Jumpstart your career this 2010!

The key to success in whatever you plan to achieve is to stay optimistic. Doubting your capabalities can potentially curb your chances of getting the job you want. There is also a need to plan the steps you have to take, think in advance and anticipate everything from job hunting to owning the job interview and getting the job. It is easier said than done, but when you know the elements of handling these situations well, you'll be surprised where it can take you. I had an experience where I applied as a call centre associate for a US General Insurance MNC in Singapore,that after a successful phone interview, the hr lady had me report for a personal interview the next day for further screening. One thing to remember, ALWAYS make a good First Impression. I had my corporate suit to look the part (looking good will make you feel better-which will give you a confidence boost). I reported at the office 5 minutes before the appointment time, (another POINTER, dont ever show up 1 or 2 hours early, being early is just as bad as being late). I will get into more specific details on the do's and dont's in a Job Interview on a separate article. Anyways, the hr manager asked me the usual job interview questions, "educational background, achievements, work experience, goals, interests, why this company? what skills I have that could be an advantage in the industry (call centre)? my understanding of the position, my understanding of their products and services-these are but some of the things employers would ask in a job interview and I am sure a lot of you can relate to it but being knowledgeable about these could make or brake you. To establish yourself as a good candidate, you have to maintain that smart aura all througout the process, that being said, I was able to grapple her interest and in the end got the job with an exciting proposal, she upgraded the position to a junior research executive. Having only one year of call centre experience, that is a milestone. One weapon up on your sleeve, prior to your interview, look up the company's website, read through the "about the company", products and services, look into even the smallest of details. I told her that I have studied the company's services and she had me talk through what I knew, then she tried to be tricky by asking me, where their main office located, that was a no brainer! hehe. I answered with no hesitation. I could tell she was impressed, so when you sense it, you know you got it in the bag. So truth of the matter is, you are your own good luck charm, think big and positive. There could be some roadblocks along the way but again, when you plan ahead, things could run smoothly.