Brainteaser Questions: Unlocking the Mysteries of the Interview Puzzle

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When it comes to preparing for job interviews, you’ve done your homework and brushed up on your interview answers. You feel like you’re extremely prepared for whatever the employer is going to throw at you. That is, until you are hit with an oddball question that seems to have no relation to whether or not you’d be good at a particular job.

Welcome to the wacky world of the brainteaser question. Brainteaser or puzzle questions are used in a small percentage of interviews and tend to be used for more technical jobs in general. However, you never know when an employer is going to throw one into the mix for kicks and giggles.

No matter how you feel personally about these types of questions, if you want to be considered for the job, you’ll need to answer it. Some brainteasers seem simple while others appear more complex. Think of those mathematical word questions you used to get in grade school.

Are you smarter than a 5th grader?

I hope so.

What does a brainteaser question look like? Here’s some examples:

How many golf balls does it take to fill up a school bus?

How do you get a manhole cover to go inside the hole?

You wake up one morning and there’s been a power outage. You know you have 12 black socks and 8 blue ones. How many socks do you need to pull out before you get a match?

An islands chameleons are divided into three groups: 13 red chameleons, 15 green chameleons and 17 blue chameleons. Each time two chameleons meet, they change their color to the third one. Is it possible for all the chameleons to become the same color? Why or why not?

The purpose of brainteaser questions

Even though it may seem like it, employers aren’t trying to make a candidate look dumb or are being malicious when they ask you this type of question. Their purpose is to see how each candidate processes a challenging situation.

Sure, these types of questions won’t be a part of your daily job if hired, but you will be faced with challenging issues that pop up. The employer is curious about how you’ll handle things when that happens.

How to react to a brainteaser question

You may be unprepared for the question, but once it’s out there you have to handle it. You shouldn’t just scratch your head and stare blankly at the employer. You also shouldn’t wrinkle your brow and refuse to answer the question on grounds that it’s irrelevant.

To buy yourself some time, one thing you can do is ask the interviewer to repeat the question. You can repeat it out loud to make sure you’ve heard it right. You can also take a moment to write the question down and think on it a bit. Let the interviewer know that you need a little time to ponder.

Be interactive

Believe it or not, employers don’t mind if you include them in your problem solving. Instead of silently going over each possibility, think your answer out loud. The interviewer wants to hear how your brain works.

If you need help, ask them for a hint. Once they give you a hint, continue to work it through to the best of your abilities. Once you’ve committed to an answer you think is right, be decisive and stay with it to the end. Some of these questions have multiple answers, so it’s more important that you appear confident.

If you’re totally stumped, admit it to the interviewer and ask for the answer. As long as you’ve showed the employer that you’ve got a healthy sense of curiosity, you’re still in the mix for the job.

Keep it simple but ignore the obvious

If the answer is too obvious then it’s not correct. Brainteasers are supposed to make you think for a while, so that glaringly simple solution is most likely wrong. However, all of these puzzles have some logic to them and shouldn’t take more than 5 minutes to solve.

Most puzzles can be solved with simple math. If you’re reaching for your calculus equations, you’re making it too hard.

Start from the end

Working your way backwards to get to an answer can be a quicker way to come up with a solution.

Be unique

If you feel you can’t come up with a right answer, then come up with something totally unique. At the very least, you’ll stand out from the crowd.

Get a college degree from home and boost your chances of landing a great job! Earn an AA, BA, BS or Masters degree at your own pace. More information here: http://www.degrees-at-home.com

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Job Tips: Finding the Right Job After 40 – How to Stay Current

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In today’s economic environment, it seems like every unemployed age group is struggling for a job. While younger people certainly have their legitimate gripes with their lack of experience, older workers over 40 are finding that their years of job experience can be a yellow flag to some employers.

All official job forecasts for the immediate future indicate that a 10% unemployment rate will be with us for quite a while. There are simply not as many jobs in the U.S. as there used to be. While we can argue about why that is, it doesn’t help the over 40 person who’s looking for employment right now.

The fact is, the country is in a time of great transition from the traditional manufacturing society, to one that is increasingly automated and “do-it-yourself” oriented. This means that there’s less jobs which require human minds and bodies to manually do things.

Many service jobs have been shipped overseas and will never return. If you’re over 40, you may have started your work career in either a service or manufacturing job which no longer exists, or is really hard to find these days.

In this current economic environment, large employers are shedding workers and small employers are struggling to find money to expand and hire more workers. This all makes finding a job for people over 40 even harder.

Yet, giving up should never be an option. If you’re savvy and persistent, you can greatly increase your odds of landing a good position. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

What Are You Really Interested In Doing?

This is a really good question to ask yourself at this stage in your working life. By this time, you’ve spent many years doing specific job tasks. Now’s the time to figure out if you want to do the same type of work, or, is there something else you’d really like to do, but just never went for it?

If you’re interested in going in a new direction, find out what kind of skills and training you’ll need to have for that type of job. Because you’re unemployed, you have an opportunity to do some job training. There are websites that offer free and paid training. Or, visit your local job training center.

Your willingness to learn new things and to get training shows that you can easily adopt to a new type of position.

Get into Networking 2.0

If you’re not already on a social networking site, go ahead and open up an account and create your own space. Many positions these days aren’t found by traditional means, but by meeting people through social networking. If you’re clueless about how to sign up with one, there are several good books and websites that can walk you through the process.

This is no longer optional. Having a social networking page or a blog of your own, shows a potential employer that you’re keeping up to date with the latest technological trends. Plus, it’s a great way to meet people like yourself who are going through this tough unemployment phase.

Revitalize Your Look

Put on your interview clothes and take a look in the mirror and really scrutinize yourself. This is what a potential employer will see when you walk in the door looking to be hired.

You’re already at a disadvantage because you’re not an eager 20-something. So, what can you do to instantly convey that you’re just as eager to get to work as your younger counterpart?

A quick way is to overhaul your professional look. And, let me just say right now that people DO judge a book by it’s cover – even if we learn we’re not supposed to do that. An employer may take one look at you and see an “older” person, therefore triggering an instant bias.

Giving yourself a mini makeover will make you feel good, while appearing more youthful at the same time. So, if you’ve been wearing the same old, style of haircut forever, go to the salon and get something that looks fabulous on you. If you’ve got a little gray, consider getting your hair color treated. Remember, in this tough environment you need every little advantage you can get.

Buy a new interview outfit and make sure it’s tailored to fit properly. Get your teeth whitened and learn to walk with your shoulders up straight. Practice smiling in the mirror and greeting your interviewer. First impressions are everything.

These are small changes that can make a big difference in how you’re perceived before you even say one word.

Get a college degree from home and boost your chances of landing a great job! Earn an AA, BA, BS or Masters degree at your own pace. More information here: http://www.degrees-at-home.com

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Job Tips: Finding a Job When You’re Over 50 – Melding the Old With the New

www.employmentmag.com


If you’re over 50 and currently looking for a job in this time of economic downturn, then you’ve probably already either experienced, or heard about, how difficult it is to even get an employer to look at your resume due to your age. It’s almost becoming a cliche – employers don’t seem to want to hire older workers.

This is unfortunate, because older workers have years of on-the-job experience and can really contribute a lot to a company that needs to improve a certain area of their operation. The fact is, there’s now a glut of people looking for a job over 50 years of age. So, if you’re in that category, you’re competing with thousands of others for slim pickings.

In the future, more jobs will be created as the U.S. slowly moves its way out of the current age of confusion and job cutting. It may not seem like it now, but there will come a day when all ages of workers will be welcomed back into the workforce. However, right now, the country is still reeling from the shock of economic meltdown and the immense shedding of jobs that will never return.

But, of course, you already know this. You’re sitting there wondering how are you going to pay your bills and feed yourself and your family in the here and now. Let me just say, that the last thing you should do is become despondent and give up. Instead, accept the fact that your job search is going to be a challenging one, and you’ll need to be aggressive in finding opportunities to earn a living.

What Can You Do for the Employer Now?

At this stage in life, you’ve maybe gone through multiple jobs and done a multitude of different job tasks. That’s to be expected, but that’s all water under the bridge. When you are working on your resume, don’t give employers a litany of things you’ve done over the past 20 years. Instead, keep things current by telling them actions you took in your last position that helped your previous employer increase efficiency, get more customers or make money.

Employers want to hire employees that can be effective for their bottom line. So, you need to know what your more recent experience can do for a future employer. If you’ve had some recent career training classes, this will also help in making you look like you’re someone who is employable in this day and age, as well as, bring real value to the table.

Are You on the Social Networking Bandwagon?

These days, you not only want to use traditional means to conduct a job search, but you should also be plugged into the current online networking community. There are several popular networking sites where 50 something folks are welcome to join. In fact, being included in an online social network means you’re more likely to find those hidden job openings that are just right for your particular skills.

You can also start your own social network group or create your own blog around a certain topic. This activity keeps you current and shows employers that you’re on the ball with the whole web 2.0 trend.

Get in Shape and Spruce Up Your Look

While there’s no way you’ll be able to hide your age, you can do things that will make you appear younger than you are. Start paying attention to your personal health and do things to get your energy level up. If you’re feeling slouchy and slumpy, this will come across to potential employers, and they won’t even be interested in talking to you.

To quickly get your energy going, start exercising regularly and improve your eating habits. Also, be sure to get plenty of rest. You want to still feel youthful and invigorated so that you can show employers that you may have more years, but you’re just as ready to get the job done as any 20-something.

