Network your way to job success

Chris Wodke

http://www.summittrainingpublications.com/

“The best way to predict your future is to create it”- Steve Covey

Networking is one of the best ways to create your new employment future.  Networking will help you to get the contacts needed for your marketing letters.   Networking will help you find the contacts in the organizations on your marketing plan. When you have a contact at your target company you can send them your marketing letter and arrange an interview.  To be successful at marketing you have to be able to work a formal networking event. These can be civic, business, professional groups or events set up specifically for networking. It is a good idea to prepare for these events. Prepare a list of career related questions to ask the people you meet. Be prepared to answer the same questions.  Keep questions positive. Here are some examples:

Networking Questions

-Is this your first time at this event?

-Where do you work?

-Tell me what a typical day is like?

- Do you know ______?

-Do you know anyone at ___________?

-Tell me about your job?  Why did you choose it?

-What is your experience with _______?

-What do you like best about your company/job?

-Where did you go to school?

-If you had to pick another career what would it be?

-What do you think prepared your for your present job?

-What is the accomplishment you are most proud of?

-What is the toughest problem you have ever had to solve?

Make these questions you own. The objective is to gain contacts for your network and to help them with contacts for their network. You may find projects of mutual interest.

Networking Tips

-have business cards even if you are not working. The card should state your name and career field.

-exchange business cards as part of your networking , put a brief note on the back of the card of any contacts obtained. This will help you to remember the connection with the contact.   Giving a card may help this new contact refer you when they hear of an opening.

-approach people at marketing events standing by themselves. They may be nervous about attending and will welcome conversation with you.

-be sure to have an exchange of information. This should feel like a conversation, not an interrogation.  Practice asking a few of these questions of friends and acquaintances at social events. This will help you to be relaxed when networking.

In my next article I will talk about places and events where you can network.

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

Network your way to job success

Chris Wodke

http://www.summittrainingpublications.com/

“The best way to predict your future is to create it”- Steve Covey

Networking is one of the best ways to create your new employment future.  Networking will help you to get the contacts needed for your marketing letters.   Networking will help you find the contacts in the organizations on your marketing plan. When you have a contact at your target company you can send them your marketing letter and arrange an interview.  To be successful at marketing you have to be able to work a formal networking event. These can be civic, business, professional groups or events set up specifically for networking. It is a good idea to prepare for these events. Prepare a list of career related questions to ask the people you meet. Be prepared to answer the same questions.  Keep questions positive. Here are some examples:

Networking Questions

-Is this your first time at this event?

-Where do you work?

-Tell me what a typical day is like?

- Do you know ______?

-Do you know anyone at ___________?

-Tell me about your job?  Why did you choose it?

-What is your experience with _______?

-What do you like best about your company/job?

-Where did you go to school?

-If you had to pick another career what would it be?

-What do you think prepared your for your present job?

-What is the accomplishment you are most proud of?

-What is the toughest problem you have ever had to solve?

Make these questions you own. The objective is to gain contacts for your network and to help them with contacts for their network. You may find projects of mutual interest.

Networking Tips

-have business cards even if you are not working. The card should state your name and career field.

-exchange business cards as part of your networking , put a brief note on the back of the card of any contacts obtained. This will help you to remember the connection with the contact.   Giving a card may help this new contact refer you when they hear of an opening.

-approach people at marketing events standing by themselves. They may be nervous about attending and will welcome conversation with you.

-be sure to have an exchange of information. This should feel like a conversation, not an interrogation.  Practice asking a few of these questions of friends and acquaintances at social events. This will help you to be relaxed when networking.

In my next article I will talk about places and events where you can network.

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

70% Success in Getting an Interview-Use This Letter

In my last article I talked about using a marketing plan for your job search.  The next step is to start networking and making contacts at your target companies.  At the recent Crossroads networking meeting speaker Bob Bachman shared his secret for getting interviews using the marketing plan and letter.  He claims a 70% success rate at getting informational interviews using this two part system.  With his permission I have enclosed an example of his letter and will present his tips for applying this technique successfully.

