Job Interviews

[TCoppock]

I am trying to transfer jobs within my company right now but always get tripped up when interviewing. I know that I am qualified for the jobs I apply for however I get very nervous for whatever reason when I interview. This is not my usual self because I tend to know the interviewer and speak with/ work with them regularly. Currently I put in a transfer for another job and I know they are interested because they called me the following day to set up and interview. My question is this: I am trying to go from a higher job to a lower job and want to know how to put a positive spin on my reason for moving downward.

The manager for the floor I am trying to get on is excellent with her staff and looks out for their best interests. I have worked with her a few times and work frequently with her other staff. I have been keeping my eyes open for almost a year now for a job to open on her floor that was part-time and weekends only and this just came up. I know I will be taking a pay cut but I think my happiness is worth it.

I really like my current boss but think that certain people under her are disorganized and then it becomes my problem when I am having to cram things in last minute. My current position allows for me to work on many different floors throughout the organization and I really feel that this position would be the best fit with my personality.

I know we have a largely diverse group of people here and would love to hear some suggestions on how I can present my desire for a lower position in a way that looks good.

Also an other interview suggestions would be greatly welcome. I don't know why I have such problems. I tend to stick my foot in my mouth multiple times.

[Claire]

I think all of your "spin" about the new job should be positives: you've seen how well people work together on that floor, managers seem organized but empathetic, and whatever else positive you can think up. You can say that working the lesser number of hours fits in better with your obligations at home.

Say nothing negative about your current position. You can say you've learned a lot being able to work on many different floors and you've enjoyed your time there. Do *not* say anything critical about your boss or co-workers (such as the disorganization of your co-workers). Say you think you've done good work in your present position. It's just time to move on and you can't think of a better place to move than to your new boss' floor. :D

Is there anyone you can practice interviewing with? Your dh or a friend? You can even type up questions other managers have asked you during interviews.

Are there certain things that tend to relax you? I find that if I get some physical exercise several days in a row, my overall level of relaxation increases. On the day of the interview, be sure to look in the mirror and say things such as "You are a wonderful person!" "You are a great co-worker!" "People like working with you!" Several times that day, if you can. (I do think that helps the subconscious mind.)

[Linda]

Claire has great advice. Tell the truth about why you want the lower-paying position but don't badmouth your current situation.

As a former recruiter, I found that people "messed up" when they spoke too much. If I was on the fence about someone, I'd simply be quiet for a moment. People get panicky and start talking just to fill the empty space. Oh, the stories that would come out then! Those well-rehearsed responses were contradicted when they started talking off the cuff.

So, try saying something like, "Does that answer your question?" to end your response. And then sssshhh. This might help your foot-in-mouth problem.

Hope this helps.

[GVA]

I've done a fair amount of contract work, and I'm always being told that I'm overqualified. I tell them that I am at a stage of life where I am choosing certain priorities and schedules over the money. Somehow it always works thus far! :001_smile: