Saturday, April 4, 2009

What not to say in a JOB INTERVIEW

I got a call today from a friend who just landed an important job interview and she wanted some advice. Prepare what you want to say about yourself, research the company and put a smile in your voice! That's my short answer.
I should have added: remember to pause and THINK before you answer a surprise question. I was once asked in a job interview how I handle stress. To my everlasting shame, I said the first thing that popped into my head (which was actually true at the time): that I handled stress by going home and yelling at my kids! Ouch! I still blush when I think of that. The job interviewers laughed.
I hope they thought I was kidding, but I doubt it. Needless to say, I didn't get the job.
Now, of course, I'd say I handle stress in all sorts of positive ways: by laughing lots, by exercising and by relaxing with good music, books and friends.