Update your wardrobe so that you look fresh and current. Also, if you’ve been wearing the same hairstyle for ten or more years, it’s time to get something new. If you’re a guy who has a comb over, or is significantly balding, consider shaving your head clean for a more modern look.

Adjust Your Attitude

This isn’t the time to be a wallflower or bitter about your circumstances. Remember, you’re constantly putting out energy to the universe. If your energy is negative, you’ll get back negative things. If it’s positive, then the sky’s the limit. Yes, getting a job over 50 years of age isn’t easy, but if you stay positive and visualize yourself working at your new job, then one day very soon, you may be enjoying a new work experience, and a new chapter in your professional life.

Get a college degree from home and boost your chances of landing a great job! Earn an AA, BA, BS or Masters degree at your own pace. More information here: http://www.degrees-at-home.com

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What Do You Do At A Job Interview?

A job interview is an essential part of any job hunting experience. If you really want the job, the interview should be the perfect start. Below are some simple rules which will guide you in what you should do at a job interview.

Guest article written by Alan Murray webmaster of an Interview Questions site.

What Do You Do At A Job Interview?

Be on time.

Before the interview, you should try going to the interview venue so you will not get lost on the actual day. And on the actual day of the interview, make sure that you allot plenty of time for traveling. Expect unforeseen delays. If you can, you should be at the venue at least ten minutes before the actual interview period. This shows that you are very interested in the position and in the company as well. It also shows that you are professional and that you are capable of performing your duties in a prompt manner. Candidates who come in late for interview will leave a negative impression on the interviewer.

Dress appropriately.

Before the day of the interview, determine what you should wear for the meeting. Your attire should be in line with your career. When choosing what to wear, make sure that you exhibit conservatism and professionalism. Never dress extravagantly or casually. What you wear usually affects how the interviewer will assess your character. Your attire will show how serious you are about the job that you are applying for.

Be courteous to the interviewer.

You will be evaluated the moment the interviewer sees you so make sure that you give the perfect first impression. Address the interviewer with courtesy. Before he or she starts bombarding you with questions, greet him and introduce yourself. Never sit down until he tells you to. During the interview process, let him finish his questions before you answer. At the end of the process, thank him for the opportunity that he has given you and shake hands firmly.

Exhibit your competency.

Be confident. Maintain good eye contact with your interviewer during the entire process. Avoid long pauses and filler words like 'uhh' and 'ummm'. Sit straight and be calm. When you answer the interview questions, be forceful and persuasive. Show your conviction when talking about your good qualities and notable experiences. When faced with decisive questions, do not be soft spoken. (www.job-application-and-interview-advice.com)

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7 Typical Job Interview Questions And Answers

No matter the type or size of organization, they all have one thing in common: This is the set of typical job interview questions management ask each candidate at interview.

Sure, a business will always ask particular questions relevant to the job they're advertising or the industry they're in, but there are common job interview questions which you can prepare for.

Here are 7 of them:
Typical Job Interview Questions

    * Tell us about yourself

      Often an opening question, this gets you to introduce yourself in your own words.

      Say a little about your personal life but focus your answer on your experience, skills, achievements and attitude.

      Before you go to your job interview, be sure to learn about the job thoroughly and then subtly talk about yourself so that the interviewers can begin to see that you're a match for their particular job.

    * What are your strengths?

      To give a good answer here you simply have to demonstrate how well you match the job role -- that you are exactly what the interviewers are after. So do your homework and find out what strengths the interviewers are looking for. Then simply describe your strengths which match these. Strengths can comprise your skills, experience or personal attributes, or any combination of these.

    * What are your weaknesses?

      This is a common job interview question and despite what you're told you should be honest and describe genuine weaknesses.

      However, do go on to mention how you have been able to overcome any weaknesses in order to effectively improve your performance. If the interviewer picks up on your withholding any information you will lose credibility and maybe even a shot at the job.

    * What's wrong with your current employer or job?

      Although this can be an awkward job interview question you will need to keep your composure. Don't speak about hostile working conditions or lower pay rates or co-worker disagreements. Rather, you should focus on what the new employer can offer. Tell the interviewer that you wish to develop your career by taking on more responsibility for example.

    * Where do you want to be x years from now?

      This can be a tricky job interview question to answer, especially if you've not thought beyond getting this job!

      With your answer, you want to sound ambitious enough to be motivated to do a great job, but not so ambitious that your interviewers think you're using this opportunity only as a stepping stone to something bigger.

      A good interview answer might me that you expect to have been successful in this job, taken on more responsibilities and even be considered suitable for promotion.

    * Why us? What is it about us that makes you want to work here?

