Tip 1. Be aware of your Personal Brand - What does your name say about you? If you were to put your name into a Google search engine what information could a potential employer find out about you? Ensure that you’re making a great first impression.
Tip 2. Do you have an up to date CV? This is your most important job finding tool and for some reason a lot of people regard writing their CV as a chore to complete on a rainy Sunday morning every year or so. Yet this is the document that could decide how much you earn over the next few years. Don’t skimp. Work on it, review it, obsess over it – try anything you can to make it better.
Tip 3. Prepare and Practise - The key to a successful interview is the amount of preparation taken before the interview takes place. It's incredibly frustrating when an applicant looks better on paper than in person. It's an old cliché but...."fail to prepare, prepare to fail" You can't prepare too much for an interview, do your homework and find out everything you can about the company / department and the people you will be meeting. Practice your interview answers by writing them down or even record yourself until you feel confident with the answer you hear
Tip 4. Build Rapport - When attending interviews it's important that you build a good rapport and that you make a positive first impression as you won't get that chance again. Ask yourself "What do people really think about me when they meet me for the first time?" Why not ask your partner, friends and especially those friends that you've recently acquainted or colleagues that you work with. However, be careful not to criticise their point of view when asking for their truthful opinion!
Tip 5. Who knows you exist? When seeking new job opportunities we can sometimes forget to talk to those people who we already know within our existing network. Whilst I wouldn't suggest that you make contact and ask these people directly for a new job you can rephrase by asking who they might know that they can put you in contact with? Building your network takes time and effort and means speaking with strangers, people who don't even know that you exist.
Tip 6. Go Networking - Nearly 80% of jobs are filled direct via internal referrals, company websites and various job board sites therefore it is important that you're not relying solely on Recruitment Agencies. Strong job seekers are aware that networking is a vital part of the job seeking process and are always looking for opportunities to meet or connect with new people.
Tip 7. Create a LinkedIn Profile - A complete LinkedIn profile demonstrates that you take yourself seriously as a professional within your industry. It also helps you to optimise your position in LinkedIn search results and according to LinkedIn; users with complete profiles are 40 times more likely to receive opportunities through LinkedIn.
Tip 8. Follow up - Without follow up then a meeting, interview or new contact is an empty hole. It is in your interest to ensure that you follow up every lead and interview. Send a note to say thank you to everyone who interviews you reminding the employer why you are the right person for their role. Even if the role is not for you still send a thank you note and make a good impression.
Tip 9. Dress for success - Far too many people underestimate the importance of the way they look and how they are perceived by others. It takes only 5 seconds to form an opinion about an individual. It is an unconscious process and as much as it may feel unfair, image does matter.
Tip 10. Where do you add value? - It's important for you to identify where you add value. What can you offer an employer in return for your salary and benefits? In this competitive market, it's important for you to stand out from your competition whether you are looking for an internal move with your existing employer or a new role externally. Once you've identified your key skills you can then provide examples to support your experience.
Nikki Hutchison, founder of Chilli Pepper Global www.chillipepperglobal.com advising you on every aspect of the job seeking process guiding you step by step whether you are looking to move internally or externally.
Tuesday 13 December 2011
Friday 18 November 2011
‘Getting a job is a job’
“Britain stop feeling sorry for yourself” That’s the message from Nikki Hutchison Founder and Interview Performance Mentor at Chilli Pepper Global (CPG) as figures were announced this week that over 1 million young people in the UK are unemployed.
Is this statistic a by-product of the actions of a previous generation? Perhaps, but none the less with increased competition for roles and companies providing incentives to staff to recruit from amongst their peers, Nikki says we need to stop wallowing in self pity and “Start at identifying where you can add value. Why should an employer pay you a salary with added benefits if you can’t even identify what your transferable skills include? Start thinking about how an employer will get a return on their investment (ROI) by employing you.”
Nikki Hutchison who started Chilli Pepper Global in 2010 because she saw a gap in the market for a service that constructively ‘holds the hands’ of people looking for a job believes that the 2.62 million unemployed currently living in the UK, have to treat getting a job as a job if they want any hope of achieving success. “It’s time to take getting a job off the back burner and learn how to identify where you can add value to your CV and improve your prospects. If you are seeking employment then you have to treat it as a job, 8 hours a day.”
Chilli Pepper Global is a leading force in assisting people to get jobs. They’re not a recruitment agency as such more of a ‘creative hub’ which allows job seekers the opportunity to get expert CV Critique, CV Creation, Profile Creation to incorporate Personal Branding, LinkedIn, Interview Skills, identifying transferable skills and overall to be creative with your job search.
