Ask the Career Coach

Interview Etiquette: When Salary Should Be Discussed

Interview Etiquette writes:  I have applied to a job and have my first interview next week.  The company didn't give me a salary range and I have no idea what they are willing to pay.  Is it OK if I ask that the salary range is during my interview?

Career Coach's answer:  Based upon my experience, it is never a good idea to bring up salary during a first interview.  However, you should have an idea on what the salary range should be.  Research the position through the occupational outlook handbook and/or www.salary.com to know the national salary range.  Decide where you would be within that range based upon your experience level and background.  Also, if you have an advocate within the company,which is always the best resource, ask them about the company culture and how competitive the salaries are within the field.  One important tip:  Always go into the interview with as much information about the company and position as possible. 

About Me and Contact Info

Kate Moore is a certified Career Coach and professional resume writer that has worked with various individuals, from college students to high level executives. A Career Counselor at the university level, as well as owner of Moore Career Services, Kate has extensive experience working with job seekers and career changers while consistently staying up to date on current market trends.   Kate works closely with her clients to develop action plans and strategic goals to become successful in their professional aspirations.  Contact Kate at Kate@MooreCareerServices.com with any questions!

Kate Moore
Certified Career Coach
617.285.8440
Kate@MooreCareerServices

www.MooreCareerServices.com

Ask The Career Coach

How many times have you wanted to ask questions about your resume or the job search process but you didn't know where to turn? Ask a Career Coach is a perfect way to ask a question and get the answer you need for FREE!  Simply contact Kate at Kate@MooreCareerServices.com with your question and a reply will be given to you ASAP.  Your question may also turn up as a topic on the blog!

Older at Work

Older at Work writes:  I'm an older professional in transition and am concerned about not getting an interview or a job because the employer can see how old I am based upon my resume.  Would it be better if I leave dates off of my resume so they don't know that I'm older?

Coach's Answer:  Although age can be a concern in some industries, my answer to clients is to never leave dates off  their resume. I have even spoken to recruiters who agree and state that when you leave dates off of your resume, it triggers a red light and makes them question the omission.  What I do with resume clients is help them market themselves and create a resume where dates are secondary and the transferable skills and experience are the focus to the employer.   

To ask a question, please e mail MooreCareerServices@gmail.com

Check out my latest article "Fired Over Facebook: Employers Are Watching!" at http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-58607-Philadelphia-Career-Transition-Examiner~y2010m8d5-Fired-Over-Facebook-Employers-are-Watching

Eating at an Interview

Eating at an Interview writes:  I have a lunch interview coming up in a few days and I'm unsure how to handle eating at the interview.  How should I handle it?

Coach's Answer: Lunch interviews or meetings are popular nowadays but I do not believe that everyone handles them as they should.  You are at the meeting to me assessed and interviewed by a potential employer, not there to enjoy lunch. There are a few suggestions that I would make. First, follow the interviewer's lead.  See what they are ordering and order something within the same price range or less.  I recommend that if they order an alcoholic beverage, you do not.  Never order alcohol when in the company of a potential employer.  I would also stick to something that you would eat with a fork, for example, a salad.  This is so you aren't eating with your hands and keeping the "mess" to a minimum.  If you are someone who is starving during lunchtime, eat something before you go so you are not scarfing food down during the interview.  Remember, you are there to highlight your skills and present yourself in the best light, not to eat!!

Networking Newcomer

Networking Newcomer writes:  I'm in transition and seeking a new job opportunity.  While reading different articles about the job search process, I keep reading about the importance of networking.  Where do I begin?

Coach's answer:  Networking is a huge part of obtaining a job, especially in this economy.  Although it may sound intimidating, it actually is the best way to get yourself out in the market for a new job.  There are so many different opportunities to network.  You can be in line at the grocery store and begin a conversation with the person behind you.  That is networking!  You never know who you are going to meet so think of every conversation you have as an opportunity to network.  Specifically, there are groups and events that you can attend where networking is the focus.  As a beginner, make a list of everyone you know and that will be your starting off point.  Send out an e mail about what type of position you are looking for and ask for help if anyone knows of any openings or connections in specific companies.  Next, focus on local events through your chamber of commerce as well as "googling" networking events/groups in XXX.  Finally, get on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com).  LinkedIn is similar to a professional Facebook.  You can grow your network, post your resume and even look for jobs on site.  Try it!  You'll be amazed about the opportunities that are out there.