Searching for that Perfect Fit for the Available Position? ~ 102

An excellent candidate for the technician position has applied for a job that you have posted. There are a million and one things that you need and want to know from this person before committing to offering him a career with your company. Whether he applied online, or from a referral, always, always interview as though you know nothing about this person. Whatever processes you have in place for interviewing, proceed with all of them, no matter how well you may think you know the applicant.

During an interview, there are the obvious things to watch for, such as timeliness, how well they prepared for the interview, hygiene, lack of cell phone calls and texts, etc. Remember, this is most likely their “best” that is before you.

There are online screening tools available for testing for dependability, decision making, work values, etc. This is a great advantage, being in our field, mistakes can be costly. This lowers the chance of hiring someone who may not follow directions well, or is consistently late.

Drug testing almost goes without saying. Most companies require it before hiring, and even have random drug testing throughout their employment term.

Check all references provided. Keep in mind that attitude, motivation, enthusiasm, work ethic, and desire to learn are as important as skills and education. This is the case with any position. If someone wants it enough, they will work hard to achieve it, and most likely enjoy a job more if there was work involved getting there. Ideally, they should be willing to keep the pace, stay up to date and anxious to learn more, as technology is improving and changing every day.

Beware of “I have always done it this way.” Does the employee seek new ways to learn and enjoy the challenge of being educated on the latest technology? Certifications for completed classes to learn new skills listed on a resume or discussed during an interview are good indications of an enthusiastic employee.

With these few easy steps, finding and keeping the right technician will be a great benefit for many productive years in your company.

Searching for the Perfect Fit for the Available Position ~ 101

When in the market to hire a new parts replacer, or technician, for your company, remember and realize the difference in the two. A parts replacer can replace a part on the equipment, but he does not really know why, only that it was not working. A technician knows that a part needs to be replaced and can explain why. He replaces a part, knows how it works, therefore can test to make sure it is indeed repaired.

Another consideration is whether to make the position hourly or flat rate. Be upfront when interviewing, the position is hourly. If all the equipment is repaired, and there is “nothing to do”, jobs will be assigned such as washing windows, sweeping, straightening the waiting room or tool racks, cleaning the garage, etc. A willing candidate will embrace the idea of staying busy and earning their income.

Do not hire with the promise of promotions, unless you are absolutely sure this will occur. It is likely that a technician is just that, a great technician. Different skills are needed to be a shop manager. If you see later down the road a technician has the qualities that are meant for management, approach him at that time, and not before. If a technician is successful, keeping him happy with pay raises, awards, recognition, a title change, and other incentives will be a win/win for you and for him. He will be happier than if you move him to another position he does not enjoy or are not as good at. Then, you have lost your great technician and manager as well.

A good goal is to keep people in jobs they enjoy, and let them know you appreciate them, whether by new uniforms or business cards. Making the right decision when interviewing and hiring new employees saves time and much money locating and training… again and again. Morale is the key once you have found that reliable, knowledgeable technician.

Evil Boss or Is It Me???

A best friend at work has been promoted and is now your supervisor. Now she has turned wicked. Is it her…or You?? Or, maybe you just do not like your boss, plain and simple.

A previous friend turned boss knows any negativity you may have discussed through the months or years. He or she has a fresh start now, but they know how you have felt in the past. Here is a chance for Both of you to start fresh!

If you blame your boss for too much work, have high expectations that you do not feel are being met, feel that you deserve a promotion because you have been at your company forever, or you do not feel challenged enough, it may be time to look inside.

It is not possible to change other people, so it may be necessary to change personally unless we are up for the challenge of multiple applications and interview after interview constantly looking for a better boss.

It may be possible to learn a few things about ourselves, and how to deal with difficult people.

Do not take personally when your boss, or anyone else for that matter, gives a short answer or acts annoyed. He or she could be preoccupied with a number of any other things, from work related to home life, that have nothing to do with you.  

Always be up front and truthful. If asked if a project will be finished by a deadline, and it will not, say so. Even if your supervisor is upset initially, they will appreciate the honesty later. If they have to report to their supervisor or a client, they would rather be honest than tell them several times that a project is delayed.

Even if it feels like everyone all around is negative, strive to be upbeat.  Look for the positive in situations, as it cannot all be bad. And if all else fails, perform your best for yourself. You can sleep at night knowing you gave your all on a project. Even taking lessons from others on what NOT to do and how NOT to treat others is turning a negative situation into a positive one.