“8.3% of the economically active population is unemployed, that’s 0.4% up on last quarter. With no dramatic economic up turn on the horizon, people have to find a way to buck the trend by seeking advice on which of their skills are transferable to other industries, of what benefit can they be to a company and how to utilize life experience.”
CV’s aren’t the be all and end all of employment, but they are imperative in getting your foot in the door. As membership to the ever increasingly elusive 29 club goes on, the answer is simple. Getting a job is a job!
Nikki Hutchison, founder of Chilli Pepper Global www.chillipepperglobal.com advising you on every aspect of the job seeking process guiding you step by step whether you are looking to move internally or externally.
Is this statistic a by-product of the actions of a previous generation? Perhaps, but none the less with increased competition for roles and companies providing incentives to staff to recruit from amongst their peers, Nikki says we need to stop wallowing in self pity and “Start at identifying where you can add value. Why should an employer pay you a salary with added benefits if you can’t even identify what your transferable skills include? Start thinking about how an employer will get a return on their investment (ROI) by employing you.”
Nikki Hutchison who started Chilli Pepper Global in 2010 because she saw a gap in the market for a service that constructively ‘holds the hands’ of people looking for a job believes that the 2.62 million unemployed currently living in the UK, have to treat getting a job as a job if they want any hope of achieving success. “It’s time to take getting a job off the back burner and learn how to identify where you can add value to your CV and improve your prospects. If you are seeking employment then you have to treat it as a job, 8 hours a day.”
Chilli Pepper Global is a leading force in assisting people to get jobs. They’re not a recruitment agency as such more of a ‘creative hub’ which allows job seekers the opportunity to get expert CV Critique, CV Creation, Profile Creation to incorporate Personal Branding, LinkedIn, Interview Skills, identifying transferable skills and overall to be creative with your job search.
“8.3% of the economically active population is unemployed, that’s 0.4% up on last quarter. With no dramatic economic up turn on the horizon, people have to find a way to buck the trend by seeking advice on which of their skills are transferable to other industries, of what benefit can they be to a company and how to utilize life experience.”
CV’s aren’t the be all and end all of employment, but they are imperative in getting your foot in the door. As membership to the ever increasingly elusive 29 club goes on, the answer is simple. Getting a job is a job!
Nikki Hutchison, founder of Chilli Pepper Global www.chillipepperglobal.com advising you on every aspect of the job seeking process guiding you step by step whether you are looking to move internally or externally.
Monday 14 November 2011
The Importance of Your Transferable Skills
It’s important for you to identify where you add value. What can you offer an employer in return for your salary and benefits? In this competitive market, it’s important for you to stand out from your competition whether you are looking for an internal move with your existing employer or a new role externally.
Your transferable skills are what make you marketable and they will provide you with an advantage over your competition. Your transferable skills are essential to your career success and will ease your transition into a new role.
Transferable skills are the skills that employers look for when they are interviewing you so it’s essential for you to reflect on these and to be able to develop them, add to them and speak about them confidently at job interviews.
What is a Transferable Skill?
A transferable skill is a skill that you possess which can be easily applied and made use of in a number of different situations, hence, allowing you to apply it to a new job opportunity.
Why are Transferable Skills important?
Transferable skills are the job seekers greatest assets and contribute to career success.
Greater transferable skills = greater choice.
How can you develop your Transferable Skills?
Everyone has transferable skills which are developed throughout a person’s life from starting school through to college and university, personal and professional experiences and life in general. Once you have identified your essential skills you can then take them with you and apply in any situation, you can also build on these skills by further experience.
"The more options you can offer in terms of skills, knowledge and experience, the higher the probability of being in demand"
How do you identify Transferable Skills?
We can sometimes take our skills for granted without recognising that they are in fact what make us unique. Being aware of our Transferable Skills can help us to identify where we add value to our friends, family and within the work place.
Whilst there are a number of self-assessment tests on the market that allow you to analyse your own personal strengths and weaknesses, I would recommend that you explore your skills with the people who know you best.
Approach your boss or peers at work. Speak to your close friends and family, you might be surprise by their response as to how and why you add value to their lives!
Once you've identified your key skills then provide examples to support your experience.
Nikki Hutchison, founder of Chilli Pepper Global www.chillipepperglobal.com advising you on every aspect of the job seeking process guiding you step by step whether you are looking to move internally or externally.
