| Topic Name: |
Second Interview with HR |
| Message Name: |
Take the bull by the horns |
| Date Posted: |
04/19/2002 |
| In Reply To: |
I very much appreciate your message and admit you are right in your suggestions, which are obviously applicable to any job seeker.
I don't want to be too defensive and to justify my question, but please let me describe the picture more clearly.
The fact is that it is not the lack of preparation that made me ask it, but the contrary. The company I am applying to has got such a comprehensive website, that the usual questions about their business/culture etc. would be absolutely superfluous.
To better understand my experience, let me tell you that in fact I only expressed my interest in pursuing an HR career (starting probably in recruiting/training field), but got no clue in what position they would see me fit. I passed the behavioural screening and wait for the next round not knowing exactly what is "the" thing they are especially looking for. Probably general HR skills, interpersonal and communication skills, ability to work with others etc., which I believe are some of my strenghts.
Under these circumstances, my question was: what could I particularly ask apart from obvious questions about business, career opportunity etc.?
My little experience told me it was time to show empathy and understand better what my recruiter expected within the company's strong culture.
Please let me know your thoughts; they are really helpful for a beginner.
I would also appreciate your comments on the qualities YOU would seek in an individual who aspires to become a good HR specialist.
Thanks again. |
| Message: |
Thank you for clarifying your situation. With your successful passing of the company's exams, and their continued interest, it's obvious you've proven yourself to be of great potential value. Your concerns then seems to center on where you can be most effective both for the company and for yourself.
You are in the enviable position of being able to define your own direction. This is where you have to take a risk and take the initiative. Take the bull by the horns, and begin to guide the recruiter to a more specific area in which you feel you can be really, wildly successful. If your direction is towards recruiting and training, as you had indicated, ask questions that highlight your understanding of employment issues like retainment, loyalty, and compensation. Show the company you have some ideas in this area that fits their methods. Share some particularly telling story of how you "found" talent and how you might translate this skill into the workplace. For training, highlight the times when you imparted knowledge. Did you develop, deliver, demonstrate the materials? Ask about their education programs for their employees and have some suggestions ready. Use their web site, comprehensive and complete as it is, to glean clues as to what areas your qualifications and your career goals match their needs.
While you are laying out your short term goals for the company, describe your long term goals, too. This will confirm to the company that you intend to grow within your field, and within the company. Distinguish yourself over and above what is expected, the general HR skils, interpersonal and communication skills, teamwork, etc., and present and support that which makes you unique and valuable to the company.
The point here is you have to choose a direction, and in so choosing risk not agreeing with the direction the company might have choosen for you. You are at a crossroads, a place you'll find yourself repeated in your career. Be ready. Be audacious. Be bold.
I wish you the best of luck.
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