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Contents

Preface ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! 3Cultivate the Right Mindset! ! ! ! ! 4Knowing Yourself and the Company!SWOT Analysis! ! ! ! ! ! ! 5Your Action Goal! -Ideal Job Goal Template! ! ! ! ! 10Where do I go to look for Job! ! ! ! ! 12Tips on Answering Commonly Asked Questions for Job Interviews! ! ! ! ! 13Good Questions to Ask Interviewer! ! ! ! 16Tips on Writing Cover Letter with sample! ! ! ! ! ! ! !Guide to Resume Writing with samples! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! 1710 Success Factors that Employers are looking for! 23Grooming Tips Checklist!! ! ! ! ! 25Useful Checklist to Proper Job Interview Attire!! 26Useful Strategies in Preparing For Interviews! ! 27If you have a Job offer/ Turn down job offer!! ! ! ! ! ! 28Stories to Encourage and Motivate! !! -Why You Should Not Give Up! 29

- Four Steps to Move Forward Confidently A%er a Job Loss 32

- Are You an E& or a Rubber Ba' 34- Adversity Breeds Opportunity 36

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PREFACE

I am passionate in helping. In fact, I hope I can make a positive difference in some ways to people who have crossed my path or whom I will meet in the future. I wouldn’t have learn or grow had I not met people who made a difference in my professional and personal life.

It’s my privilege to meet many job seekers from all walks of lives in the past decade. Thank you for trusting and sharing part of your life experiences with me. To my family, mentors, special friends, RIA team, other team mates and colleagues, thank you for being a special blessing to me. I am grateful always to those who have given me love, encouragement and for believing in me.

I have created this booklet to help job seekers. People whom I have met are asking questions about career guidance or what they ought to know to bring them closer to getting a job. I have complied in this booklet the essentials that I have gained from close to a decade of career consulting and coaching experience. This guide book defines the K-E-Y to getting a job, identifies areas that every job seeker should know. It is designed to provide tips and strategies that everyone can use to increase their chances of job search success. Whether your desire is to start a new career, looking for a job or planning for a career transition, the first step in achieving it, is to learn and apply the essential tips and strategies for job hunters.

Intentionally, I developed this handbook, easy to read and can digest in one siting because most of us may be overwhelmed with information overload on a daily basis. Studies has shown that the brain can focus 3 things at any one time, I have created most of the concepts in 3 simple steps to make it easy for you to follow. My objective is to provide useful references that you can easily put into your pocket, briefcase or handbag and read before you go for an interview.

I hope this handbook will add value to you and pray that it will serves you well as you search for jobs and ultimately achieve your career success ignited with passion.

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Cultivate the Right Mind SetPerception is reality. The way in which you think will affect the way you act which in turn affects the person that you become.

Never entertain negative thoughts or emotions. Positive thoughts lead to success and happiness. Decide from now on to think positively about everything you do. Never think that anything you try is difficult because then it will be!

· Focus on the strengths · Think about your unique qualities and accomplishments· Believe in yourself

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“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.... THINK POSITIVE GOOD THOUGHTS “- Marcus Aurelius

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Having the right Mind Set is half the battle won! The other half needs to take ACTION!

Here’re the KEY strategies to prepare yourself for an interview.

To make it easy for you, I have developed bite size, 3 steps formula that you can follow easily in your job search process. It is call the KEY Strategies.

K – Knowing yourself and the companyE – Explore your career optionsY – Your action goal.

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“Life’s real failure is when you do not realise how close you were to success when you gave up” - Thomas Edison

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Knowing Yourself and the CompanyExplore your career optionsUse Star Guide technique to have a clear direction and focus in choosing your job option.

Take a blank piece of paper and answer all the questions below to have a clear focus in exploring your career. You can include additional questions that are relevant to help you see the big picture.

Why· Why is it necessary

for me to find a job? (e.g feed my family, pay the bills)

· Why do I want to join the specific industry ?

What · What kind of job do I

enjoy doing?· What are my

strengths/ interest?· What are my

achievements and accomplishments?

Who· Who can I network

with to help in my job search?

· Who can guide me in my career search? (coach, mentor, friends)

· Who can I seek to practice role play interviews?

Where· Where can I seek for

employment?· Where to find

information to make good choices?

· Where can I upgrade my skills/knowledge to make myself more employable?

