To give you an idea of my time frame - I applied for a State job on Feb 16, Job Closed on Mar 6, 2023, Heard back to set interview on 3/29, interviewed on April 3, 2023, No 2nd Interview. They called my References on April 14th and sent to HR for Minimum Qualification check. HR contacted Hiring Mgr on 4/28 and she contacted me that they were offering me the job and would be forwarding the Offer Letter on 5/1. So total time between job closed date and notified that I was being hired was one week shy of 2 months. And remember this was without a 2nd interview which most places do. In between all of these stages Kent was an amazing help. While waiting for certain steps to get completed there really isn't much you can do but pray. There was one moment when HR emailed me to ask for a clarification of my experience. Other than that, things went pretty smoothly. Kent was always there to encourage me and answer any questions I had. He's terrific !!!
This is really good information, though it makes me feel worse about my situation. I have been interviewing for the last 3 months pretty intensely, I've gotten to the stage where they check my minimum qualifications (apparently a bachelor's from one of the top business schools on the planet isn't enough because it doesn't have an "accounting focus"), but never to the point where they contact my references. But I'm still pushing.
State of Connecticut. Applied for job Closed 2 weeks later Got an email to fill out a second form asking for more information Apx 1 month later get a request to interview. Only 1 interview. Apx 1-1/2 months later I get a job offer Took another 6 weeks to complete all the requirements. Then about 2 weeks later i get my offer letter. So apx 5 months from application to hire date
this helps me so much I have an interview coming up now and I am preparing like crazy. I listen o this video everyday all day. I even wrote out lots of notes for the interview to place behind my computer so I can remember and read.
@@jrc07305Remeber to have a light source behind your computer aimed at you. A ring light works well. I do not have one so I used my desk lamp on low. I aimed it above my head so I got some light but not enough to be harsh or drown my face out.
Thanks so much for your videos. After 13 interviews with the state, I finally got a job offer to start 8/30/2024. Your videos really helped me understand the applying and hiring process of the state.
@KennitaColeman The interviews started in January of this year. The job I got offered the interview was at the end of May, and I had to do a tie breaker to get this position. So it took almost 2 months to get the offer.
Your videos are so informational. I have similar experience too, great SOQs, complete applications, well prepared interviews helped me to get 5 offers at the same time couple years ago. Totally agree with you the first questions sets the standards. Prepare ahead of different scenario answers from your past experiences. I am a current manager for State of California, you have been covering very detailed information in from start to finish hiring process. Highly recommending this channel. Wear confidence and present yourself professional. My goal is to become a Chief or CEA level position. Interviewed, reference checked and no offer stage :(
Thanks for the validation and feedback from a State of California manager. Best of luck on your pursuit of a Chief or CEA level position! As you know, the more times you apply and interview, the better your chances of success! ;-)
I have applied for about 45 jobs. I have done 4 interviews so far and have 2 tomorrow and 1 on Monday. I am watching this video again to get some extra help. I am so nervous. I will practice today.
Thank you for these tips. They are consistent with the tips of another hiring manager I know as well as all the state employees I know of. This year, 2024: Submitted 16 applications. Received 4 interviews. Landed an offer. Received a 5th interview after I accepted the previous offer. Here’s the timeline for the job I’m taking: 08/12/24: Submitted application. 08/18/24: Final file date. 09/30/24: Interviewed. 10/07/24: Tentative offer. Contingent on background check. 10/28/24: My first day working.
I did coaching with Kent for an interview I had last Friday, and I was offered the job today! Coaching with Kent was super helpful as you will get some inside tips on how interviews are conducted with the state. Thank you for your help and for the wonderful and informative videos, Kent!
Thank you for mentioning your ratio of applications to interview invitations. This really put things into perspective and creates a better sense of reality. Knowing that it happens to everyone and some things are simply out of your hands gives me the motivation to keep trying.
for me, I have submitted 100+ applications for ITS roles and so far called for 2 interviews but state takes time to reply after the FFD so I am hopeful to be invited to more interviews to improve my chances of landing a state job.
@@GuitarsAndSynths Thanks for sharing. 100+ apps for just 2 interviews? Guess I have a long ways to go. Can you provide some pointers or hints on how the IT interviews are structured?
500 applications to get 30 interviews is the ratio I am seeing right now. Usually it takes me 10-30 interviews to land a single offer even if you prep.
I find that electric application / using CalCareers site vs paper and post mail speeds up the app process big time so don't get discouraged @@yiaxiong7864
The 1-on-1 coaching I did with Coach Kent helped me immensely with all of the following: 1. The pros and cons of accepting my first position with the State of California at a lower level, 2. The culture within the State of accepting jobs but continuing to apply for higher level jobs, 3. The “best practices” around completing the Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) required for the better jobs, 4. Pros and cons of accepting jobs not within my preferred geographical location I am grateful for Coach Kent and the expertise he has to offer. 🙏
While just watching this vid, your advice sounds pretty solid. I had an interview recently and fortunately what i did was aligned similar to your suggestions. There's been many years since i've had an interview so was a little nervous but i believe i did well. Its been about 3 weeks from closing date to my interview so seems on track with your time frame. Expecting a message within a few days. Excellent video thank you.
Hello Sir, I want to thank you very much for all of your advice. i just got a conditional job offer for the EDD. this is going to be my first state job. i can't wait to start. your videos helped me so much. hope you are well. thanks again.
renagadebilly2007, First, so glad I played a part in you getting started with your career with the State of California. My hopes and prayers are for a long, productive one. Second, thanks so much for taking the time and making the effort to come back to one of the videos (that may have helped) and making this positive comment. It's nice for the encourager to be encouraged too! Your comment made my day!! Coach Kent - out! ;-)
This is helpful. I finally have an interview after applying for about 2 months. Im excited. I was starting to think it was a dead end like most of the tech jobs ive been applying to. But glad i finally got an interview!! Thanks for your help.
Hello Coach Kent - the videos that you have created, relating to State of California jobs is invaluable. I have watched all your videos and can't thank you enough for how helpful it has been. You're doing great work and helping so many Californians :) I will be reaching out to for some one-on-ones as well.
Thank you so much for all of the wonderful preparation advice. Your video is incredibly informational and helpful. I have an interview on Monday that I have been prepping for this week. I was already doing some of the things you mentioned here, but what I really liked about your video is it has reassured and given me a much needed confidence boost. I am incredibly excited for this position and I hope that comes through in the interview as well. Thank you for all of your help and for kindly sharing this information with us.
I followed your advice and got an offer for an agpa position, but the pay was way too low. 😬 i did a little more research and calculated my take home, and it was a bigger pay cut than i had expected. I also read about how most state workers are struggling to make ends meet so I rescinded my acceptance, but definitely a great gig if you’re married or partnered and are working to supplement your household income.
I respect your decision. It's absolutely a personal data point. Take home pay isn't the biggest factor in many people's decision making process. It wasn't in mine. Promotional opportunities, retirement plan, medical & dental insurance, etc., usually play a big part. They did for me. Best of luck to you though! ;-)
I left the State going on 10 yrs now. I had landed an entry level position with CDCR as an Office Technician. I got this job through a CA Job Coach (Not Kent). This position was way below my experience. And it paid a very low wage. I left that position, after just 6 months, because of a private sector job offer that was 4 times the pay. I wasn't even looking. It came through a friend of mine. I have a couple of decades of Construction Project Management experience so, of course, I left the State for a PM gig. That job lasted all of a year and a half and most of the private sector jobs that I went after, post the aforementioned job loss, were awarded to a younger person with far less experience than I had. Why? Because they would work for 30-40k less per year than I would. I can tell you that I wish I hadn't left the State. I should have stuck it out and moved up the ladder. Because I am now, at 49 yrs of age, looking at stability and retirement over monthly income. And frankly.....the rollercoaster ride that the private sector has become is definitely for people in their 20's & 30's! Just wait until your "experience" starts to look like a "missed bonus" for the hiring manager instead of a positive addition to the company. It happens....and it isn't fun to watch your salary decrease because of it. Anyhow, it is what it is. And I'll probably be 50 before I get back on with the State. I can only imagine how much money I lost in retirement for my mistake of leaving the State. I get it. You're young and ready to make the world your oyster. Just remember. Father time is undefeated. The second you start losing job offers to people 10-20yrs younger you might have a different take? Who knows? Either way. Good luck to you. I really mean that.
I got an interview, but it got cancelled. I e-mailed you in hopes for some clarification. I am SUPER grateful for your channel and followed/subscribed!!
Thanks for your nice explanations, I got two questions: 1. Does divorce negatively affect application, interviews, and hiring? 2. Does any arrest as a result of domestic violence negatively affect application, interviews, and hiring process? Thank you for answering these two questions
Answers in order question. 1. Divorce does not impact any parts of the hiring process. 2. Depending on the job you are applying for and if a background check is required, an arrest may impact the process. Reach out directly (kentdills@yahoo.com) if you want/need further explanation. ;-)
Quoted from one of my coaching clients after an interview prep. session: "How are you doing, coach? I'm happy to share with you that, I got the job! I will be starting soon. Thank you so much for your advice/tips. I wish you a wonderful week, Owen" This advice/information really works. Why not get started on getting that really good job with the State of California? Sooner rather than later! Coach Kent - out! ;-)
Two interviews in one week. The first interview I didn't get that question. Second interview that was the first question. I had an answer, waiting to hear right now.
I'm on my 36th interview with the state over the course of 5 months. I think it is the interviews that are tripping me up. In the past I have interviewed really well for some reason I am struggling now. I've also gotten some odd questions and feedback that has thrown me off during interviews.