SAMPLE NETWORKING LETTER

YOUR NAME

Address

City, State, Zip Code

Phone

E-mail

March 18, 2009

John Smith

ABC Company

Local City and State

Dear Mr. Smith

Fred Jones of Joy Mining suggested I contact you.  I met Fred Jones at a recent Muskego Chamber of Commerce meeting.  He indicated you are well connected in the business community in Southeastern Wisconsin.  I am in a career search and would value your insight and experience in the field of engineering, manufacturing and business development.  I am looking to expand my network of contacts in Southeastern Wisconsin manufacturing companies.

I do not expect you to offer or know of any opportunities at this time.  I am conducting my career search in a way I believe will result in better than conventional results.

I am a proactive project manager. I turn the ideas of others into successful, cost effective, completed projects and then examine those finished projects to help others improve their project processes.  I am looking to remain in project management role since my passion and expertise are in solving problems.  I am looking to pursue this role in a small to mid-size company in Southeastern Wisconsin.

My goal is a short 30-minute meeting with you to discuss the manufacturing market, current trends and future possibilities. I would like to discuss the growth opportunities you see in this area and who you know that might be good contacts as I grow my network.  I will come prepared, be brief and very much look forward to meeting you.

If it is convenient, I will call on you on Tuesday January 7^th, mid morning, to  hopefully set up a mutually agreeable time to meet.  Please feel free to contact me sooner at phone # 111 123-4567 or via email.

Sincerely

YOUR NAME

Tips for applying the Plan

-Research the company before the meeting. Be knowledgeable on industry trends.

-Be sure to have a personal business card to exchange and get one from the person you are meeting.

-Look for advice, not a job. You are trying to expand your network. Aim for 2-3 contacts.

-Be prepared with a list of questions on industry trends, and places to contact.

-Keep the meeting to 30 minutes. This is the most important tip. Respect the time of the other person.

-Send a hand written thank you note within 24 hours of the meeting.

-Contact any names you are given during the meeting within 4-5 days.

The majority of jobs (80%) are filled through networking. This two part method will help you to expand your network and know about jobs before they are ever advertised.

Give this a try. What do you have to lose?

Thanks To Bob Bachman for his material

Bob can be contacted at robachman@wi.rr.com

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

Copyright 2009@Summit Training Publications

Increase Job Search Success with a Personal Marketing Plan

Chris Wodke

http://www.summittrainingpublications.com/

I recently attended the Crossroads Career Network meeting. The featured speaker was Robert Bachman.  He presented a two step process to generate interviews. The first step was to devise a personal marketing plan.  This information from the marketing plan can be used to write your resume and to determine the companies and contacts to receive your marketing letter. I will write more about how to use the marketing letter in the next article.  The plan consists of the following key sections:

Contact information
            This would include your name, address, city, state, zip code, phone number, email
            and networking page.  Keep email and networking pages professional. Potential

employers will look at you web page or network page.

Objective
You must be clear on your job goal so you can market to the right companies and positions.  Your objective should be attainable based on your credentials and experience.

Career Highlights

List a couple of bullet points of your accomplishments. These should be on your resume and part of your elevator speech. These are the things you would open with when asked by an interviewer to describe yourself.

Strengths/Excellence

List three to four of your key strengths or competencies related to your job search.
            Check these against the required skills for positions you are targeting.

Position/Responsibilities Sought
This is the role you are seeking in your next position.  Be specific. If you want a manager or leadership position list that here.

Target Companies

List the attributes you are looking for in your next organization.  Important attributes would include company size, location, market position, product type and work environment. List anything about the work environment that is important to you.

Potential Contacts

List the decision makers or network contacts you will need to make contact with

To meet your career objective, you will need to make good use of research and your network to find the right people.

Here is what Robert’s marketing plan looked like:

SAMPLE PERSONAL MARKETING PLAN

Name

Address, City, State, Zip Code

Phone, Email, web page or networking site

Objective:  Project Manager or Lead Engineer position with a manufacturing company in Southeastern Wisconsin.