Your transferable skills are what make you marketable and they will provide you with an advantage over your competition. Your transferable skills are essential to your career success and will ease your transition into a new role.
Transferable skills are the skills that employers look for when they are interviewing you so it’s essential for you to reflect on these and to be able to develop them, add to them and speak about them confidently at job interviews.
What is a Transferable Skill?
A transferable skill is a skill that you possess which can be easily applied and made use of in a number of different situations, hence, allowing you to apply it to a new job opportunity.
Why are Transferable Skills important?
Transferable skills are the job seekers greatest assets and contribute to career success.
Greater transferable skills = greater choice.
How can you develop your Transferable Skills?
Everyone has transferable skills which are developed throughout a person’s life from starting school through to college and university, personal and professional experiences and life in general. Once you have identified your essential skills you can then take them with you and apply in any situation, you can also build on these skills by further experience.
"The more options you can offer in terms of skills, knowledge and experience, the higher the probability of being in demand"
How do you identify Transferable Skills?
We can sometimes take our skills for granted without recognising that they are in fact what make us unique. Being aware of our Transferable Skills can help us to identify where we add value to our friends, family and within the work place.
Whilst there are a number of self-assessment tests on the market that allow you to analyse your own personal strengths and weaknesses, I would recommend that you explore your skills with the people who know you best.
Approach your boss or peers at work. Speak to your close friends and family, you might be surprise by their response as to how and why you add value to their lives!
Once you've identified your key skills then provide examples to support your experience.
Nikki Hutchison, founder of Chilli Pepper Global www.chillipepperglobal.com advising you on every aspect of the job seeking process guiding you step by step whether you are looking to move internally or externally.
Thursday 6 October 2011
Competition is Fierce
A couple of weeks ago I put myself forward for an opportunity which would help me to build on both my confidence and experience in speaking. After the first round I was overwhelmed by the outcome and I was asked to return to take part in the second round which took place yesterday. Much to my disappointment I was unsuccessful and another competitor was invited back to the next stage of the competition.
Where did I go wrong or perhaps where could I improve to ensure that next time I outperform my competition?
“Mistakes are stepping stones to success.”
Unemployment is currently at 2.51million and with 453,000 vacancies that’s on average, five or more applicants competing for each vacancy.
How do you intend to outperform your competition? Do you practice what you preach? What interview advice would you give to your close friend, loved one or child looking for their first job out of university?
I’ve been self-employed for nearly 10 years, I’ve mentored hundreds of individuals through the interview process, informing them all that they should prepare and practise for their all-important interview. When it came to taking my own advice did I really listen or could I have done more?
If I’m honest, then I could have done a lot more.
*I could have perfected my speech by attending a couple of local clubs to practice.
*I could have fine-tuned my story by asking close friends and family for their input.
*I could have rehearsed in front of my webcam or a mirror and watched my body language
These are all the points that I preach to others and yet I didn’t. Why?
*I’m busy with my day to day work.
*My family demand my attention.
*I felt embarrassed to approach others for help.
Of course these are all excuses and the point I’m making is did I really care enough about winning?
Initially I wasn’t bothered, but when I arrived for the second round last night I felt a feeling of competitiveness, I wanted to win but it was too late. I didn’t give 100% to my preparation and so I lost.
Next time you are competing ask yourself - How much do I really want to win?
The desire to win = the effort you put in.
“I honestly believed I would make it. I had the desire. A lot of people have the ability, but they don't put forth the effort.” Joe Carter
Nikki Hutchison, founder of Chilli Pepper Global http://www.chillipepperglobal.com/ advising you on every aspect of the job seeking process guiding you step by step whether you are looking to move internally or externally.
Thursday 8 September 2011
Routine, Discipline and taking Action
The past few weeks have been amazing, I've been on holiday and relaxed in the sunshine, I've eaten some incredible food and had so much fun with my husband Mark and two children Holly and Jack.
Initially a few days into my holiday I panicked as I realised that I wasn't getting much reception on my Blackberry - how was the world going to cope if they couldn't have contact with me? I then remembered how it was just 15 years ago before the mobile phone was developed; people would take their holidays and be free from everyday issues. Instead of agonising over a problem that was out of my hands I decided to take this opportunity to sit back, relax and enjoy myself!
How often do you take time off to relax and recharge your batteries, cutting yourself off and forgetting about everyday issues?