The good news is that you absolutely know - out of all the steps in a rather lengthy State of California hiring process - where your "issue" is. It's the interview! So, I recommend you contact me at CaliJobCoach@outlook.com and ask for a 30 minute 1:1 coaching session focused on "troubleshooting". Hope this helps! Best, Kent
Kind of checking back with you since my last post. I've just completed my 12th interview out of 50 applications. And that's just since June of this year. Two out of the 12 interviews actually went pretty well where it felt like my answers fit the questions. First it's because I did prep by reading the duty statement fully topped to bottom. Second thing I did is I put the duty statement into a context of possible questions so I could come up with an answer that would fit. With both of those interviews we actually went overtime which I'm surprised they allowed it. These were scheduled for 1 hour each and each lasted an hour 20 minutes. All I can assume is they like what I was saying and they wanted to hear more. Otherwise they could have easily interrupted me and cut it short on my responses. I just had and interview that I did yesterday where I tried to get some clarification on something I wasn't clear about in the duty statement so I can give them a better answer and they cut me off and rushed me through and said stick to vthe questions where limited on time we have other applicants to interview. So basically they rushed me through it. To add to that he was supposed to be a 1 hour interview and they cut it short by 10 minutes. I'll take that as a flag that it's not a place I would want to work for based off of that. Also I'm finding in general there's a lot of hiring managers that are quirky. Maybe they're just having a bad day. Understandable. But you also have a job to do and you need to be a professional attitude but you do it. I was not impressed. Another one did a bait and switch on the position I was believing I was interviewing for based off the duty statement to find out it wasn't that at all but yet they share the same JC number. I found out from other managers that is not allowable for them to do that. Also they didn't like my questions at the end that I pulled out to ask. Basic questions like reasonable time to learn the position during the probation, what kind of training I would receive, dress code, is there a crunch time for any part of the year. No matter what these hiring managers do which has been horribly wrong on so many levels. I just write them off as another place I probably don't want to work at. So them not selecting me just did me a favor.
@@calistatejobcoachI wanted to know how important the time frame they give you for whole interview. I just completed two interviews where I was told the alotted time. I answered their questions but didn't ramble on and on and completed the interview in half the time they allowed. Is that a bad thing?
@@dbrite7357 It's only a bad thing to finish early if you didn't fully answer the interviewers' questions. If you did, don't worry about it. You'll know if you did well if you get a call 1 to 3 weeks after the interview where you're invited to a second level interview or where the Hiring Manager is making you a "conditional" offer. Good luck!
All 2nd level interviews are very unique. No standard way to prepare except as follows: 1. Get there or sign on early, and 2. Get a good night's sleep the night before. Take comfort in the fact you did well enough on the first interview to get invited to the second. Good luck.
I commented last time on this regarding people trying to figure out how to rise up from the ashes after not passing their probation where it was a set up to fail situation from day one. As far as the ratio goes my ratio used to be for every 20 applications I would get five interviews and I would land one position from that group. Now it's more difficult. Same kind of positions, but my ratio has changed to 40 applications and I've only had nine interviews and zero results. I tried to do the best I can to answer the questions. Apparently both approaches have not worked with the question they ask about dealing with a difficult employee or difficult customer. There's two ways you could approach that. One would be to not engage and just report and let management deal with it. Sometimes it doesn't always work that way where you try to not engage with the confrontational person. So I gave examples of what to do once it happens and how you try to diffuse. I've also tried to do the observe and report method. Apparently that doesn't score high either. I also get the feeling that I'm being beaten out by younger people, student aids that have college degrees. I've been with the state of California for 8 years and I've been working in the private sector since I was 16 years old. I have much more experience than most of these college grads. But a college degree is a weighted thing on the application as well as the job interview. Personally I don't think it should count if the job doesn't require a college degree. But that's just my opinion. I'm not trying to punish success. But a lot of people don't have college degrees and they're all in their 40s and '50s now finding that working in state service is a much better place to go. And they have more practical experience in the workplace too. But they're being out done by college grads. My managers have all told me that I should be applying for SSA, AGPA, and because they saw that I have leadership skills and analytical skills. They said I should be applying for an entry-level position as an SSM. Trying to secure even a PT2 or OT position is becoming problematic. Problem is the college grads get picked first. Reason why is because while they're attending school they get to do analytical work automatically as a student aid. So they gain experience. Once they graduate they get scooped up and they land SSA positions and AGPA positions right out of the starting gate. How do you compete with that or is it even possible?
You don't need to be a college graduate to land AGPA or Staff Services Manager (SSM) I, II, or III positions. I worked for a SSM III at Dept. of General Services who was not a college grad. You simply need any combination of 7 years education and/or experience to qualify for AGPA. That could mean all 7 years experience and no college. To be fair, folks with some college and/or college degrees GENERALLY are better writers and therefore do better on Statements of Qualifications (SOQs). This means they get invited to more interviews. More interviews means better chance of receiving offers. All that said, it sounds like you're landing the interviews. So, I can help you do better to prepare for and execute in the interview setting. That should land you some offers. Email me at kentdills@yahoo.com if you want help. ;-)
Need to do a video on how pass probation and how to move forward when a probation does work out. I know a few that were rank and file as well as managers that didn't pass their probation and the entire time while there they was "gaslighting" or manipulated to the point where working for the state feels like working in the private sector. Even in state employment people are people. But it's not something a person would think they would experience given all the checks and balances that are in place to protect state employees from that toxicity. But it still exists. I've learned to navigate through it because of my previous private sector experience. But people come in and experience this in a state job, they become disenchanted and is one of the key reasons why some people leave state service and go back to the private sector. To them it wasn't worth fighting for.
Although helping folks in getting a job with the State of California IS my primary for this channel; I will consider your recommendation for future videos. Thanks for your input! ;-)
I interviewed for a state position on 10/31 and was told they were making a decision this week. I emailed today to ask status and was told it got delayed to next week and they will let all candidates know. I know they checked my references the day after the interview but they did say they had many Great applicants and it was going to be difficult to choose. The anticipation is killing me.
What is your experience when transferring within the department once hired? From example if you get hired and come across another position that grabs your attention.
Transferring after a short term is a case-by-case basis. Transferring because you find a job that enables you to get a promotion is no problem at all and encouraged! ;-)
I have an interview scheduled for a week from today for an AA1 position. I have 14 year’s administrative experience, 5 of which was as an executive assistant. I’ve watched all your videos and found the information very helpful. Since the application process can be very lengthy, I have not notified my superiors at my current company. If the state calls my current employer would it be looked down upon that I have not notified them?
Hi Kent! Thank you so much for sharing these videos-they’ve been incredibly helpful! I recently received a tentative offer, but I’ve also been invited to interview for other positions. I’m unsure whether I should turn those down or move forward with the interviews. Would accepting the interviews come across as unprofessional? Some people around me suggest not declining interviews until I’ve received a formal contract from HR. Can you please advise me on this?
Which department and what classification apply? Are the interviews for positions with the same classification? Or are they for higher (read, more pay) classifications? Answers to these questions might effect the decision making process. That said, I'd guess that about 19/20 (95%) of tentative offers become final (or unconditional). So, if the interviews are not for higher paying positions, and are not for more desirable departments (in your mind not mine); then I might cancel the other interviews if I was you. Save yourself and those Hring Managers the trouble. Hope this makes sense! Thanks for your kind words!! ;-)
Hello! I have an interview with the State this upcoming week, one portion of the interview requires a "written exercise", generally how should I prep for this portion of the interview process? Thank you in advance!
Thank you for all your help. I have been interviewing for 8 months. Been to about 6 interviews. I have always gotten any job I ever wanted or interviewed for. I don't know what I am doing wrong. I have an interview in a few hours. I hope I get this job. I have about a ten to one ratio also but I have zero offers..I have owned my own business for 15'years.. I think they think I am not qualified because I don't have a recent past supervisor. How do I fix that? Anyway.. Thank you.. And happy Mexican Retirement! A slice of heaven!
Kent, do you cover anything on how to get another job back with the California State after you have been terminated? I worked for one CA state agency full time for 16-1/2 years (14.7 yrs credited state service) and I was let go for going AWOL in August 2021. I would really like to get re-hired with another State agency and make it to at least 20 years credited service. I have been applying to multiple agency state jobs like crazy in my new county of residence, but have had no luck yet. I am even applying to the entry level positions. Any advice?
Since picking a candidate is supposed to be "quantitative". How does it work if one applies for a job that is hiring for multiple positions, got interview, but didn't get selected for a position. Then the very same job gets reposted again "for better candidate pool"? Does that mean there is a minimum score a candidate must meet to get an offer?
Loving your videos. After interview, if references called I would assume a good sign. But how long potentially before offer and is that the next step in the hiring process if you are selected?
References called is usually you’re in the “Top 3” of interviewees. Usually takes a week (sometimes two) to hear you’re either invited to a second level interview and/or you are given a conditional/“soft” offer. Hope this helps! ;-)
Do any of the interview questions ask the reason for leaving a position ? I have gaps in my resume due to taking time off to prioritize my family. I'm not sure how to make a positive response about such an unfortunate time. I worked as a Medical Assistant for three months loved the doctor, office, and patients. However the management and staff did not meet the professionalism I was quiet use to and made it very uncomfortable as a work setting. Questions like this brings up so much emotions.
Hi Kent. Thx for your vids. Interviews are my cryptonite. I do my and practicing then when it's crunch time I bomb. I have three degrees but its useless if I freeze up. I've tried positive thinking, practice, etc. Idk what to do.
Email me (kentdills@yahoo.com) for an "Interview Prep" consultation and I can help prep you to the point you are less worried or anxious during the interview!
