Personal Success


19
May 11

Understanding of self is essential in interview process

Perhaps the most crucial part of a job search is the interview.

Due to the essential nature of the interview, preparation is vital. There are many mock interview questions available all over the place but there are first a number of core questions one must be prepared to answer themselves, even if they will not be asked explicitly in the interview.

The first such question is, “Who am I?” This may seem silly or overly straightforward but having an true understanding of what makes one work – what one’s strengths and weaknesses are – is essential in an interview.

The next question is, “Where am I going?” While few (if any) people know what their lives will look like five, ten or fifteen years down the road, understanding where one wants to be on a personal and spiritual level can help guide one’s thought process regarding his or her professional career path.

And finally those preparing for an interview should ask themselves, “What do I need to do to get there?” Having an understanding of what it will take to reach one’s goals is essential in both the working world and on a personal level.

If one is ready to truly answer these deep questions, then he or she will likely impress an interviewer with his or her personal development.


25
Apr 11

Writing skills essential in the job search

Just as inner communication is vital to achieving life balance, outward communication is essential in the business world.

According to a recent article in the Lansing State Journal, employers in virtually all sectors say that they value communication skills as they can help individuals convey their message and problems to co-workers.

While verbal communication is essential, it is also important not to neglect the written word when looking for a job, says the article. This is especially true now that so much of the job search takes place online, where one doesn't really speak to a potential employer and instead communicates through resumes, emails and cover letters.

There is perhaps no better place in the job search to demonstrate one's writing skills than the cover letter, as it gives people a chance to communicate directly with a hiring manager, according to the news provider. When composing a cover letter, it is important to make sure that it is flawless because a typo or spelling error shows the hiring manager that one isn't detail oriented, which is important in virtually every field. 


11
Apr 11

When and how to ask for a raise at work

Asking one's boss for a raise is almost always an intimidating experience, however, there are certain things to keep in mind when asking for more money to make things easier.

A recent article in U.S. News and World Report offers some tips to consider when asking for a raise.

As with many things in life, timing is crucial when asking for a raise. Asking for a higher salary at a time when a company is struggling or one's manager is not pleased with one's performance can set one's self up for failure.

Another thing that is important to remember is to not mention that one might need a raise to cover personal expenses. According to the news source, such reasons are irrelevant to the company and one should stick to business reasons when asking for a higher salary or wage.

It is also important to avoid comparing one's salaries to that of his or her co-workers. This can not only seem petty, but is often immaterial to one's own pay.

By following these tips and remaining calm before the meeting by using a breathing exercise or some other technique, one can be sure that they will be in the right frame of mind when asking for a raise.