it’s your responsibility to make sure you know what you’re walking into if you do accept the job.

Here are 5 new questions you should consider asking in a job interview, whether you land an interview during or post the pandemic.

1. What are the company’s biggest challenges right now and in what ways will this role help alleviate those challenges?

Any company that has decided to open a new position during this pandemic has determined that the particular role is essential to the growth or continuation of the company. As a job candidate, it’s vital you understand the challenges the company may be experiencing as a result of the pandemic and how the company desires for your role to solve those challenges.

Asking this question allows you to go beyond the job description and gives you an idea of what you should expect if you were to land the position. It shows the interviewer that you’re a problem solver and that you’re not just thinking about yourself, but that you’re also thinking about how you can contribute to the company’s goals. Plus, as you move forward in the hiring process, their answer to this question will give you more ways to show the hiring manager that you can be impactful to the team right away.

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What Skill Sets Do You have to be ‘Sharpened’ ?

Article continued …

2. In light of social distancing and remote work, what tools or practices have you all implemented to continue communication and collaboration, and to support employees?

While some companies embraced remote work and flexible hours years ago, many other companies have been forced to embrace remote work because of the pandemic and have experienced many changes because of it. Now more than ever, it’s important to know what type of company culture you’re walking into – or logging into from home, before you accept the job. Especially if you are applying for a manager role, this question will help you get a good understanding of how the company is working together. This will help you be sure you’re joining a place that will allow you to connect and support your direct reports and senior leadership in a way that is productive and effective for everyone.

3. I noticed that you all are big on collaboration and failing fast [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][or other aspects of the company’s culture] and I could imagine that being adaptable and flexible are a few traits that are even more essential right now. What other qualities have become even more vital in a new hire since this pandemic?

One of the hardest things for recruiters and hiring managers to determine while interviewing virtually is if a job candidate will mesh well with the team. Role fit and culture fit are the top two things companies look for when hiring. Eliminating face-to-face communication makes it a bit harder to determine the latter. But luckily, it’s still your duty to do everything you can to show the interviewer that your values, work style and personality align well with the company and team. Asking this question is a great way to show them that. It will also give you a chance to see if the team has qualities that will allow you to thrive on the team and at the company.

4. I’m interested in joining a company where I’ll be able to contribute and add value right away. Could you share more about the onboarding process, in light of COVID-19? What changes have been made to ensure that the new hire is still successful once they join the team?

Everyone knows that the first 90 days at any company are crucial to success. As a job candidate and potential new hire, you need to know how the company intends to onboard you while working remotely and practicing social distance. What new methods have they implemented to ensure you get started on the right path? How do they plan to connect you with other employees once you’re hired? What tools or trainings do they plan to give you access to once you join the team to make sure you’re well informed and well equipped? How long do they intend for you to work remotely before transitioning to the office?

Asking this question will help ensure you’re not lost at sea once you accept the job offer. It will also show the interviewer that you plan to be a valuable asset to the team right away.

5. I know things are quite uncertain right now but as we continue to navigate this time, what are the company’s top priorities and plans for the next few months?

Transparency is key right now. If your future company can’t be honest with you as a job candidate about their plans or goals right now, then they most likely will not be honest with you once you’re an employee. Of course, none of us can predict how the next few months will pan out, but you can get clarity on the company’s rough draft. Job security is never guaranteed but, at the very least, you should know that you’re joining a company that has a strategy for proactively moving forward.

Asking some variation of these questions will give you a good understanding of the company you could be joining. These questions will also show the interviewer that you’re a problem solver, a big-picture thinker and an adaptable team player, all things companies are looking for right now when hiring.

Author: Adunola Adeshola coaches high-achievers on how to take their careers to the next level and secure the positions they’ve been chasing. Sign up for her free online workshop.

Forbes.com | July 9, 2020

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#JobSearch : Do Your Homework Before Your Executive #JobInterview . Great REad!

June 18, 2020/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

Doing your homework prior to going into a job interview can be the difference between being considered a viable candidate or having your resume pushed to the side. Companies want to hire someone who shows they are willing to do their due diligence in order to make a quality decision.

Writing resumes that get you hired is great, but those resumes don’t guarantee you are a perfect fit for any given job.

Here are important points to research about a company prior to going into a job interview.

