Careers and Jobs

DUNDALK JOBS – Kenexa creates 30 new jobs in Dundalk.

Kenexa has opened new offices in Dundalk which will lead to the creation up to 30 jobs by the end of next year. The company is a provider of business solutions for human resources. It helps companies by identifying the best individual for every job and fosters optimal work environments.
Kenexa has 33 offices in 18 countries worldwide. The company was established in 1987 reported revenues of €166.6m in 2008.

This news was brought to you by Careers & Jobs in conjunction with Measurability. Measurability is a leading Outplacement, Career Coaching & Psychometric Testing Services provider in Ireland.

Sorry folks but it is still general bad news on the jobs and careers front. Unemployment reached an 11 year high in September with figures nearly at the 250,000 mark. Judging by the general feedback it could be a winter of discontent. Property crash, stock market turmoil and credit crisis.

I was interested to read that Ballina, Tralee and Dundalk were three of the worst unemployment blackspots as I have been doing some work in all three locations over the summer. All seems to be sunny in Leixlip and Malahide though as unemployment is at 4%.

Let’s try and end this article with a positive note – Cook Ireland has announce that it will be creating 200 new jobs in Limerick over the newxt 5 years. This is part of a EUR25M investment. Lets hope for a few more of these announcements over the remainder of the week.

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Netezza has announced that it will be creating 65 jobs over the next 5 years in Dundalk. If you are a technical graduate then there could be the jobs for you. Infact Netazza actually suggested that the reason they are creating the jobs in Dundalk is because of its close proximity to DKIT. Netezza provides data warehouse equipment which helps store, retrieve and analyse large amounts of data.

On another positive note FAS has been receiving praise in the states on its visionary programme “The Science Challenge Initiative”. This programme will see 42 grads travel to th US for internship programmes. So if you do not fancy Dundalk perhaps 6 months in the states.

Interviews can be tough enough to get so when you do get an important interview prepare yourself to ensure maximum performance. Fail to prepare and prepare to fail. This post outlines a few things to avoid at interview

Arriving late

I arrived late for an interview once BUT I was the interviewer. If you arrive late for an interview kiss the job goodbye. I know in Ireland we have very unpredictable traffic and transport systems. Leave yourself plenty of time. I recommend that you leave early and when you arrive get a coffee and read the paper. You never know you might read some important information for your interview.

Wrong names

I am very bad with names BUT there are techniques to improve this area. There is one sure way to make the wrong impression and that is calling an interviewer by the wrong name. Memorise names before the interview. If you come across new people at the interview you can repeat the names to yourself or when you talk to the individual state the name.

Having nothing to say

This is really down to preparation. If you prepare properly you will have plenty to say at interview.

Being too modest

This is quite common through the job search process. Most jobseekers undersell themselves on their CV and at interview. You get one shot at an interview so ensure that you make an impact. At interview don’t wait to be asked for your achievements. Offer them to support your interview answers.

Lack of enthusiasm

Some jobseekers use this as a strategy to place themselves more favorably when it comes to salary negotiations. The “I don’t need you – you need me strategy”. Be careful with this as you could lose an important job. Enthusiasm is essential at interview. If you want the job ensure that you have energy at interview.

Do you need interview preparation support? Interview coaching in Dublin, Meath, Louth, Kildare

“Is Career Coaching or Interview Coaching worth the money?”

Many jobseekers ask this question when they set out on their job hunting journey. It is the million dollar question and this question can be asked about any service though.

Is a mechanic worth the money?
Is a barber worth the money?

Services are worth the money when you get a good service for the money paid. Career Coaching and Interview Coaching is no different.

A good coach can help you achieve your career goal. You have to ask yourself if this is worth paying for. If you do the research and choose a coach as you would any other service. Need a coach in the Dublin, Meath, Louth, Kildare or North Wicklow?

We make many tough decisions BUT one of the most important relates to our career. The crazy thing is that most of us spend more time planning a summer break. We all need help whether we are graduates beginning our career, career change professionals, parents returning to the workforce or employee affected by displacement or redundancy.

I have outlined some tools and resources that you can help you with career choices.

The internet – There is unlimited information on the web but you need to take care with FREE advice.

Career Guidance – This resource is available in most schools and colleges. The focus is largely on students and you will probably need to be attending the institution.

HR Departments – These professionals have worked in areas such as recruitment, training and development.

Recruitment Consultant – Again could prove to be a valuable asset. Be aware that although they may be a valuable source of career advice this is not what they do. They find people jobs. You may come across a nice consultant but most don’t want to be wasting time in this area.

Outplacement Consultants – Great resource and normally paid for by the employer.

Family & Friends – Unless they fall into any of the above professions I would probably avoid this option.

Professional Career Coach – Measurability offer expert advice across career areas like career planning, career tests, job search tools, CV Design and interview preparation.