The words you use to express yourself say more about you
than you think. In fact, your vocabulary and the use of
appropriate words say more about you than the message you
are trying communicate. You are judged by the words you
use. When you are looking for a job it is not only
important to use the "right" words and language - it is
essential.
It begins with the writing of your resume and continues in
the way that you answer the questions asked in an
interview. Each industry uses "key words" or "lingo" for
each position. In order to be prepared it will be important
for you to research these words and to use them
appropriately. If you do you will sound more knowledgeable
and "in-the-know."
How will I know which words are "key"?
Key words are found in job postings/ads. For each position
there are common words that describe what is required for a
job. Job postings are a list of qualities and skills
employers are looking for in a candidate - their "wish
list."
Here is an example of common words used in postings for an
Executive Secretary position: (Six postings were used).
"Confidential" (used in all six postings)
"Ability to proofread and edit" (used in all six postings)
"Excellent written and verbal communication skills" (used
in four of six postings)
"Organized, Attention to detail" (used in all six postings)
Other words used included, "Discretion," Judgment,"
Self-starter," Scheduling," "Prioritize," and
"Multi-tasking."
If you are applying for an Executive secretary position
these are the key words to include in your cover letter and
resume. Electronic resume scanners will seek out these
words to select your resume as qualified for the position.
If these words are missing your resume may not be selected.
These are also the words to use in the interview that will
make you sound like someone who is a good fit for the
position.
Finding the Key Words for Your Position
A good place to start is with job postings. Common words
are used to describe the requirements needed for each job.
By printing out several posting you will begin to see the
"key" words repeated over and over. The only criteria for
finding these words should be that you are interested in
the job and not limiting your search by location. Make a
list of the words that are used repeatedly and note how
often they are used.
Another source of words is The Occupational Information
Network http://online.onetcenter.org/. You will find a
complete list of occupation keywords, SOC codes, Job
Families. This site also lists skills required - basic
skills, social skills, experience and tasks required. Check
these words against the list from the job postings you used
to build a stronger list.
When you begin to write your resume or prepare your
interview script you will find these words invaluable. Of
course, you would never use a word just to impress your
interviewer. Knowing the definition behind the word is what
will convince the interviewer that you know what you are
talking about.
The right words can make a big difference in a single
statement - more concise and to the point - more powerful
and impressive. Finding the "key" words will make your
statements more powerful. Speaking the industry lingo will
help you be taken more seriously as a candidate worthy of a
job offer
----------------------------------------------------
Carole Martin is a celebrated author, trainer, and mentor.
Carole can give you interviewing tips like no one else can.
Get a copy of her FREE 9-part "Interview Success Tips"
report by visiting Carole on the web at
http://www.interviewcoach.com
No comments:
Post a Comment