1- Learn About Key Team Members

You can find out the names of key team members of a company by looking at the company’s LinkedIn profile. Take this a step further and learn a few interesting facts about those people as well. Discover what college they attended, how their degree led them to the role they have, and anything else you deem relevant. When you research professionals at a prospective employer as much as they research you as a job candidate, you’ll be more likely to make a great first impression.

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What Skill Sets Do You have to be ‘Sharpened’ ?

Article continued …

2- Understand Mission Statements and How to Apply Them

Knowing a company’s mission statement is important in a few ways. For one, you shouldn’t work for a company if you don’t agree with their mission and values. You also should demonstrate to an interviewer how your work ethic, personal ethics, and daily actions fit what the company represents. Having this information in your LinkedIn profile is one thing, but it’s also important to be able to give examples during your interview.

3- Check the Latest Industry or Company News

When you’re able to talk about the latest news within the company or the industry they operate in, you’ll earn some solid points with the interviewers since it shows you’ve come prepared. The best executive resume writing service can help you relate your past experiences to the company you’re interested in on paper. It’s up to you to follow-up on those experiences with action by demonstrating you’re ready to get started working for them right away.

4- Know the Company Structure

A LinkedIn profile of an interviewer or a company doesn’t give you the total picture of a company’s structure. The title “executive” means different things to different companies, so if you aren’t able to figure out how the company is structured by searching online, then don’t hesitate to ask them in the interview. You need to make sure you fit within the structure so you know exactly what your role is if hired.

There’s no specific action you can take that will magically land you any job you want, and the work doesn’t stop once your resume is created. Doing your due diligence on a company will help you master the interview and put yourself in a great position to get the job.

FSC Career Blog Author: Ms. Erin Kennedy, MCD, CMRW, CPRW, CERW, CEMC, is a Certified Professional Resume Writer/Career Consultant, and the President of Professional Resume Services, named one of Forbes “Top 100 Career Websites”. Considered an influencer, she is consistently listed as a “Top Career Expert to Follow” on Twitter and LinkedIn.

FSC Career Blog | June 18, 2020

#JobSearch : 7 Things You Shouldn’t Say in the Interview. There is an Unspoken set of Rules that Goes On in the Interview.

May 26, 2020/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

And you are expected to know them. These rules come from the recruiter or hiring manager. They have things they want to hear and things they don’t want to hear. How do you know what they are and how do you prepare for them?

Candidates practice their interviewing skills vigorously. They read up on what to say and how to answer. Dress appropriately. Smile. Follow body language. Get in front of a mirror and practice. Be on time, but not too early.

They go over their lists of strengths and weaknesses, their accomplishments, their contributions to the last job, and what they offer this new company.

But what about the things they should NOT say? Interviewers are weighing what you DON’T say just as much as what you DO say.

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What Skill Sets Do You have to be ‘Sharpened’ ?

Article continued …

Here are 7 key things you shouldn’t say in the interview.

Salary. “How much does this pay?” is one of the worst ways to start a conversation. Don’t talk about it right away. The longer you wait, the more leverage you have when negotiations start. They know you are anxious for clarity, but they are also interested in what their ROI will be before they make an offer. Wait it out.
Company. Come prepared. Know what the company does! Know their mission, product, or service. What do they do? Who do they sell to? Who is their biggest competitor? What were their quarterly and year-end earnings last year? Act as though you are the company ambassador. The more you know about it, the more impressed they will be. Telling the interviewer you are “sort of familiar” with their company will put you in the NO pile.
Your old company. Do not bash your last company, manager, co-workers, or the way they did things. It might have ended badly, but the new company doesn’t need to hear about it. It makes you look bad and will let them know that you will bash them as well. It also makes you look difficult or whiny. Honestly, when I talk to a client and all they do is bash their old company, it does send up some red flags. I also assume that the client will be difficult to work with (past experience tells me they will). Work out your feelings before going to an interview and leave it behind.
I need this job. Don’t let your desperation show. They know you want the job. They know you (most likely) need the money. Keep your focus on what the company needs from you and how you are the right fit for the role. You want to lead with your strengths and experience. They don’t want just anyone for the job. They want the RIGHT person.
I want your job. When they ask you “where do you see yourself in 5 years” don’t tell them you want their job. You might think it sounds ambitious but it could come off as arrogant or that you plan on leaving soon. Plus, you may be talking to a sensitive or worried manager who doesn’t know how stable their job is. Telling them you want their job may automatically make them defensive or turned off. Instead, let them know that you hope to gain experience and knowledge from the role with a promotion following.
This is a stepping stone. If you know this next role is only to benefit your career through additional experience so you can move on to the role after that, don’t tell the interviewer that. They don’t need to know that you only view their company as temporary. They want to hire someone committed to the company and the role.
Questions. Have questions ready! Expectations? Culture? What is a typical day like? How do you measure success in this position? What type of advancement is there? What types of challenges should I expect? Who will I be working with? You’ve read my resume and spoken with me; do you think I am a good fit for the role? Even ask them about their role! Going to an interview without follow up questions will make you look unprepared.