When · When can I start

looking for a job?· When can I know the

outcome of the interview?

· When am I ready to start work?

How· How do I handle the

job search process?· How would I

describe my ideal job?

· How should I position myself ahead of my competitors?

what

Why how Explore

where when

who

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Know Yourself

Understanding yourself is as important as understanding the company you are applying for. You can ask the following questions to gain a better understanding of self.

· Am I willing to try a different job or join a different industry?· Am I willing to learn new skills?· Am I willing to stand long hours at work?· Am I willing to work on weekends and Public Holidays?· Am I willing to work shifts?· What are my unique skills, knowledge and talents?· What are the relevant skills from my previous work experience?· What are my strengths and weaknesses?· What are my accomplishments and achievements?

Personal SWOT AnalysisStrengths

What do you do better than anyone else?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What do other people (boss, co-worker) see as your strengths?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Which of your achievements are you most proud?____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What advantages do you have that others don’t have (e.g skills, certificates, influential connections)?

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____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Weaknesses

What will the people around you see as weakness?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What task do you feel lack of confidence in?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Do you have personality traits that hold you back (e.g fear of public speaking) ?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Opportunities

Do you have a network of strategic contacts to help you, or offer good advice?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Are any of your competitors failing to do something important that you can take advantage of doing?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Do you see a problem that you can create solutions?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Threats

What obstacles do you currently face at work?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Are any of your colleagues competing with you for projects or roles?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Is your job (or the demand for the things you do) changing?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Does changing technology threaten your position?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Know the Company you are applying for by doing the following:

Think about how you can use your background to fit their needs. Always remember that interviewers will hire those who will offer the organization with the most benefits.

· Do a research on the Company website· Know employer mission, culture, values and strengths· Think about at least one or two specific contributions that you would be able to offer the

company if you are hired.To do this, think of your education background and skills.

To stay ahead of competition, show a genuine interest in the job by making efforts to learn more about the company and give specific reasons why they should hire you.

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“Happiness is found not in those who have the best of everything, it is found in those who make the best of everything. Seek to Live Simply, Speak Kindly, Care deeply, Give Generously” - Regina Cho

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Your Action Goal *************************Ideal Job Goal Template*************************After you have explore your career options using the star guide, you can

incorporate it in your ideal job goal template, that should give you a fairly

accurate picture of the next career/job you wish to pursue.

1. My life purpose is to _________________________

through_____________________________________

2. My 3 top strengths (what I do exceedingly well) are:

a) b) c)3. My 3 top interests (what I enjoy doing) are:

a) b) c)4. The factors and situations that motivate and inspire me are:

___________________________________________

5. The talent, skills, abilities and knowledge that I want to use in my next job

are:

___________________________________________

6. My chosen industries are (list top 3):___________________________________________

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7. Following is a description of my ideal job.

___________________________________________

___________________________________________

___________________________________________

8. My ideal work environment would be describe as (think about the location,

work timing, company culture, staff benefits, salary and career development) :___________________________________________

___________________________________________

___________________________________________

____________________________________________

____________________________________________

9. Is there anything that prevent me from getting my ideal job?

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

_____________________________________________

10. What action steps can I take to overcome my obstacles in getting a job?

______________________________________________

______________________________________________

______________________________________________

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“If you go to work on your goals, your goals will go to work on you. If you go to work on your plan, your plan will go to work on you. Whatever good things we build end up building us. “- Jim Rohn

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Where do I go to look for Jobs?

• Newspaper Recruitment Advertisements Check out the classified sections.

• Internet Online job sites. Check out “Career” or “Join us” section.

• Job AgenciesVisit as many as possible. Find a good career coach who shows strong interest and sincerity in helping you find a job, help to identify your job fit and ask them to review your interview performance and give you tips for improvement.

• Career Fairs and Job seminarsGood opportunity to meet the hiring manager or human resource officer in person to find out about the job and company with no prior appointments needed.

Tips: Prepare yourself well. Bring original and photocopies of your certificates and resume.

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“Open your mind to all Life’s Possibilities. If you expect the best, you will most likely get it.” - Unknown

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Tips on answering commonly asked Questions for Job Interviews.

To ace your job interviews, you need to ask your career coach, friends or family member to assist you in role play an interview.

Interview practice sessions is a priceless interview experience that can build your confidence before you go for an actual interview. Here are some commonly asked questions and helpful answers.

