CAREER PATH PRESENTATIONPython Meetup Barcelona

25th June 2009by Jo Gascoigne

Gascoigne Partners S.L.

Agenda

IntroductionObjectiveWhat I know about PythonCurriculumsInterviews

Introductiono Welcomeo Jo Gascoigneo Gascoigne Partnerso 5 minute Objective

To inform you about my company and give you an insight into what a recruiter/hirer looks for in a Digital profile

What I know about Python

I am here to learn from you ;)

What they say about youYouTube.com

"Python is fast enough for our site and allows us to produce maintainable features in record times, with a minimum of developers," said Cuong Do, Software Architect, YouTube.com.

Google

"Python has been an important part of Google since the beginning, and remains so as the system grows and evolves. Today dozens of Google engineers use Python, and we're looking for more people with skills in this language." said Peter Norvig, director of search quality at Google, Inc.

Curriculum Vitaeo CV read in 1-3 minutes. Letter of application in 20 seconds!o Over 1000 CV’s in circulation for 1 job filledo 2 page maximum. 2 Versions, 2/3 Languageso Value your CVo Headhunter. Executive Search agencyo Client directo At worst - CV is chronological laundry list that screens you out when you

could do the job.o At best - CV is a written presentation of relevant information and

achievements, targeted towards your career objective. It is a sales brochure that introduces you.

Curriculum Vitae - StructureAchievement Statements – Use the R from PAR’s or CAR’s as a basis

Today’s most effective CVs list achievements that tell the reader not only what you actually did but how your work made a difference for the employer. Rather than describe a jobholder they present you as a results getter.

What is a PAR? (or CAR)

o Problem (Challenge)o Actiono Result

An effective PAR has these elements

- It required extra effort- You did it or helped do it- You enjoyed doing it- You did it well- You are proud of it- You did it successfully (measured)

More on PAR’s later

Interviews

Get the basics right!- Clothing- Time keeping- Respect

InterviewsWhat do employers look for?

The 5 major concerns of companies

1. Can you do the job? (Skill concern)2. Will you do the job? (Motivational concern)3. Will you get along with the others? (Team concern)4. Are you manageable? (Manageability concern)5. Can the company afford you? (Money concern)

InterviewsIn the interview…

What’s the single most depressing factor in interview?

InterviewsIn the interview…

What’s the single most depressing factor in interview?Chemistry (or rather lack of)

- The chemistry or rapport between you and the interviewer.- Do you "click" with the interviewer?- If not, there’s a good chance you won’t get the job.- It’s depressing because there’s not a lot you can do to improve chemistry.

InterviewsIn the interview…

How long does it usually take for someone to make up their mind that you are right for the job?

InterviewsIn the interview…

What are the most critical success factors that employers look for?

- Positive attitude toward work- Proficiency in field of study- Communication skills (written & oral)- Interpersonal skills- Confidence- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills- Flexibility- Self-motivation- Leadership- Teamwork- Humility - How can you demonstrate these factors?

InterviewsIn the interview…We need some PAR’s!! Real, tangible examples of your successful

behaviour

Remember what a PAR is? (or CAR)o Problem (Challenge)o Actiono Result(results as seen in your CV and Letter of Application)

An effective PAR has these elements- It required extra effort- You did it or helped do it- You enjoyed doing it- You did it well- You are proud of it- You did it successfully (measured?)