It is never a bad idea to keep track of your projects in a portfolio, and even a calendar. If there is ever a question, you have backup to show your work.  Be specific, “I finished this project in three days which was two days before the deadline”, not just “I finish projects on time”.

Stay involved with the department, offering solutions if a supervisor is unavailable. Co-workers and even other departments will notice you being reliable and available to assist – and who knows? They may have an opening with a different supervisor! 

Did You Not Get the Raise You were Expecting?

(or get the reaction you were expecting when giving a raise?)

If given a raise and you do not think it is enough, ask yourself some questions:

• Did you reach goals you set last year? Look back at your previous review.
• Do you consistently meet deadlines, even pitching in to help others meet theirs?
• Was all of your time filled, or did you offer help when you had spare time? (teamwork)
• Did you double check work before presenting it, avoiding errors?
• Did you come up with a scathingly brilliant idea to save, or make, your department some money?
• Are you on time every day and avoid leaving early? How many breaks do you take in a day?
• How is your attitude? Hopefully not grouchy, tired or negative, aka a sandpaper person. Attempting to be pleasant, positive and even enthusiastic about a new project?

All of the above amount to a good work ethic, teamwork and communication. Take some notes, or make a list, thinking back over the past year. Do you still feel you did not receive a fair raise? If you truly think you have worked hard, contributed much and have a winning attitude, ask for a meeting with your supervisor. Present a portfolio and share accomplishments honestly and professionally. Do not compare with co workers, only worry about your little red wagon. If you are working for a large corporation, there may be room for advancement. If you are working for a much smaller company, there may just not be much room for advancement or larger raises at the time. You should know if this is the case. During a review is the perfect opportunity to express your interest in advancing when openings are available.

On the other hand, if you are an employer and give a raise to an overachieving employee, and they react unenthusiastically, consider the circumstances. If this person is reserved, and would not show excitement no matter the amount of raise they received, it may just be their personality. However, if you feel they are genuinely disappointed, the solution may be to attempt to talk with them. Do not approach as if they are in trouble for not acting surprised. Rather, with the concern, “is everything ok?” This will give them the opportunity to show interest in a promotion, or express dissatisfaction, or assure you they were just having a bad day.

Using Social Media to Job Search

This day and time, looking through the want ads in the newspaper is not really productive when looking for a job or career change. There are limited jobs listed in the local want ads.

Today’s world is all about social media. If you are beginning a job search, it is time to open some accounts with sites such as LinkedIn, Google+, Facebook and Twitter. It is important to keep these sites professional, as potential employers will be looking at all of your sites. It is better for your career to keep drama and negativity off of the internet. Connect with previous co-workers and classmates, announcing you are looking for a job. A friend’s wife, a former employer or previous co-worker may know of someone in need of your area of expertise. Don’t stop there, posting your most current resume on career sites allows an employer to search for you as well as you searching for them, doubling your search effort.

Best Dealer Jobs is one of those sites that help guide you to your new position. Some of the biggest dealerships in the United States search BDJ for qualified candidates to place in their most productive careers. If you are looking for a career in heavy equipment, you definitely do not want to miss this site.

When posting a resume to a site, it is good practice to ask someone to review it and your cover letter for typos. When you are ready to apply for a specific job, customize your resume to fit the particular job you are applying for. This may mean simply prioritizing your skills differently. It is a good idea to submit at least a short cover letter designed specifically for each job applied for.Give complete information including addresses and telephone numbers. Double and triple check all numbers and information, assuring a future employer can contact you, as well as your references.  

When your resume is posted on sites, such as Best Dealer Jobs, your perfect opportunity is sure to be just around the corner. 

During Interview - Interview Tips 104

The Big Day

Practice with a friend before an interview. Make a list of questions they may ask and decide the best way to answer each. Ask a mentor for help with positive responses to sometime hard to answer questions.

Relax and focus when interviewing.  Think about what you are hearing and what an interviewer may be asking. Respond slowly and confidently. Be prepared and knowledgeable of what is on your resume. Give the same information verbally as your resume states on paper. Review your past employment dates and positive reasons for leaving past companies.

