Friday, October 19, 2007
Entry Level Salaries
Here's an insight into entry level jobs in the marketing analytics industry. Statisticians entering the business world after completing a Master's Degree can expect an average base salary of $62,500, as reported by Kristen Wetta, statistical recruiter at Smith Hanley Associates. Interestingly, there was very little difference in salary regardless of geographic location. Salaries in the more expensive East Coast region of the nation closely matched other parts of the country.
Interview Etiquette
Interview Etiquette
Etiquette is defined as the rules that govern socially acceptable behavior. It varies from culture to culture and from situation to situation. Football game etiquette is certainly different than the etiquette required for a formal dinner party. Business etiquette also varies from company to company. Some businesses have a casual corporate culture, while others are much more traditional. So what is appropriate etiquette during a job interview? As a rule of thumb, err on the conservative side. Mind your manners, dress for success and follow the guidelines below to present yourself at your professional best.
“Good manners will open doors that the best education cannot.”
– Clarence Thomas, US Supreme Court Justice
Every contact you have with the company is part of the interview process. Every phone conversation; every interaction with receptionists and secretaries; every hand you shake; how you walk, talk and sit; even casual conversations between interviews — all count toward the impression you make.
Rather than being overwhelmed by the daunting idea that every little thing you say or do is being judged, try to think of every minute you have with a company as an opportunity to make a good impression. It only makes sense to treat everyone with the utmost kindness and respect, since these are potentially the people you will be working with every day.
PHONE INTERVIEWS
Once your resume has passed the first screening process, the phone interview is often your first direct contact with a company. Your primary goal during a phone interview should be to get an in-person interview. Since the interviewer cannot see you, it is vital that you use all the tools available to you to convey your skills, experience, professionalism and interest level.
Phone interviews require the same level of preparation and professionalism as in-person interviews. Some experts even recommend that you dress as if you were interviewing in person. Most phone interviews last 30 – 60 minutes. Here are some dos and don’ts of the phone interview:
· Prepare a quiet space without children or background noise.
· Disable call waiting.
· Use a land line (instead of a cell phone), if possible, to avoid interference and dropped calls.
· Identify yourself with your full name and the position for which you are interviewing.
· Be sure you know who is interviewing you — name and position.
· Have a copy of your resume on hand, as well as a pen and paper for notes.
· Smile — you can hear a smile over the phone.
· Keep a glass of water nearby and take a quick sip if your mouth gets dry.
· Don’t chew gum, smoke or eat.
· No multitasking — give the interviewer your full attention.
For more excellent advice on phone interviews, visit quintcareers.com (quintcareers.com/phone_interview_etiquette.html).
FACE-TO-FACE INTERVIEWS
Before the Interview
· Get the interviewer’s name, title, and phone number; find out if you will have more than one interview.
· Map the route and estimate travel time (see mapquest.com). If possible, take a test ride out to the company a day or two before the interview at about the same time, so you can judge traffic. Give yourself an extra 30 minutes if you are unfamiliar with the area. Bring money to cover tolls and parking.
· Dress professionally and conservatively. The University of Oregon has an excellent online FAQ sheet on dressing for interviews (uocareer.uoregon.edu/dressforsuccess/dress.asp), including typical dress codes for various industries. Syms has created a website for college students who are starting to prepare their wardrobes for the business world. Click here for basic wardrobe necessities, interview outfit information and a guide to business casual (symsdress.com/).
· Check your grooming: shower well, wear deodorant, brush your teeth, comb your hair and trim your nails. It may sound obvious, but first impressions mean a lot in a job interview. Avoid cologne. Remove piercings, cover tattoos and keep your hair color in the range of normal human hair.
· Bring extra copies of your resume. See our Do’s and Don’ts of the Job Search Process for information on preparing for the interview, including how to create a complete interview kit.
On-Site
· Arrive early — at least 30 minutes prior to interview time. You may need to fill out an application.
· Turn off your cell phone!
· Smile.
· Shake hands gently but firmly.
· Listen carefully:
. Make eye contact. While this is one of the areas that varies from culture to culture, in America it is customary and considerate to maintain eye contact while someone is speaking.
. Watch your nonverbal cues — posture, gestures, etc. Egrad.com has an excellent article on body language that covers everything from what to do with your hands to how to sit in your chair during the interview (egrad.com/index.cfm?action=story&iStoryID=265§ionID=39&subSectionID=44).
