I am currently interviewing for three vacancies in our expanding Department. Two positions are for lawyers (assistant manager/manager) and one is a staff position (confidential/ entry level). Here are my observations based on my experience as an interviewer/ applicant selector: 1. Its all about relevant experience and skills- Relevant experience and job skills trumps school anytime and any day. Best to be equipped with experience and skills that the employer is looking for. That is why I pity the fresh graduates (of any school)--we do not have the time to train you. Worse, hiring a fresh graduate will mean a heavy risk that we will loose you to a better paying job. 2. Grades > School- An applicant with words in his/her resume like Cum Laude, Consistent Deans List. Department Awardee, Leadership Award..With honors will trump a mere diploma--even from the Top 4 school. Moral lesson: Be a good student and you will go places (yes your parents were correct, do bad in school, be left out in the real world). 3. We are looking for a bench player not a superstar- Lets make it clear: we already have the superstar in our team (ehem-ehem). We are simply looking for the bench player who will contribute to the TEAM when called upon. In order to increase your chances to be hired project WHAT YOU COULD ADD TO THE TEAM. Kobe Bryant-wannabees need not apply. 4. We are interested in what you do OUTSIDE OF WORK- A well-rounded individual is a good employee. We are interested in your family life, your hobbies, your interest and your special skills outside of work (we need to win the annual Christmas party event too..). 5. Employment butterflies need not apply- If your resume has too many lines over a short employment history, it indicates that you are simply using us as a stepping stone. This indicates an employee who will move out quickly at our detriment. This type of applicant will not be invited back after the first interview.
Posted on: Tue, 08 Apr 2014 08:55:44 +0000