      Your reply to this job interview question must demonstrate your knowledge about the company, its heritage, its mission and vision and how it reconciles with yours. Research the company well beforehand and you will be able to answer this type of job interview question with confidence.

    * Do you have anything to ask?

      If you have no questions, your interviewers will assume you are not sufficiently interested in the position so do think of at least one. But make sure they are intelligent questions. Ask more about the job requirements and the businesses nature. Ask about training, performance appraisal, development opportunities and so forth.

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Salary Negotiations - Insider Help With

Salary Negotiations
Job interviews are not easy and we don't know many people who actually enjoy attending them.

Aside from trying your best to impress the interviewer you are also concerned about being able to answer the job interview questions asked, without having a mental block.

The same applies to the part of the job interview where you're asked if you have any questions of your own. And the question we fear most is often the one about salary.

To help you, here's some advice on salary negotiations from actual interviewers:

How To Deal With Salary Negotiations

• Firstly, be prepared for salary negotiations. Do some research to find out how much a person with your qualifications is earning and this will help establish a salary range you feel confident talking about when the subject arises in your job interview.
• Know your budget. Make a note of the outgoings you have to meet each month and allow an amount for anything out of the ordinary which may need paying. This will give you a guide to the absolute minimum salary you can agree to.
• In order to sell yourself, be prepared to discuss your skills and achievements to date. Do your best to make the interviewer aware of the reasons why you are worth the salary you are negotiating.
• Try to avoid salary negotiations at the start of the job interview. You need to convince the interviewer that you are the right person for the job and that the company needs you as an employee. If, however, the interviewer persists, you could say you would like to know a little more about what the job entails before talking about your salary.
• When the question of desired salary does come up, try to put the question back to the interviewer by asking what salary the company would expect to pay someone with your qualifications and experience. If this fails, suggest a salary range you are comfortable with according to the homework you carried out before the job interview.
• Don't be the one to initiate salary negotiations unless you really have to. If the salary determines whether you take the job or not, you may have no choice, but leave it until the end of the interview. Be subtle. Something like this is good:

          "Thanks for taking the time to see me and telling me more about the role. It sounds ideal and I'm very interested. Are you just able to tell me what salary I might expect if I were offered the job?"

• During salary negotiations, try to keep your past or current salary to yourself, at least at the start. You will lose your bargaining power if you reveal these details too early on. This way, you effectively force the hand of the employer into making a salary offer.
• If, at first, the salary turns out to be lower than you would have wished for, make sure you take into account any additional benefits offered such as insurance, stocks and shares in the company, and staff discounts, to mention just a few. These benefits can add up to another 40% of your basic salary.
• So, the salary offer is there in front of you on the table. At this point, ask for twenty four hours to think things over. This is good practice for at least two reasons:

1. If the offer you have received is considerably higher than you expected, the twenty four hours will give you time to calm down and accept the salary showing a degree of decorum.
2. On the other hand if the offer is less than you would be prepared to accept, the thinking period will make the interviewer aware that if a better salary is not offered they may lose you altogether.

• When an agreement on salary has been reached, ask for the offer to be put to you in writing outlining the salary and additional benefits applicable.
• If the offer is simply too low for you to possibly consider, be polite when you reject it. You never know, you may do business with this company at some time in the future and you do not want to have created a bad impression.

We hope this article has made you feel a little more confident about the art of salary negotiations and helped get rid of any anxiousness about the most feared job interview question of all.
www.job-application-and-interview-advice.com


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How To Write A Resume Or CV

Better Than Your Competition!
Job hunting is competitive these days. More applicants apply for each job and you can bet your competition is reading up on how to write a resume and cover letter -- good ones.

If you want to stay a step ahead and land your dream job, you have to do more than write a good resume or CV and cover letter.

You have to write an outstanding resume or CV that catches the employer's eye so that you're chosen ahead of your competition and win that all important job interview.

This is why it's of utmost importance to put a lot of time and effort into perfecting your resume.

To help you, here are some things you must consider when thinking about how to write a resume:

Tips On How To Write A Resume

    * Your resume or CV must be relevant to the specific organization and/or job. Too many applicants send out the same resume or CV no matter the job they are applying for or the company they are approaching.

      If you're one of them, you've reduced your chances of getting a job interview considerably because employers recognize a standard application and will be disappointed that you've not made the effort to tailor your resume or CV. They figure that you can't be that interested in joining them or you'd have made more effort than simply putting your standard resume or CV in an envelope or an email!

      This is not the first impression you want to create. Your resume or CV may well find its way quickly to the shredder and there goes another wasted opportunity!

      So amend your standard resume or CV so that it shows you're making a direct approach to that particular organization. Use the job title and the name of the organization in your Objective or Personal Summary for example and write your Key Skills and Work History in such a way that your experience relates directly to the job you're applying for.