Interview don’ts are just as important as interview dos. Good luck!

FSC Career Blog | May 26, 2020

15 Interview Questions You Should Be Prepared to Answer.

January 22, 2020/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

No matter how many you go on, job interviews can always be nerve-wracking. You put on your nicest clothes, print out your resume, and remind yourself to smile real big–and just when you think everything is going well, the interviewer hits you with a curveball question you aren’t prepared for.

Luckily, you’re not going to let that happen again and you’re planning ahead to ace this month’s interview. The best way to for anything is to do your research ahead of time–which is why we’re here to help.

If you’re preparing for a big interview in the New Year, prepping beforehand with these 15 interview questions will help you get one step closer to that dream job.

1. Tell me about yourself?

Most interviews start with this question and how you answer it will make your first impression. If you stumble over the answer and aren’t quite sure what to say–you’re lack of confidence in yourself is showing. If you start listing all your greatest accomplishments and talk too much, your ego might look a little too big. You need to find a good balance between being confident, but not pretentious.

The best way to prepare for this question is to prepare an elevator pitch about who you are. Skip your personal history and give about 2-3 sentences about your career path and how you ended up in this interview, applying for this job. You don’t need to be too detailed, there are plenty of more questions coming. You just want to leave enough curiosity that the interview becomes excited to learn more about you throughout the interview.

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What Skill Sets do You have to be ‘Sharpened’ ?

Continue of the article:

2. Why do you want to work for [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][insert company name]?

When a hiring manager asks this question, not only do they want to know why you want to work for them, but they also want to know what you know about the company. This question tests how well you know what the company does and how passionate you are about the work they do–so make sure you know the company well and can speak truthfully about your desires to work there.

3. How did you hear about this job?

When asked this during an interview, don’t just say you heard about the job on a website. This is your opportunity to go into more detail about why you love this company and what motivates you to want to work there. Moreover, if you have a personal connection at the company, this would be a good time to mention their name!

4. Tell me about something on your resume.

Everyone has something on their resume that they’re really proud of. Whether it’s a skill or achievement you’ve listed or a specific place you worked, considering answering this question with the most interesting thing on your resume. Plus, don’t just say something relevant to your most recent position–you’re already going to be asked about that. Instead, think back to one of the older positions listed on your resume and talk about how that job helped you grow into the person you are today.

5. Why are you looking for a job? Or, why are you looking for a different job?

This question might seem innocuous, but this is how interviewers weed out the people who are either a) just looking for any job b) were fired from their last position or c) might have a high turnover rate, meaning you won’t be sticking around for too long. Focus on the positives and be specific. Think about why you are looking for a job: did you just graduate and this will be your first real job? Are you switching career paths? Are you leaving a current job for this one?

If you are currently working somewhere, you should also be prepared to answer, “why do you want to leave your current job for this one?”

6. Why should we hire you?

When asked this question, keep in mind that the recruiter is looking to hear what skills you have that you’re going to bring to the team. Don’t give a vague answer, such as, “I’m friendly and a hard worker.” Instead, be specific, summarize your work history and achievements, and use numbers when possible.

For example, say how many years of experience you have or name some of the accomplishments you made at your last company. The more specific you can be about what your skills are and how valuable of an employee you are, the better the interviewer will be able to picture you working there.

7. Where do you see yourself in five years?

This can seem like a heavy question during an interview, especially when you haven’t prepared for it ahead of time. Keep in mind that you’re in an interview setting–so you don’t need to go into all the details about what your personal life goals are for the next five years. Focus on your career goals and be realistic.

If you plan to work at this company for five years, make sure you understand who would be working above you and what potential career growth there is. The hiring manager asks this question to find out if you set realistic goals, if you are ambitious, and to confirm that the position you are interviewing for aligns with these goals and growth.

