How much time and energy to invest in a job opportunity?
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
By Lily Garcia
Sunday, March 14, 2010
How much time and energy should you spend pursuing a particular job opportunity? Several times recently I have invested a large amount of time (filling out applications, going in for multiple interviews) or money (printing portfolios, missing hours of work, paying for travel expenses) in the process of interviewing for jobs, only to have a potential employer suddenly fall off the face of the Earth because they hired someone else, or worse, decided not to hire anyone for the position.
It's one thing if I feel like the employer was interested in me and just decided to go with someone else, but it's totally different when I go to a lot of trouble to rearrange my schedule and miss work only to be interviewed for five minutes by someone who hasn't even bothered to look at my résumé or portfolio (which is expensive to print) and has no intention of hiring anyone at my experience level anyway.
Is there a polite, professional way to ask a potential employer if I am being seriously considered for a position so I don't have to waste my time and theirs?
Let's face it, when it comes to recruitment, employers are fickle. You may feel as though you have "connected." The interviewer is nodding at your answers and taking voluminous notes. You are asked when you can start, whether you are able to travel to next month's conference in Minneapolis. They practically ask you for your preference in Aeron chairs. Then they promise to get back to you by the end of the week and . . . nothing. It can seem as though they really like you -- and maybe they do. But only during the space of that 30-minute interview, before the snappier, more experienced, more engaging candidate comes along. Or it could be that they have reevaluated their first-quarter projections and no longer have the budget to hire someone. A lot of things can happen to sour the budding love affair.
So why don't they call to tell you that you are no longer under consideration? In all likelihood, they just got busy and forgot their manners. The hiring manager found "the one" and requested an offer letter from human resources. The chosen candidate accepted and, in the stress and excitement of his or her on-boarding, the important step of notifying the runners-up was missed. It happens all the time. It shouldn't, but it often does.
There is little you can do to avoid the frustration of gearing up for a job interview only to be ushered into a five-minute screening. You could ask the person scheduling the meeting how long it is expected to last, but it would be inappropriate for you to ask at that point in the recruitment process whether they are truly interested in you. The fact is they are interested enough to have a second look, but that's all. Whether you move ahead in the process, unfortunately, may ultimately be based upon the subjective assessment of a junior member of the human resources staff.
After you have been on an interview or two with an employer, however, you can diminish your chances of ultimately being stood up by asking appropriate questions. For example: "I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to meet so many of your decision-makers. Would you be able to tell me how many of the applicants for this job have been as lucky?" Or, you could ask for a commitment regarding prompt notification, such as: "I can confidently tell you that I am excited about this opportunity and that I would accept the offer. But, as you can imagine, I am also considering other options in case my first choice does not come through. So that I don't miss the chance to pursue another job, would it be possible for you to let me know as soon as possible if you have decided to go with someone else?" If you can extract such a promise from the hiring manager, they will be that much less likely to leave you wondering what happened.
The amount of time and energy you invest in the pursuit of a particular employment opportunity should be proportional to your interest. As you have learned, however, it is also wise to temper your investment with intelligence regarding your realistic odds of being hired. Asking an employer early in the recruitment process whether they are seriously interested in hiring you is a bit like asking someone on a first date whether they are seriously interested in marrying you. It is the type of question that can make you seem pushy, odd or, worse, desperate. Yet, I see nothing wrong with asking an employer who has been courting you for some time to answer polite questions that will allow you to better assess your chances.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Iraq Transition Assistance Office Vacancies
Hello:
We are pleased to inform you that we are still accepting applications for the following positions with the Iraq Transition Assistance Office (ITAO). To learn more about the Iraq Transition Assistance Office, please go here: http://careers.state.gov/iraq-jobs/index.html.
IPOG/ASG Analyst (deadline: 3/25/2010)
PRT Senior Industrial Advisor (deadline: 3/25/2010)
Please note that you must be a U.S. Citizen to apply. Click on the vacancy announcement links above for more information regarding qualifications and requirements, and to start the online application process on http://www.usajobs.com/
We appreciate your interest in a career with the U.S. Department of State.
Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your Subscriber Preferences Page. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please contact support@govdelivery.com.
This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Department of State.
We are pleased to inform you that we are still accepting applications for the following positions with the Iraq Transition Assistance Office (ITAO). To learn more about the Iraq Transition Assistance Office, please go here: http://careers.state.gov/iraq-jobs/index.html.
IPOG/ASG Analyst (deadline: 3/25/2010)
PRT Senior Industrial Advisor (deadline: 3/25/2010)
Please note that you must be a U.S. Citizen to apply. Click on the vacancy announcement links above for more information regarding qualifications and requirements, and to start the online application process on http://www.usajobs.com/
We appreciate your interest in a career with the U.S. Department of State.
Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your Subscriber Preferences Page. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please contact support@govdelivery.com.
