| Job Search "Blurts" | | | | your experiences with previous employers. Your |
| I coined this word to draw attention to the nervous and | | | | network knows more about why you’re not in that |
| apprehensive way of saying something in the job | | | | last job than you do. |
| search that makes the job seeker feel like a buffoon. | | | | 2. Prepare a simple script when approaching anyone |
| A “blurt” is a catchy way of saying: Gaffe. | | | | about a possible job. Memorize your script when you |
| When is a blurt inappropriate? An example would be | | | | are talking to people or just gathering information. The |
| when an interviewer has explained to you what the | | | | memorized script will keep you on track. |
| job duties are and your say: “Oh, I can’t work | | | | 3. Rehearse for an interview. Know enough about the |
| on Saturdays”. The interviewer has not said | | | | employer for you to feel comfortable and |
| anything about Saturday work, just talking to you about | | | | knowledgeable. Be friendly and relaxed. Stay on the |
| what the job duties are. You, as a job seeker, have | | | | subject that the interviewer brings up, even if there is a |
| been thinking ahead, possibly, but you made a “big | | | | long silence. A “blurt” often happens when you |
| blurt”. You were not listening and fumbled your way | | | | feel the need to talk when the interviewer is silent. |
| out of the next phase of the interview, if there is to be | | | | 4. Don’t try to be perfect. You, like everyone else, |
| one. | | | | will make some mistakes and gaffes along the job |
| Since “blurting out” is a common occurrence, | | | | search route. Some, in retrospect may be funny. And, |
| here are some tips to keep it from happening. | | | | a gaffe might get you a job if it is not too pronounced. |
| 1. When approaching a friend or acquaintance about | | | | A potential employer with a sense of humor might |
| who you might want to talk to about a job opening, | | | | want you to come in on Monday! |
| don’t talk about your being out of work or about | | | | |