We've now been back from our holidays for nearly a week, Holly and Jack returned to school on Tuesday which hasn't been easy. Changing our routine back to pre-holiday has been a BIG challenge for me let alone the kids! After nearly a month we managed to change our sleeping and eating habits overnight, it's easily done and I now realise that getting back to routine is hard work.
I'm now on a mission and decided that if I want to have greater success in my work and have an easier family life then I have to introduce ROUTINE and DISCIPLINE and take more ACTION. Believe me when I say that it's easier said than done!
“Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.”
Habits are routines of behaviour that are repeatedly regularly. Throughout our day we form dozens of routine habits to include the time we get out of bed, brush our teeth, the route we take to work, the time we go to lunch, the time we leave the office, the journey home from work, the TV programs we watch, the time we go to bed.
Other habits which can affect our health include smoking, poor diet, drinking alcohol, lack of exercise and stress. We also have ‘funny’ or our friends, family or partners might call them ‘irritating’ habits whether it’s something we say or do on a regular basis.
But, let’s not focus on the bad habits let’s focus on the good habits and especially those habits that successful interviewees adopt when seeking new job opportunities. There are many to choose from however I have focused on the following 5 key points:
1) Positive Attitude – Whilst it can be difficult to remain positive when seeking new employment it is absolutely vital that you keep a smile on your face. Attending interviews feeling negative will have a HUGE impact on how you perform during interview.
2) Preparation and Practice – It’s an old cliché but….”fail to prepare, prepare to fail” You can’t prepare too much for an interview, do your homework and find out everything you can about the company / department and the people you will be meeting. Practice your interview answers by writing them down or even record yourself until you feel confident with the answer you hear.
3) Proactive – Input Activity = Output Results. Being proactive or taking ACTION in your job search can be quite difficult when working in a full time job however, if you’re serious about finding a new job then you need to dedicate some time to ensure that you’re ahead of your competition. If on the other hand you are not working then it’s your job to find a job and therefore you should be putting in the hours on a daily basis.
4) Networking – nearly 80% of jobs are filled direct via internal referrals, company websites and various job board sites therefore it is important that you’re not relying solely on Recruitment Agencies. Strong job seekers are aware that networking is a vital part of the job seeking process and are always looking for opportunities to meet or connect with new people.
5) Follow Up – Without follow up then a meeting, interview or new contact is an empty hole. It is in your interest to ensure that you follow up every lead and interview. Send a note to say thank you to everyone who interviews you reminding the employer why you are the right person for their role. Even if the role is not for you still send a thank you note and make a good impression.
Nikki Hutchison, founder of Chilli Pepper Global www.chillipepperglobal.com advising you on every aspect of the job seeking process guiding you step by step whether you are looking to move internally or externally.
Initially a few days into my holiday I panicked as I realised that I wasn't getting much reception on my Blackberry - how was the world going to cope if they couldn't have contact with me? I then remembered how it was just 15 years ago before the mobile phone was developed; people would take their holidays and be free from everyday issues. Instead of agonising over a problem that was out of my hands I decided to take this opportunity to sit back, relax and enjoy myself!
How often do you take time off to relax and recharge your batteries, cutting yourself off and forgetting about everyday issues?
We've now been back from our holidays for nearly a week, Holly and Jack returned to school on Tuesday which hasn't been easy. Changing our routine back to pre-holiday has been a BIG challenge for me let alone the kids! After nearly a month we managed to change our sleeping and eating habits overnight, it's easily done and I now realise that getting back to routine is hard work.
I'm now on a mission and decided that if I want to have greater success in my work and have an easier family life then I have to introduce ROUTINE and DISCIPLINE and take more ACTION. Believe me when I say that it's easier said than done!
“Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.”
Habits are routines of behaviour that are repeatedly regularly. Throughout our day we form dozens of routine habits to include the time we get out of bed, brush our teeth, the route we take to work, the time we go to lunch, the time we leave the office, the journey home from work, the TV programs we watch, the time we go to bed.
Other habits which can affect our health include smoking, poor diet, drinking alcohol, lack of exercise and stress. We also have ‘funny’ or our friends, family or partners might call them ‘irritating’ habits whether it’s something we say or do on a regular basis.
But, let’s not focus on the bad habits let’s focus on the good habits and especially those habits that successful interviewees adopt when seeking new job opportunities. There are many to choose from however I have focused on the following 5 key points:
1) Positive Attitude – Whilst it can be difficult to remain positive when seeking new employment it is absolutely vital that you keep a smile on your face. Attending interviews feeling negative will have a HUGE impact on how you perform during interview.
