Any job advice?

[meyer4589]

The problem I have with interviews is so far they haven't asked about my work history. Just the typical behavioral/situational questions. Maybe I need to be more assertive and steer the conversation in that direction.

Usually first interviews pertain to the the behavioral, goal driven questions. You probably wont be asked work history related questions in a professional interview until you get into the later part of the interview process, like your 2nd or 3rd interview. Just my own experience and .

 

[miguel's sister]

I was a headhunter for 8 years, albeit executive level sales and engineers.

Most employers look at work history, I was always asked (as the person presenting the candidate) why there were gaps. It is, IMO, important to address this up front.

Try not to be negative in your responses, as another poster stated you could say something along the lines of you were trying out various positions.

Perhaps a temp agency would be a good option, they will send you on various assignments but if you show up for every one that will help build up a stable work history. (As long as you stay with the agency. If they cannot keep you busy enough then sign up at another agency as well)

You'll really need to put your mind to it, and be the best ~insert job title here~ that you can be. You will need to convince a hiring manager that you are ready to "stick to it" and show up every day.

Good luck to you!

 

[IndyGunworks]

Might check your facebook to and make sure there isnt any undesirable stuff on there as well.

 

[Whitsettd8]

A lot of people say take what you get but I disagree a bit. You need to find something your interested in. If you find something that's interesting your going to apply yourself more or push yourself harder. Yes you will have to take what you can get but do it somewhere you can see yourself working 10-15 years from now.

Remember you have to sell yourself to these interviewers. Be confident be direct and be honest

 

[Fenway]

Put together a solid 1 page resume that details your objective, work experience and education. Look online for solid resume examples. Consider the email address you are listing on the resume: john_smith@gmail.com or bigboypopstar1986@gmail.com think about it.

Show up 10-15 minutes early for the interview.

Dress appropriately / clean cut.

Bring several copies of your resume and if possible put together a portfolio show casing any work you have done that might be relevant to the job.

Study the company/career/job thoroughly before the interview.

Look the interviewer / panel in the eye(s) when speaking

Have a set of questions you want to ask regarding the job. Make sure these are good questions! Questions about state of the industry, advancement etc.

At the end ask about next steps in the process. Ask for business cards and write thank you notes to those who interviewed you.

Practice interviewing! Reads books on the subject and do mock interviews.

Proof Read Your Resume!

Good luck!

 

[24Carat]

The Lowe's or Home Depot suggestion is real good advice this time of year. Many moons ago I started in Outside Garden at Lowe's in the spring. I was always punctual, followed company policy and I was lucky I had a lot of face to face customer service experience going in. I held 7 different positions in that three years and ended up as Power Equipment Sales Specialist. It is a fun place to work, if one isn't allergic to physical work.

A whole lot of other industries fawn all over a Lowe's type of experience on your resume when you start wanting to look for something better.

For a guy it's a nice fit too. How many other jobs can you have where the public considers you and expert in anything? If you are a fast learner and make your Area Managers look good and make their job easier you can go far pretty quickly. Good luck !