      One way to help you with this is to use precise keywords that the potential employer is on the lookout for. He or she will have used these in the job advertisement.

      Another is to highlight achievements that your potential employer would want you to repeat if you get the job.

• Go to great lengths to ensure you've made no typos, used incorrect grammar or have misspellings. A second reading yourself is not enough. Get a friend to read your resume or CV. They will spot things you haven't.
• Keep your resume or CV to the point:

- Don't go over 2 sides of paper

- Don't include such things as Interests unless they genuinely improve your suitability and you have the room. Better to use the space for other, more relevant, selling points.www.job-application-and-interview-advice.com

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Should I Send An Interview Thank You Letter?

There are several reasons why most interviewees don't bother to send an interview thank you letter.

- Some worry it looks like they are trying to score points, and

- others think the position has already been filled,

both of which are probably not right.

Then there are those for whom writing a thank you interview letter does not even enter their minds.

It never occurs to them that sending such a letter can be very powerful indeed.

The Benefits of Sending An Interview Thank You Letter

Here are some of the reasons why writing an interview thank you letter is a good idea:

• Not many applicants do it so your letter is sure to be noticed which will make you stand out from your competition. It is worth spending twenty minutes doing this, even if you felt your interview did not go particularly well.
• On the other hand, if your interview was a good one, your interview thank you letter will simply add more weight to your application.
• The majority of interviewers do not make an immediate decision as soon as the job interview is over. They like to sleep on it for a day or two, by which time your thank you letter will have been received.

A good thank you letter gives you the opportunity to show your appreciation to the interviewer for taking the time to see you. It lets them know you would really like to work for them and in your own words, it summarizes why you consider yourself to be the right person for the job.

If you were the best candidate applying for the vacancy your interview thank you letter is likely to clinch the deal in your favor. It will simply reiterate that they were right to be offering you the job in the first place.

If, however, following your interview, you were second or third in line for the job, your profile will be considerably raised in comparison to the competition when the interviewer receives your thank you letter. After all, the person carrying out the interview is human and is likely to respond warmly to your note of thanks.

An example of this occurred recently when one of us was accompanying a candidate from the premises after a job interview. In the course of the conversation, Andy mentioned that his cat was sick. Two days after the interview, Andy received the candidate's interview thank you letter, which covered the subjects he would have expected it to, along with a personal message to Andy, hoping that his cat had made a good recovery. Naturally this had a powerful psychological effect on Andy and coincidentally, the candidate won the job.

Do You Have An Example Interview Thank You Letter?
Here is an example of how an interview thank you letter should read:
=============================================
Dear Mrs Smith

It was great to meet you and your colleague Mr James yesterday and I would like to thank you for taking the time to discuss the Sales Manager position and tell me a little more about XYZ Products Inc.

Following our discussions and after observing the operations of your Company more closely, I am confident that my skills, experience, and knowledge more than adequately meet with your requirements. My visit to your Company and hearing about your own personal experiences whilst working for XYZ Products Inc. was really interesting and I appreciate the time you set aside for me.

It comes as no surprise that your Company has a low turnover of staff and enjoys widespread acknowledgement for both its successes and its attitude to investing in people. I would love to work with you both and feel I could learn a great deal from you.

As well as my experience and skills, I would also bring sound decision making and first-rate work ethics to this position.

As you have so many demands on your time, I understand that you need people who you can put your trust in to carry out the responsibilities of the job to a high standard with the minimum of supervision being necessary.

Once again, thank you for your consideration and I look forward to hearing from you when a decision has been made.

Yours sincerely

=============================================

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Need A Free Cover Letter Template?

www.job-application-and-interview-advice.com

If the answer is "yes" and you're replying to a job advert, this free cover letter is for you:

If you want to apply for a job you've seen advertised, you'll need a resume or CV and a good cover letter.

A good cover letter is as important -- if not more important -- than your resume or CV because employers naturally read letters first and will make an initial judgement on your suitability based on your cover letter.

You want this judgement to be positive so that they read your resume or CV
in full.

Where Can I Find A Good Free Cover Letter?

Here's a free cover letter if you are replying to an advert.

Catherine Smith
1 The Lanes
Upper Manhattan
Tel: 0792322 322223
17 April 2008

Mrs C Jones
Personnel Manager
Coveright
Rose Hill
Upper Manhattan

Dear Mrs Jones

RE: Advert for Regional Sales Manager, Daily Courier 15 April 2008

I wish to apply for the position of Regional Sales Manager based at your Rose Hill Offices, as advertised in the above publication on 15 April 2008.

I have more than ten years experience in insurance sales management. Three years ago I was promoted to Insurance Sales Leader and currently lead a team of nine Sales Advisors. We've had huge successes. My budget responsibility is approximately $450,000 p.a.

