BE ASSERTIVE WITHOUT BEING PUSHY

Well done Natalie, some sound, practical advise.

One thing that I would like to add however, is honesty. When asked a direct question, answer it openly and honestly. If you lie about things, at some point down the road, the dishonestly will come out into the open and this will damage your reputation and credibility.

Be assertive without being pushy
Natalie Fraser

03 December 2007 at 11h00

The way you handle the job search process will determine your success. Most employers and recruiters, are looking for confident, self-assured people but will definitely avoid those who are arrogant.

The following tips will help you avoid being seen as arrogant whilst helping you to be assertive enough to get the job.

Assertiveness versus arrogance:

Assertive people succeed without stepping on the rights of others. Arrogant people fail to see that others exist. The difference is huge and easily recognisable in an interview situation.

Let your accomplishments sell you:

It's one thing telling people how wonderful you are and quite another showing them. Use past successes and achievements to illustrate your strengths and how you could be an asset to the company.

Let others do the talking for you:

Don't brag. You must sell yourself effectively so rather let others talk for you. For example, "During my last performance appraisal my boss said …" or "My wife often says that I am …".

Work to get the job:

Take the time to find the right job. You need to work at finding work. Putting effort into the process will increase momentum, energy and professionalism and increase your self-confidence.

Get rid of the baggage:
Feeling over-qualified and undervalued? Been made redundant through no fault of your own? Get over it, now. Hidden anger or resentment seeps through and gives the interviewer a negative impression from the outset.

Put personality into your application:

Pick up the phone and apply for the job in person. A personal conversation immediately increases your chance of being considered. A piece of paper is not a person and can easily be filed.

Tele-sell yourself:

Treat phone calls to recruiters and potential employers as a business call. Be professional, courteous and polite. Smile and be positive, it does come across on the phone.

Personalise the call:

Identify yourself at the beginning of the call, ask the person on the other end their name and use it often (without being irritating) during your conversation. You are more likely to be remembered.

Don't send mixed signals:

During personal meetings and interviews be sure that your body language mirrors your words. Be positive and assertive in both word and deed. Remember to "walk" the "talk".

Believe in yourself (or at least act like you do):

Confidence is apparent. Remember to believe in yourself and use positive body language, words and sell yourself. If you're a little nervous or unsure of yourself, act confident! You'll be surprised how often the act becomes reality - people will treat you accordingly.

Natalie Fraser is chairman of the Association of Personnel Service Organisations of South Africa, (APSO) KwaZulu-Natal branch