Career Highlights: My expertise is in project management and engineering management in a manufacturing environment with a focus on design for manufacturability, systematic process improvement and problem resolution through root cause analysis.

Areas of Excellence/Strengths

Systematic Process Improvement

Award winning public speaker

Design with customer focus input

Customer Service product training

Responsibilities Sought

Project leadership role

Role as a “hands-on” contributor as well as team leader

Target Company Attributes

$20 M or greater in sales

Located in Milwaukee/Waukesha area

Structured goal oriented environment

Focused on customer retention

Defined Strategic growth

Desired Contacts: Engineering Managers/V.P’s, CEO’s

Target Industries & Companies

Process Control	Instrumentation	Power & Components
ABB-Automation	Astronautics	Cooper Power Systems
Eaton	Badger Meter	Waukesha Electric Sys
Professional Control Corp	Sterling	DRS Power & Control
Johnson Controls	Criticare	Ark-Les Custom
Husco	Smiths Medical	Curtis Industries
Schneider Automation	Aqua-Chem	Electronic Cable Specialist
Rockwell	Envirex/US	Brady
Unico	Fleck Controls	Xymox

Once you have your marketing plan written you can begin to seek out contacts at networking events and through your own social network. The next step will be to compose and send out marketing letters to your targeted companies. More about that in the next article.

Thanks to Robert Bachman for his permission quote his material.  You can contact Robert at robachman@wi.rr.com if you have any questions or comments.

The Crossroads Career Network meets the first Monday of each month at Hales Corners Lutheran Church in the Fellowship Hall.  Located at

12300 W Janeville Road

in Hales Corners. Networking begins at 6:30 followed by a speaker and breakout sessions.  For more information email:hel.crossroads@gmail.com

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

Copyright 2009 @ Summit Training Publications.

Five Things Employers Want to Know About You

 Chris Wodke

http://www.summittrainingpublications.com/

In What Color is Your Parachute?  Richard Bolles states there are five things any potential employer wants to find out about you. They may ask lots of different questions, but there are five things they want to know about you.  Be prepared to demonstrate you answer these five questions better than other candidates and you just might get the job.

1. Why are you here?
   You need to be clear and honest about why you are interviewing with the company. Have a clear picture of your career goals and plan. Talk about how this position is a good fit for your plans and how you will benefit this organization. You must honestly sell why your skills and experience have brought you to this interview at this point in your career.
   
2. What can you do for us?
   You need to articulate how you will solve their need. There is a reason they have an opening.  Do your research ahead of time. Use your network. Find out the current important issues and problems in this organization.  During the interview ask what the top three things the company wants this person to do or to describe the top three things their perfect employee would have.  During the interview talk about how you meet this criteria based on your past success. Be specific and tell you story so they will know how you will contribute.
   
3. What kind of person are you?
   You will send verbal and non verbal signals about the type of person you are throughout the interview process. An assessment is being made of you from the time your cover letter and resume arrive at the company. They are the first impression you present to the company. How do your dress, speech and body language during the interview show your level of professionalism? How you treat the reception staff and interviewers are a clue to your interpersonal skills. Companies are looking for employees with technical and people skills. They know to be successful you must work well with others.  Be sure to demonstrate this with your answers to interview questions. Finally send a thank you note to everyone who interviewed you. It is good manners. A well written thank you note helps you show your people skills and may give you the edge over another candidate.
   
4. What distinguishes you from the other people who can do the same tasks that you can?

Don Clifton says each of us does something better than 10,000 others. The key is to know the talent  have and how you can apply it to help the organization you want to join.  Talk about how you have used that talent in the past.  Do you do what you do best at work each day? Most people don’t. If you are someone who understands your talent and how to apply it to be successful you are a rare find.

5. Can I afford you?
   Again do your research on salary.  You should know what the typical salary is for the position in your region. Don’t bring up money too soon. Wait for the interviewer to ask the question.  Always ask what the salary range is for the position.  If it is within the salary range you researched, let the company know it is in the range you anticipate being acceptable.  If it lower than expected but close, tell them the most important thing is the position, and you are open to discussing the salary when an offer is made. They may be willing to come up a bit on the offered salary for the right candidate.  If they cannot budge on salary you may be able to negotiate additional vacation or some other benefit.