Tell me about yourselfBest Answer

· An overview of work done over the years which relate to the job applying for· Your academic qualifications – only those related to the position· A few of your specific skills that relate to the job requirements

Worst Answer

· “What would you like to know”· Talking about your children, personal and non- related information.

What are your salary requirements?Best Answer

· “I’m sure you pay a competitive salary, and I’m flexible. What is the range you’ve budgeted for the position?”

· If you have to give a number, state the range of your total compensation package including the value of benefits, bonuses and etc. over the past couple of years.

Worst Answer

· “I wouldn’t consider less than $XXXX. What is your offer?”

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What are your greatest strengths?Best Answer

· Tangible/ concrete job skills (e.g increase sales, team building develop software programming)

· Give examples of how you used those skills to achieve a specific result

Worst Answer

· “I’m really a great person and a team player, I ‘m sure I’ll fit into your organization. ( The problem: these are subjective or intangible traits, not concrete job skills)

What are your weaknesses?Best Answer

· Response should state a trait that may have been a challenge in the past but which you have worked to overcome e.g “Early in my career I struggled with impatience due to my high personal standards. With time I have learned to vary my expectations with the situation.”

Worst Answer

· “I don’t really have any”· “I’m a perfectionist.” (overused)

What are your career goals?Best Answer

· “I’d like to become increasing valuable to your firm by consistently exceeding the performance standards of your organization.

Worst Answer

· “I like to have your job” (intimidating)· “I can’t think of any” (uninterested, directionless)

How soon do you think you will be ready to contribute to our firm?

Best Answer

· “I believe I can contribute almost immediately. In past positions, I’ve had to learn a lot (give examples) and did quite well.

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Worst Answer

· “Since I don’t have experience in your industry, it will probably take three to six months before I am really adaptable.”

What makes you want to work here?Best Answer

· Summarize the answers that relate to the job requirements in relation to your educational background, your past working experience and your unique skills.

Worst Answer

· “Well, it seems it’s a place to be with good benefits.”· “ I understand you pay above market rate and money is the most important thing to me.”

What do you think this job involves?

Best Answer

· State the key points from the job description.

Worst Answer

· “I’m not sure, I have not seen the job description.”

What are your biggest achievements?Best Answer

· Try to say something which shows that you have initiative, leadership skills, perseverance or creativity.

Worst Answer

· “I can’t think of one”· “ I performed with Michael Jackson on stage”

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How do you feel when your work is criticized ?Best Answer

· “I understand the importance of constructive criticism. I want to keep learning new skills and appreciate feedback. I try not to take it personally.”

Worst Answer

· “I don’t think anyone should criticize me, as no one is perfect.”

Good questions to ask the interviewers***************************************

Have 3 -5 questions on hand to ask the interviewer. Not having questions, gives the impression that you are not keen about working for the company. Here are some questions that you may use:

1) What are the traits that would be ideal for this position?2) In what areas do you see the company’s primary strengths?3) What are some of the short and long term objectives you have for this job?4) Is this a new position?5) How soon will I know of the outcome? (Ask permission to do a follow up within a specified

time frame)

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“Don’t be afraid to ask dumb questions. They’re easier to handle than dumb mistakes” - William W Hames~*~*~*~*~* ~*~*~*~*~* ~*~*~*~*~* ~*~*~*~*~* ~*~*~*~*~* ~*~*~

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Tips on Writing Cover LetterA cover letter goes with your resume to the employers. It is for you to:

· Introduce Yourself· Sell your strengths· Show your values· Explain your background and expertise· Ask for an interview.

Length of cover letter : 1 page (maximum)

Guide to Resume Writing· Lead with your best tangible skills· Customize your resume for each job opening· Be honest; expect that the information you provide will be verified.· Describe your accomplishments positively and with enough details· Concise, brief and to the point· Accurately written with no spelling, grammatical, punctuation or typographical errors.

Resume should include the following:

Personal Info:• Name • Date of Birth• Gender• Nationality• Mobile• Email• Address• Languages• Resignation Notice (when you can start work)• ECA/ Interest• Education Qualifications• Achievements/ Accomplishments• Career History• References

Length of resume: 3 pages (maximum)

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Sample of Cover Letter

1 March 2012

Mr. Keith SeahHuman Resources ManagerRoyal Hotel 44 Grove Ave.Singapore 229956

Re: Guest Relations Officer Job Vacancy

Dear Mr. Seah:

I read with great interest regarding the advertisement of Guest Relations Officer on the Straits Times dated 21th Feb 2012. I am writing to express my strong desire in joining your highly reputable Hotel. I have recently completed my WSQ Certificate in Hotel and Accommodations with school of hospitality and I am currently actively seeking full-time employment.