This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Department of State.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Director of Communications-Medical Device Manufacturers Association
JOB TITLE: Director of Communications
SUPERVISOR: President/CEO
POSITION DESCRIPTION:
The Medical Device Manufacturers Association (MDMA) is seeking a Director of Communications to develop, coordinate and manage the association’s communications with a variety of audiences. MDMA’s goal is to increase public awareness about MDMA’s policy initiatives, advocacy efforts as well as the value of emerging medical technology companies. This position will create the key message platform for the organization, as well as, develop and execute the strategies necessary to increase awareness. The ideal candidate must have broad social and political skills, flexibility in managing multiple issues, and the ability to form and communicate ideas and concepts.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND KEY OBJECTIVES:
• Lead the planning, development, and implementation of the organization’s communication and media strategies;
• Develop and implement, with key staff, communication and media strategies for federal advocacy efforts and campaigns;
• Manage MDMA website, and electronic communications to ensure consistent and effective messaging to media and other MDMA constituencies;
• Identify opportunities to engage media and to place information to raise awareness of organization’s mission, positions, and campaigns;
• Maintain ongoing relationships with key media contacts and cultivate new relationships with media to increase the organization’s mission and visibility;
• Respond to media requests to determine appropriate responses, to identify best interviewees, and to personally engage in media interviews as appropriate;
• Write press releases, press kits, blogs, letters to the editor, op-eds, video scripts and other materials;
• Monitor daily news to identify stories and incidents that may be relevant to MDMA members and/or promoting MDMA’s mission;
• Track media placement and preparing periodic media tracking reports; and
• Write and create content for, and be involved in production of, association’s annual report and other materials.
NECESSARY QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE:
• BA or BS in Journalism, English, Communications, Public Relations, Public Policy, Broadcasting or other relevant field. A graduate degree in communications or a background in journalism is preferred;
• Five to seven years experience leading communications or media projects, working with news media, advocacy and policy;
• Excellent writing, editorial expertise and communication skills;
• Proven capacity to successfully frame and translate complex policy issues for both journalists and the public;
• Proven experience and success in developing and executing media strategies involving complex policy issues;
• Knowledge of health care, medical devices, and/or medical policy preferred;
• Experience with Congressional and/or regulatory process;
• Ability to lead and manage multiple projects simultaneously;
• Good computer skills are required, including proficiency with database programs,
• Video and podcasting experience a plus; and
• Demonstrable social media savvy.
Interested applicants please reference "Director of Communications" in your subject line and submit a letter of interest, along with your resume and salary history (must be included to be considered) to MDMA via e-mail at: careers@medicaldevices.org. NO CALLS PLEASE.
ABOUT MDMA
The Medical Device Manufacturers Association (MDMA) is a national trade association based in Washington, DC providing educational and advocacy assistance to hundreds of innovative and entrepreneurial medical technology companies. Since 1992, MDMA has been the voice for smaller companies, playing a proactive role in helping to shape policies that impact the medical device innovator. This is accomplished by maintaining relationships with key Members of Congress, senior staff at FDA and CMS, and through the grassroots support of our members. MDMA is an equal opportunity employer. MDMA offers outstanding benefits and a friendly, team oriented environment. Comprehensive health, dental, disability, 401k/FSA, PTO.
SUPERVISOR: President/CEO
POSITION DESCRIPTION:
The Medical Device Manufacturers Association (MDMA) is seeking a Director of Communications to develop, coordinate and manage the association’s communications with a variety of audiences. MDMA’s goal is to increase public awareness about MDMA’s policy initiatives, advocacy efforts as well as the value of emerging medical technology companies. This position will create the key message platform for the organization, as well as, develop and execute the strategies necessary to increase awareness. The ideal candidate must have broad social and political skills, flexibility in managing multiple issues, and the ability to form and communicate ideas and concepts.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND KEY OBJECTIVES:
• Lead the planning, development, and implementation of the organization’s communication and media strategies;
• Develop and implement, with key staff, communication and media strategies for federal advocacy efforts and campaigns;
• Manage MDMA website, and electronic communications to ensure consistent and effective messaging to media and other MDMA constituencies;
• Identify opportunities to engage media and to place information to raise awareness of organization’s mission, positions, and campaigns;
• Maintain ongoing relationships with key media contacts and cultivate new relationships with media to increase the organization’s mission and visibility;
• Respond to media requests to determine appropriate responses, to identify best interviewees, and to personally engage in media interviews as appropriate;
• Write press releases, press kits, blogs, letters to the editor, op-eds, video scripts and other materials;
• Monitor daily news to identify stories and incidents that may be relevant to MDMA members and/or promoting MDMA’s mission;
• Track media placement and preparing periodic media tracking reports; and
• Write and create content for, and be involved in production of, association’s annual report and other materials.