Welcome to Chapala! Hometown is 60 mins driving, hope you're enjoying you retirement. I've doing professional cooking on industrial kitchen for over 10 years and now I'm finally getting a bachelor's degree in business administration, is there any key points that can reinforce my probabilities to get a job out of the grills? Thank you!
Hi kent i've been watching your video lately I passed the caltrans electrician 1 exam and I submitted my job application , and waiting for response , to move forward should I review the duty statements, statement of Qualification, Minimum Qualification , and Desirable Qualification?
Thank you coach Kent for the Excellent video , I agree with you on that question which is common on all SOQ , STAR is a good to rehearse on all interviews.
I'm not familiar with CA.Gov. I highly recommend using calcareers.ca.gov/ to search for job/careers with the State of California. It's an easy to use interface and if you "drill down" on the job postings, they do list the actual physical location of the applicable job. Hope this helps! ;-)
Hi Coach, are you still giving tips and help for interviews? I have an interview for legal secretary for state of California. I am nervous about the interview but confident in my skill set.
Are interviews typically conducted after a job position closes? Because I applied for the Tax Auditor job position when it first opened and the posting just closed yesterday.
Yes, at the Final Filing Date, the job closes for receiving applications. Then the Hiring Manager reviews all the appications and invites 6, 8, or 10 people (the "best" applicants) to interview. it can take 1, 2, or 3 weeks after the Final Filing Date to get called for an invite. I've seen it as many as 4 weeks after to. Just depends on Hiring Manager's and HR's workload, etc.
@@acielzoubi811 Most of the time you'll be invited for the interview via phone call because it's easier to agree on a day & time that way. Sometimes (and way less frequently) you'll be invited via email though. Hope this helps! ;-)
Should you ask any questions at the end of the state job interview and if so what to ask? I heard from other job coaches like Ken Mandler not to ask questions at the end of the interview.
I always liked getting questions at the end of the interview from the interviewees. Especially if they were smart questions. It showed they were engaged and inquisitive. ;-)
Thank you for all this information! I am now getting interviews but no offers! 😢 i have done 7 interviews, anyway i can ask you detail questions or ask for more help? I would appreciate it.
Michelle, I offer "Interview Prep." coaching that has resulted in many of my clients receiving offers. Watch my Success Story videos. If you want that type of help - email me at kentdills@yahoo.com! ;-)
This is the second time I have watched this video. There is some great stuff in here. Interesting though, when I applied for the AGPA position, there was NOT 1 question related to the duty statement, SOQs, or why I feel I am the best person for the job. I have now applied for an SSM II position and hope to get a call to schedule an interview this week. I'm prepping now. Thanks again.
Very interesting @steverice595, how many AGPA interviews did you go on. Just wondering the size of your sample. Besides my own experience (which I absolutely draw on), my coaching clients tell me they get asked the type of questions stated ALL THE TIME. If I were prepping for an interview, I'd go with anticipating those types of questions! But thanks for your input!! Good luck on your SSM II hunting! ;-)
Glad I came across your channel. I had an interview two weeks ago and a few days after my interview I received an email from an analyst stating that my application was submitted for verification of the minimum qualifications and I needed to submit my transcripts. I did ask the analyst if she can tell me after her review, if my application did meet the minimum qualifications, but I got a simple response.. “we are still in the recruitment process.” So, now I’m just waiting. 🙏🏻 Any advice?
@marthamartin1986, it seems that you were rated in the "Top 3" of interviewees and the Hiring Manager asked HR to "run you MQs" which means, as you stated, the HR staff were verifying your eligibility for the classification you interviewed for. So, you're on a short list and maybe receiving an offer soon. You could just wait and see; but, I always advise my coaching clients to take action. Continue applying and interviewing until you receive one or more offers. Hope this helps! Good luck in your efforts! ;-)
Thanks for the work you’ve done here. It’s been very helpful. I’ve applied for nearly 40 positions throughout the state and have already been interviewed at two offices. One office gave me a take-home essay question and asked me to submit it that evening. It led to a 2nd interview, which seemed to go well, but I haven’t received any offers. It’s been 3 weeks. After interviewing, both offices reached out for references. I interview with the 3 office next week. Fingers are crossed. I’m assuming the interviews went well and they liked me, but I’m so use to being offered the position before leaving the interview, that this process shattered my ego a bit 🤣😂 I’m told that there is a probation period. Do you know the duration?
Probation periods vary in length by classification. For lower level positions, it's usually 6 months. For higher level positions, it's usually 12 months. Note: The vast majority of folks (90-95% is my guesstimate) pass probation.
So I had an exam interview for the city . For Service maintenance worker- solid waste . I barely passed with a 71 . I have another interview Thursday for service maintenance worker - street position . It was 7 questions . My Question is do you think I need a lot more work . To get 100. I believe I fail at these questions: I'm at supervisor for 10 years . But this job I was about to start had unsafe conditions. What would I do? My answer: I'll just shut the job down because safety comes first . I believe there was a lot more I needed to cover. Another was A difficult employee is hard to work with. How would I handle this situation. Answer: I'll just go talk to the supervisor. Because someone people react differently when confronted. I thought about the question after . I believe I should of pulled the employee to the side talk with him and try to find a solution to the problem. The last question : why should we hire you?what makes you the best candidate for the position?why should we hire you? Answer: I want to give back to the city I was born in. I also have my class A license. I have experience wiith tractor ,water truck , dump truck . I dropped the ball big time . Do you think they will ask the same questions. What about questions What's your greatest weakness? What's your strength?
Hi Kent, thank you so much for the videos. I have second interview scheduled with the same people from the first one. What are the steps afterwards? And is it usual to have a second round?
Hi Ken! I just got an interview with the state and I’m super excited! I was wondering - at what point does the employer verify employment based on your resume? Thanks 😊
Good question! In my experience as a Hiring Manager, employment verifications are only done for folks who are ID'ed as in the "top 3" of those select 6, 8, 10 folks who get interviewed. The top 3 interviewees all have their Minimum Qualifications checked (including employment verification) by HR when the Hiring Manager gives them his/her list of the "top 3" after all the interviews are done. Hope this helps! ; -)
If using education as my minimum qualification, do I need to have official transcripts ready for a HR ? Thanks Kent for the tips I got an interview this Friday.
Yes, if using education as basis for minimum qualification, you need to have proof of that education. Usually they ask for the whole transcript(s); but, sometimes they'll settle for a copy of your degree. Just follow their direction and comply. Hope this helps! Best of luck on your interview!
I have a job interview for LPA position for committee Care licensing. This is the second interview in a different city. What can I look forward in answering correctly?
Justdre__, I'd be happy to support you with some 1-on-1 coaching. Please send an email to me at kentdills@yahoo.com for next steps. Coach Kent - out! ;-)
Love your videos thank you they are helpful! I have ranked number 2 for a current state position with a base score of 90 what do you think my chances of interviewing are? What does departmental opening mean?
Your score (90) and ranking (2) will help when it comes time for the Hiring Manager asks their HR contact to validate you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the job. This normally happens after you apply and interview so well that you're ranked as "Top 3" by the Hiring Manager. No sure of the context of "departmental opening" and can't address. Please be more specific. Hope this helps! ;-)
Hana Totah, thanks for the question. My experience (from the applying and the hiring sides) is that it usually takes at least 2 weeks after the job closes for the interviews to get scheduled. This is why I would wait until a day or two before job postings closed before submitting my application - I really didn't like the wait afterwards. That said, because job postings can get 50 to 100 applications, it can take longer (for example, 3 or 4 weeks) before interviews are scheduled. Hope this helps. Coach Kent - out! ;-)
Hi coach Kent, I had an interview on 08/30/23 for ITS 1 position test lead. There were about 9 questions mostly framed from the DQ statement. I was able to answer only 8. The panel said that if cleared, there would be a second round. Usually how long is the time frame? Will second round too be with techno behavioral questions. Thanks.
Average is about a week between first and second round of interviews. Second round varies from: 1. More techno behaviour questions, to 2. informal "getting to know you" type questions, to 3. some sort of project-based exercise to see how the 3 finalists work together (or not) as a team. Hope this helps. Best of luck!! ;-)
Thank you this video. I look forward to watching other videos. How do I get in touch with you for a one on one? This would be for my brother and I would pay for it.
Hi Coach Kent, I emailed twice to inquire about your one on one coaching. Haven't received any reply yet. Am sure you receive lots of inquires. I would love to get one on one coaching from u for upcoming interview I have with the State. Pls let me know best way to get a hold of u. Thank you!!
Please check the spelling on your email. My email is kentdills@yahoo.com. Better yet, give me your email and I'll email you with my coaching details ASAP. I do receive lots of inquiries but I respond to each and every one! Hope this helps! ;-)
Hi. I had a recent interview for an AGPA position. I was given 3 questions with 10 minutes to answer all three. With such a limited amount of time to answer in detail using the STAR method, how should I keep my answers concise?
First, 3 questions in 10 minutes is very challenging. Normally you get about 50 minutes to answer about 6 questions. That's when the STAR method works great. Second, It seems conciseness versus thoroughness was the goal. for this interview so I would not use STAR. I would shift focus to specifically answering the questions given as concisely as possible. Make sure to address all points of a multi-point question though so you get the max credit/score for the question. Lastly, I hope this helps. Good luck in your process!! ;-)
if the interview is for research data analyst and the desirable qualification is SQL and SPSS (technical) do they ask real life technical questions or does it include all behavioral questions? like telling them how I am experienced on technical things?
Hi! Question: does California state monitor employees lunch and breaks? For example, do you have to keep your computer idle for X amount of time to be considered “on the clock”? I know with the federal government, they can tell how long you were inactive on your computer 😐
Two things in response: 1. I never did this with my staff nor do I know any other Managers/Supervisors who did, and 2. I don't think the State has the time or resources to execute this type of micro-management. Wondering, why do you ask this question?
