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10 Point Checklist (Office) | 10 Point Checklist (Industrial) | Interviewing tips

The Burke Group prides itself on providing qualified, competent and reliable temporary and contract employees to our customers. And you are part of this team. As an employee of The Burke Group you are responsible for performing your duties in a competent and safe manner, and following the policies and procedures that have been established.

Call us if you have any concerns about your assignment or the safety of the workplace. With our after hours service, we can ensure you have a means of contacting us both day and night. Our consultants will provide you with your after hours contact information when you register.

As your employer, The Burke Group is genuinely concerned about your health and safety at work. Our duty is to ensure that you understand certain information systems and legislation that have been put in place. When you register, you will receive an Employee Handbook containing our Health & Safety policy in addition to in-depth WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) training. Your WHMIS training will be confirmed with the presentation of a wallet card indicating your sucessful date of completion. Our Service Consultants will not send you on an assignment if they suspect a workplace is unsafe.

Use the following 10-point checklist to maintain the winning performance Burke temporary and contract employees are known for:

10 Point Checklist Office

1. Be on time
2. Introduce yourself to co-workers
3. Dress appropriately for job - ask The Burke Group Consultant what is suitable
4. Be flexible - every company operates differently
5. Ask if you have a question or do not understand something
6. Write down all instructions for future reference
7. Spare time? Ask for more work more work
8. Don't use phone for personal phone calls
9. Don't disclose office information
10. When your assignment is complete, notify your Service Consultant immediately

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10 Point Checklist Industrial

1. Be on time
2. Introduce yourself to co-workers
3. Dress appropriately for weather and job - always wear safety boots
    (it is a good idea to have your own hard hat and safety glasses)
4. Be flexible - every company operates differently
5. Ask if you don't understand
6. Don't stand around - ask for more work
7. If the job changes notify your Service Consultant immediately
8. Don't overreact to criticism
9. Complete the day - don't ever walk off the job
10. Notify your Service Consultant when assignment is complete

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Interview Tips

The Job Interview is the most important aspect of your search for a new career opportunity. The way you interview will determine whether or not you get a job offer. From the moment you walk in, the employer will begin evaluating you on a variety of levels… your appearance, your personality, and the way you express yourself, to name just a few. But if you are prepared, you'll project a positive, professional image that will give you a big advantage over the competition.

Follow these suggestions to be your most effective in a face-to-face meeting with employers:

  1. Smile … be enthusiastic … and get there early.
    The outcome of many interviews is decided during the first 10 seconds of the introduction. Greet the employer with a firm handshake, eye contact, and a smile. Project an enthusiastic, professional image right from the start. Characteristics that contribute to a professional image are: businesslike attire, self-confidence, maturity, a sense of humour, warmth, and prompt, concise answers to questions.
    Arriving early makes a good impression. It shows appreciation for the employer's time and allows you enough time to complete the required paperwork.

  2. Complete the application in detail. Be truthful.
    Employers look at the way an application is filled out as well as the information on it. Think of it as your first assignment; an example of how you would perform on the job. Read the directions before writing. Fill in the form neatly and completely; don't write "see resume". Never misrepresent your education or work experience. Present only the facts. Always write the word "open" in the space for salary desired.

  3. Ask the employer to describe the job.
    Take an active part in the interview. One way to start is by asking the employer to describe the job. Listen carefully and mentally note each duty mentioned. This tells you how to respond. Zero in on your experience and training that relate to the position.

  4. Explain how your past experience and qualifications will help you to do the job.
    Include specific factors that qualify you for this position. Use examples of special achievements that will help the employer picture you successfully handling the job.

  5. A positive attitude helps.
    A major factor in many hiring decisions is how well the employer gets along with the applicant. To develop a good rapport speak clearly, listen closely and show interest. When the employer says something that requires an answer, comment, smile, or not … REACT! Body language is important too. Sit up straight in your chair, lean forward slightly and maintain eye contact.

  6. Ask meaningful questions about the position.
    Many employers evaluate applicants by the questions they ask. Employers like specific questions about the nature of the job, the company's plans and goals, and the abilities considered most important for the position.

  7. Answer questions by speaking in terms of the position whenever possible. Emphasize what you can do for the company.
    Some employers ask very broad questions like "tell me about yourself". Instead of talking about your childhood, family, or personal ambitions, mention specific accomplishments that show your abilities and determination to succeed in this job. Your answers should tell the employer why you would be an asset to the company, not why you need a job.

  8. If you want the job, ask for it.
    Many employers feel that a desire for the position is just as important as the ability to do the job. A very effective interviewing technique is simply to ask for the job. One way to do this is to ask the employer, "Do you think I can do the job?" If the answer is yes, say "Great! When can I start?"

  9. Discuss salary after the employer mentions a figure.
    Since you've written "open" in the space for salary desired, the employer may ask how much money you're looking for. Respond by saying "I'm very interested in the position and I'd like to earn as much money as I'm qualified to earn. How much money would you offer someone with my qualifications?" If the employer makes a firm offer and you want the job, accept it on the spot. If you're doubtful or undecided, ask for a day to think it over. Never refuse an offer of employment until you've had time to think about it.

  10. Say "thank you" in person and in writing, stating once again why you'd be an asset to the company and expressing your interest in the position.

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