2) Preparation and Practice – It’s an old cliché but….”fail to prepare, prepare to fail” You can’t prepare too much for an interview, do your homework and find out everything you can about the company / department and the people you will be meeting. Practice your interview answers by writing them down or even record yourself until you feel confident with the answer you hear.
3) Proactive – Input Activity = Output Results. Being proactive or taking ACTION in your job search can be quite difficult when working in a full time job however, if you’re serious about finding a new job then you need to dedicate some time to ensure that you’re ahead of your competition. If on the other hand you are not working then it’s your job to find a job and therefore you should be putting in the hours on a daily basis.
4) Networking – nearly 80% of jobs are filled direct via internal referrals, company websites and various job board sites therefore it is important that you’re not relying solely on Recruitment Agencies. Strong job seekers are aware that networking is a vital part of the job seeking process and are always looking for opportunities to meet or connect with new people.
5) Follow Up – Without follow up then a meeting, interview or new contact is an empty hole. It is in your interest to ensure that you follow up every lead and interview. Send a note to say thank you to everyone who interviews you reminding the employer why you are the right person for their role. Even if the role is not for you still send a thank you note and make a good impression.
Nikki Hutchison, founder of Chilli Pepper Global www.chillipepperglobal.com advising you on every aspect of the job seeking process guiding you step by step whether you are looking to move internally or externally.
Wednesday 4 May 2011
5 Common Mistakes That an Employer Makes When looking To Hire
Did you know that most people make their opinion of someone in just 90 seconds? This applies not only to employers, but applicants too!
Would you be impressed by a potential employer who kept you waiting in the reception area for more than 10 minutes, wasn’t professionally dressed or had a limp handshake? Yes, the applicant has to make a good impression but don’t forget that the applicant also needs to be impressed. How can this be achieved, and what are the common mistakes employers make in this regard? Here I’ve identified 5 of them.
1. Lack of enthusiasm
The biggest fault an employer can make when hiring people is to not take the interview process seriously. Interviewing applicants may not feel like the best use of your time. However, don’t make the mistake of sending a more junior member of staff into the interview as this can put the organisation at risk of losing a strong applicant. I would always recommend that the first interview especially is conducted by someone senior within the organisation.
2. Forgetting to sell
Not giving enough attention to the job specification is the 2nd biggest fault that an employer can make. Many job specifications are out of date, recycled and put together within minutes. If you are looking to attract the best candidates, including individuals who may not necessarily be actively looking for a new role, then you have to entice them by selling the role through exceptional job specifications.
Many employers fail to understand that they need to sell the role, the organisation and its employees to entice the strongest candidates in the market. It’s important to emphasise how candidates will benefit from joining your organisation.
3. Being unrealistic
Wouldn’t it be great to find the perfect candidate who ticks all the boxes for a role? However, did you know that people are unlikely to go for a like-for-like role unless they are currently being underpaid or have personal issues within the team or company that they work for?
In order to find the right candidate for your role you need to be realistic as to what motivates people to move. Selling the benefits of the role (see above) are important along with financial compensation. Why would a candidate move out of their comfort zone and into essentially the same role if there is no financial incentive for them?
But beware, if you’re recruiting someone who is moving purely for a monetary reason then there is a risk that this employee may move along swiftly once someone else offers them better money.
4. Passing unfair judgement
Don’t assume that someone who is not currently working is unsuitable to take on a new role. There is absolutely nothing wrong with being made redundant.
When interviewing an applicant who is not currently working it’s important to identify what they have been doing to keep active. Ask them to explain their current day as, after all, it’s now their job to find a job.
Has the applicant enrolled onto courses to improve their skills, knowledge or self-development? Perhaps they have attended seminars or workshops to improve their job seeking or personal skills?
Perhaps they have pursued an interest or hobby which otherwise would have been put to one side if working. There is no right or wrong answer but showing initiative and having something of interest to say during an interview adds to the person’s character and can also help you to identify their approach to work.
5. Keeping silent
Feedback is an important part of the process when hiring people, however it’s generally extremely poor and in some cases even forgotten.
For various reasons people don’t like to pass on bad news, but constructive feedback is very important to an applicant. It can help to improve interview technique and will also leave the applicant with a positive impression of the company should a more suitable role become available in the future.