If this position isn’t exactly a job with a lot of future opportunities, you can simply answer this by noting that you are not certain what your future is going to look like, but that you believe this position is going to help you navigate yourself in the right direction.

8. Tell me about a conflict you faced at work and how you dealt with it.

This question is important to ace because it helps an interviewer understand how you deal with conflict. It also helps test how well you think on your feet–so if you prepare ahead of time with a specific example, you’ll avoid the awkward moment of silence while you try to think of an example.

Once you have an example in mind, simply explain what happened, how you resolved the issue in a professional manner, and try to end the story with a happy note about how you reached a resolution or compromise with your co-worker.

9. What is your dream job?

Similar to the “where do you see yourself in five years” question, the interviewer is looking to understand how realistic you are when setting goals, how ambitious you are, and whether or not the job and company will be a good place for you to grow.

Again, try to set aside your personal goals (don’t say your dream job is to be paid to take Instagram photos) and focus on your career goals. Think about how this job is going to set you up for the future and get you closer to your dream job. But, don’t be that person who says, “to be CEO of this company.”

10. What do you expect out of your team/co-workers?

This question is meant to understand how you work on a team and whether you will be the right cultural fit for the company. To prepare for this answer, make sure you research the company ahead of time. You can always tell a little bit about what a company’s culture is like by looking through their social media profiles or reading their reviews on Glassdoor.

11. What do you expect from your manager?

Again, the hiring manager is looking to understand what kind of employee you would be and whether you will be a good fit to add to their team. In some interviews, your future manager might be interviewing you. Answer this question as honestly as possible and pull examples from your current manager if you can show how they positively help you work better.

12. How do you deal with stress?

Answering this question will help hiring managers identify any potential red flags you might have. You want to show that you can handle stress in a professional and positive manner that helps you continue working or won’t stop you from accomplishing your goals. Moreover, be specific and explain what you actually do to deal with stress–like taking a 15-minute break to take a walk outside, or crossing items off on a to-do list, etc.

13. What would the first 30 days in this position look like for you?

This question helps a company understand what you will get done in your first month, to three months in the position–and how you answer it will signal whether or not you’re the right person for the job. Start by mentioning what information you would need to get started and what would help you transition into the new role. Then focus on your best skills and how you would apply those to this position right away.

14. What are your salary requirements?

Some interviewers ask this question, others don’t. It’s always better to be prepared, especially because you want to make sure you would be paid a fair wage for the value you are going to add. That’s why we built our Know Your Worth tool–to help you determine what you should be paid.

Note: While employers can ask what your salary expectations are, in certain places it is illegal for them to ask what your previous salary was.

15. Do you have any questions?

The last question you will always be asked during an interview is whether or not you have any questions for the interviewer. This is your chance to really stand out–so don’t blow it by saying you don’t, or that your questions have already been answered. Even if you don’t have any questions–there’s always a question you can ask at the end of an interview.

Keep a list of at least three to five questions in the back of your mind so that no matter what, there are at least two questions you have to ask at the end of the interview. Recruiters say that actually enjoy getting to answer some questions at the end of an interview–they did just listen to you talk about themselves, so ask about them for a change. Once this part is over, you can rest easy and walk out of the interview knowing you aced it!

GlassDoor.com | January 21, 2020 | Posted by Isabel Thottam

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#BestofFSCBlog : #JobSearch : 45 Questions You Should Ask In Every Job Interview. Great Read !

January 8, 2020/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

It was the middle of July 2008, and I had just bought an expensive power suit for a job interview. After being laid off during the height of the recession and unemployed for about six weeks, I was feeling desperate and willing to spend money on anything that might put my career on track.

Surprisingly, the train was running on time that day, which gave me the opportunity to take my new jacket off, sit back, and prepare for this meeting one last time. At my stop, I realized I was so intently focused that I didn’t notice a robbery happening right under my nose. The jacket was gone.

With nothing but an inappropriate tank top on, I was mortified but decided to go for it anyway. I proceeded to meet all of the organization’s department heads, during which time my thoughts repeatedly returned to my improper attire. But believe it or not, I ended up getting the job.

Even though my story had a happy ending, there’s no doubt the pressures of the interview process had me unnerved. Anything can happen before or during an interview, which is why it’s crucial to walk in feeling prepared — even if your jacket has just been stolen.

Interviewers will be focused on finding out if you’re a right fit for the position, but it’s also important to decide if the company is a right fit for you. Have a list of questions ready to help you through your next interview:

Your role

Be careful not to ask questions already answered in the job description. It’s important go beyond those general duties to understand everything the job entails.