@@calistatejobcoach because I know federal employees are monitored this way. Are we able to negotiate salary with the state or are you automatically placed at the bottom of the pay grade?
@@justinejackson1409 , it depends on the classification you're hired into. email me for 15 minute 1-on-1 coaching for more details if you'd like. ;-) kentdills@yahoo.com
Thank you so much for these videos, they have been immensely helpful to me! When I am taking the exam, am I allowed to put unpaid volunteer positions for references within the employment history?
Grant Srun, Thanks for the positive feedback. Glad to be of service. As to your question - you can use unpaid volunteer time for accumulated experience time and for references. Good luck on your exams! Coach Kent - out! ;-)
I just got a new position at Dsh I’ve been processed start work soon. I have went on at least a dozen interviews before I landed a position.I did get discouraged however because it seemed to take months before I got a call back. I am personally very impatient tho 😂. Your advice is great. I tend to almost always bomb Interviews due to being nervous.
mimi j, Thanks for the positive feedback. Hopefully the video helps people prepare for interviews and - in so doing - decreases the anxiety/nerves. Coach Kent - out! ;-)
What are your thoughts on the chances that a newly college graduate will get hired. I understand that position and experience comes into play but generally how often do new college graduates get hired?
New grads are frequently hired. Especially if they have some kind of job related experience gained from school projects, volunteer/non-profit work, previous jobs and/or part-time jobs, etc.
My tips don't change based on face-to-face or online interview. Stick to the basics. Do the required homework/study and get there early in case they let you see the interview questions in advance. If you need more help please reach out for 1-on-1 coaching. It's reasonably inexpensive and very effective! IMHO of course! ;-)
Any question that shows you are genuinely engaged/interested and that is related to the Job Posting and/or Duty Statement is a good one to ask. Hope that helps.
Hello, for the pharmacist position in correction facilities, what kind of questions i should expect? Is it in the medications and technical questions or behavioral questions? Thank you in advance.
@@totarezk5591, the behavioral questions will be directly related to the SOQ (if one was required), the Desirable Qualifications listed in the Job Posting, and the Essential Functions listed in the Duty Statement. If you'd like some 1:1 Interview Prep coaching, send me an email (kentdills@yahoo.com). ;-)
I did the interview today, it was hard, no soft offer, I had clinical questions I have never seen in my entire life, really confusing and I even looked the information up in the clinical resources, there are different clinical opinions. How can I know that I did good?
Hello Coach Kent. I had interviewd for a state job about two weeks ago. Yesterday my boss received a call from the department that I applied for asking to speak to my boss because she was a reference on my application. Do you think that’s a good sign that I got the job!!?
It's either a good sign (you're in the "top 3" of the interviewees) or a very good sign (you're the "top candidate" and will soon be getting an offer). You'll have to wait a day or two to find out! Good luck!!! ;-)
Diane Clifton, the answer is to rehearse before the interview a couple projects or assignments you've successfully been assigned and completed. You're actually ahead of the game in the fact that you know this has been a recurring question. So practice using the STAR format. Example: 1. Situation: I was part of a team that did a front-end analysis at Exxon Mobil to assess and determine their training strategy needed to successfully implement the SAP enterprise resource planning suite of software in 2003, 2004. 2. Task: At the end of the front-end analysis, I was given the task of managing the $6 million training project for the company I worked for at the time. 3. Actions: As the Project Manager, I developed a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) to include all project tasks and sub-tasks, a Staffing Plan to ensure adequate human capital to carryout the WBS, a Project Budget to support the Staffing Plan and WBS, etc. 4. Results: Given the successful execution of the project, we (I, my team, Exxon Mobil resources, etc.) successfully implemented SAP across the newly merged company throughout the entire United States. This successful implementation served as the model for further Exxon Mobil implementations across the Americas and Europe. Sorry for the long response. I hope this helps. Practice, practice, practice. Until the point it's almost second nature. Good luck!
how long after I have had a panel interview, would I know if I get the job or totally blew it? Had some interviews 2 weeks ago and no word back and references not contacted.
In most cases (about 90% I'd estimate), if you haven't heard anything for 2 weeks (including whether or not your references are being checked), then you probably didn't make the Top 3 interviewees and you won't be notified either. That's just the way it is. Keep applying and interviewing. Don't give up! It's worth it in the end! ;-)
Hi Kent. Thanks for the video. It was helpful .I have one interview in 1 day and have received a assessment link for another Position as well . I was late to find your video . And lloks like i am on a time crunch. I just wanted to ask one thing. Will state of California offer employment to international students?. Or people in stem opt ?. Thank you in advance
Nice try - getting me to answer this for you! ;=) Problem is, I can't do that becuase I don't know how your knowledge, skills, experience, and education (KSEE) fit with this particular job. This requires you to read the job description in the Job Posting, the Duty Statement, and the Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) and then create a narrative decribing how your KSEE makes you a good fit for the specific job. It requires some analytical thinking and some writing skill. That's why it's a great interview question and/or SOQ response item. This should help get you started. Hope it helps! Good luck!!
I dont know if anybody asked this question but is the state open to pay negotiation? If so, whats your advice on it in order to effectively and better chance at negotiating the pay? Thank you in advance :)
First, watch my video on "How Much Is The Pay". Second, I can go deeper but this is not the proper forum for that. If you'd like some coaching, you can reach me at kentdills@yahoo.com.
Yep. For the "top 3". Can be any of the following: 1. Informal discussion. 2. A project exercise completed by the "top 3" with a debrief at the end. 3. A follow-up to the 1st interview with more related questions. My recommendation is to prep for scenario 3 and that should prepare you for any of the 3 possibilities. Hope this helps! Kent
Since this isn't a regular corporate job what are good questions to ask the employer. I had an interview and they asked if I had questions and one panelists said didn't you read the job duty statement 😮
I suggest asking questions directly related to the Duty Statement and Desireable Qualifications. Shows the interview panel you did read them and are interested in learning more. Can’t go wrong there! Good luck with your interviewing! ;-)
To give you an idea of my time frame - I applied for a State job on Feb 16, Job Closed on Mar 6, 2023, Heard back to set interview on 3/29, interviewed on April 3, 2023, No 2nd Interview. They called my References on April 14th and sent to HR for Minimum Qualification check. HR contacted Hiring Mgr on 4/28 and she contacted me that they were offering me the job and would be forwarding the Offer Letter on 5/1. So total time between job closed date and notified that I was being hired was one week shy of 2 months. And remember this was without a 2nd interview which most places do. In between all of these stages Kent was an amazing help. While waiting for certain steps to get completed there really isn't much you can do but pray. There was one moment when HR emailed me to ask for a clarification of my experience. Other than that, things went pretty smoothly. Kent was always there to encourage me and answer any questions I had. He's terrific !!!
Congrats! That’s amazing
This is really good information, though it makes me feel worse about my situation. I have been interviewing for the last 3 months pretty intensely, I've gotten to the stage where they check my minimum qualifications (apparently a bachelor's from one of the top business schools on the planet isn't enough because it doesn't have an "accounting focus"), but never to the point where they contact my references. But I'm still pushing.
State of Connecticut.
Applied for job
Closed 2 weeks later
Got an email to fill out a second form asking for more information
Apx 1 month later get a request to interview.
Only 1 interview.
Apx 1-1/2 months later I get a job offer
Took another 6 weeks to complete all the requirements.
Then about 2 weeks later i get my offer letter.
So apx 5 months from application to hire date
this helps me so much I have an interview coming up now and I am preparing like crazy. I listen o this video everyday all day. I even wrote out lots of notes for the interview to place behind my computer so I can remember and read.
@@jrc07305Remeber to have a light source behind your computer aimed at you. A ring light works well. I do not have one so I used my desk lamp on low. I aimed it above my head so I got some light but not enough to be harsh or drown my face out.
Thanks so much for your videos. After 13 interviews with the state, I finally got a job offer to start 8/30/2024. Your videos really helped me understand the applying and hiring process of the state.
@@bettyeboop2942 Appreciate the feedback. Mission accomplished - yours and mine! :-)
Wow, 13 interviews over what timeframe might I ask? Congratulations 🎊🎉🎈🍾
@KennitaColeman The interviews started in January of this year. The job I got offered the interview was at the end of May, and I had to do a tie breaker to get this position. So it took almost 2 months to get the offer.
Your videos are so informational. I have similar experience too, great SOQs, complete applications, well prepared interviews helped me to get 5 offers at the same time couple years ago. Totally agree with you the first questions sets the standards. Prepare ahead of different scenario answers from your past experiences. I am a current manager for State of California, you have been covering very detailed information in from start to finish hiring process. Highly recommending this channel. Wear confidence and present yourself professional. My goal is to become a Chief or CEA level position. Interviewed, reference checked and no offer stage :(
Thanks for the validation and feedback from a State of California manager. Best of luck on your pursuit of a Chief or CEA level position! As you know, the more times you apply and interview, the better your chances of success! ;-)
I have applied for about 45 jobs. I have done 4 interviews so far and have 2 tomorrow and 1 on Monday. I am watching this video again to get some extra help. I am so nervous. I will practice today.
Did u get job?
Thank you for these tips. They are consistent with the tips of another hiring manager I know as well as all the state employees I know of.
This year, 2024:
Submitted 16 applications.
Received 4 interviews.
Landed an offer.
Received a 5th interview after I accepted the previous offer.
Here’s the timeline for the job I’m taking:
08/12/24: Submitted application.
08/18/24: Final file date.
09/30/24: Interviewed.
10/07/24: Tentative offer. Contingent on background check.