In my current role as Insurance Sales Leader, I train, motivate and performance manage sales staff to achieve growing sales targets. Last year my team won the Best Sales Team Award for hitting 120% of target, while at the same time maintaining high customer service standards and record keeping requirements.

I am confident that I can be as successful if not more successful working for you and would relish the opportunity to help Coveright meet its ambitious sales and growth targets.

As you can see from my resume, I hold several insurance qualifications and am a member of the American Insurance Association. Should you wish to examine them, I have the relevant documents.

My skills, experience and qualifications match your requirements and I'd be delighted to meet with you to discuss the contribution I can make to your Company. I very much look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely

Catherine Smith

===========================
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Great Resume Cover Letter Tips

The last thing an interviewer wants to read is yet another dull cover letter.

He's just read one which simply refers to the 'attached resume' and 'looks forward to hearing from him' and little more. He turns to yours and it says the same. So do the next 5 cover letters. He yawns.

Then he comes across a good resume cover letter. It's interesting, compelling even and the bored interviewer sits up and takes note.

He gets to the end of the letter and reaches for the resume or CV. He already knows the candidate meets his needs from the letter but he's eager to read the resume or CV nonetheless.

He likes this candidate. In fact, he'll invite him for an interview.

Shame it's not you.

But it could be. A well written cover letter really can win interviews. It's the first thing interviewers read and it's an opportunity to make a great first impression that shouldn't be missed.

Here are 8 resume cover letter tips that will help you on your way to writing great cover letters.

8 Resume Cover Letter Tips

   1. Find out who to address your cover letter to and then write to that person. Use his or her name and title and make sure that you spell all names correctly.

      If you do not know the person's name, either call the company or do on online search to find out. Simply writing "Dear Sir/Madam" shows a lack of initiative on your part and Personnel Departments get loads of these kinds of letters each week. Most are ignored or wind up in the waste basket.

   2. If you have spoken to someone before sending your CV/resume and cover letter, make reference to this in your opening paragraph.

      If you have not, briefly introduce yourself in the first paragraph and give a short reason as to why you, in particular, would be the best person to hire for this job. It should be your main goal to stimulate the employer's interest so that he or she will want to read your entire cover letter and your resume or CV.

   3. If you are applying for a specific job, come right out and state the following:

          * Why you want the job
          * Why you meet the requirements
          * What benefits you would provide your new employer

   4. Whether you're replying to an advert or approaching employers speculatively, tell your future employer what you will contribute to them. To do this, you need to read about the company. Find out the nature of its business, its products, needs, etc. Briefly discuss how you can advantageously help your employer if they hire you.

      Do not be shy! Say exactly why you are right for this job and what you can do to help make the company successful. You must sell yourself because no one else is going to.

   5. Finalize your cover letter with a request for action. Say something like: "I look forward to hearing from you," or "I will be available for an interview at your convenience." The purpose is to encourage your potential employer to take positive action which may lead to your hire.

   6. Keep your cover letter short and to the point. Ideally it should only consist of one side of paper.

   7. Always type your letter, unless you are asked to send a handwritten one.

   8. Our final resume cover letter tip is to carefully check for misspellings, typos, grammar, etc. Correct any mistakes, print out the letter and sign it with your signature.

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18 Good Interview Questions To Ask

Most interviewees spend time thinking about and preparing for the questions they will be asked in a job interview and how they should answer.

What very few jobseekers spend time thinking about is the questions which they should ask in an interview!

But if you want to be one step ahead, you must.

In this article we'll tell you why and give you some good questions to ask.


Why Do I Need To Ask Good Interview Questions?

Always have at least one good interview question to ask your interviewers.

Why?

Because if you have no questions, your interviewer may think either of the following:

1. That you think you already know everything there is to know about the company or position (which of course you can't, since you don't already hold the job).
2. That you are not that serious about the position, since you have no questions for them, thus displaying a lack of interest.

You don't want your interviewer to think either of these things which is why you should have at least one good interview question to ask your interviewer.

If you're at a loss for ideas, here are a few good interview questions to ask:

Good Interview Questions To Ask

    * What are the organization's plans for the future?
    * What is the primary focus of the company this year?
    * What do you like best about working for this company?
    * What would the company describe as its strengths?
    * How would you describe the culture of this company?
    * Other than those we have already talked about, what are the duties entailed by this position?
    * What do you project in terms of growth for this role in the future?
    * How many others in the company perform the same role?
    * How have the duties of this position evolved over time?
    * What will training be like? Will it be purely on the job?
    * How long is it typically before new hires are fully prepared for their duties?
    * Who will perform my training? Will it be a colleague who has filled this position previously?
    * What opportunities exist for advancement within the company?
    * Does this company actively promote the development of staff?
    * How have you personally progressed in this company?
    * By what criteria will my performance be measured?
    * Are there incentives for good job performance?
    * How often will my job performance be assessed?