1. Can you offer specific details about the position’s day-to-day responsibilities?

2. What would my first week at work look like?

3. How does this position contribute to the organization’s success?

4. What do you hope I will accomplish in this position?

5. How does the company culture affect this role?

6. What job shadowing opportunities are available for an applicant before they accept an offer?

Proceed with caution: If rather than going into detail about the primary responsibilities listed in the job description, the employer rambles off many more duties — they may be asking you to take on more than you initially thought.

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Getting to know the interviewer

Most likely, the interviewer is the first contact you’ll have at this company — they could even be your future boss. Asking questions can help you understand their attitude, company values, and where the company’s future is heading.

7. What do you enjoy most about working here?

8. Why are you working in this industry?

9. Can you walk me through your typical work day?

10. What is your greatest accomplishment with the company?

11. What is your team’s greatest accomplishment?

12. What goals do you have for the company, yourself, and employees over the next five years?

13. What hobbies do you have outside of the office?

Proceed with caution: Be wary of leaders who have trouble opening up or don’t seem passionate about their company and team.

Management’s style

What type of management style do you need to reach the height of your potential? Now’s the best time to see if the company’s leaders align with your expectations.

14. How do leaders encourage employees to ask questions?

15. How do leaders set employees up for success?

16. How does employee feedback get incorporated into day-to-day operations?

17. How does management deliver negative feedback to employees?

Proceed with caution: Employers who can’t list how they encourage employees and set them up for success may not deliver the support you’re looking for in a company.

Company culture

From benefits and perks to the ways employees interact with each other, not meshing with a company’s culture can put a roadblock on your path to success.

18. What is your work culture like?

19. How would you describe the work environment here?

20. What benefits are focused on work-life balance?

21. What benefits and perks does the company offer?

22. What is the outline of your telecommuting policy?

23. How frequently do employees make themselves available outside of normal working hours?

Proceed with caution: Listen closely to how the interviewer describes the company’s benefits and environment to be sure it’s the right culture for your personality and working style.

Company reputation

After doing some research, you should already know a few things about the company’s reputation. Now it’s time to dig a little deeper to make sure this is a place where you’ll thrive.

24. What’s your mission statement?

25. How often is a new hire the result of a previous employee quitting?

26. Why do most employees leave the company?

27. How would employees describe the company and its leaders?

28. What are the company’s biggest problems? How are they overcoming them?

29. What do you want the company to be known for among employees — past, present, and future?

Proceed with caution: Quality leaders will be the first to admit that their company isn’t perfect. Interviewers who claim they would change nothing might be failing to grow and make positive changes.

Performance measurements

Knowing a company’s expectations and how they measure goals before accepting a job offer helps you decide if their style matches with what motivates you.

30. How are employees recognized for their hard work?

31. How involved are employees in the structuring of their own goals and tasks?

32. What are your views on goals, timelines, and measuring success?

33. How often are employees expected to provide status updates on a project?

34. How often do you evaluate employee performance?

Proceed with caution: Wanting constant updates and control over employee tasks are warning signs of a micromanager.

Future co-workers

The employees at this organization could be your next team. Make sure you’re positive this is a group you want to be a part of.

35. Can you tell me about the team I’ll be working with?

36. How competitive are your employees?

37. How do you develop teamwork skills among employees?

Proceed with caution: A competitive environment can be fun and motivating, but a lack of teamwork in the office could point to a cutthroat company.

Opportunities for growth

What is your ultimate career goal? Set yourself up for success by finding out how far this new position could take you on your career path.

38. What type of mentor system do you have in place?

39. What type of educational/training opportunities does the company offer?

40. What advancement opportunities are available?

41. How do leaders promote employee growth and success?

42. What does it take to be a top performer at this company?

Proceed with caution: If an interviewer is unable to share how you can advance within the company, chances are you might not be able to grow at the rate you want.

Moving forward

Don’t leave the interview with any questions unanswered — for you or the interviewer. This is your final opportunity to make sure you’re both on the same page before you walk out the door.

43. What’s the next step of this process, and when can I expect to hear from you?

44. Is there any other information I can provide you with?

45. Would you like to see more examples of my work?

Proceed with caution: Interviewers who don’t have a lot to offer on next steps may already have another candidate in mind or might not be in a big rush to hire. Remember to stay positive and continue to job search until you’re officially hired.

