One of my favourite interview questions is: "So... Tell me about yourself?" I like this question, not because it's particular good or useful but because it's so vague that without prior thought and preparation it's sure to go wrong. It's certainly the best question to hear funny anecdotes of bad responses. "Yes... well... my names … Continue reading The interview: Tell me about yourself
Networking tips: be the useful expert
When I first started working I viewed networking as a bunch of people who don't know each other at some event making small talk and handing out business cards. Because cold approaching a stranger made me feel uncomfortable, I shunned networking, accepting the created view it was nothing but a bunch of people self-interested trying … Continue reading Networking tips: be the useful expert
Competition in the work place
I really love my job, it is probably the best one I have ever had. It is strange because when I got the new job it was a step up from the old one. I have more responsibility and more money. But unlike my other job I am back at the bottom - basically I … Continue reading Competition in the work place
One simple way to improve your job application
Want to know how to make a job application or covering letter more appealing to your potential new employer? For many years when I completed job applications I always thought from the perspective of myself - the skills, knowledge and experience that I could offer - which in theory sounds right because I am showing … Continue reading One simple way to improve your job application
How to answer the interview question – What is your weakness?
A common question asked at interviews is "What is your strength and what is your weakness?" I have heard a number of methods for answering this question and thought I would focus onthe second part of this question as usually people are quite good about talking about a particular area that they excel in. The … Continue reading How to answer the interview question – What is your weakness?
All The Small Things
It was exactly 10 months ago today that I started the job that, for the first time gave me hope I had a career. Although my job was relatively small and I got stuck with a lot of the crap jobs, I was eager to prove myself to get ahead in a project management office. … Continue reading All The Small Things
I Can And I Will – Watch Me (Part 2)
Did I mention I got promoted? (As I set out in my goal/system... whatever) It was funny because my assigned mentor had done a lot to protect my confidence. "Don't worry if you don't get shortlisted, jobs at that level have a lot of applicants." Soon after I got shortlisted. "Don't worry if you don't … Continue reading I Can And I Will – Watch Me (Part 2)
A man with a plan (and aspirations)
I recently started a new job and I set two goals: The first was to "Become comfortable in my new job/make it my own." I mention in this post how I went about achieving that. The second goal was "Develop my skills/knowledge so that I can achieve for promotion." In my reflection this was always going to … Continue reading A man with a plan (and aspirations)
Perfect Manifesto 