It may seem obvious, but passing on good news is also vital during the interview process. If you’re keen to proceed then informing the applicant as soon as possible is essential, as any time delay could mean that you lose a potential employee.
Please note that I would never encourage an employer to make an offer after a first interview, this can sometimes overwhelm an applicant, it can also give the impression of being desperate and on many occasions any offers made in such a short time will be declined.
Nikki Hutchison
Chilli Pepper Global provides a career mentoring service that specialises in giving executives an edge over their competitors. It’s important to note that Chilli Pepper Global is not a recruitment agency and work only with talented people to support their success www.chillipepperglobal.com
Would you be impressed by a potential employer who kept you waiting in the reception area for more than 10 minutes, wasn’t professionally dressed or had a limp handshake? Yes, the applicant has to make a good impression but don’t forget that the applicant also needs to be impressed. How can this be achieved, and what are the common mistakes employers make in this regard? Here I’ve identified 5 of them.
1. Lack of enthusiasm
The biggest fault an employer can make when hiring people is to not take the interview process seriously. Interviewing applicants may not feel like the best use of your time. However, don’t make the mistake of sending a more junior member of staff into the interview as this can put the organisation at risk of losing a strong applicant. I would always recommend that the first interview especially is conducted by someone senior within the organisation.
2. Forgetting to sell
Not giving enough attention to the job specification is the 2nd biggest fault that an employer can make. Many job specifications are out of date, recycled and put together within minutes. If you are looking to attract the best candidates, including individuals who may not necessarily be actively looking for a new role, then you have to entice them by selling the role through exceptional job specifications.
Many employers fail to understand that they need to sell the role, the organisation and its employees to entice the strongest candidates in the market. It’s important to emphasise how candidates will benefit from joining your organisation.
3. Being unrealistic
Wouldn’t it be great to find the perfect candidate who ticks all the boxes for a role? However, did you know that people are unlikely to go for a like-for-like role unless they are currently being underpaid or have personal issues within the team or company that they work for?
In order to find the right candidate for your role you need to be realistic as to what motivates people to move. Selling the benefits of the role (see above) are important along with financial compensation. Why would a candidate move out of their comfort zone and into essentially the same role if there is no financial incentive for them?
But beware, if you’re recruiting someone who is moving purely for a monetary reason then there is a risk that this employee may move along swiftly once someone else offers them better money.
4. Passing unfair judgement
Don’t assume that someone who is not currently working is unsuitable to take on a new role. There is absolutely nothing wrong with being made redundant.
When interviewing an applicant who is not currently working it’s important to identify what they have been doing to keep active. Ask them to explain their current day as, after all, it’s now their job to find a job.
Has the applicant enrolled onto courses to improve their skills, knowledge or self-development? Perhaps they have attended seminars or workshops to improve their job seeking or personal skills?
Perhaps they have pursued an interest or hobby which otherwise would have been put to one side if working. There is no right or wrong answer but showing initiative and having something of interest to say during an interview adds to the person’s character and can also help you to identify their approach to work.
5. Keeping silent
Feedback is an important part of the process when hiring people, however it’s generally extremely poor and in some cases even forgotten.
For various reasons people don’t like to pass on bad news, but constructive feedback is very important to an applicant. It can help to improve interview technique and will also leave the applicant with a positive impression of the company should a more suitable role become available in the future.
It may seem obvious, but passing on good news is also vital during the interview process. If you’re keen to proceed then informing the applicant as soon as possible is essential, as any time delay could mean that you lose a potential employee.
Please note that I would never encourage an employer to make an offer after a first interview, this can sometimes overwhelm an applicant, it can also give the impression of being desperate and on many occasions any offers made in such a short time will be declined.
Nikki Hutchison
Chilli Pepper Global provides a career mentoring service that specialises in giving executives an edge over their competitors. It’s important to note that Chilli Pepper Global is not a recruitment agency and work only with talented people to support their success www.chillipepperglobal.com
Tuesday 15 February 2011
Outperform Your External Competition When Looking To Move Jobs Internally
“Opportunity dances with those who are already on the dance floor”
A majority of internal applicants believe that they have a greater chance of securing an internal role as they already have their foot in the door…think again!
It makes sense for an employer to recruit internally before they consider external candidates. Providing existing employees with new challenges or promotions is great for company morale and having a high retention rate is a great achievement for any business. Other factors to consider include utilising the existing talent of individuals who have already bought into the company. These people already understand the systems and processes and are familiar with the company culture and the vision of the organisation.