10/28/24: My first day working.
Watching this on Christmas Eve. I have an interview tomorrow. Thank you for the advices.
I did coaching with Kent for an interview I had last Friday, and I was offered the job today! Coaching with Kent was super helpful as you will get some inside tips on how interviews are conducted with the state. Thank you for your help and for the wonderful and informative videos, Kent!
Thank you for mentioning your ratio of applications to interview invitations. This really put things into perspective and creates a better sense of reality. Knowing that it happens to everyone and some things are simply out of your hands gives me the motivation to keep trying.
for me, I have submitted 100+ applications for ITS roles and so far called for 2 interviews but state takes time to reply after the FFD so I am hopeful to be invited to more interviews to improve my chances of landing a state job.
@@GuitarsAndSynths Thanks for sharing. 100+ apps for just 2 interviews? Guess I have a long ways to go. Can you provide some pointers or hints on how the IT interviews are structured?
500 applications to get 30 interviews is the ratio I am seeing right now. Usually it takes me 10-30 interviews to land a single offer even if you prep.
@@GuitarsAndSynths Those are some pretty crazy statistics and quite exhausting.
I find that electric application / using CalCareers site vs paper and post mail speeds up the app process big time so don't get discouraged @@yiaxiong7864
The 1-on-1 coaching I did with Coach Kent helped me immensely with all of the following:
1. The pros and cons of accepting my first position with the State of California at a lower level,
2. The culture within the State of accepting jobs but continuing to apply for higher level jobs,
3. The “best practices” around completing the Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) required for the better jobs,
4. Pros and cons of accepting jobs not within my preferred geographical location
I am grateful for Coach Kent and the expertise he has to offer. 🙏
Glad I could be of assistance sir! Good luck on your interviews this week!! Coach Kent - out. ;-)
How to get your 1 on 1 assistance coach Kent ?.
im looking to be way overprepared so thank you
While just watching this vid, your advice sounds pretty solid.
I had an interview recently and fortunately what i did was aligned similar to your suggestions. There's been many years since i've had an interview so was a little nervous but i believe i did well. Its been about 3 weeks from closing date to my interview so seems on track with your time frame. Expecting a message within a few days.
Excellent video thank you.
Hello Sir, I want to thank you very much for all of your advice. i just got a conditional job offer for the EDD. this is going to be my first state job. i can't wait to start. your videos helped me so much. hope you are well. thanks again.
renagadebilly2007,
First, so glad I played a part in you getting started with your career with the State of California. My hopes and prayers are for a long, productive one.
Second, thanks so much for taking the time and making the effort to come back to one of the videos (that may have helped) and making this positive comment. It's nice for the encourager to be encouraged too! Your comment made my day!! Coach Kent - out! ;-)
This is helpful. I finally have an interview after applying for about 2 months. Im excited. I was starting to think it was a dead end like most of the tech jobs ive been applying to. But glad i finally got an interview!! Thanks for your help.
Hello Coach Kent - the videos that you have created, relating to State of California jobs is invaluable. I have watched all your videos and can't thank you enough for how helpful it has been. You're doing great work and helping so many Californians :) I will be reaching out to for some one-on-ones as well.
Appreciate the positive feedback! TY ;-)
Thank you so much for all of the wonderful preparation advice. Your video is incredibly informational and helpful. I have an interview on Monday that I have been prepping for this week. I was already doing some of the things you mentioned here, but what I really liked about your video is it has reassured and given me a much needed confidence boost. I am incredibly excited for this position and I hope that comes through in the interview as well. Thank you for all of your help and for kindly sharing this information with us.
Thank you so much! I have an AGPA interview tomorrow and I’m terrible at interviews. This really helps!
Glad to be of service! Thanks for the feedback. Best of luck on your interview! Coach Kent - out! ;-)
Just want to update that I received an official offer! Thank you, truly! Coffee cheers
@@jenv88 how long did it take from the interview until job offer?
@jenv88 , can you share if you had a prior experience in state to apply for AGPA ? I have 4 years bachelor's degree and 2 years experience.
Got 2 interviews for the state in the upcoming weeks. Appreciate the tips coach Kent.
Solomon, Glad to be of service. Best of luck on your interviews! Prep as recommended and you'll do fine! Coach Kent, out! ;-)
Hi there I have been offered in interview. Scheduler said they will send the interview questions 20min before interview appt. It's interesting.
Best of luck!
I followed your advice and got an offer for an agpa position, but the pay was way too low. 😬 i did a little more research and calculated my take home, and it was a bigger pay cut than i had expected. I also read about how most state workers are struggling to make ends meet so I rescinded my acceptance, but definitely a great gig if you’re married or partnered and are working to supplement your household income.
I respect your decision. It's absolutely a personal data point. Take home pay isn't the biggest factor in many people's decision making process. It wasn't in mine. Promotional opportunities, retirement plan, medical & dental insurance, etc., usually play a big part. They did for me. Best of luck to you though! ;-)
I left the State going on 10 yrs now. I had landed an entry level position with CDCR as an Office Technician. I got this job through a CA Job Coach (Not Kent). This position was way below my experience. And it paid a very low wage. I left that position, after just 6 months, because of a private sector job offer that was 4 times the pay. I wasn't even looking. It came through a friend of mine. I have a couple of decades of Construction Project Management experience so, of course, I left the State for a PM gig. That job lasted all of a year and a half and most of the private sector jobs that I went after, post the aforementioned job loss, were awarded to a younger person with far less experience than I had. Why? Because they would work for 30-40k less per year than I would.
I can tell you that I wish I hadn't left the State. I should have stuck it out and moved up the ladder. Because I am now, at 49 yrs of age, looking at stability and retirement over monthly income. And frankly.....the rollercoaster ride that the private sector has become is definitely for people in their 20's & 30's! Just wait until your "experience" starts to look like a "missed bonus" for the hiring manager instead of a positive addition to the company. It happens....and it isn't fun to watch your salary decrease because of it.
Anyhow, it is what it is. And I'll probably be 50 before I get back on with the State. I can only imagine how much money I lost in retirement for my mistake of leaving the State.
I get it. You're young and ready to make the world your oyster. Just remember. Father time is undefeated. The second you start losing job offers to people 10-20yrs younger you might have a different take? Who knows? Either way. Good luck to you. I really mean that.
I got an interview, but it got cancelled. I e-mailed you in hopes for some clarification. I am SUPER grateful for your channel and followed/subscribed!!
Thanks for your nice explanations,
I got two questions:
1. Does divorce negatively affect application, interviews, and hiring?
2. Does any arrest as a result of domestic violence negatively affect application, interviews, and hiring process?
Thank you for answering these two questions
Answers in order question. 1. Divorce does not impact any parts of the hiring process. 2. Depending on the job you are applying for and if a background check is required, an arrest may impact the process. Reach out directly (kentdills@yahoo.com) if you want/need further explanation. ;-)
Quoted from one of my coaching clients after an interview prep. session:
"How are you doing, coach?
I'm happy to share with you that, I got the job! I will be starting soon. Thank you so much for your advice/tips.
I wish you a wonderful week,
Owen"
This advice/information really works. Why not get started on getting that really good job with the State of California? Sooner rather than later!
Coach Kent - out! ;-)
Two interviews in one week. The first interview I didn't get that question. Second interview that was the first question. I had an answer, waiting to hear right now.
I'm on my 36th interview with the state over the course of 5 months. I think it is the interviews that are tripping me up. In the past I have interviewed really well for some reason I am struggling now. I've also gotten some odd questions and feedback that has thrown me off during interviews.
The good news is that you absolutely know - out of all the steps in a rather lengthy State of California hiring process - where your "issue" is. It's the interview! So, I recommend you contact me at CaliJobCoach@outlook.com and ask for a 30 minute 1:1 coaching session focused on "troubleshooting". Hope this helps! Best, Kent
Kind of checking back with you since my last post. I've just completed my 12th interview out of 50 applications. And that's just since June of this year. Two out of the 12 interviews actually went pretty well where it felt like my answers fit the questions. First it's because I did prep by reading the duty statement fully topped to bottom. Second thing I did is I put the duty statement into a context of possible questions so I could come up with an answer that would fit. With both of those interviews we actually went overtime which I'm surprised they allowed it. These were scheduled for 1 hour each and each lasted an hour 20 minutes. All I can assume is they like what I was saying and they wanted to hear more. Otherwise they could have easily interrupted me and cut it short on my responses. I just had and interview that I did yesterday where I tried to get some clarification on something I wasn't clear about in the duty statement so I can give them a better answer and they cut me off and rushed me through and said stick to vthe questions where limited on time we have other applicants to interview. So basically they rushed me through it. To add to that he was supposed to be a 1 hour interview and they cut it short by 10 minutes. I'll take that as a flag that it's not a place I would want to work for based off of that. Also I'm finding in general there's a lot of hiring managers that are quirky. Maybe they're just having a bad day. Understandable. But you also have a job to do and you need to be a professional attitude but you do it. I was not impressed. Another one did a bait and switch on the position I was believing I was interviewing for based off the duty statement to find out it wasn't that at all but yet they share the same JC number. I found out from other managers that is not allowable for them to do that. Also they didn't like my questions at the end that I pulled out to ask. Basic questions like reasonable time to learn the position during the probation, what kind of training I would receive, dress code, is there a crunch time for any part of the year.
No matter what these hiring managers do which has been horribly wrong on so many levels. I just write them off as another place I probably don't want to work at. So them not selecting me just did me a favor.
I just responded to your email that you sent me. Too long to include response here. Check your email. ;-)
@@calistatejobcoach will do. Thank you!
