I Screwed Up
“So, tell me about yourself?” I found myself at a loss of words last week at a job fair when employers asked me this question. I’ve heard of an “elevator pitch” but never gave it any mind because I always thought I could wing it, Big Mistake! My thoughts were all over the place and by the time I was able to recover enough to articulate what my career goals, skills, and value to the company it was too late. I had already blown my first impression opportunity with the 2 companies I was targeting. Don’t let this happen to you.
First, little advice might help depending on the type of job: prepare yourself for interview questions! Second,a pair of net pants, collar shirt, color blue or yellow, and gator shoes! Third, make sure you have transportation to your interviews. allow yourself 15 minutes before interview too arrive. finally, good luck!
I always start off with my place of birth , family , church , schools I have attended and past jobs I have had. That is what employers want to know they want to get personal with you.
OK, Pete I am a professionally trained Culinarian, and you have learned two of the most important things I had to learn before I became such. One is the value of effecting a proper Mise En Plah ( French meaning, "Putting every thing in place" ) before you take on a task . The next thing is something I learned from one of my most excellent Chef instructors and that is, when faced with a situation you are unfamiliar with don't panic (actually relax ), think, and never limit yourself, use the the proper technique to reach a most commercial and profitable end result. In this case all that means is, take a deep breath and let er' rip about yourself, your future, making an honest and accurate assessment (Mise En Plah). So, I suggest that you stop beating yourself up, dust your pride off, and look forward to the next time you are asked that question, in whatever guise it mite come... Right On?. COOL!
Maybe not unless something was said. Dont count yoursellf out yet, nobody is perfect you may of had other charactists, and credentials that they liked. Follow up you may get lucky, If not chalk it up to a learning experience. They know people are shy, and nervous.
Shit happens don't worry about it keep your head up and move on what God have for you God have for you ..
I have a book of interview questions that I review the night before. I have another one of possible questions to ask. I make a list of 4-5 items to list in speaking of experience as it applies to the job I am applying for. I list 2-3 possible questions to ask. Usually, with this much prep - I keep the list in front of me incase my mind goes blank - but it very rarely does with this prep and aid. (I did see one applicant with pages of notes - he'd sort through to find the answer he needed - please don't go that far!)
Sorry to here that, it is okay everybudy screws up, as long as you learn from it and don't make the same mistakes repeatedly.
Remember this question IS NOT about your life's story, it's about your career, highlights of where you started, where you are now, where you see yourself in 5 years.
I have always found that memorizing these things is a must but don't volunteer any more information then is absolutely necessary. Once you have there attention start asking questions , keep them to three or four, about the company that you seek employment with. This shows them that you are interested in there company and that gets there attention centered on you as a future employee for there company.
My advice to everyone who is in the market is to practice a mock interview. Avoid filler words and when those words pop up, think of something outstanding that you did at your previous job. When an employer asks you if you have any questions do not be afraid to ask he/she what has made them successful in that company.