Why then do so many internal applicants feel disheartened when they are not offered the opportunity within?
I have listed 5 key points as to how you as an internal applicant can ensure that you become your company’s preferred choice when hiring:
1. Preparation - Internal applicants can sometimes forget that they need to prepare in the same way as they would for an external interview. It’s important that you update your CV with the most current information and don’t assume that because you work for the firm that the interviewer will know all about you. One of the most common mistakes made by an internal candidate is to hold back on information about their skills and experience.
2. Promote Yourself - Whilst it can feel awkward to sell yourself to someone that you already know or have worked alongside it’s important that you promote yourself in the same way that other applicants will be doing. Provide the same amount of detail as you would for any external role.
3. Don’t Assume - The interviewer doesn’t necessarily understand your role fully on the basis that they work for the company, ensure that you provide all the details and leave nothing out, by providing limited information you may cost yourself the opportunity
4. Presentation - Dress to impress regardless of dress policies within the organisation. Make an effort and show that you’re interested.
5. Networking - Is the role really what you want? Utilise your contacts by networking internally, speak to your peers within that team and find out more about the person who will be interviewing you, what do they expect from their staff, what are their values within the department.
Please note that it’s important that you ask questions and show that you are interested in the role, always send a thank you note or email regardless to how well you know the person. Be enthusiastic and don’t be afraid to ask for the job if that’s what you want!
Nikki Hutchison, founder of Chilli Pepper Global http://www.chillipepperglobal.com/ London City Interview Performance Mentor, advising you on every aspect of the job seeking process whether you are looking to move jobs internally or externally.
A majority of internal applicants believe that they have a greater chance of securing an internal role as they already have their foot in the door…think again!
It makes sense for an employer to recruit internally before they consider external candidates. Providing existing employees with new challenges or promotions is great for company morale and having a high retention rate is a great achievement for any business. Other factors to consider include utilising the existing talent of individuals who have already bought into the company. These people already understand the systems and processes and are familiar with the company culture and the vision of the organisation.
Why then do so many internal applicants feel disheartened when they are not offered the opportunity within?
I have listed 5 key points as to how you as an internal applicant can ensure that you become your company’s preferred choice when hiring:
1. Preparation - Internal applicants can sometimes forget that they need to prepare in the same way as they would for an external interview. It’s important that you update your CV with the most current information and don’t assume that because you work for the firm that the interviewer will know all about you. One of the most common mistakes made by an internal candidate is to hold back on information about their skills and experience.
2. Promote Yourself - Whilst it can feel awkward to sell yourself to someone that you already know or have worked alongside it’s important that you promote yourself in the same way that other applicants will be doing. Provide the same amount of detail as you would for any external role.
3. Don’t Assume - The interviewer doesn’t necessarily understand your role fully on the basis that they work for the company, ensure that you provide all the details and leave nothing out, by providing limited information you may cost yourself the opportunity
4. Presentation - Dress to impress regardless of dress policies within the organisation. Make an effort and show that you’re interested.
5. Networking - Is the role really what you want? Utilise your contacts by networking internally, speak to your peers within that team and find out more about the person who will be interviewing you, what do they expect from their staff, what are their values within the department.
Please note that it’s important that you ask questions and show that you are interested in the role, always send a thank you note or email regardless to how well you know the person. Be enthusiastic and don’t be afraid to ask for the job if that’s what you want!
Nikki Hutchison, founder of Chilli Pepper Global http://www.chillipepperglobal.com/ London City Interview Performance Mentor, advising you on every aspect of the job seeking process whether you are looking to move jobs internally or externally.
Thursday 20 January 2011
Kick Start Your Career In 2011
“The best way you can predict your future is to create it “
The New Year celebrations have faded and Xmas is a distant memory and already we are fast approaching February!
We are now 20 days into the New Year, so what ACTION have you taken to ensure that 2011 is the year that you shine, the year that you fulfill your career ambitions?
For many, the past two years (and this includes myself) have been difficult, however, I do feel some comfort knowing that I wasn’t alone. The recession has bought redundancy and uncertainty within the City and for those of you who have held onto your jobs then perhaps you have experienced taking on more responsibility or working harder to justify your existence within the workplace.
I read a very interesting article this week in the Evening Standard giving hope to those who are looking for new opportunities in 2011. The article predicted that there could be potentially 20,000 job moves within the middle and back office alone!
So, it appears that the City is optimistic which is great news for job hunters, however, don’t expect it to be easy…there is a lot of competition out there and companies want the best people on board.