#CareerAdvice : #JobInterview -Two(2) Ways to Learn the Unspoken Rules at a Company Before Accepting a Job. A #MustRead !

October 9, 2019/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

When you’re interviewing for a new job, you probably want to know what it’s really like to work there. But most interview advice misses the mark when it comes to culture. How do you figure out the unspoken rules about company culture and communication before you take the job?

Unfortunately, you can’t simply ask directly. Companies often give lip service to values such as openness, honesty, integrity, and work-life balance, so it’s rare that your interviewer will come right out and contradict those.

A company’s culture is determined by what the organization actually respects, which can often vary from theory to practice. We’re all prone to self-deception.

To see the culture clearly, you’ll need to look past the words and focus on actions that show its respect for employees’ time, environment, thoughts, contributions, and effort.

CONDUCT A VISUAL INTERVIEW

When visiting a company, before you get to the actual talking part, do a visual interview. In 2019, the employee experience is a good indicator of how a company feels about its employees’ well-being.

When you visit the office, notice what are people wearing. Is the dress code t-shirt and shorts? Button-down and jeans? Are flip-flops optional? The spectrum of office formality to casualness provides your first clue as to how a company treats itself.

Take into account how much space, light, and quiet is each employee provided. If you find it crushing to work in a status-driven hierarchical environment where the corner office is the grand prize, pay attention accordingly. Or if the tumult of an open-floor plan feels like chaos instead of a productive workspace to you, choose wisely.

When they ask if you’d like a coffee or water, take them up on it, and get it yourself. This gives you an opportunity to visit the cafe or pantry. Notice whether it’s large and well-stocked, with a wide variety available or messy and tiny. Are they scrimping on supplies and offerings? Or is it a Google-esque cornucopia of snacks, drinks, and menu options? Great generals quip that “an army marches on its stomach.” Does your future employer agree?

Similarly, I’ve heard that a trip to the bathroom is the most revealing way to find out how a company feels about its employees. Because the bathroom is invisible to the outside world but something employees use every day, investments here show a conscious effort to improve the daily routine.

If the bathrooms are dingy, dimly lit, depressing dungeons that have not been painted since the 1970s, how discretionary is employee happiness to this company when nature calls? A clean, well-stocked, and well-maintained lavatory says the organization cares.

These visual cues give a glimpse into a company’s culture as it is actually practiced. You can’t read too much into them, of course, but they provide clues.

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ASK THESE FOUR CRUCIAL QUESTIONS

Meeting practices, office communications, and the sanctity of days off are the biggest tip-offs to a company’s hidden culture. So after your visual interviews, ask questions face to face with your interviewers to reveal what the company values in these areas.

Some companies prefer inclusion and consensus while others value efficiency and rapid decision-making. You might ask, “Are meetings inclusive, with a dozen people or more, or limited to five or six decision-makers?” Big meetings mean no hurt feelings but no speed either. Smaller, sparser meetings mean streamlined agendas, but you might not always be included.

Asking them to discuss a time when negative employee feedback on a decision caused it to change at the company can be eye-opening. Some companies are hierarchical and simply don’t work that way, while others are immensely receptive to employee feedback. Neither’s right, but one may be more right for you.

You might also ask, “What is the rhythm to the work here? Is there a time of year when it’s all hands on deck and we’re pulling all-nighters, or is it pretty consistent throughout the year?” If your interviewer lets you know it’s all-nighters all year, that’s a different culture than a 9-5 office environment. You could continue with, “How about during the week or month? Is the work pretty evenly spread throughout the week or month or are there crunch days?” A performance-driven company will let you know it values outcomes over an easy schedule, and vice versa.

Company culture regarding emails and Slack are especially important in our always-online world. You might ask, “How do you handle the flood of emails and Slacks at your company? What works for you?” Some workplaces expect round-the-clock surveillance of your device and instant replies. Others are much more comfortable with “do not disturb” and waiting until the morning.

In all of these conversations, a pleasant, open, nonconfrontational tone is best, regardless of what works best for you. You’re there to learn about their culture, not judge it. Open eyes, open ears, and open-ended questions are the best way to find a company’s hidden culture before you start.

Author: Marc Cenedella is the founder of Ladders Inc. He has been writing on careers for 20 years at Ladders careers site, where you can sign up for his weekly newsletter.

