A critical part of a job interview is to clearly convince the employer why you are the ideal candidate for the position. Before answering this question ask yourself the following: What positive traits would I bring to this company if I am given the opportunity to work here? At this point, poor job interviewees would probably say “I am good with people”, “I am a good employee”, or “I really like it here; it seems like a good opportunity for me.” Instead, you must focus on those strong professional assets that will make you the adequate person they are looking for. By stressing how professional, reliable, and dependable you are along with your matching skills or job experience, you will impress the interviewer over other candidates and probably be on the way to that job you hope for.
The best answer should focus on the following three areas, your Education, Experience and Skills. Call this your “Career Commercial.” It should last at least 1 minute and go no longer than 2 minutes. NOTHING PERSONAL – (Do not talk about the kids or where you were born.)Do not reveal anything personal such as your age, marital status or religion.
Always remember E, E, S. The best thing to do is write a short, organized statement of your Education, Experience and Skills and practice your pitch. You do not need to begin your commercial with: My name is Dominic Sheppard as they will have already made your acquaintance when you entered the room.
All the employer really wants to hear about is your qualifications for the job and the contributions you could make to the practice/clinic. Your Career Commercial should be thought about, written and then practiced a few times, preferably with someone else or in front of the mirror so that you can observe your own facial expressions and gestures. Trust me, it will help!!!
Good luck on your next interview and keep a cool, composed and confident posture as well as a positive attitude.
“Pharmacy Technician wanted.No experience necessary, you pick your schedule.$14/hr”
I can assure you, you have not.Hospitals and retail pharmacies want experienced candidates.Those retail pharmacies that hire entry level candidates want to start them between minimum wage and $10/hr.Why?Per the hiring managers - “because I have to teach them everything about working in this store”.
However, most of the graduates apply online to hospital jobs and later wonder why nobody is replying back or calling for an interview.Our grads then tell us “I don’t know what happened”.Well, the Career Services team does know what happens – in most cases you are not yet qualified for those jobs.
To break into a new field, sometimes you have to walk backwards, to start going forward.One of the major obstacles in getting started at your new career is the fact that you may be earning more now at a “non career-focused” job than what you will be offered as an entry level Pharmacy Technician.It’s a difficult decision but one you will have to make if you are serious about changing fields.As you know, statistics show that there is growth in the healthcare industry.Once you have gained experience in that new field, you should hear back from employers that want to see you, interview you and hire you and offer you more rewarding salaries and benefits. But don’t underestimate the value of your education. Especially in this economy, your education is likely what is getting you in the door at that entry level job.In our opinion, the days when education as a Pharmacy Technician wasn’t necessary to get the job are about to be over.
My advice to you is to get the experience you need.How are you going to get it?Sometimes you do so great at your externship that they make an offer to you.It may be that they want to start you part-time and later hire you full-time. Or it may be that they want you to work an afternoon schedule that finishes at 9pm. Please be prepared for these situations and ready to accept these offers.If there isn’t a position available at your extern site, you should apply for those retail pharmacy technicians’ jobs that you qualify for.There are many chains such as CVS, Duane Reade, Rite Aid, and Walgreens.Smaller neighborhood pharmacies are a great way to get started in your field.
Generally, when we're looking for a job, words like 'fun' don't come to mind. However, with some simple tips and tricks (many taking less than one minute) you can completely revitalize and re-energize your job search and turn looking for a job into something dare I say... fun! It takes 27 seconds to make a first impression. Let potential employers get the best impression of you by showing up to the interview 15-20 minutes early, armed and ready with plenty of copies of your resume and having done your homework on the company (employers love seeing candidates who are passionate and excited about themselves and the work they do!) . The power of positive thinking can never be underestimated especially when looking for a job. When you make a conscientious decision that each day will be a good one, productive and a step closer to finding the job you are looking for...it WILL be. Happiness and positivity are contagious! During your search, try to surround yourself with people and outside influences that will help you to achieve your goals.
Reward yourself on a daily or weekly basis for your efforts. A half hour walk costs nothing and truly works wonders for boosting your spirits. Volunteer work is another great way to spend even a couple of hours a week and can help in the long run for building your resume and potentially leading to full time employment.
Sending thank you notes, emails or letters are a great way to be remembered. On my desk I keep several Thank You Cards of graduates I have assisted with securing employment. I also keep a file of letters and emails, so that from time to time I can follow up with those who took the time to show their appreciation. It is proper procedure to send a Thank You Letter to an employer after the interview expressing your gratitude, but you should also do so to your professors, advisors, counselors and your externship supervisors as they took the time and consideration to work with you and give you the boost you need in your career.
On your job search, not only are you showing your appreciation and interest you are also reminding the employer about your qualifications as they may have interviewed several candidates and you want to stay fresh in their memory. This is also a great chance to state anything you may have forgotten to mention during the interview.
For your professors, advisors and externship supervisors, it will be a lasting impression that will make you stand out from the crowd. It always puts a smile on my face when someone takes the time and energy to say thank you with a card, letter or email.
You can email the thank you letter but sometimes it’s best to deliver it in person. You may not have to suit up the way you did for the actual interview, but do not dress down in jeans and sneakers. The best dress code to have when you visit the employer again is Business Casual.
ideal candidate for the position. Before answering this question ask yourself the following: What positive traits would I bring to this company if I am given the opportunity to work here? At this point, poor job interviewees would probably say “I am good with people”, “I am a good employee”, or “I really like it here; it seems like a good opportunity for me.” Instead, you must focus on those strong professional assets that will make you the adequate person they are looking for. By stressing how professional, reliable, and dependable you are along with your matching skills or job experience, you will impress the interviewer over other candidates and probably be on the way to that job you hope for.