My background includes three years of experience working as a Front Office Assistant in a hospitality setting. Highlights of my credentials include:

• Customer service experience;• Comprehensive knowledge of Front Office operations• A proven track record of commended performance in Front Office position held.

After my O levels, I joined ABC Hotel, starting as a housekeeper and was promoted to Front Office Assistant serving many different guests from all over the world. I received many compliment letters throughout my employment with ABC, earning consistent praise for my attention to details and going the extra miles for the guests I served.

I look forward to an opportunity for an interview, and I will follow up with you in a few days to explore this possibility. In the meantime, I am enclosing my resume for your consideration, and I hope you will contact me at 9888123 or via email at someone@example.com to arrange for an interview.

Thank you for your time, and I look forward to speaking with you.

Sincerely,

Eileen Saw

Enclosure: Resume

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Sample of ResumeJAMES LAI

Blk 324 Melrose Place#09-343

Singapore 40324name@somedomain.com

FOOD SERVICES MANAGER

Fine Dining * Five-Star Resorts * Multioutlet Operations

Current "Manager of the Year" (2011) for Gold Resorts, where turnaround leadership of multimillion-dollar restaurant, banquet, room service and catering operations has resulted in record-setting profitability and eight "Best of Seattle" awards for fine dining excellence.

KEY SKILLS

• Hospitality & Culinary Management

• Front- & Back-of-House Operations

• Budgeting & Cost Controls

• Five-Star Dining/Menu Development

• Teambuilding/Training/Supervision

• Safety/Sanitation/Quality Controls

• Vendor/Inventory Management

• Guest Service Excellence• Multioutlet Operations• Turnaround Management• Strategic Marketing & Sales• Payroll/P&L Management• Profit & Growth Strategies• Restaurant & Kitchen Design

EXPERIENCE

GOLD RESORTS -- Seattle, WA and Nassau, BahamasOwner/operator of 25 five-star resorts in the US and Caribbean.

• Food Services Manager, 2006-Present

• Assistant F&B Manager, 2004-2005

• Restaurant Manager, 2002-2004

• Bar Manager, 2001-2002• Assistant Manager, 2001• Manager Trainee, 2000

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Advanced through promotions, culminating in present oversight of $6.8M F&B operations (fine dining restaurant, two cafés, wine bar and banquet/ catering/room service operations) and a 65-member team.

Outcomes:• Elevated gross sales of Gold Resorts' Seattle property 27% in first year as food services

manager and by 12% or more every year thereafter.• Achieved record profitability of restaurant and catering operations for the past three

years. Cut food and labor costs by 16% while increasing sales, food/service quality and guest satisfaction.

• Redesigned menus and dining room layout; renegotiated terms with vendors/suppliers; halted rampant waste; and unified front- and back-of-house staff to create a cohesive, cooperative team committed to premium guest service and optimum profitability.

• Restored profitability to Nassau resort's fine dining restaurant as restaurant manager, propelling a 25% margin swing (from -6% to +18%) in one year. Efforts resulted in distinction as one of the "Top 500 Grossing Restaurants" by Restaurant Magazine for two years in a row.

• Recognized for leadership excellence through "Manager of the Year" honors (out of 25 F&B managers).

AWARDS

"Manager of the Year," Gold Resorts (2011)

Eight "Best of Seattle" Awards:• Best Fine Dining Restaurant (2007, 2008, 2009)• Best Wine Bar (2007, 2008)• Best Catering Service (2007, 2008, 2010)

Top 500 Grossing Restaurants, Restaurant Magazine (2003, 2004)

EDUCATION

BS in Hospitality Management, 1999Northern Arizona University

Additional Training & Certifications:

• Culinary Managers Program, 2002• Five-Star Training, 2000, 2001• ServSafe Certified, 2000• CDC Certified, 2000

Foreign Language:

• French (conversant)

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Sample of Resume

CELINE DIONBlk 988 Woodlands St 21

#08-99, Singapore 221988Tel :9888 123

fakename@anydomain.com

University of Oregon Student Seeking

RETAIL SEASONAL / HOLIDAY EMPLOYMENT

Retail employee with experience fulfilling multifaceted roles (e.g., cashiering, customer service desk, floor sales and stocking/receiving) during summers and holidays off from college. Offer excellent customer service skills, a “can-do” approach to all tasks and a consistently high level of productivity.