FastCompany.com | October 9, 2019

#CareerAdvice : #JobInterview -Most Job Seekers Fail To Prep For This Common #InterviewQuestion .

July 28, 2019/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

One of the easiest ways to increase positive outcomes when interviewing for a job is to prepare. If you tend to get nervous during an interview, investing time on factors within your control like your outfit, transportation, and responses to common questions can make a world of difference.

An often overlooked area of preparation is what questions you’ll ask the interviewers. This can be a “make or break” part of the interview, and I have seen things turn around both ways (in favor of or against a candidate) depending on how they respond to this inquiry: “Do you have any questions for us?”

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Here’s how to make sure you impress right up through the final moments of the interview:

“No” is never an acceptable answer (so prepare more questions than you’ll need). When done well, interviews are conversational, with back and forth dialogue. This means, many of your questions may get answered in the course of the discussion. Even if this happens, you’ll still want to have 2 – 3 questions at the ready. In this situation, try: “This conversation has been incredibly helpful in understanding how the strategy team partners with various stakeholders throughout the company and the top priorities for the coming year. Can you share what makes you proud to work at this company and one thing you’d change?”
Use questions to the maximum benefit. Even when gathering information in the Q&A, you still have an opportunity to clarify your fit, reiterate strengths and show your interest. Ensure your questions are insightful, show curiosity and demonstrate knowledge of the role, industry and company to the extent possible. In this situation, try: “I’m excited that my fluency in Portuguese and connections in Brazil will be valuable when you expand in that region. Can you share more about the timeline and how you envision the acquisition impacting reporting lines?”
Have the right questions for the right people. Don’t ask the entry-level Recruiter what a “day in the life” of a Senior Programmer is. While he/she can speculate, you’ll get a more thorough response from someone on the Technology Team. Similarly, very specific benefits questions may be best directed to Human Resources. Of course, there’s gray area, but a major part of the interview is building relationships, and people feel good when they’re able to confidently answer your questions. Try: “In your role, I suspect you have an insider perspective on [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][insert specific topic here]. Can you share [your insights on…]?” or“Can you share how your role collaborates with the rest of the project team?”
Ask questions as if you’re already in the role. Pretend you are hired and this is your first week. What questions might be on your mind? These tend to be great questions to ask in the interview because they’re more strategic in nature and show you’ve done your homework. Ask, “What does a successful first year look like on this team?” or “What’s the company’s biggest obstacle to success this year, and how will I be able to help overcome it in this role?”
Save self-interest questions. While it may be important to understand how frequently you’ll be paid or if you can leave early on Thursdays to attend class, these questions do not make the best first impression since they’re focused on your interests versus the hiring manager’s focus. It’s likely you’ll get a sense of some of your tactical concerns by observing the culture and interacting with potential future colleagues. If not, unless it’s a major constraint or deal breaker, save these questions until the offer stage. In the meantime, try: “What do employees comment on most about the culture here?” or “If I were a friend, what’s one thing you would tell me about working here that I wouldn’t know until I started?
Uncover red flags. If a hiring process is moving very quickly or the interviewer is trying to sell you rather than get to know you, slow down and proceed with caution. In this situation, try, “Why is the position is open?” or “What was the deciding factor in the decision to interview me today and why do you think I’ll be a good fit?”
Get what you need. In order to make a decision about fit for yourself, ask questions that help you understand core responsibilities, reporting structures, performance expectations and evaluation process, and future career paths. Some of this will be in the job description or come through in general interview conversation. However, if something hasn’t been covered in enough detail, ask the interviewer to explain or request to meet with additional people on the team. Interviews should be a two-way process where both parties are interested in making a smart choice for the long-term.
Be respectful of time. Chances are, the hiring manager will save about 15 to 20 minutes for questions at the end of an interview. They have a schedule to keep, so while you may have several questions, you may not always be able to ask all of them in the first interview. If you’re unsure if you’re overstepping on time, try: “I have several more questions I’d like to ask, but want to be respectful of your schedule. Do you have time for a few more?”
Ask the key question: The key question is some version of “Is there anything that concerns you about my ability to succeed in this role?”Asking this gives you an opportunity to erase any doubt the interviewer may have about hiring you. For example, she may respond, “I’m concerned this will be a long commute for you.” This gives you a chance to eliminate the issue: “Actually, my sister lives near here, so I’m out this way frequently.”
Close strong. It’s not unusual for the interviewer to give you a final wrap up question like, “Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?” This is a fantastic opportunity to briefly recap your relevant strengths and reiterate your interest in moving forward. Yes, it’s important to relay that you want the job. Also, don’t forget to ask about next steps before leaving so you have a sense of when you can expect to hear from them, and get business cards in preparation to send thank you emails.