Greet the interviewer and others involved in meeting with a firm handshake. Do not talk too much. Leave personal talk for dinner with friends tonight. As open, friendly and personal as an interviewer may be, they will not, and should not care to hear your family history. Remember to answer questions honestly and briefly. This allows the potential employer to remember the important topics that are necessary for your success.

Remember what your mother told you, sit up straight and do not slouch. Body language is important. Sitting all the way back in a chair, but leaning slightly forward, relaxed but still professional, shows the interviewer they have your undivided attention and are very interested in your conversation. Make eye contact for a few seconds at a time, do not talk over their shoulder. Try not to fidget, twisting jewelry, tapping a pen or stroking your hair, signs of being uncomfortable. To keep your hands from being too active, place them in your lap with your pad.

Do not bad mouth past employers or co workers. It is a small world. You do not want to talk negatively about a company or its employees if they happen to be this company’s biggest customer. It may appear you are difficult to work with.

When exiting an interview, you may ask for a business card. This ensures you have the correct spelling of the interviewer’s name, as well as they know you are serious.

Follow up with a hand written thank you note within a day or two. Thank the interviewer for their time, and reiterate topics you covered, reminding them why you think you are a good fit for the position you discussed. Include your contact information and sign your first and last name. Proofread it before sealing the envelope.

Interview Questions - Interview Tips 103

Prior to an interview, think about some questions that may be asked, or discussions that will happen. This assists in avoiding stumbling while attempting to come up with an answer. Remember to stay positive. Even a question that can result in a negative answer, think of a way to turn it around to a positive answer.

Some questions an interviewer may ask are:

• Tell me about yourself – keep this answer work related
• Why did you leave your last job? Avoid negative terms such as quit, terminated, or no baby sitter. Use a positive statement such as contract ended, career change, or to raise a family.
• Who was the best and worst supervisor you have ever had and why? Rather than talk negatively, turn it around positively saying you have learned something from each supervisor and co workers. Even in a negative environment, there are lessons that can be learned.
• How did you handle working for a difficult supervisor? Be honest, if you never have worked for a difficult supervisor, express that. Again, turn it into a positive response. I attempt to keep communication open and usually realize we have the same goal, compromising on the steps to take to reach it. I enjoy open communication.
• How do you handle it if you think a boss is wrong? It depends on the boss’ personality. If I am comfortable with them, I will ask what their thoughts are on my suggestions. If they tend to get angry, if there is time, I may prepare a project their way, then prepare it mine to show for approval or suggestion.
• Why do you think you would like to work here? Let them know you have researched the company, and would like the opportunity to be a part of it.
• What do you look for in a supervisor? Guidance and training, ability to communicate openly and that they are open to suggestions and feedback from team members are all good answers.
• Why do you want to leave your current company? To be honest, I am not unhappy, but saw this position and recognized this as a good company to be with. I decided to inquire, as it sounds like an exciting opportunity and match for my qualifications.
• What are your weaknesses? Again, turn this into a positive, such as my spelling is not always perfect, so I use a spell checker.
• What are your strengths? I am a self starter, such as I researched and found a way to save money for the company by….

Be prepared to ask the employer some questions to show interest in the position and the company.

• What does a typical work day or week involve?
• If I am offered this position, when is the start date?
• Who would supervise me?
• What kind of training is provided or available?
• What are the opportunities for advancement?
• If an interviewer does not ask for references, offer your list prior to leaving.
• If they do not offer you a timeframe for making a decision, it is ok to ask.

These types of questions genuinely asked show interest in learning more and are encouraging for an interviewer to hear.

There are a few questions and subjects that may leave a negative impression and should not be asked or addressed during an interview. Some things that may keep an applicant for being considered are:

• Being late for the interview
• Negative attitude
• Incomplete or sloppy application and/or resume
• Unwillingness to start at the bottom and prepare to advance
• Lack of eye contact, which suggests lack of interest or enthusiasm
• Inability to express information clearly
• Untidy appearance

Questions such as: when can I take vacation, can I change my schedule, and what does this company do (you should know this from previous research)

Practice answering some questions to make the process less stressful, even relaxed. Be enthusiastic as boring gives impression you will be bored with the job and not interested. Focus on how you can solve problems for the company, while bringing value, not how much you need a job.

When considering a new position, examine all aspects of a company, not only the salary, but benefits, location, traffic, workload and hours.