You'll notice that a fair number of these questions are addressed to the interviewer personally. Don't be shy about asking them. As well as offering you useful insights into the company, they demonstrate your interest in the interviewer as a person and an employee. This helps to establish a rapport with your interviewer.

And finally, you should neither ask no questions nor too many questions. Keep your questions to those which will affect your choice of whether or not to accept the position should you be offered it. Ask no more than 5 questions -- less if time is at a premium.


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Behavioral Interviews Explained

Behavioral interviews are commonly seen as part of the job interview process these days.

But few candidates prepare adequately for such interviews and many come unstuck when faced with behavioral questioning.

In this job interview article we'll explain more about behavioral or situational interviews and give you some tips to help you give winning answers!

What Are Behavioral Interviews?
This part of the job interview is one which many jobseekers look forward to with unalloyed dread.

Behavioral interviews are nonetheless something to which jobseekers will have to become accustomed, so commonplace are these questions in the job interview process now.

In a behavioral or situational interview, you can expect to be tested on your relevant skills as well as your knowledge and the way that you react to the situations which arise commonly in the workplace.

You'll have to provide detailed examples from your work history of how you have dealt with these sorts of issues in the past.

Your interviewers will have criteria in mind for the job and will have used this criteria to create the questions to ask interviewees. Your interview answers will tell them whether or not you are a good fit for the job opening.

It goes on the assumption that if someone worked well in given situations in the past, they will be able to do so again in the future.

Keep reading to discover some of the job interview questions you are likely to be asked in a behavioral-type job interview.

Common Questions in Behavioral Interviews
A behavioral or situational interview actually presents jobseekers with the opportunity to sell themselves to the interviewer. There will be questions along the lines of "Give me an example of a time when you..." or "Tell me about a time when you had to handle a situation like... How did you resolve the issue?"

You will more than likely have several different situations you can use from your work history. Maybe there was an instance where you simply did not get along with a colleague or worked with two people who did not get on with each other. Perhaps you've had to pull all-nighters to meet deadlines or have had to deal with a displeased customer and address their concerns in order to retain their business.

If this is your first ever job interview, you will not have any work experience to draw from to give good answers but you can always use examples from your academic career or personal life if they will work to illustrate the point you are trying to make to the interviewer. For instance, you can use academic deadlines to make a point about work-related ones, working on group projects in school in the place of group projects in the workplace and so on.

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9 Free Job Interview Tips

Follow These and Get Ahead

It's a tough job market these days. More and more people are applying for less and less jobs and it looks set to get worse before it gets better.

But don't despair. Good people are still finding jobs and so can you. You just need to be better organised and more prepared than your competition – we'll show you how.

Here are 9 easy-to-follow free job interview tips which will help you on the road to landing the job you want.

Free Job Interview Tip 1 - Research

Make sure you research both the Company/Organisation and the job, well before your interview date. That way you'll be able to answer common job interview questions like:

    "Tell us what you know about ABC Company"

    "What do you think the job involves, day-to-day?"

Many job interview candidates don't do proper research and it shows in their job interview answers. Do yours and stand out. Interviewers expect you to know about their Company and the job, so don't disappoint them.

Here's more about preparing for a job interview by doing research.

Free Job Interview Tip 2 - Appearance

Most job interview candidates think about what to wear, but many don't think beyond that.

Because it's not just about wearing a suit. Too few candidates think about their hair, jewellery, perfume, make-up and so on – you should. Remember, the first impression you make on your interviewers is often the lasting one, so don't screw it up.

Take just 5 minutes to read our tips on job interview clothes and appearance.

Free Job Interview Tip 3 - Arrival

Our third free job interview tip is to plan your arrival well. It's better to arrive an hour early and get a coffee than arrive late and make a poor first impression. So assume the worse about the traffic and plan accordingly.

When you arrive for your job interview, be polite and friendly to everyone who meets you. Don't save it just for the interviewers. The receptionist might be friends with one of the interviewers and you don't want him or her to mention that you seemed a little rude when you arrived.

So check out our advice on arriving for an interview in style and with confidence.

Free Job Interview Tip 4 - Interview Nerves

Everyone suffers from interview nerves to some degree. The secret is to manage them so they don't sabotage your chances of landing the job you want.

So take a few minutes to read our free job interview tips on dealing with interview nerves.

Free Job Interview Tip 5 - Body Language

Not rocket science but worth a few minutes thought. After all, you don't want great job interview answers ruined by a few avoidable mistakes.

Learn the dos and don'ts of interview body language here.

