Successful Interview Techniques

Being well prepared for an interview will help you be confident and impress the interviewer(s).

The key to a successful interview is adequate preparation. Most employers ask the same basic questions, so prepare answers before an interview. A list of questions frequently asked by employers, with some ideas on how you might answer can be found in the complete article here.

Use Impressive Written Communication

Aside from resumes, your job search will likely require you to write effectively to communicate your capabilities.  Interviews are great when you can get one, but they are usually the result of prior written communication. 

Your effectiveness in writing cover letters, completing applications, and sending follow-up thank-you letters depends on paying attention to the details. For pointers on these three necessary documents see the material here.

How to Help with Employment Efforts

Looking for employment can be a very isolating experience. Unemployment or underemployment can challenge job seekers, and can add stress to their personal relationships. Instead of reaching out for help, many job seekers feel embarrassed or uncomfortable sharing their situation. They may feel like they have failed at self-reliance and that they need to get out of this struggle alone.

You have the opportunity to reach out and support job seekers in ways that can have a significant impact on their lives. They need your love, support, and help now more than ever. With your help, job seekers do not need to go through this challenge alone. 

One of the greatest needs a job seeker has is to be connected to opportunities and information. Members are a powerful resource to help job seekers expand their network and find the information they need. Consider ideas to offer valuable support here.

Complete an Impressive Application

Depending on the type of position you are looking for, part of your job search will likely include filling out applications. Employers use applications to identify candidates who have the skills and education needed for the position. However, they may learn much more about you than just your qualifications. 

When filling out applications, whether on paper or on a computer, you have the opportunity to demonstrate that you are prepared, thorough, and follow directions. For hints on being successful with both forms of application, see the material here.

Be a Mentor for Employment

As leaders help unemployed members develop a plan, they should share appropriate portions of each plan with the ward council. As needed, mentors or specialists may be assigned to work with members in need.

Mentors and specialists are given specific assignments to help individual members complete or carry out their plan for self-reliance.

One of the greatest challenges a job seeker faces is the internal battle of lowered self-esteem, accompanied by despair and a loss of hope. See where mentors can be of significant support here.

Support Your Spouse in a Job Search

Supporting a spouse during unemployment can be stressful. There are a lot of questions going through your head: How will you support your family financially? How can you help find a new job? If you are not already working, should you seek employment yourself? How should you adjust your budget? If you have children at home, how are they going to take the news?

At the same time, you are dealing with your spouse’s discouragement and your own personal worries. How can you alleviate your fears, find answers to your questions, 
and offer the support needed? As soon as possible, you should both sit down together and make a plan.

Here are a few tips to help.

Surviving Unemployment

As companies continue to downsize or close, even ideal employees may find themselves needing to find new employment.

While some of the following points may be seen as hind sight, we need to begin where we are.

• Prepare for the future
• Increase your faith
• Ask for help
• Live within your means
• Seek additional training
• Maintain health and well being

For details on these points, see the complete article here.