@@calistatejobcoachI wanted to know how important the time frame they give you for whole interview. I just completed two interviews where I was told the alotted time. I answered their questions but didn't ramble on and on and completed the interview in half the time they allowed. Is that a bad thing?
@@dbrite7357 It's only a bad thing to finish early if you didn't fully answer the interviewers' questions. If you did, don't worry about it. You'll know if you did well if you get a call 1 to 3 weeks after the interview where you're invited to a second level interview or where the Hiring Manager is making you a "conditional" offer. Good luck!
Thank you very much. Very useful information that help me did well on the interview. I got the job!
Good to see you back, Kent! Thanks for the new video!
any ideas on 2nd interviews and how to prepare for their "assignment" or test and what kind of questions are asked as follow up to the assignment?
All 2nd level interviews are very unique. No standard way to prepare except as follows: 1. Get there or sign on early, and 2. Get a good night's sleep the night before. Take comfort in the fact you did well enough on the first interview to get invited to the second. Good luck.
I commented last time on this regarding people trying to figure out how to rise up from the ashes after not passing their probation where it was a set up to fail situation from day one.
As far as the ratio goes my ratio used to be for every 20 applications I would get five interviews and I would land one position from that group. Now it's more difficult. Same kind of positions, but my ratio has changed to 40 applications and I've only had nine interviews and zero results. I tried to do the best I can to answer the questions. Apparently both approaches have not worked with the question they ask about dealing with a difficult employee or difficult customer. There's two ways you could approach that. One would be to not engage and just report and let management deal with it. Sometimes it doesn't always work that way where you try to not engage with the confrontational person. So I gave examples of what to do once it happens and how you try to diffuse. I've also tried to do the observe and report method. Apparently that doesn't score high either. I also get the feeling that I'm being beaten out by younger people, student aids that have college degrees.
I've been with the state of California for 8 years and I've been working in the private sector since I was 16 years old. I have much more experience than most of these college grads. But a college degree is a weighted thing on the application as well as the job interview. Personally I don't think it should count if the job doesn't require a college degree. But that's just my opinion. I'm not trying to punish success. But a lot of people don't have college degrees and they're all in their 40s and '50s now finding that working in state service is a much better place to go. And they have more practical experience in the workplace too.
But they're being out done by college grads. My managers have all told me that I should be applying for SSA, AGPA, and because they saw that I have leadership skills and analytical skills. They said I should be applying for an entry-level position as an SSM. Trying to secure even a PT2 or OT position is becoming problematic. Problem is the college grads get picked first. Reason why is because while they're attending school they get to do analytical work automatically as a student aid. So they gain experience. Once they graduate they get scooped up and they land SSA positions and AGPA positions right out of the starting gate. How do you compete with that or is it even possible?
You don't need to be a college graduate to land AGPA or Staff Services Manager (SSM) I, II, or III positions. I worked for a SSM III at Dept. of General Services who was not a college grad. You simply need any combination of 7 years education and/or experience to qualify for AGPA. That could mean all 7 years experience and no college. To be fair, folks with some college and/or college degrees GENERALLY are better writers and therefore do better on Statements of Qualifications (SOQs). This means they get invited to more interviews. More interviews means better chance of receiving offers. All that said, it sounds like you're landing the interviews. So, I can help you do better to prepare for and execute in the interview setting. That should land you some offers. Email me at kentdills@yahoo.com if you want help. ;-)
@@calistatejobcoachyou got it. I'll be reaching out to you soon.
Need to do a video on how pass probation and how to move forward when a probation does work out. I know a few that were rank and file as well as managers that didn't pass their probation and the entire time while there they was "gaslighting" or manipulated to the point where working for the state feels like working in the private sector. Even in state employment people are people.
But it's not something a person would think they would experience given all the checks and balances that are in place to protect state employees from that toxicity.
But it still exists. I've learned to navigate through it because of my previous private sector experience. But people come in and experience this in a state job, they become disenchanted and is one of the key reasons why some people leave state service and go back to the private sector.
To them it wasn't worth fighting for.
Although helping folks in getting a job with the State of California IS my primary for this channel; I will consider your recommendation for future videos. Thanks for your input! ;-)
good morning...watching another video. thanks
I interviewed for a state position on 10/31 and was told they were making a decision this week. I emailed today to ask status and was told it got delayed to next week and they will let all candidates know. I know they checked my references the day after the interview but they did say they had many Great applicants and it was going to be difficult to choose. The anticipation is killing me.
I feel for you. Sometimes it can be slow and frustrating. Hang in there though! And keep applying and interviewing until you get an offer!
What is your experience when transferring within the department once hired? From example if you get hired and come across another position that grabs your attention.
Transferring after a short term is a case-by-case basis. Transferring because you find a job that enables you to get a promotion is no problem at all and encouraged! ;-)
I have an interview scheduled for a week from today for an AA1 position. I have 14 year’s administrative experience, 5 of which was as an executive assistant. I’ve watched all your videos and found the information very helpful. Since the application process can be very lengthy, I have not notified my superiors at my current company. If the state calls my current employer would it be looked down upon that I have not notified them?
No IMHO.
I hope you got the job.
Hi Kent! Thank you so much for sharing these videos-they’ve been incredibly helpful! I recently received a tentative offer, but I’ve also been invited to interview for other positions. I’m unsure whether I should turn those down or move forward with the interviews. Would accepting the interviews come across as unprofessional? Some people around me suggest not declining interviews until I’ve received a formal contract from HR. Can you please advise me on this?
Which department and what classification apply? Are the interviews for positions with the same classification? Or are they for higher (read, more pay) classifications? Answers to these questions might effect the decision making process. That said, I'd guess that about 19/20 (95%) of tentative offers become final (or unconditional). So, if the interviews are not for higher paying positions, and are not for more desirable departments (in your mind not mine); then I might cancel the other interviews if I was you. Save yourself and those Hring Managers the trouble. Hope this makes sense! Thanks for your kind words!! ;-)
@@calistatejobcoach Got it. Thank you so much!
Hello! I have an interview with the State this upcoming week, one portion of the interview requires a "written exercise", generally how should I prep for this portion of the interview process? Thank you in advance!
@@FadekeAdekunjo Email me at CaliJobCoach@outlook.com
Great information! Definitely will share.
Hi Kent,
Great video and has lots of valuable inputs. I need some additional guidance and would like to connect in this regards. Thanks
Please send me an email (kentdills@yahoo.com) to connect. Looking forward to it! ;-)
Thank you for all your help. I have been interviewing for 8 months. Been to about 6 interviews. I have always gotten any job I ever wanted or interviewed for. I don't know what I am doing wrong. I have an interview in a few hours. I hope I get this job. I have about a ten to one ratio also but I have zero offers..I have owned my own business for 15'years.. I think they think I am not qualified because I don't have a recent past supervisor. How do I fix that? Anyway.. Thank you.. And happy Mexican Retirement! A slice of heaven!
@@CandiLayneBookout You should do a coaching session with me to troubleshoot. Email at calijobcoach.com.
Kent, do you cover anything on how to get another job back with the California State after you have been terminated? I worked for one CA state agency full time for 16-1/2 years (14.7 yrs credited state service) and I was let go for going AWOL in August 2021. I would really like to get re-hired with another State agency and make it to at least 20 years credited service. I have been applying to multiple agency state jobs like crazy in my new county of residence, but have had no luck yet. I am even applying to the entry level positions. Any advice?
Answered via direct email. Hope it’s helpful!
Extremely informational & helpful! Thank you very much!
Since picking a candidate is supposed to be "quantitative". How does it work if one applies for a job that is hiring for multiple positions, got interview, but didn't get selected for a position. Then the very same job gets reposted again "for better candidate pool"? Does that mean there is a minimum score a candidate must meet to get an offer?
Yes. To put it simply.
@@calistatejobcoach Thank you for the response.
Loving your videos. After interview, if references called I would assume a good sign. But how long potentially before offer and is that the next step in the hiring process if you are selected?
References called is usually you’re in the “Top 3” of interviewees. Usually takes a week (sometimes two) to hear you’re either invited to a second level interview and/or you are given a conditional/“soft” offer. Hope this helps! ;-)
HI, do you have any recommendations on the LACCD Written Exam?
@@CP-zj1hx , Sorry, no experience or knowledge of that exam.
Thanks for all your excellent advice!!
Glad to help! The State of California needs good workers! ;-)
Do any of the interview questions ask the reason for leaving a position ? I have gaps in my resume due to taking time off to prioritize my family. I'm not sure how to make a positive response about such an unfortunate time. I worked as a Medical Assistant for three months loved the doctor, office, and patients. However the management and staff did not meet the professionalism I was quiet use to and made it very uncomfortable as a work setting. Questions like this brings up so much emotions.
You’ll probably NEVER get asked about you work gaps. Start applying now!! :-)
Hi Kent. Thx for your vids. Interviews are my cryptonite. I do my and practicing then when it's crunch time I bomb. I have three degrees but its useless if I freeze up. I've tried positive thinking, practice, etc. Idk what to do.
Email me (kentdills@yahoo.com) for an "Interview Prep" consultation and I can help prep you to the point you are less worried or anxious during the interview!
Welcome to Chapala! Hometown is 60 mins driving, hope you're enjoying you retirement.
I've doing professional cooking on industrial kitchen for over 10 years and now I'm finally getting a bachelor's degree in business administration, is there any key points that can reinforce my probabilities to get a job out of the grills?
Thank you!
Apply. Many times. Go on interviews. A few times. You’ll get offered a job!
55 applications and 1 month later, I just received 2 interviews so far. Any advice would be helpful my friend 🙏🏼
Send me an email at CaliJobCoach@outlook.com and request a "Troubleshooting" coaching session. We'll figure this out! ;-)
Hi kent i've been watching your video lately I passed the caltrans electrician 1 exam and I submitted my job application , and waiting for response , to move forward should I review the duty statements, statement of Qualification, Minimum Qualification , and Desirable Qualification?