Most interviews end with the opportunity for candidates to ask questions. While you may feel a sigh of relief that the hardest part of the interview is over, don’t relax just yet. Use these final moments to leave a strong impression with the interviewer that confirms you are the best person for the job!

Happy hunting!

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Dawn: Dawn Graham

I started my corporate career as a recruiter, and over the past two decades have been helping job seekers attain great roles from the “other side of the desk” as a caree…

Forbes.com | July 27, 2019

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#CareerAdvice – #JobInterview – How To Answer ‘Are You Overqualified?’ In An #Interview . Great Read!

July 17, 2019/in First Sun Blog/by First Sun Team

When you’re searching for a new role, the real question you must answer is if you are “overqualified” or “fully qualified” for a position. If you are overqualified for a position, what that likely means is that you are applying for a step-down position or a position below your education level or your experience.

As a career coach, I’ve found this is actually fairly common, especially for those who want more of a work-life balance. For example, let’s say that you are a regional sales manager who must put in 70 hours or more a week and travel often. You want more time to spend with family, to get out of management and to get back to an actual sales position where your real passion lies (and avoid working 70 hours a week). This makes perfect sense, right?

Provide transparency about work-life balance.

Where the problem arises is that to an outside hiring manager who is unaware of your desires, they might see this as a step backward for you. If you don’t explain that you are truly looking for more of a work-life balance to the hiring manager, you could be passed over. A hiring manager is likely going to assume that you have been unable to find a position at your current level and are “just settling” for this position. In my experience, they will presume that you will be bored at the position and that you will set off for greener pastures as soon as you find another senior management position.

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The first step to overcoming the problem of being overqualified is to be truthful about your situation and let them know that the job you are currently interviewing for is the job you want and are passionate about. Assure them you are in this for the long haul. Once you do this, you are no longer “overqualified.” You are now “fully qualified” for the position.

Avoid oversimplifying your resume.

You don’t want to oversimplify your credentials or undersell yourself. This is a common interview mistake that often costs one the position. Once you have made it clear that this is the job you really want, you then want to sell your skill sets and show the potential employer what an asset you can be to them with your additional skills and experience.

The next step is to make sure that when you are answering interview questions, you don’t spend the majority of the time talking about yourself. Instead, make sure you are letting the hiring manager know what you can do for them.

Show that you’re there to solve the company’s problems.

The best way to go about this is to try to flesh out the problem the company is currently having (i.e., the reason they are hiring for the position). A company only hires when they have a problem to solve and need someone to help them solve it. So, there is an underlying problem attached to this position.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the interviewer and try to determine what the pain points or problems are that the company is experiencing. Once you figure that out, you can speak directly to how you can help them solve the problem. Doing this will put you in the driver’s seat by showing the hiring manager how bringing you on board could fundamentally shift their situation around.

The other point to be made is that a hiring manager might feel that you are going to be an expensive hire due to your experience. While you need to be prepared to take a potential pay cut from the higher-level job, if you can hit on how you can solve the company’s pain points, you will be worth much more to them. This will give you leverage to negotiate when given a job offer.

Put it all together.

Here is an example of how to answer when you are asked in an interview if you are overqualified for the job:

“While it might appear on paper that I am overqualified, I feel that a better term would be that I am fully qualified. I am currently looking for a position where I won’t have to travel as much and can achieve a quality work-life balance. I can solve your company’s current problem of customer retention by implementing new value programs and customer reward systems. This can be done with proven systems at minimal costs and will result in an increase in revenue on a monthly basis. This is an area I not only have experience in but where I thrive, as customer acquisition and retention is a passion of mine.”

Craft your answer with your own experience, and practice this prior to the interview to ensure that you can deliver your answer confidently. Tip: Do not memorize any interview answers because you don’t want to sound like a robot. Just practice the general format, and get comfortable with it. Let your personality shine through in the interview.

Forbes Coaches Council is an invitation-only community for leading business and career coaches. Do I qualify?

Author: Tammy HomegardnerForbes Councils Member

Career Coach, LinkedIn Expert, Author and Founder of The Job Search School. Learn how to find your dream job.

Forbes.com | July 17, 2019