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Networking

What is the difference between actions and activities?

If you are in the job market you need an action plan.  There is a difference between actions and activities.  Actions move you toward your goal.  Activities are time consuming but do not move you toward your goal.  Activities create procrastination.

What if I am asked a question in the interview I can’t answer?

If the interviewer says “tell me about a time you…. And you haven’t done it then just say, I have never been involved in that situation or encountered that  problem, but if I had, I do have the knowledge and this is the way I would handle it and you walk them through on theory. However, it still is a take away so you want to put a positive spin on it by saying “that is what excited me about this opportunity; I would have a chance to take my knowledge, add practical experience and develop or strengthen this skill.”  Now the interviewer will look at it as an area of career development.
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Is speaking or listening more important in the interview?

Effective listening is just as important as effective speaking.  Active listening is when you are connected to the person who is speaking and you really hear and absorb what the interviewer is saying. What gets in the way of listening in the interview?  Nine times out of 10 it is nervousness.  Job candidates are often so anxious about making a good impression that they forget to listen. They never stop talking for fear the interviewer will think they have nothing to say and they will forget their memorized lines.
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What is a “bridge” in networking?

If you are changing career’s and someone asks you “what do you do?” you have to be ready with two responses; one that describes your past work life and another that describes your new objective and direction.  You also have to be ready with a bridge – a credible explanation of the factors and timing that have led to your decision to make a change.  Here is an example:

“John, maybe the best way to start is for me to take just a minute to give you a quick thumbnail sketch of my background – what I have been doing.  But more importantly, I want to tell you where I am going.  I am really excited about my new direction.

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What do smaller companies look for?

Small businesses will play a critical role in rebuilding our economy. The biggest fear that smaller companies have is that an individual that has had a career with large corporations is not that flexible or adaptable.  Very often, large companies have their employees in boxes and their scope of responsibility is within that box.  As long as they are in the position there area of responsibility is the same.  It is usually narrow in scope because of all the employees they have.  In a smaller organization, people cross lines and jump in and do.  You will wear a number of hats, find more cross training, and be an individual contributor.
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