Yes.
Thank you for these. I am currently and AGPA, and recently submitted my application along with my SOQ for an SSM1 position.
Steve Rice, You’re most welcome & good luck! Coach Kent - out! :-)
I’m so nervous for my upcoming state interview! It’s going to be online, so maybe that will help!
Thank you coach Kent for the Excellent video , I agree with you on that question which is common on all SOQ , STAR is a good to rehearse on all interviews.
Is this for any state job? This came up as I’m searching for ideas on what to expect for Motor Vehicle Representative Exam, thanks!
Yes. My process and methods work for any/all State of California job openings. :-)
Hi Kent when I looking for Contra Costa county on CA.Gov , each opening didn't mention where is the office location? What did I do wrong ? Thank you
I'm not familiar with CA.Gov. I highly recommend using calcareers.ca.gov/ to search for job/careers with the State of California. It's an easy to use interface and if you "drill down" on the job postings, they do list the actual physical location of the applicable job. Hope this helps! ;-)
Hi Coach, are you still giving tips and help for interviews? I have an interview for legal secretary for state of California. I am nervous about the interview but confident in my skill set.
Are interviews typically conducted after a job position closes? Because I applied for the Tax Auditor job position when it first opened and the posting just closed yesterday.
Yes, at the Final Filing Date, the job closes for receiving applications. Then the Hiring Manager reviews all the appications and invites 6, 8, or 10 people (the "best" applicants) to interview. it can take 1, 2, or 3 weeks after the Final Filing Date to get called for an invite. I've seen it as many as 4 weeks after to. Just depends on Hiring Manager's and HR's workload, etc.
@@calistatejobcoach Thank you for the response. I've got one more question. If called for an interview, do they call you or just send you an email?
@@acielzoubi811 Most of the time you'll be invited for the interview via phone call because it's easier to agree on a day & time that way. Sometimes (and way less frequently) you'll be invited via email though. Hope this helps! ;-)
@@calistatejobcoach Thank you. This was helpful.
Should you ask any questions at the end of the state job interview and if so what to ask? I heard from other job coaches like Ken Mandler not to ask questions at the end of the interview.
I always liked getting questions at the end of the interview from the interviewees. Especially if they were smart questions. It showed they were engaged and inquisitive. ;-)
thank youi@@calistatejobcoach
Thanks Kent.
Thanks for all the help! 🎉
Thank you for all this information! I am now getting interviews but no offers! 😢 i have done 7 interviews, anyway i can ask you detail questions or ask for more help? I would appreciate it.
Michelle, I offer "Interview Prep." coaching that has resulted in many of my clients receiving offers. Watch my Success Story videos. If you want that type of help - email me at kentdills@yahoo.com! ;-)
This is the second time I have watched this video. There is some great stuff in here. Interesting though, when I applied for the AGPA position, there was NOT 1 question related to the duty statement, SOQs, or why I feel I am the best person for the job. I have now applied for an SSM II position and hope to get a call to schedule an interview this week. I'm prepping now. Thanks again.
Very interesting @steverice595, how many AGPA interviews did you go on. Just wondering the size of your sample. Besides my own experience (which I absolutely draw on), my coaching clients tell me they get asked the type of questions stated ALL THE TIME. If I were prepping for an interview, I'd go with anticipating those types of questions! But thanks for your input!! Good luck on your SSM II hunting! ;-)
1 and I go the job. This was about 2 years ago. They interviewed 8-10 candidates (if I remember correctly)@@calistatejobcoach
this happened to me recently and was upsetting as I failed the interview as a result.
Hey Steve, do you mind sharing questions they asked when you applied for AGPA position? It would be greatly appreciated !! Thank you!
I don't remember the exact questions. They were situation type questions :"tell us a time when you..."@@qkrrkfud112
Hello sir I would love to speak to you about my recent job hunt - please provide info on how to facilitate this please and thank you
Sonny Austin, please send me an email to kentdills@yahoo.com and I’ll try to coordinate a coaching session for us. Coach Kent - out! ;-)
Glad I came across your channel. I had an interview two weeks ago and a few days after my interview I received an email from an analyst stating that my application was submitted for verification of the minimum qualifications and I needed to submit my transcripts. I did ask the analyst if she can tell me after her review, if my application did meet the minimum qualifications, but I got a simple response.. “we are still in the recruitment process.” So, now I’m just waiting. 🙏🏻 Any advice?
@marthamartin1986, it seems that you were rated in the "Top 3" of interviewees and the Hiring Manager asked HR to "run you MQs" which means, as you stated, the HR staff were verifying your eligibility for the classification you interviewed for. So, you're on a short list and maybe receiving an offer soon. You could just wait and see; but, I always advise my coaching clients to take action. Continue applying and interviewing until you receive one or more offers. Hope this helps! Good luck in your efforts! ;-)
@@calistatejobcoach thank you so much!
Thanks for the work you’ve done here. It’s been very helpful.
I’ve applied for nearly 40 positions throughout the state and have already been interviewed at two offices. One office gave me a take-home essay question and asked me to submit it that evening. It led to a 2nd interview, which seemed to go well, but I haven’t received any offers. It’s been 3 weeks. After interviewing, both offices reached out for references. I interview with the 3 office next week. Fingers are crossed. I’m assuming the interviews went well and they liked me, but I’m so use to being offered the position before leaving the interview, that this process shattered my ego a bit 🤣😂
I’m told that there is a probation period. Do you know the duration?
Probation periods vary in length by classification. For lower level positions, it's usually 6 months. For higher level positions, it's usually 12 months. Note: The vast majority of folks (90-95% is my guesstimate) pass probation.
Thank you for the info are you still helping with questions
Yes.
So I had an exam interview for the city . For Service maintenance worker- solid waste . I barely passed with a 71 .
I have another interview Thursday for service maintenance worker - street position . It was 7 questions . My Question is do you think I need a lot more work . To get 100.
I believe I fail at these questions:
I'm at supervisor for 10 years . But this job I was about to start had unsafe conditions. What would I do?
My answer: I'll just shut the job down because safety comes first .
I believe there was a lot more I needed to cover.
Another was
A difficult employee is hard to work with. How would I handle this situation.
Answer: I'll just go talk to the supervisor. Because someone people react differently when confronted.
I thought about the question after . I believe I should of pulled the employee to the side talk with him and try to find a solution to the problem.
The last question : why should we hire you?what makes you the best candidate for the position?why should we hire you?
Answer: I want to give back to the city I was born in. I also have my class A license. I have experience wiith tractor ,water truck , dump truck .
I dropped the ball big time .
Do you think they will ask the same questions.
What about questions
What's your greatest weakness?
What's your strength?
Hi Kent, thank you so much for the videos. I have second interview scheduled with the same people from the first one. What are the steps afterwards? And is it usual to have a second round?
Hi Ken! I just got an interview with the state and I’m super excited! I was wondering - at what point does the employer verify employment based on your resume? Thanks 😊
Good question! In my experience as a Hiring Manager, employment verifications are only done for folks who are ID'ed as in the "top 3" of those select 6, 8, 10 folks who get interviewed. The top 3 interviewees all have their Minimum Qualifications checked (including employment verification) by HR when the Hiring Manager gives them his/her list of the "top 3" after all the interviews are done. Hope this helps! ; -)
If using education as my minimum qualification, do I need to have official transcripts ready for a HR ? Thanks Kent for the tips I got an interview this Friday.
Yes, if using education as basis for minimum qualification, you need to have proof of that education. Usually they ask for the whole transcript(s); but, sometimes they'll settle for a copy of your degree. Just follow their direction and comply. Hope this helps! Best of luck on your interview!
I have a job interview for LPA position for committee Care licensing. This is the second interview in a different city. What can I look forward in answering correctly?
Ken, I have an interview tomorrow at noon. I’m already a state worker and I just found a video. Is it too late to set up a coaching session?
Sorry I didn’t see this comment until now; hope you’re interview went well! :-)
Hey Coach Kent,
If you’re available, I would like one on one coaching in regards to prepping for an interview
Justdre__, I'd be happy to support you with some 1-on-1 coaching. Please send an email to me at kentdills@yahoo.com for next steps. Coach Kent - out! ;-)
Love your videos thank you they are helpful! I have ranked number 2 for a current state position with a base score of 90 what do you think my chances of interviewing are? What does departmental opening mean?
Your score (90) and ranking (2) will help when it comes time for the Hiring Manager asks their HR contact to validate you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the job. This normally happens after you apply and interview so well that you're ranked as "Top 3" by the Hiring Manager. No sure of the context of "departmental opening" and can't address. Please be more specific. Hope this helps! ;-)
Thank you so much for this. Is it true that it takes months to get a call for the interview?
Hana Totah, thanks for the question. My experience (from the applying and the hiring sides) is that it usually takes at least 2 weeks after the job closes for the interviews to get scheduled. This is why I would wait until a day or two before job postings closed before submitting my application - I really didn't like the wait afterwards. That said, because job postings can get 50 to 100 applications, it can take longer (for example, 3 or 4 weeks) before interviews are scheduled. Hope this helps. Coach Kent - out! ;-)
Hi coach Kent,
I had an interview on 08/30/23 for ITS 1 position test lead. There were about 9 questions mostly framed from the DQ statement. I was able to answer only 8. The panel said that if cleared, there would be a second round. Usually how long is the time frame? Will second round too be with techno behavioral questions. Thanks.
