Job Search Blurts

I coined this word to draw attention to the nervous and apprehensive way of saying something in the job search that makes you feel like a buffoon. A "blurt" is a catchy way of saing: Gaffe.

When is a blurt inappropriate? For example, the interviewer has explained to you what the job duties are and you say: "Oh, I can't work on Saturdays". The interviewer has not said anything about Saturday work, only about what the job duties are. You, as the job seeker, not only made a "blurt", but you jumped ahead of what the inter- viewer might or might not have ready to say. You were not listening and fumbled your way out of the next phase of the interview, if there is to be one.

Since "blurting" is a common occurrence and often done because of nervousness, here are some tips to keep it under control.

1. When approaching a friend or acquaintance about who you might want to talk to about an opening , don't talk about your predicament or previous employers. Your network probably knows more about why you're not in that last job than you do.

2. Prepare a simple script when approaching anyone about a possible job. Memorize your script when you are talking to people or just gathering information. It will help keep you on track.

3. Rehearse for an interview. Know enough about the employer for you to feel comfortable and knowledgeable. Be friendly and relaxed. Stay on the subject, even if there is a long period of silence. A "blurt" often happens when you feel the need to fill in a silence void.

Sure, you can't help but make some mistakes and gaffes along the job search route. Some may be really funny and need to be kept in context. A gaffe MIGHT get you a job if it is not too pronounced. A potential employer with a sense of humor might want you to come in on Monday! Don't always count on that, just do your homework.

About The Author

Marilyn J. Tellez, M.A.
Certified Job & Career Transition Coach
Email: doitnow@nwinfo.net
Web: www.doitnowcareers.info

In The News:


pen paper and inkwell


cat break through


Ten Great Careers For Single Parents

The challenges of raising a child by yourself, whether you're... Read More

Career Change: Success Tips

Successful career change is based on first making an honest... Read More

Resume Writing - Tips and Advice

Job-hunting is not the most exciting thing in the world... Read More

Keep Your Phone Costs Down!

When you're looking for work, some of your expenses will... Read More

So, What Do You Do For Work?

I remember being asked this question a lot when I... Read More

Is Job Loss Making You Sick?

Job loss affects most of us like any other loss... Read More

Career Planning for Gifted Adults

"James is so restless and energetic. I wonder if he's... Read More

What is a Career Anyway?

A career is the sum total of all of your... Read More

The Squirrel Effect

An industrious black-tailed ground squirrel has his home beneath a... Read More

Are You an Ex-career Woman Living In a New Country?

Were you once a successful, professional woman who had a... Read More

Dont Be Defeated - Be Empowered

Taking a job out of fear and desperation will never... Read More

How To Find Writing Work

Are you looking for new writing work? It can be... Read More

Medical Billing Businesses Are Growing Fast And Providing A Needed Service For Doctors

You've seen the commercials and web sites about starting medical... Read More

Job Dissatisfaction

Job dissatisfaction is a driving force behind individuals seeking employment... Read More

Resumes That Rock (16 Expert Tips)

It's never too early to update your resume, even if... Read More

Background Checks: How They Can Determine Whether You Get Hired or Not!

Background checks are utilized by companies today to decide whether... Read More

Career Killers to Avoid

Many professionals and managers are so involved in day-to-day crises... Read More

Job or Career

At this present time I have a job. It pays... Read More

How To Establish Trust, Credibility and Enthusiasm To Your Interviewer

If you use your voice to get attention, you use... Read More

Resume Tips To Take You From SAHM to WAHM

When looking for a telecommuting position, it is very important... Read More

5 Things Every New Caterer Should Know

It has been over twenty five years since I started... Read More

Troubleshooting Your Job Search

OK. You've posted your resume online. You've sent out a... Read More

The Network Within

When you hear the word "networking", what comes to your... Read More

Match, Meet, and Mesmerize at a Job Fair

Are you considering another trip through the career maze? Attending... Read More

A Career In Medical Assisting

My name is Danni R, and I am a certified... Read More

Virtual Heroes: The Growth of the Virtual Assistant

Building and expanding a business is a difficult task, when... Read More

Retiring in Paradise

I have to admit that I'm starting to slow down... Read More

Rich Career, Poor Career

What makes for a rich career? It is more than... Read More

Career Education Options For Working Adults

Ask yourself this question: "Do I like what I do... Read More

Job Hunting Tips: Organizing Your Attack

Looking for work is an energy-devouring ordeal, often leading to... Read More

Discontentment in the Workplace

While more people are finding employment, more employed workers are... Read More

Dazzle Interviewers With Your Achievements

Attention Job Seekers: Tasks and Responsibilities are BoooringHo hum. The... Read More

Looking for Work in All the Wrong Places

The Question: After identifying a potential employer, I get contact... Read More