CageBreak

In this post, we will cover some of the recent questions asked by readers and members of CageBreak.

Jim, Toronto: How do you suggest for a job interview question like: “How do you handle difficult situations”?

CageBreak Response: Give some examples of stressful situations you’ve dealt with in the past. Tell how you use time management, problem-solving or decision-making skills to reduce stress. Share any problem structuring or solutions techniques that you use. For example, tell them that making a daily “to-do” list helps in maintaining priority. Don’t be afaid to admit that ask for assistance if you feel stressed or overwhelmed. But keep your response real, and it will be appreciated.

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Ram, New Delhi: I am preparing for a job interview, and the previous candidates were asked: “What are your professional accomplishments so far?” I have only worked for 2 years so far. How can I answer such a question?

CageBreak Response:  Choose 2 examples from your work so far that were important to you and also helped your company. Prepare specific details about what you did, how you did it, and what the results were. It is likely you may not have all the facts ready - so get them ready to the extent possible. Employers like to hear about accomplishments that completed projects despite challenges, reduced costs or raised sales, solved problems or enhanced a company’s reputation. So pick an accomplishment that relates to the position for which you are applying.

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Andy, London: I have a performance appraisal coming up in 2 weeks. This is my first appraisal as I joined work only in six months back after graduating from university. There are 10 people under my manager including me. Can anyone please advise how to prepare for it?

CageBreak Response: Please prepare a detailed record of your work-related activities over the last 6 months (since the time you began work). List the contributions and achievements you think you made, and also the difficulties you have faced. Go over your work notes and emails to prepare a log of facts to support your points, so that your manager can drill down into detail if required.

Also list the training requirements you see for yourself for the next one year. Your manager will appreciate if you have already given a thought to it.

Because you are still new to work, you will be given feedback for improvement. Be open and take notes. There’s absolutely no need to be defensive. Everyone will have areas for improvement, including your company’s CEO. So participate actively in the appraisal. And ask if you can have non-formal review once every 4-8 weeks to help you do better. Good luck! 

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Sumit, New Jersey: I am working in the Business Process Consulting area and want to shift to Corporate Finance or Hedge Funds. I have a degree in Finance, but not much of work experience in this area. Have you seen anyone making a similar switch and is there any good training for this purpose? Thanks.

CageBreak Response: It is possible to make the switch if you can get suitable training/certificates, and we have seen a few such cases. You can check the course offering of: www.wallstreetprep.com   (They have a well structured course that can suit your need). Also checkout the various business videos and industry groups at http://MyOrbit.tv