Remember the interview is a conversation between you and the potential employer. It is a chance to find out about the position, the company and how your skills will fit their needs.  It can help you to relax to know you are evaluating if the company is a good fit for you as well.  Preparation is the key to a good interview!

Interview Deal Breakers

Chris Wodke

http://www.summittrainingpublications.com/

The job market is very competitive with employers having the advantage.  Employers in this economy can be picky since they have their choice of quality candidates.  Any miss-step could eliminate you from consideration for a much needed job.  Avoid the following interview deal breakers.

• Social networking sites can thwart a job opportunity.

  A survey by Ponemon think tank showed 35 percent of hiring manages use Goggle to do an online background check. These checks can turn up profiles on social networking sites like myspace and facebook. Be careful of the image you present on these sites. A hiring manager may decide you may not be the best suited for a position based on the content of your facebook or myspace site. Set your social networking site to private.

Bad Credit can cause you to lose a job offer.

Get your credit in order. Employers will check this as part of a routine background check. A history of late or unpaid bills can be a deal breaker to getting a job offer.

Not Researching the Organization Before the Interview

To present yourself and sell your skills to the company you need to know about the company and the challenges it is facing. Network with current employees to see what the company is looking for in the position, current hot issues in the organization (productivity, customer service, cutting costs). Ask current employees about their experience.  Also do background research on the basics of the company. Find out the following: financials awards one, officers, locations, products.  It is really a turnoff when a candidate does not take the time or make the effort to learn about the company where they will be interviewing.

Acting too Casual during the Interview

Things not to do, bringing food to the interview, smoking at the interview, speaking ill of a former co-worker or company, offensive language, off color jokes or racial remarks. No gum chewing. Dressing too casual also applies.  Always dress at least one level about the everyday attire of the workforce where you are interviewing.

Unprofessional Voice Mail or Email Address

Any communication must be professional and put you in the best possible light. Leave cute email monikers, social networking sites, and personal websites off of your resume.  Have a professional sounding voice mail. Potential employers may get one of their first impressions of you from your voice mail.

Inability to Communicate

You have to give clear, direct answers to any interview questions.  Be prepared to give the story of how your skills, abilities and experience are a good fit for this organization.

Tell how you have contributed to the bottom line of your former employers when you applied your skills. Demonstrate your outstanding people skills. Communicate your interest in the organization and your enthusiasm for the position. Be prepared to tell your story of past successes that will directly translate to the position for which you are interviewing. Do not give just yes or no answers. Also ask questions about the job, company work environment and the managerial style of your future boss.

No References

Be ready to provide these at the interview. Ask permission of anyone listed and give them a heads up they may be contacted. Let your references know the company that may contact them and the position you applied for. This will help your references give you a glowing and specific recommendation. You might even remind them of projects you worked on, traits to highlight or successes they can talk about.

Getting Too Personal

Save the personal and social information for after you are hired. Do not give the interviewer a reason to screen you out.  Do not disclose personal information such as marital status, family situation, hobbies, religious practices, club memberships, and social activities.  Making inappropriate disclosures may be seen as a tendency to make poor judgments.  Keep information related to the position for which you are being interviewed. This is not a therapy session. Don’t disclose problems and interpersonal issues.

Being Rude

How you treat everyone you meet during the interview may be subject to scrutiny.  Be polite to everyone you meet including administrative assistants and security personnel. If you are rude before you join the company your potential employer will assume you will be rude after you are hired. Remember you manners!  Thank the interviewer for the opportunity for the interview. Your cell phone should be left in the car.  Under no circumstances should you take a phone call during an interview.

Being Too Informal

Even if a business seems casual follow rules of business etiquette. Shake hands with everyone you are introduced.  Do not be seated until asked to do so.  Do not call an interviewer by their first name unless you are asked to do so. Remember to exchange business cards.