NECESSARY QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE:
• BA or BS in Journalism, English, Communications, Public Relations, Public Policy, Broadcasting or other relevant field. A graduate degree in communications or a background in journalism is preferred;
• Five to seven years experience leading communications or media projects, working with news media, advocacy and policy;
• Excellent writing, editorial expertise and communication skills;
• Proven capacity to successfully frame and translate complex policy issues for both journalists and the public;
• Proven experience and success in developing and executing media strategies involving complex policy issues;
• Knowledge of health care, medical devices, and/or medical policy preferred;
• Experience with Congressional and/or regulatory process;
• Ability to lead and manage multiple projects simultaneously;
• Good computer skills are required, including proficiency with database programs,
• Video and podcasting experience a plus; and
• Demonstrable social media savvy.
Interested applicants please reference "Director of Communications" in your subject line and submit a letter of interest, along with your resume and salary history (must be included to be considered) to MDMA via e-mail at: careers@medicaldevices.org. NO CALLS PLEASE.
ABOUT MDMA
The Medical Device Manufacturers Association (MDMA) is a national trade association based in Washington, DC providing educational and advocacy assistance to hundreds of innovative and entrepreneurial medical technology companies. Since 1992, MDMA has been the voice for smaller companies, playing a proactive role in helping to shape policies that impact the medical device innovator. This is accomplished by maintaining relationships with key Members of Congress, senior staff at FDA and CMS, and through the grassroots support of our members. MDMA is an equal opportunity employer. MDMA offers outstanding benefits and a friendly, team oriented environment. Comprehensive health, dental, disability, 401k/FSA, PTO.
House GOP Jobs Listing as of March 10th, 2010
HOUSE GOP JOB LIST
This e-mail will be distributed twice weekly. If you'd like to post a position, please e-mail details to patrick.baugh@mail.house.gov.
Compiled and distributed by Patrick Baugh, Financial Administrator for Cong. Anh "Joseph" Cao, John Fleming, Bob Goodlatte, Duncan Hunter, Lynn Jenkins, Jerry Moran, Tim Murphy, Sue Myrick, Pete Olson & Erik Paulsen.
March 11, 2010
Legislative Correspondent - Midwestern conservative Republican seeks an experienced Legislative Correspondent for their DC office. Responsibilities include drafting constituent correspondence and maintaining a legislative portfolio centered on education, pro-life, and pro-family policy. Further responsibilities include briefing the Representative on relevant policy developments, as well as drafting legislation and memos. Excellent writing and interpersonal communication skills are a must. Ideal candidates will have at least one year of Capitol Hill experience. Interested candidates should their email resume, cover letter, references, and writing sample to conservativeLC@yahoo.com. Midwest ties are preferred but not required.
Paid Interns -The Republican House Policy Committee is looking for motivated individuals to assist a leadership office in networking, researching policy, data building and analysis, and some administrative work for the Spring Semester. The internship will NOT require constituent mail work, guided tours of the Capitol, flag requests, and other tasks normally associated with internships in a Congressional office. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume and one writing sample to Kristal.Quarker@mail.house.gov
This e-mail will be distributed twice weekly. If you'd like to post a position, please e-mail details to patrick.baugh@mail.house.gov.
Compiled and distributed by Patrick Baugh, Financial Administrator for Cong. Anh "Joseph" Cao, John Fleming, Bob Goodlatte, Duncan Hunter, Lynn Jenkins, Jerry Moran, Tim Murphy, Sue Myrick, Pete Olson & Erik Paulsen.
March 11, 2010
Legislative Correspondent - Midwestern conservative Republican seeks an experienced Legislative Correspondent for their DC office. Responsibilities include drafting constituent correspondence and maintaining a legislative portfolio centered on education, pro-life, and pro-family policy. Further responsibilities include briefing the Representative on relevant policy developments, as well as drafting legislation and memos. Excellent writing and interpersonal communication skills are a must. Ideal candidates will have at least one year of Capitol Hill experience. Interested candidates should their email resume, cover letter, references, and writing sample to conservativeLC@yahoo.com. Midwest ties are preferred but not required.
Paid Interns -The Republican House Policy Committee is looking for motivated individuals to assist a leadership office in networking, researching policy, data building and analysis, and some administrative work for the Spring Semester. The internship will NOT require constituent mail work, guided tours of the Capitol, flag requests, and other tasks normally associated with internships in a Congressional office. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume and one writing sample to Kristal.Quarker@mail.house.gov
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
US Vacancies Bulletin -- March 10th, 2010
Dear Subscriber,
Five great jobs for you this Wednesday, with one from the Big Apple as well as the standard sprinkling of DC-based positions.
There's plenty more worth a look at on the Public Affairs Links site, so don't forget to keep checking for the daily updates. http://www.publicaffairslinks.co.uk/
Enjoy the bulletin!
