How To
How to overcome job interview jitters
Expert advice for new grads and seasoned pros alike on how to ace your next interview
However, a new poll of young adults conducted by Everest College reveals the job interview itself poses a major challenge for those seeking a new position. Four in 10 respondents (40 percent) said interviewing is the one skill they need to improve most to land a job, and nearly half (45 percent) think speaking skills are one of the most important attributes hiring managers use to judge potential candidates.
"In today's tough economy, the job interview is particularly important for those just starting their careers, and often means the difference between landing a job or going home empty-handed," says Sean Quinn, regional vice president of operations for Everest College, a leading provider of career-oriented diploma programs in health care, skilled trades and accounting.
Quinn and Everest College offer the following tips to ensure that an interview opportunity ends with a job offer.
Practice makes perfect
According to Everest's survey, nearly three of 10 (28 percent) named, "What is your worst quality?" the most difficult interview question to answer. Other tough questions were, "Where would you like to see yourself professionally in five years?" (20 percent) and, "What is your salary requirement?" (19 percent).
Practice answers to these, as well as other common inquiries, including "Tell me about yourself" and, "What skills and experiences do you bring?" Think of actual examples and prepare mini-sound bites to describe your skills.
Be yourself
Although the interview is a great time to sell yourself to a potential employer, be careful not to go overboard. Embellishment may be tempting - particularly for young graduates - but employers want to know what you've really done. Communicate any career training you have and how it relates to the position.
"Employers hiring at the entry level are looking at candidates for potential just as much as experience," Quinn says. "Grandiose claims of skills and qualifications from young candidates are red flags to employers."
Instead, be yourself, and in cases where you lack experience, display a willingness and desire to learn the necessary skills.
Every interaction counts
Anyone you encounter within proximity to the interview setting can have a direct influence on its outcome. Having a positive and respectful attitude creates a more welcoming environment all around you and sets you up for success during the interview.
"Be as courteous as possible to anyone you meet, whether it's the receptionist, security guard or parking attendant," comments Quinn. "And you never know. That stranger you meet on the elevator may turn out to be your interviewer."
Share your past work
A portfolio of past work or testimonials from previous employers or clients speaks volumes for your credibility and dedication to a job. Photography of output in the skilled trades may help illustrate the work you're capable of doing.
Follow-up
Good follow-through is important and shows a potential employer that a candidate cares about the opportunity. Be sure to send a note to everyone who interviewed you thanking them for their time and consideration.
Enhance your skills
Many students say that in this tough job market, their current credentials just aren't passing the test. If you find yourself lacking the necessary skills for employment, it's never too late to consider furthering your education.
Schools like Everest College cater to the demands of non-traditional students by offering fast-track programs, flexible classes and online education programs in high-demand fields, such as health care and accounting, allowing students to work or interview for jobs while enhancing their skills in the meantime.
'Scare' away heartburn this Halloween
(ARA) - Halloween, one of the fastest growing holidays in the U.S., is a time when people tend to indulge in chocolate and alcohol - both common triggers of heartburn. For the more than 50 million Americans suffering from frequent heartburn (symptoms occurring more than one day per week), the thought of Halloween celebrations can truly be scary.
"Halloween doesn't have to mean heartburn and you don't have to give up the festivities," explains Dr. Michael Rahmin, a leading gastroenterologist based in the New York Metropolitan area. "Just remember to protect yourself before, during and after celebrating."
Keep the following tips in mind for a fun-filled Halloween even if you are a frequent heartburn sufferer:
Treats can be tricky - choose carefully. Candy is a main staple of Halloween. In fact, it is the biggest season for chocolates with nearly 90 million pounds of it sold during Halloween week in the U.S. last year. Since chocolate and other candies such as peppermint are common heartburn triggers, choose fruity treats instead, such as licorice or fruit chews. Also remember, moderation is key in managing your heartburn.
Think about what you consume, not just your costume. While most put careful thought into their costume selection, few think twice when eating at Halloween parties. Whether it's in the office or after work, be cautious at these ghoulish gatherings. Chocolates aren't the only popular Halloween heartburn no-nos. Avoid other known triggers including fried or oily foods, alcohol and acidic fruits.
Leave the broomsticks to the witches. Stretch your legs by taking the kids trick-or-treating (as long as you can resist the urge to dip into the heartburn-heavy candy) or take a spooky stroll in your neighborhood checking out the holiday decorations as you go. Walking is a natural aid in the digestive process. The natural force of gravity from staying in an upright position while walking can help keep heartburn at bay.
Don't just stock up on treats, prep your medicine cabinet. Even those with the best intentions can overdo it on Halloween. If you are a frequent heartburn sufferer, try an over-the-counter (OTC) medication like Zegerid OTC, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). PPIs work by deactivating acid-producing pumps in the stomach, offering 24-hour relief of frequent heartburn with one dose per day as part of a 14-day course of treatment. For more information and tips to avoid heartburn, visit www.ZegeridOTC.com.