With this in mind what ACTION can you take to stand out from your competition and ensure that 2011 is a successful year for you?
Below I have listed six important points to consider when looking for new opportunities either internally with your existing employer or externally for a new employer:
Adding Value – How can you add value to your existing or new employer? Being aware of your strengths and being able to talk about your key achievements to date is essential when interviewing.
CV – This is essentially your marketing tool, is it up to date? Have you included your key achievements for example how have you added value to your role by saving money or time for the company?
Telling Your Stories – It’s important that you have real life experiences / stories to talk about during an interview. Have you heard of the STAR technique? Whilst this is widely used in competency or behavioral based interviews it is also worth remembering that you can use this technique in any interview situation. The STAR technique will help you to focus on the answer without going off on a tangent.
Interview Preparation And Practice - “When you are not practicing, remember, someone somewhere is practicing, and when you come up against that someone he/she will win” If you assume that most people don’t prepare or practice then you can also assume that the odds in your favour start to improve greatly if you do make the effort and take the time.
One Minute To Win It –This is your sales pitch, your opportunity to impress. I recommend that you prepare a brief summary of your career and achievements. That’s it. Just your career – jobs you’ve held that relate to the position you are interviewing for. If you have relevant experience, this is the place to bring it up. If not, explain why the experience you have can help you in this role.
Networking – If you consider that 80% of jobs in the US are recruited via LinkedIn then it’s important for you not to underestimate the powers of networking.
Will you act NOW and get noticed or sit back and keep dreaming?
During the month of January I am offering a full CV critique including making the necessary adjustments to your CV for just £57, if you would like to take advantage of this offer then please contact me NOW!
Nikki Hutchison, founder of Chilli Pepper Global http://www.chillipepperglobal.com/ advising you on every aspect of the job seeking process guiding you step by step.
The New Year celebrations have faded and Xmas is a distant memory and already we are fast approaching February!
We are now 20 days into the New Year, so what ACTION have you taken to ensure that 2011 is the year that you shine, the year that you fulfill your career ambitions?
For many, the past two years (and this includes myself) have been difficult, however, I do feel some comfort knowing that I wasn’t alone. The recession has bought redundancy and uncertainty within the City and for those of you who have held onto your jobs then perhaps you have experienced taking on more responsibility or working harder to justify your existence within the workplace.
I read a very interesting article this week in the Evening Standard giving hope to those who are looking for new opportunities in 2011. The article predicted that there could be potentially 20,000 job moves within the middle and back office alone!
So, it appears that the City is optimistic which is great news for job hunters, however, don’t expect it to be easy…there is a lot of competition out there and companies want the best people on board.
With this in mind what ACTION can you take to stand out from your competition and ensure that 2011 is a successful year for you?
Below I have listed six important points to consider when looking for new opportunities either internally with your existing employer or externally for a new employer:
Adding Value – How can you add value to your existing or new employer? Being aware of your strengths and being able to talk about your key achievements to date is essential when interviewing.
CV – This is essentially your marketing tool, is it up to date? Have you included your key achievements for example how have you added value to your role by saving money or time for the company?
Telling Your Stories – It’s important that you have real life experiences / stories to talk about during an interview. Have you heard of the STAR technique? Whilst this is widely used in competency or behavioral based interviews it is also worth remembering that you can use this technique in any interview situation. The STAR technique will help you to focus on the answer without going off on a tangent.
Interview Preparation And Practice - “When you are not practicing, remember, someone somewhere is practicing, and when you come up against that someone he/she will win” If you assume that most people don’t prepare or practice then you can also assume that the odds in your favour start to improve greatly if you do make the effort and take the time.
One Minute To Win It –This is your sales pitch, your opportunity to impress. I recommend that you prepare a brief summary of your career and achievements. That’s it. Just your career – jobs you’ve held that relate to the position you are interviewing for. If you have relevant experience, this is the place to bring it up. If not, explain why the experience you have can help you in this role.
Networking – If you consider that 80% of jobs in the US are recruited via LinkedIn then it’s important for you not to underestimate the powers of networking.
Will you act NOW and get noticed or sit back and keep dreaming?
During the month of January I am offering a full CV critique including making the necessary adjustments to your CV for just £57, if you would like to take advantage of this offer then please contact me NOW!
Nikki Hutchison, founder of Chilli Pepper Global http://www.chillipepperglobal.com/ advising you on every aspect of the job seeking process guiding you step by step.
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