Being Late or Too Early

Show up at the agreed upon time.  Do a drive by of the site if necessary so you will be there on time.  Leave in plenty of time to account for traffic.  If you arrive early go over your resume or other job information in you car. Do not be more than five minutes early. This can interrupt the day of your interviewer and can be annoying to them. They may not be ready for you and it throws their schedule off. If something happens like a car breakdown, you must call the company and tell you will be late and why.

Dressing Inappropriate for the Position

The organization wants to hire someone who looks the part. For a professional position a suit is necessary even if the organization is business casual.

Performance Anxiety

Being nervous about how you will perform can cause a number of problems including: lack of eye contact, talking too fast, fidgeting, interrupting the interviewer or talking too much, or other annoying habits like jingling change.  Relax by taking three deep breaths before you go into the company for the interview or while you are waiting. Do practice interviews with family or friends. Role play, tape it, play it back and critique your performance.  Take notes to help you concentrate on what the interviewer is saying.  Focus on the questions, and the opportunity instead of how you look.  Take notes including the names of anyone interviewing you.  This can help you to ask questions later and not interrupt.

Talking About Money Too Soon

You should not be the first one to bring up money or benefits. Wait for the interviewer to ask.  However when asked be prepared your salary expectation.  These expectations should be in line with your experience and current market compensation.

Follow these tips and you will be a polished interviewer.  There is not guarantee you will get the position even with a good interview, but you can guarantee a long un-employment if you show any of these deal breakers.

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

Lessons from American Idol for job seekers.

Chris Wodke

http://www.summittrainingpublications.com/

American Idol is one of the most popular programs currently on television. Idol is essentially a job search with contestants competing for a recording contract. There are a few things you can learn from American Idol as you look or a job and to be successful on the job.

• Talent- do you have the talent needed to do the job?  Talent is hard to fake on Idol and we all get a vote. You need talent too and there is a lot of competition out there for open jobs. Check job listings carefully to be sure you have the talent and experience needed. The interview is your place to show if you have the talent needed. (http://www.examiner.com/x-4577-Milwaukee-Unemployment-Examiner~y2009m3d4-Are-You-Ready-to-Interview)
• Self Awareness- it is comical to watch the singers auditioning that obviously lack talent.  If these people had any self awareness they would have to know they can’t sing.  Get honest feedback from others to make sure you self image matches up with your assessment of your talent. You don’t want to be chasing after jobs that are not a good match for your skills. Don’t make the same mistake as the wannabe Idols. Make sure you are ready to interview ) and be successful on the job.
• Image- On Idol they want contestants with the right “look”.  The winner has to be marketable and appealing to sell recordings. Well you need the right image too. You have to dress   and act like a professional. Look like someone that would fit in and act appropriately. What kind of first impression are you making with your resume, in interviews and on the job?
• Diva- Diva’s may make it on Idol but won’t make it in the workplace. Demanding and unhappy employees are a drag on any team. Being difficult to work with could just cost you your job.
• Teamwork- Almost every show features a group routine. The contestants have to blend their voice to sing as a group. They have to learn a dance routine and look good as a group. You also have to use your talents for the good of the group. If you are good you might just get a solo.
• Tough Boss- Idol contestants often get an earful of honest feedback from tough judge Simon Cowell.  Cowell has made many stars and know what works. Any wise contestant would at least give him an honest hearing and act on his feedback. It pays to listen to the feedback of your boss and make adjustments.
• Money- there is a lot of money at stake in the American Idol competition. The producers want a talented winner so they can make money. You will be hired also on your ability to make money for your organization. Be ready to demonstrate how you have saved or earned money for your past employers. Show you have been a winner in the past and will be in the future.
• Genre- The idol competition makes singers sing country, rock etc in a variety of eras. Most singers are best in one style. They have to find the right niche to make the best use of their talent. Danny Gokey from Milwaukee started as a Gospel singer and has now switched to country. Well the culture of companies is the same. You have to find the one that is the best fits. You will be most successful when you are a good fit with the culture and values of an organization. Do your research and ask the right questions in the interview to get a good fit. 
  

We like to watch Idol because it is so entertaining to watch the singer grow and develop. We all have our favorites. Most of the winners improve through listening to feedback, taking action and working really hard. The same is true for your job search.