Andrew Greenway, Editor
editor@publicaffairslinks.co.uk
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
Senior Manager, Political Programs
Washington, DC
Salary details on request
"Fortune 50 Company seeks dynamic, creative individual to develop, expand and coordinate fundraising efforts for million dollar + PAC. In conjunction with Sr. Director of Political Programs, this position will be accountable for several areas of broad responsibility: coordinating national fundraising plan; assisting with communications and outreach programs, and managing key aspects of PAC administration."
Lenovo
Manager, Government Affairs
Washington, DC
Salary commensurate with experience
"Prominent global technology company seeks broad-based government affairs professional whose responsibilities would cover all aspects of outreach to Congress, the Administration and Executive Branch agencies, primarily involving technology, intellectual property, and international trade issues. Candidates must be self-motivated, work well in a team atmosphere, and possess strong communication and analytical skills."
American Health Care Association
Manager, PAC Administration
Washington, DC
Salary details on request
"Manager, PAC Administration to report to VP, Political Affairs at American Health Care Association. Candidate will also work closely with PAC Director to support and assist with raising funds for the political action program. Solicit individual (hard) and corporate (soft) contributions as directed. Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Political Science, or related field and comprehensive knowledge of the political process a must."
CTIA - The Wireless Association
Manager, Advocacy
Washington, DC
Salary details on request
"Premier Wireless Trade Association is seeking Manager of Advocacy to work with Director, Advocacy and VP, Public Affairs within the Public Affairs Department. Primary responsibilities include writing, planning, coordinating and executing the Association's consumer advocacy relations and coalition-building efforts."
Alzheimer's Foundation of America
Public Policy Specialist
New York, NY
Competitive salary
"The Alzheimer's Foundation of America (AFA) is seeking a Public Policy Specialist to assist the Vice President of Public Policy in advocating for policy initiatives impacting individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias and their family caregivers. The Public Policy Specialist will assist with outreach to Congress and federal officials."
Five great jobs for you this Wednesday, with one from the Big Apple as well as the standard sprinkling of DC-based positions.
There's plenty more worth a look at on the Public Affairs Links site, so don't forget to keep checking for the daily updates. http://www.publicaffairslinks.co.uk/
Enjoy the bulletin!
Andrew Greenway, Editor
editor@publicaffairslinks.co.uk
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
Senior Manager, Political Programs
Washington, DC
Salary details on request
"Fortune 50 Company seeks dynamic, creative individual to develop, expand and coordinate fundraising efforts for million dollar + PAC. In conjunction with Sr. Director of Political Programs, this position will be accountable for several areas of broad responsibility: coordinating national fundraising plan; assisting with communications and outreach programs, and managing key aspects of PAC administration."
Lenovo
Manager, Government Affairs
Washington, DC
Salary commensurate with experience
"Prominent global technology company seeks broad-based government affairs professional whose responsibilities would cover all aspects of outreach to Congress, the Administration and Executive Branch agencies, primarily involving technology, intellectual property, and international trade issues. Candidates must be self-motivated, work well in a team atmosphere, and possess strong communication and analytical skills."
American Health Care Association
Manager, PAC Administration
Washington, DC
Salary details on request
"Manager, PAC Administration to report to VP, Political Affairs at American Health Care Association. Candidate will also work closely with PAC Director to support and assist with raising funds for the political action program. Solicit individual (hard) and corporate (soft) contributions as directed. Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Political Science, or related field and comprehensive knowledge of the political process a must."
CTIA - The Wireless Association
Manager, Advocacy
Washington, DC
Salary details on request
"Premier Wireless Trade Association is seeking Manager of Advocacy to work with Director, Advocacy and VP, Public Affairs within the Public Affairs Department. Primary responsibilities include writing, planning, coordinating and executing the Association's consumer advocacy relations and coalition-building efforts."
Alzheimer's Foundation of America
Public Policy Specialist
New York, NY
Competitive salary
"The Alzheimer's Foundation of America (AFA) is seeking a Public Policy Specialist to assist the Vice President of Public Policy in advocating for policy initiatives impacting individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias and their family caregivers. The Public Policy Specialist will assist with outreach to Congress and federal officials."
Director of communications for a national insurance trade association
Director of communications for a national insurance trade association – Assist in development of overall communications/media strategy. Will play a key role in web development vis-à-vis copy creation/organization/strategy. Primary media contact and will handle media requests on a day-to-day basis. Also do the regular gamut of association writing -- scripts, speeches, press releases, features, editorials, etc. – in addition to coordinate/edit/write copy for monthly newsletter and periodic member alerts. Plan/execute member webinars and conference calls. Experience w/ writing copy for internal/external audiences, knowledge of national media ops and federal legislative process. Proficiency in writing for electronic/social media. Insurance/financial services experience helpful. Salary $80k. Contact Julia.Kramer@ciab.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)