article thumbnail

The Importance of a First Impression

Tom Spencer

However, one observation that I have made as both a potential hire looking for a job and as a consultant guiding others is that oftentimes, we are not prepared for an encounter or a meeting that might make all the difference in our careers. A good impression can often lead to a reference or a referral to another person at the firm.

article thumbnail

Interview Preparation: Your Path to Success

Tom Spencer

Moreover, gather and organize any necessary documents, such as copies of your resume, cover letter, and reference letters. Going through the interview process is an exciting opportunity to meet new people and learn about different companies. Plan your outfit in advance, and ensure that it reflects respect for the opportunity.

Insiders

Sign Up for our Newsletter

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

article thumbnail

The Right Way to Check Someone’s References

Harvard Business

You think you’ve found the right candidate to fill your open position and now it’s time to check references. Checking references is often seen as one small piece of the hiring protocol—the final motion to go through before you extend a formal offer to a candidate. Should you ask each person the same questions?

article thumbnail

The 20 Most Common Things That Come Up During Reference Checks

Harvard Business

Along with job applications, resumes, and interviews, a reference check is one of the most common parts of the hiring process. In fact, we don’t know much about what works and what doesn’t when it comes to reference checks. So how can we gain insight into what reference checks actually do?

Study 28
article thumbnail

7 Reasons Why Your Clients Aren't "Getting It" When you Talk and Write About What You Do

Consulting Matters

So unless you're cool with your words coming across as Charlie Brown's teacher (wa wa wa wa wah.) - you need to figure out how to meet your client's at their point of departure and speak their language.not yours! And not to the people who referred me to others. Pro tip: Meet your clients are their point of departure.

article thumbnail

6 Fit Interview Questions and How to Answer Them

Tom Spencer

Even if your initial decision to go to Bali was made solely to live near the beach and work on your tan, admitting this isn’t ideal in the first moments of meeting someone. Tell me something about you that’s not listed on your resume. It is helpful to have prepared answers to common questions for each experience on your resume.

article thumbnail

Tips for Sending Successful Messages on LinkedIn

Tom Spencer

I receive 2-3 LinkedIn messages per day asking to schedule a call so that I can share my personal experience in consulting, answer recruiting-related questions, and sometimes even review a resume on the spot. Reference common interests or speak directly to one of the prospect’s professional challenges. Someone you share a contact with?