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

Five Things Employers Want to Know About You

 Chris Wodke

http://www.summittrainingpublications.com/

In What Color is Your Parachute?  Richard Bolles states there are five things any potential employer wants to find out about you. They may ask lots of different questions, but there are five things they want to know about you.  Be prepared to demonstrate you answer these five questions better than other candidates and you just might get the job.

1. Why are you here?
   You need to be clear and honest about why you are interviewing with the company. Have a clear picture of your career goals and plan. Talk about how this position is a good fit for your plans and how you will benefit this organization. You must honestly sell why your skills and experience have brought you to this interview at this point in your career.
2. What can you do for us?
   You need to articulate how you will solve their need. There is a reason they have an opening.  Do your research ahead of time. Use your network. Find out the current important issues and problems in this organization.  During the interview ask what the top three things the company wants this person to do or to describe the top three things their perfect employee would have.  During the interview talk about how you meet this criteria based on your past success. Be specific and tell you story so they will know how you will contribute.
3. What kind of person are you?
   You will send verbal and non verbal signals about the type of person you are throughout the interview process. An assessment is being made of you from the time your cover letter and resume arrive at the company. They are the first impression you present to the company. How do your dress, speech and body language during the interview show your level of professionalism? How you treat the reception staff and interviewers are a clue to your interpersonal skills. Companies are looking for employees with technical and people skills. They know to be successful you must work well with others.  Be sure to demonstrate this with your answers to interview questions. Finally send a thank you note to everyone who interviewed you. It is good manners. A well written thank you note helps you show your people skills and may give you the edge over another candidate.
4. What distinguishes you from the other people who can do the same tasks that you can?

Don Clifton says each of us does something better than 10,000 others. The key is to know the talent  have and how you can apply it to help the organization you want to join.  Talk about how you have used that talent in the past.  Do you do what you do best at work each day? Most people don’t. If you are someone who understands your talent and how to apply it to be successful you are a rare find.

5. Can I afford you?
   Again do your research on salary.  You should know what the typical salary is for the position in your region. Don’t bring up money too soon. Wait for the interviewer to ask the question.  Always ask what the salary range is for the position.  If it is within the salary range you researched, let the company know it is in the range you anticipate being acceptable.  If it lower than expected but close, tell them the most important thing is the position, and you are open to discussing the salary when an offer is made. They may be willing to come up a bit on the offered salary for the right candidate.  If they cannot budge on salary you may be able to negotiate additional vacation or some other benefit.

Remember the interview is a conversation between you and the potential employer. It is a chance to find out about the position, the company and how your skills will fit their needs.  It can help you to relax to know you are evaluating if the company is a good fit for you as well.  Preparation is the key to a good interview!

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation

Interview: Dress For Success-What Not To Wear

¨Workout Gear

No running suits, tank tops, spandex, running shoes, bike shorts or anything you would wear to do your favorite hobby.  Unless you are trying out for a job as a fitness trainer or athletic wear is required for the job, leave the fitness outfits at home.

¨Underwear as Outerwear

No under wear such as camisoles or undershirts should be worn as a top layer. No part of the underwear such as straps or lace should be visible.

¨Shorts

Shorts are never appropriate even if part of a short suit. Shorts are too casual for an interview in a professional environment.

¨Visible Tattoos

Tattoos have become very main stream, but should remain out of sight during an interview. Conservative companies may ask you to keep them covered while on the job. Cover them with long sleeves or make-up.

¨Body Piercing

Take out body piercings except for one pair of earrings for women. Many workplaces do not allow them and they should never be worn during the interview.

¨Excessive Jewelry

Think conservative not flashy. No dangling earrings for women.  Think classic like pearls or a simple gold chain for women. Men should forgo chains and multiple rings per hand. Nothing should distract the interviewer from what you are saying. Think simple, conservative and elegant.