SKILLS

• Retail Store Operations

• Customer Service• Warehousing/

Stocking/• Receiving

• Merchandising/Floor-Sets

• Plan-O-Gram Implementation

• Loss Control

• Cash Handling• Retail Sales• Inventory Control Systems

EXPERIENCE

ELECTRO-RETAIL INC., Sometown, OR

Fortune 500 electronics retailer.

Seasonal Stocker/Receiving Helper, 12/10

Summer Cashier, 5/10 to 8/10

• Worked during summer and winter holiday in store support and customer-facing roles. Thrived within busy, high-volume environment requiring the ability to prioritize and provide exceptional customer service.

• • Earned “On the Spot Award” for quick actions that prevented $5,000 in merchandise

from being shoplifted.

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• • Served on team that accelerated the movement of received merchandise to the sales

floor, resulting in a 5% increase in holiday sales.DISCOUNT-MART INC., Sometown, OR

Largest discount retailer in the US, ranked #2 on the Fortune 500.

Summer/Seasonal Associate, 12/08, 5/09 to 8/09 and 12/09

• Repeatedly recruited for return employment during the summer and winter holiday season.

• • Demonstrated fast learning capacity, flexibility and versatile skill-set. Worked on the sale

floor (Women’s Wear/Domestics), in the customer service desk and as a front-end cashier.

• • Recognized by store management team for customer service excellence and

outstanding job performance through two-time “Star Team Player” awards in 2008 and 2009.

EDUCATION

WSQ Diploma in Retail Studies - Retail Studies School

Year- Oct 2011

TECHNOLOGY

MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)

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10 Success Factors that an Employer Seeks

The success of an interview is determined by the success factors that you possess which an employer seeks for. Here are some examples

1. Ability to do the job.

Establish your ability through your resume by placing emphasis on accomplishments, results, performance, and insights into emerging trends, opportunities and challenges.

2. Initiative.

Give example of how you have previously demonstrated how quickly you are able to identified a problem, initiated an action plan, and produced bottom-line results.

3. Do whatever it takes.

Give example of how you have previously gone beyond your “job descriptions”.Show that you are adaptive and willing to take on additional responsibility and that you will go the extra mile to achieve success.

4. Self- Confidence

Speak with confidence. Use phrases like “I can,” “I will” and “I know”

5. Leadership

Give example of how you have previously demonstrated leadership role, regardless of your level of function. E.g by mentoring new staff, find ways to cut cost or work more effectively.

6. Positive Attitude

Show your level of energy and enthusiasm by talking positively and show that you are determined to be the best at whatever you do.

7. Social Skills / Involvement

Show interest in what others were working on and how you were willing to help. Show your involvement in previous organisation activities.

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8. Committed and dedicated.

You have to be 100% committed to overcoming your obstacles

9. Effective Communicator

“If there is any one secret of success, it lies in the ability to get the other person's point of view and see things from the other person's angle as well as from your own."

10. Good Relationship builder

Able to work effectively with a difficult person to achieve common goals. Able to value others’ strengths and weaknesses, and uses individual strengths to achieve results

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“Just like every flower, each of us are created with a unique beauty within. We are made for GREATNESS. Do not live your life by others’ expectations. YOU are the BEST architect of your own destiny” - Regina Cho

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Grooming Tips Checklist

ITEM GROOMING

Hair Clean, trimmed and neatly combed or arranged

Fingernails Neat, clean and trimmed

Teeth Brushed and fresh breath

Breath Use a breath mint if needed

Body Use deodorant

Make up (Women only) Use sparingly and be natural lookingPerfumes/ Colognes/ After shave

Use sparingly or none at all. Your scent should not linger.

Clothes Clothes should be pressed and neat looking

Shoes Should be shined and polished.

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“You have two choices to face your future. Sit back in apprehension or take action in anticipation.” - Regina Cho

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Useful Checklist for Proper Job Interview Attire

Interview Attire for Men· Suit (solid color - navy or dark grey) · Long sleeve shirt (color must coordinate with the suit) · Belt (color must coordinate with the shoes)· Tie · Dark socks, conservative leather shoes · Neat, professional hairstyle · Clean shaven · Neatly trimmed nails

Interview Attire for Women

· Pant suit or suit skirt· The suit skirt should be long enough so you can sit down comfortably · Coordinated blouse · Conservative shoes · Limited jewellry (no dangling earrings or arms full of bracelets) · Neat hairstyle · Light make-up and perfume · Neatly manicured clean nails

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“If you wait for people to provide an opportunity for you, you may wait forever, if you are tired of waiting, CREATE your own. It could be your greatest growing and learning experience” - Regina Cho

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Useful strategies in preparing yourself for interview

Pre- Interview Preparation

• Find out more about the company and the job• Prepare answers for the common questions asked.• Be familiar with the functions and responsibilities of the job you are applying for.

On the day of the Interview

• Dress neatly. Do not wear T-shirts, shorts, or slippers• Bring along your NRIC, resume, and educational certificates.• Arrive early for the interview.• Be accurate and write neatly when completing the job application form• Turn off your mobile phone before the interview

During the Interview

• Greet the interviewer with a warm smile• Offer a firm hand shake and sit down only when invited• Sit upright and maintain eye contact to show confidence and sincerity.• Listen to questions attentively and answer politely. • Avoid negative comments about your previous employers or co-workers• Describe your competencies and strengths• Share your career aspirations, motivation and drive to show interest in the position• Thank the interviewer at the end of the session

After the Interview

• Thank the interviewer for their time• Shake interview’s hand firmly• Find out when you will be informed of the interview outcome.• Treat every interview as a learning experience

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If you have a job offer• Find out specifically your job duties and responsibilities• Get the appointment letter• Read carefully the terms and conditions of employment e.g Salary, benefits, working

hours• Find out the time, date, location and who to report to on the first day of work

Turning down a job offer

• Reject the offer tactfully• Maintain a good relationship is helpful for future networking purposes.

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“Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different results.” - Albert Einstein

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Stories to Encourage and Motivate by Regina Cho

Why You Should Not Give Up!

I read in the newspaper that Oprah Winfrey is to receive Honorary Oscar. She deserves the award as most of us know that she is one of the richest and most famous, successful and inspiring women in the world. Oprah faced a difficult journey to get to where she is today. She has to go through a rough and often abusive childhood, she does not have a smooth early career success, her setbacks include being fired from her job as a television reporter because she was deemed "unfit for TV". What makes her so successful today? It all comes down to her consistent determination, she does not allow anything from her personal history to keep holding her hostage and most importantly she has a never give up attitude!

I remember a client who at the age of 52 lost her job, she was retrenched and she feels that she is too old to start over. She has lost all hope and thinks that there will not be any opportunity to look forward to. I try to encourage her and assured her that age is not a barrier to succeed.

If you think you are too old to start a new career and become successful? Think again. Colonel Sanders,age 64 retired with a $105.00 retirement cheque, he was at a cross roads in his life at that point. He has a choice to retire broke, and live out his retirement years in poverty, or he could start fresh again. He made a decision to sell his chicken recipe. He was turned down 1,005 times before he found a restaurant to use it. Imagine at age 64, being rejected 100 times can be extremely exhausting, but he persisted and pick himself up over 1,000 times. He never gave up. He has a mindset of a winner and he never listens to his critics. Because of his resilience spirit, today, KFC remains as one of the most successful and popular fast food restaurant.

Failure is a stepping stone to success.

Personally, I have failed too, when I was 11 years old, I failed every exams I took. I was not academically inclined. I failed miserably and I felt ashamed to go to school. Coming from a humble background, my parents do not have adequate financial means to provide me with tuition classes, as they have exhausted their saving on my two elder brothers' education. I was emotionally affected when a close relative made a critical comment. "Since you can't study, you might as well stop going to school. You are not capable of achieving success because you will fail your exams all the time." Those

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words shattered my hope as a teenager. At that point, I see the world crashing down on me. I realised that I need to take personal responsibility to make a change. I refused to accept others opinion to become my reality. I resolved to study hard. I cultivated determination, I became purpose driven, I wanted my parents to be proud of me, I refused to listen to my critics. Night and day I will spend most of my waking hours study very hard to succeed. I cut back on leisure time and concentrate only on my school books.

