May 28, 2004, Newsletter Issue #19: More Limp Phrases

Tip of the Week

JOINING A REPUTABLE FIRM

Just what IS a reputable firm? And does anyone want to be associated with a DISreputable firm? Well.....yes, actually!


Some people like troubled companies and turnarounds - and those that do, know it. Those that haven`t given much thought to the issue one way or the other, tend to utter this phrase.

And - because of its vagueness - it usually comes off sounding like something the speaker feels is supposed to be said and hasn`t given much thought to.

If you truly aren`t interested in turning around a department, or joining a start up, or a company that is struggling forward together (some people look for these types of opportunities), then state specifically what you mean by "reputable" in specific words.

A PEOPLE ORIENTED COMPANY

Most companies consider themselves "people oriented." Most people consider themselves "people oriented!"

And in many of these same companies, there might be a significant difference of opinion on what "people oriented" means, depending on who you ask: senior management, staff, customers, or other businesses with whom they interact.

I`m sure each one of you have had a boss or a co-worker at some time who have considered themselves "people oriented," yet they hardly converse, can`t communicate with others, and keep to themselves.

Don`t assume that your interviewer will hold the same definition of that vague phrase as you do! Take the time to think the phrase through and express what you mean by it - specifically.

If you express it, you can find out if those things are present....or not. As a result, you`ll know if you are still interested in them.....or not. With the power of knowledge behind you, you can exercise YOUR choice, instead of leaving all the decisions to the company.

This is how you take control of your career and find your perfect job!

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