¨Dirty, Ripped or Wrinkled Clothing

Put your best foot forward. Everything you wear must be cleaned, well pressed and in good repair.  Replace any missing buttons. Socks must match. Do not mix stripes and checks.  Watch color selections so nothing is clashing.  Men should were ties that are simple without a lot of pattern. No funny or cute ties to get attention. Check over any planned outfit several days ahead of time to be sure it is clean, pressed and in good repair.  Take any action needed.

¨Excessive Make-up or Wild Hair Color

No make up for men, Women should again wear natural looking make up. Save the bold colors and heavy eyeliner for the clubs.   Color should be a natural color. No purple, green or orange.  Hair style should be modest and conservative.  Have a family member give you feedback on hair and make up choice.  If you can afford it get a hair cut shortly before the interview.

¨Too Much Perfume or Cologne

Your scent should not arrive before you do.  It is a good idea to give it up for the interview. If you do wear it, use a modest amount.

¨Poor Grooming
Socks should match, no athletic shoes, no white socks. Watch the small details. For men any facial hair should be trimmed and well kept. Being clean shaven is preferred.  Make sure there is no food caught in the beard.

¨Edgy Manicures

Short neatly trimmed nails are best. Women should use conservative polish.  No black nail polish, flashy decals or long fingernails.  Hands and nails should be clean.

¨Mini Skirts

Skirts should be knee length to mid calf.  Avoid too long or two short. No long slits allowed either. You should be able to sit comfortably without exposure.

¨Revealing Attire

Too little clothing is not the image you want to project. Wear serious clothes to be taken seriously. Your back, arm and cleavage should be covered. There should be an inch of room between to body and fabric to avoid too tight a fit.

¨Low rise pants or bare midriff

There should be no exposure at all around the middle. Men wear a belt so pants sit at the waist.  A blazer or suit jacket provides good coverage.

¨Scandals or scruffy shoes

No sandals, Shoes should be polished. If wearing shoes with laces they should be in good repair.  Dress shoes only for interviews.

¨No Hose

No bare lets. If wearing a skirt wear panty hose. There should be no runs or rips in the panty hose. Color should be neutral or conservative.

Remember when you are hired you represent your organization.  You will be hired for your skills and for how well you will fit in with your teammates and the company culture. Dress the part if you want the job.

Do you hate to write training programs? Too much work to do and no time to put together your training program? Asked to deliver training or a presentation and have no idea where to start?

Let Summit Training Publications take care of your program design needs with our off the shelf training in a box or one of our presentation modules.

Our off the shelf training solutions provide:

• PowerPoint Presentation
• Instructor Guide & handouts
• Student Guide
• Quiz
• Feedback Form

Subject areas include; Communication Skills, Employee Development, Human Resources, Quality, Product Safety, Safety and Supervisor Training.

Titles: Product Safety and Liability, Aftermarket Product Safety,Hazard Analysis, Product Safety Meetings, Warnings, Instructions and Manuals, Product Liability European Union, Obtaining the CE Mark, Risk Assessment, European Union, Product Safety Management Product Safety Audit, Workplace Violence, Substance Abuse, Sexual Harassment, Manager as Coach, Hiring, Firing, Performance Appraisals, Diversity, Americans With Disabilities, Business Etiquette, Security Abroad, International Business Manners, Customer Service, Customer Communication, Terrific Teams, The Manager as Trainer, Coping With Difficult People, Managing Your Boss- Problem Bosses, Malcolm Baldridge Award, Presentations/Public Speaking, Discrimination, Listening Skills, Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Total Quality Management, Motivation, High Achievers, Time Management, ISO 9000 Introduction, ISO 9000 Implementation, Quality Audit, Introduction to the Internet, Stress Management, Telecommuting, Flexible Work Schedules, Creativity and Innovation, Benchmarking, Effective Business Writing, Customer Letters, Motivating Self and Others, Project Management, Managing Multiple Projects, Brainstorming, PERT Diagrams, Train the Trainer, Train the Trainer-Delivery, Train the Trainer-Writing Presentations, Train the Trainer-On the Job Training, Train the Trainer-Using Visual Aids, Project Management, Peer to Peer Feedback, Surviving Unemployment, Interview Preparation