Over the years, I started to see gradual progress in my academic results. I persisted and kept on going. When I was 15 years old, I did my parents proud. I achieved to be the top student in my class and was awarded a certificate of accomplishment for being top three in my cohort. I am glad that my hard work paid off, however, I know that I cannot accomplish anything if I resigned myself to failure and not taking personal responsibility for my own circumstances.

I learned that it is important to have a teachable attitude and look out for something of value from adversity. To turn failure into opportunity, asking the following questions may be helpful:

1) What can I learn from my failure?

Don't be too consumed by the events that you overlook the whole learning experience. Find a strategy to do things differently. You may not succeed after a few attempts but never give up until you succeed. At times, the benefit comes from learning something that will help you avoid similar mistakes. Be eager to learn every time you fail.

2) What action must I take to turn this event into a success?

Anyone can resolve to make great changes, it is only the determined, strong character that puts the resolve into execution. Determining what went wrong in a situation has value. Taking action and doing whatever it takes can bring you to new opportunities and new discoveries.

3) Do I have a positive mind-set?

You cannot control every circumstance in life, but you can learn to make the best of any situation. Change your respond to failure by accepting personal responsibility. Have a positive and never say die attitude.

4) Do I have a strong commitment?

Without commitment, you cannot accomplish anything of value. Success comes in taking small steps consistently. Be committed to give the task everything you had and at all times.

My client who lost her job at age 52, has a happy ending too. Eventually, she found a job that she liked and she did well. Recently, she told me that she has been promoted

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after working for slightly over a year. I am so happy for her and her success is worth celebrating!

Next time when you feel knocked down about your failure, rather than looking at failure as a stumbling block, see it as a stepping stone to success.

If you are willing to stay determined, maintain a positive mind-set and keep getting up each time you hit rock bottom, you will be able to achieve your goals and increase your opportunity for success!

At the end of the day, it's not how many times you have failed that is important, but how you are going to deal with them. You were born with many God's given gifts, talents and abilities, and today is a wonderful day to realize your own greatness by not giving up!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6478536

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“Losers take chances, winners make choices”- Denis Waitley

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Four Steps to Move Forward Confidently After a Job Loss

You never thought it could happen, but suddenly, your company have decided that they cannot keep you any longer, due to various reasons like the company is not making profit or economic downturn and etc. You are one of those who would be laid off.

Your first reaction would be: What will happen to your family? What will happen to your future? How are you going to manage your financial obligations (if there is any)? Maybe you are devastated and traumatized. Whatever your reaction, it's perfectly natural to be unsettled, insecure and be at a loss.

Take control of the situation and manage crisis effectively. Turn your destructive fear into constructive action. Here are four steps you need to lift yourself and turn the loss of your job into crafting your niche that even your former employer will envy.

1) Turn Rejection into Motivation

Did your former employer appreciate your talents, skills and commitments? Probably not. You may be overlooked for a well- earned promotion to a less dedicated, less qualified and less experience co-worker.

Take heart, do not be discouraged. It is not that you are not good, you have your unique strengths and capabilities, it is just that sometimes you may not be valued for all the contributions and personal sacrifices that you have made.

Take account of your skills, accomplishments, achievements and know the value that you can bring to the organisation, see yourself in a new position with many learning opportunities waiting for you. Be humble, but think like a winner. Don't throw yourself in frustration or self pity. Take control of your own life and show them what you are made of.

2) Embrace Change

How successful a person can be will be determine on how adaptable they are in embracing change. Start by identifying your niche. Explore the uncharted territories and opportunities available. Set goals and plan your route in advance. After you have set your goals, execute your plan consistently. Think not about all you have lost, focus instead on the possibilities ahead.

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3) Take control of your destiny

Your future and your destiny is in your hand. It is not the responsibility of your employer's, your spouse's or the government's.Success is the ability to design the life you want to live.

If your employer does not give you an opportunity to develop and grow in the organisation, it does not mean that you should accept and live up to their plan. Live your life not by default, but by your own design. Take charge of your life!

Recognise that the choices you make today will have an impact on your future. A positive action today, even a tiny step, could lead you to a very positive tomorrow.