Free Job Interview Tip 6 - Common Job Interview Questions

If you've done your research you'll understand what the job involves, the skills needed and the sort of person the interviewers are looking for. This will give you a fairly good idea of what job interview questions you'll be asked.

To help you, here are 38 sample interview questions.

Free Job Interview Tip 7 - Answering Interview Questions

As well as thinking about what answers to give, think a little about how you answer job interview questions too. Sometimes the way in which you answer and the words you use, say more about you than the actual content of your answer.

Here's some advice about using the right language when answering job interview questions.

Free Job Interview Tip 8 - Interview Questions To Ask

And make sure you have a few interview questions of your own to ask. If you have none, it can appear to the interviewers that you are not that interested in the job or perhaps so desperate you'd take it without having all your questions answered. Either way you give a bad impression. So read our advice on good interview questions to ask.

Free Job Interview Tip 9 - Interview Thank You

And finally, don't think it's all over after you've left the interview room. Your interviewers might mull over the applicants overnight, maybe over a couple of days and this gives you a chance to make one final good impression by sending an interview thank you letter.

If you were the best applicant, your initiative will just confirm the interviewers' choice. If you were 2nd or 3rd, your initiative might push you to the top of the pile. You have nothing to lose!

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Tips on Writing a Resignation Letter

If you're leaving your job, you're probably eager to get on your way. After all, it's the end of the old and beginning of the new. But before you walk out the door, consider writing a resignation letter.

A resignation letter serves two purposes:

1. It gives your employer formal notice that you are leaving your position

2. Your resignation letter is a way for you to stay on good terms with your employer. Even if you can't wait to leave your job, you may need your employer's help in the future with references, contacts, or information. If this is the case, a tactful and professional resignation letter is an investment in your career and worth the effort it takes to write.

Here are some tips to help you write a good resignation letter.

Be Brief and to the Point
A good resignation letter is brief and to the point. All you need to include is the fact that you're leaving and the effective date of your resignation.

But while writing a resignation letter, you may also want to thank the employer for the opportunity to work for the company and perhaps offer your help with the transition. While a thank you and an offer to help are optional, your letter may appear short and rather abrupt without them.

Sign your letter, and that's all you need to do.

Options for Writing a Resignation Letter
Depending on the circumstances of your resignation and your relationship with your employer, you may choose to write a more informative resignation letter. For example, if you would like to keep in touch with your employer, include that in your letter along with your contact information.

Or you may want to tell your employer why you're leaving, even though you're not obliged to do so. Only use a 'resignation-with-reason' letter for positive reasons. Unless you're intent on burning your bridges, are not using your employer for a reference or don't care about your professional reputation, don't use your resignation letter to air grievances.

Email or Snail Mail?
Whether you send an old-fashioned letter or an email depends largely on the culture of your organization. If your company conducts human resources business electronically, an email may be appropriate. However, if your employer does not rely heavily on electronic communication, you may want to write a standard letter. The information you include stays the same, whichever method you use.

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What’s the Right Job Interview Attire?

In the movie "The Pursuit of Happyness", the hero shows up to a job interview for an internship at a Wall Street firm wearing paint-stained clothes. He manages to charm and impress the conservative interview team and gets the position despite his unsuitable job interview attire.

Even though the movie is based on a true story, we don't advise following this example. Clothes that are too messy, too flashy, or in any other way unsuitable can cost you the job.

Appropriate job interview clothes depend to a certain extent on the job and the organization. If you're unsure what to wear, err on the side of caution and wear conservative attire. You're better off being a little more dressed up than a little too dressed down. That said, here are some specifics:

What NOT To Wear

    * Clothes that are dirty or wrinkled or that don't fit

    * Clothes that smell of smoke. If you're a smoker, don't smoke in your interview clothes

    * The newest high style fashions, unless the job is in fashion or design

    * Sneakers or flip-flops

    * Shorts or jeans

    * Pants that ride too low

    * Underwear that shows

    * Clothing that exposes the belly or cleavage

    * Obvious perfume or cologne

Job Interview Clothes for a Professional Job

    * Solid color conservative suit (black, gray, or navy are safest)

    * Coordinated, long sleeve shirt or blouse

    * Conservative, closed-toe shoes

    * Neat hairstyle trimmed or manicured nails

    * Conservative tie for men (muted red, blue, or gray in understated pattern)

    * Pantyhose for women

    * Portfolio or briefcase

    * Limited jewelry

Dressing for a Non-Professional Job

    * Khaki or cotton twill pants or skirt

    * Sweater

    * Long-sleeved shirt

Make a Good First Impression

For better or worse, first impressions matter. In fact, a job interview is all about first impressions. With some careful consideration your physical appearance at your job interview can support your bid for the job you want.

Even if you have to buy a special set of interview clothes, it will be worth it when you land that job.

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