Average is about a week between first and second round of interviews. Second round varies from: 1. More techno behaviour questions, to 2. informal "getting to know you" type questions, to 3. some sort of project-based exercise to see how the 3 finalists work together (or not) as a team. Hope this helps. Best of luck!! ;-)
Any advice for a DMV MVR position? Possible interview questions?
Watch my video on How to Ace the Interview on this channel. And/or sign-up for a Zoom coaching session! :-)
@@calistatejobcoach do you think a follow up email is helpful? After the interview
Thank you this video. I look forward to watching other videos. How do I get in touch with you for a one on one? This would be for my brother and I would pay for it.
Frieda Brand, just send me an email (kentdills@yahoo.com) and I'll provide directions! Coach Kent - out! ;-)
Hi Coach Kent, I emailed twice to inquire about your one on one coaching. Haven't received any reply yet. Am sure you receive lots of inquires. I would love to get one on one coaching from u for upcoming interview I have with the State. Pls let me know best way to get a hold of u. Thank you!!
Please check the spelling on your email. My email is kentdills@yahoo.com. Better yet, give me your email and I'll email you with my coaching details ASAP. I do receive lots of inquiries but I respond to each and every one! Hope this helps! ;-)
Hi. I had a recent interview for an AGPA position. I was given 3 questions with 10 minutes to answer all three. With such a limited amount of time to answer in detail using the STAR method, how should I keep my answers concise?
First, 3 questions in 10 minutes is very challenging. Normally you get about 50 minutes to answer about 6 questions. That's when the STAR method works great. Second, It seems conciseness versus thoroughness was the goal. for this interview so I would not use STAR. I would shift focus to specifically answering the questions given as concisely as possible. Make sure to address all points of a multi-point question though so you get the max credit/score for the question. Lastly, I hope this helps. Good luck in your process!! ;-)
if the interview is for research data analyst and the desirable qualification is SQL and SPSS (technical) do they ask real life technical questions or does it include all behavioral questions? like telling them how I am experienced on technical things?
Hi! Question: does California state monitor employees lunch and breaks? For example, do you have to keep your computer idle for X amount of time to be considered “on the clock”? I know with the federal government, they can tell how long you were inactive on your computer 😐
Two things in response: 1. I never did this with my staff nor do I know any other Managers/Supervisors who did, and 2. I don't think the State has the time or resources to execute this type of micro-management. Wondering, why do you ask this question?
@@calistatejobcoach because I know federal employees are monitored this way. Are we able to negotiate salary with the state or are you automatically placed at the bottom of the pay grade?
@@justinejackson1409 , it depends on the classification you're hired into. email me for 15 minute 1-on-1 coaching for more details if you'd like. ;-) kentdills@yahoo.com
Thank you so much for these videos, they have been immensely helpful to me! When I am taking the exam, am I allowed to put unpaid volunteer positions for references within the employment history?
Grant Srun, Thanks for the positive feedback. Glad to be of service. As to your question - you can use unpaid volunteer time for accumulated experience time and for references. Good luck on your exams! Coach Kent - out! ;-)
I just got a new position at Dsh I’ve been processed start work soon. I have went on at least a dozen interviews before I landed a position.I did get discouraged however because it seemed to take months before I got a call back. I am personally very impatient tho 😂. Your advice is great. I tend to almost always bomb Interviews due to being nervous.
mimi j, Thanks for the positive feedback. Hopefully the video helps people prepare for interviews and - in so doing - decreases the anxiety/nerves. Coach Kent - out! ;-)
What are your thoughts on the chances that a newly college graduate will get hired. I understand that position and experience comes into play but generally how often do new college graduates get hired?
New grads are frequently hired. Especially if they have some kind of job related experience gained from school projects, volunteer/non-profit work, previous jobs and/or part-time jobs, etc.
Thank you Coach
what are your tips for video state job interviews? I do better in person but working on my video interviewing skills.
My tips don't change based on face-to-face or online interview. Stick to the basics. Do the required homework/study and get there early in case they let you see the interview questions in advance. If you need more help please reach out for 1-on-1 coaching. It's reasonably inexpensive and very effective! IMHO of course! ;-)
What are some good types of questions to ask at the end of the interview?
Any question that shows you are genuinely engaged/interested and that is related to the Job Posting and/or Duty Statement is a good one to ask. Hope that helps.
Hello, for the pharmacist position in correction facilities, what kind of questions i should expect? Is it in the medications and technical questions or behavioral questions? Thank you in advance.
I would expect it to be a mix of technical and behavioral questions. ;-)
Thank you for your reply. Can you give examples of behavioral questions the most frequently asked please. Appreciate your help 🙏
@@totarezk5591, the behavioral questions will be directly related to the SOQ (if one was required), the Desirable Qualifications listed in the Job Posting, and the Essential Functions listed in the Duty Statement. If you'd like some 1:1 Interview Prep coaching, send me an email (kentdills@yahoo.com). ;-)
I did the interview today, it was hard, no soft offer, I had clinical questions I have never seen in my entire life, really confusing and I even looked the information up in the clinical resources, there are different clinical opinions. How can I know that I did good?
Hello Coach Kent. I had interviewd for a state job about two weeks ago. Yesterday my boss received a call from the department that I applied for asking to speak to my boss because she was a reference on my application. Do you think that’s a good sign that I got the job!!?
It's either a good sign (you're in the "top 3" of the interviewees) or a very good sign (you're the "top candidate" and will soon be getting an offer). You'll have to wait a day or two to find out! Good luck!!! ;-)
@@calistatejobcoach UPDATE: I got the job! My start date is September 1st. :)
I have trouble with describing a project or assignment I have done by detail in my interviews, any pointers?
Diane Clifton, the answer is to rehearse before the interview a couple projects or assignments you've successfully been assigned and completed. You're actually ahead of the game in the fact that you know this has been a recurring question. So practice using the STAR format.
Example:
1. Situation: I was part of a team that did a front-end analysis at Exxon Mobil to assess and determine their training strategy needed to successfully implement the SAP enterprise resource planning suite of software in 2003, 2004.
2. Task: At the end of the front-end analysis, I was given the task of managing the $6 million training project for the company I worked for at the time.
3. Actions: As the Project Manager, I developed a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) to include all project tasks and sub-tasks, a Staffing Plan to ensure adequate human capital to carryout the WBS, a Project Budget to support the Staffing Plan and WBS, etc.
4. Results: Given the successful execution of the project, we (I, my team, Exxon Mobil resources, etc.) successfully implemented SAP across the newly merged company throughout the entire United States. This successful implementation served as the model for further Exxon Mobil implementations across the Americas and Europe.
Sorry for the long response. I hope this helps. Practice, practice, practice. Until the point it's almost second nature. Good luck!
Thank You so much will use this on my next interview.
@@dianeclifton5986 , Glad to be of service. Good luck on the interview! Coach Kent - out! ;-)
I gave a second interview last week. How long should I wait for a response?
Thanks Kent for all your help.
Apply for so many jobs but never hear anythinf back 😢 ! I did application online i wonder if anything wrong with my template!!!
how long after I have had a panel interview, would I know if I get the job or totally blew it? Had some interviews 2 weeks ago and no word back and references not contacted.
In most cases (about 90% I'd estimate), if you haven't heard anything for 2 weeks (including whether or not your references are being checked), then you probably didn't make the Top 3 interviewees and you won't be notified either. That's just the way it is. Keep applying and interviewing. Don't give up! It's worth it in the end! ;-)
Hi Kent. Thanks for the video. It was helpful .I have one interview in 1 day and have received a assessment link for another Position as well . I was late to find your video . And lloks like i am on a time crunch. I just wanted to ask one thing. Will state of California offer employment to international students?. Or people in stem opt ?. Thank you in advance
That’s really an HR question with which I have no direct experience. Sorry. Maybe someone else can comment?
@@calistatejobcoach thanks for the reply Kent appreciate you replying
How do get some 1:1 coaching for this?
I see you figured it out. I just received your email and have already responded! :-)
How would u answer the question u posted last?
Nice try - getting me to answer this for you! ;=)
Problem is, I can't do that becuase I don't know how your knowledge, skills, experience, and education (KSEE) fit with this particular job. This requires you to read the job description in the Job Posting, the Duty Statement, and the Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) and then create a narrative decribing how your KSEE makes you a good fit for the specific job. It requires some analytical thinking and some writing skill. That's why it's a great interview question and/or SOQ response item. This should help get you started. Hope it helps! Good luck!!
I dont know if anybody asked this question but is the state open to pay negotiation? If so, whats your advice on it in order to effectively and better chance at negotiating the pay?
Thank you in advance :)
First, watch my video on "How Much Is The Pay". Second, I can go deeper but this is not the proper forum for that. If you'd like some coaching, you can reach me at kentdills@yahoo.com.
What kind of questions can one expect for a 2nd round interview? And are 2nd round interviews done for the "top 3" typically?
Yep. For the "top 3". Can be any of the following: 1. Informal discussion. 2. A project exercise completed by the "top 3" with a debrief at the end. 3. A follow-up to the 1st interview with more related questions. My recommendation is to prep for scenario 3 and that should prepare you for any of the 3 possibilities. Hope this helps! Kent
@@calistatejobcoach Appreciate the timely and detailed response!
@@kk_kk714 , glad to help! ;-)
Since this isn't a regular corporate job what are good questions to ask the employer. I had an interview and they asked if I had questions and one panelists said didn't you read the job duty statement 😮
I suggest asking questions directly related to the Duty Statement and Desireable Qualifications. Shows the interview panel you did read them and are interested in learning more. Can’t go wrong there! Good luck with your interviewing! ;-)
Kent, This is very informative, I really appreciate the information.
Irene PeNuelas, Glad I could be of service to you! Coach Kent - out! ;-)