4) Develop a strategy confidently

Have the courage to clearly define your life in your own terms, have a clear purpose, setting realistic goals and choose a vocation that align with your passion, life purpose, core competence and values. Having the right mind set and making the right decision leads you to experience a lifetime of joy and growth in doing the things you enjoy. Well defined strategies and crystal clear goal can help you soar to greater heights and be more successful than you used to be!

Conquer Your Fear, Take Charge and Move Forward Confidently!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5335115

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“The only difference between a stumbling block and a stepping stone is how you use it. Every obstacle lies an opportunity.”- Regina Cho

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Are you an Egg or a Rubber Ball ?

Life is throwing everyone curves these days. You may be dealing with one or many today, know that you are not alone and you do not have to resign yourself to be 'beaten'. Believe that YOU CAN BEAT THE ODDS!

When I was in school, I was playful and did not do well in my studies. To make matters worst, my dad who has always been a committed, dedicated and diligent worker, got retrenched because of company’s closure. He is our family sole breadwinner, unfortunately, at the age of 52 years, he finds it difficult to find a job and never did get another permanent job since then. I was 11 years old when my father lost his job. Having three kids, a wife and his mother to support, my father struggled to make ends meet by doing temporary, contract job that pays very little. He accepted any job that comes so that my brothers and I could continue our school education.

As I was not academically inclined, I failed miserably in my school exams.Someone close to me, threw a heavy brick at me by saying " You are such a failure, you can't go far in life and I look down on you" I was badly shaken and it damages my self esteem as a teenager, I knew I have to choose either to accept what other see me as a failure or to take 100% responsibility for my life. I choose the latter. I decided to pick myself up and study hard to make a difference.Eventually, I did not disappoint my parents. I managed to complete my studies. Humbly, I did better than the person who 'look down' on me.

Everyone will encounter obstacles in life from time to time- it is inevitable. It's how you bounce back that holds the key to personal achievement.

We have choices in life, we can either be like an egg or a rubber ball.

When an egg hit rock bottom they land with a thud, scattered and stick to the ground. Some people are like that they choose to whine over their problems, scattered and remain to stick to the ground.

Rubber ball (or bouncer), when they hit rock bottom, they pull themselves together and rebound after hitting the bottom.

The difference between an egg and a rubber ball lies in their attitude. 'Egg' will bemoan their fate and blame others for their problem. On the other hand, 'rubber ball' will see failure as a learning experience, they choose to bounce back and do things differently.

When you get hit rock bottom, let it be a wake up call to pick yourself up, develop rock solid determination and unshakable persistence to bounce back.

Confucius once said : "Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."

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Today may be your day to turn the hurts of your past into a breakthrough for the future. Have a 'rubber ball' attitude.

YOU are STRONGER than you think!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5384081

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“Everyone fails, the key to success is to keep trying, keep believing that you can do better! Never Give up!”- Regina Cho

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Adversity Breeds Opportunity

I have come to understand, a life free of all obstacles and failures would reduce all possibilities for growth and learning opportunities.

Watch how a kite fly the highest when it is flying against the strong resistance of the wind. When there is no wind, the kite will fall to the ground unable to fly at all. The very element that gives resistance to flying is the condition for the kite to soar at it's peak.

How does a speedboat geared into power? It is through resistance.The main obstacle that it has to overcome is the water against the propeller, yet if it were not for this same resistance, the boat would not move at all.

Lessons I have learned: Change your response to failure by accepting responsibility. Mistake sometimes do pave the road to achievement. Allow failure and pain to motivate you toward greater strength and creativity to move forward.

As you experience adversity, obstacles or failures, spend some time to think all the good things that can come of them. Maintain a positive mind- set as you take action to move forward.

Here are some questions to ask each time you face adversity:

1) What can I learn from my failure and setback?

Never be so consumed by the events that get you overwhelm and miss the whole learning experience.

2) How can I turn my failure into a success?

Figure out what went wrong and use it to our benefit. At times, the benefit comes from learning something that will help us avoid similar mistake in the future

3) What are the areas that I need to change and take action?

Find out the areas that need improvement and take steps to change our response to failure by accepting responsibility.

4) Focus on your strengths. How can you use your talent and skills to overcome your setbacks?

Brainstorm and list all your strengths and maximize them to your advantage.

You may not always determine every circumstance in life, but you could determine your choice of attitude toward every circumstance. Learn to view your setbacks as stepping stones to greater achievements.

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