. For more tips on how to improve your listening skills, read “Listening Skills During Interview”: (videofact.com/mark/vfworkplace6.htm)
· Take notes – this will help you remember your questions and review main points at the end of the interview.
· Be positive and confident about your accomplishments and experiences, but don’t be a “know-it-all”.
· Be interested in the position — ask about the job. For more information on asking questions during an interview, see our Preparing for the Interview: Part III — Asking the Right Questions.
· If you are meeting with more than one interviewer, pace yourself. Act as if each interviewer is the only one, but feel free to repeat your strong points to each person.
· NEVER ask about salary. If asked about your salary expectations, give a general range (e.g., mid-$60Ks), but say you are flexible and that it really depends on the job responsibilities and total compensation package.
At the Close of the Interview
· Ask what comes next in the process and for the interviewer’s timeline.
· Tell them you want the job. If things have gone well, don’t be afraid to express your interest: “I enjoyed meeting with you today. I believe I have a good understanding of the position and that my skills and experience would make me an asset to your company.”
· Shake hands and say thank you.
After the Interview:
· Write a brief thank-you note or e-mail to each interviewer: review your understanding of the position, state how you can contribute to the group, and thank them again for their time. Any e-mail correspondence should use proper grammar, spelling and complete sentences. For more guidance, read: “Write a Thank-You Letter that Helps Clinch a Job Offer” (careerjournal.com/jobhunting/interviewing/20041116-marcus.html).
· Contact your recruiter to give feedback on the interview.
· Follow-up. If you promised a list of references, send it. If you said you would check back in a week, do it.
Some Additional Tips
· If your interview includes a meal:
. Brush up on your table manners.
. Order a light, simple meal (avoid onions and garlic, messy sauces and finger foods).
. Don’t order the most expensive item on the menu.
. Don’t drink alcoholic beverages.
. For more tips about meals and interviews, click here: jobsearch.about.com/cs/interviews/a/interviewdining.htm
· Slow down. Almost everyone talks too fast when nervous.
· Don't discuss controversial topics.
· Don't argue.
· Don’t smoke or chew gum.
· Return calls promptly.
Think you’re ready? Take this job-hunting etiquette quiz (quintcareers.com/job-hunting_etiquette_quiz.html).
Etiquette is defined as the rules that govern socially acceptable behavior. It varies from culture to culture and from situation to situation. Football game etiquette is certainly different than the etiquette required for a formal dinner party. Business etiquette also varies from company to company. Some businesses have a casual corporate culture, while others are much more traditional. So what is appropriate etiquette during a job interview? As a rule of thumb, err on the conservative side. Mind your manners, dress for success and follow the guidelines below to present yourself at your professional best.
“Good manners will open doors that the best education cannot.”
– Clarence Thomas, US Supreme Court Justice
Every contact you have with the company is part of the interview process. Every phone conversation; every interaction with receptionists and secretaries; every hand you shake; how you walk, talk and sit; even casual conversations between interviews — all count toward the impression you make.
Rather than being overwhelmed by the daunting idea that every little thing you say or do is being judged, try to think of every minute you have with a company as an opportunity to make a good impression. It only makes sense to treat everyone with the utmost kindness and respect, since these are potentially the people you will be working with every day.
PHONE INTERVIEWS
Once your resume has passed the first screening process, the phone interview is often your first direct contact with a company. Your primary goal during a phone interview should be to get an in-person interview. Since the interviewer cannot see you, it is vital that you use all the tools available to you to convey your skills, experience, professionalism and interest level.
Phone interviews require the same level of preparation and professionalism as in-person interviews. Some experts even recommend that you dress as if you were interviewing in person. Most phone interviews last 30 – 60 minutes. Here are some dos and don’ts of the phone interview:
· Prepare a quiet space without children or background noise.
· Disable call waiting.
· Use a land line (instead of a cell phone), if possible, to avoid interference and dropped calls.
· Identify yourself with your full name and the position for which you are interviewing.
· Be sure you know who is interviewing you — name and position.
· Have a copy of your resume on hand, as well as a pen and paper for notes.
· Smile — you can hear a smile over the phone.
· Keep a glass of water nearby and take a quick sip if your mouth gets dry.
· Don’t chew gum, smoke or eat.
· No multitasking — give the interviewer your full attention.
For more excellent advice on phone interviews, visit quintcareers.com (quintcareers.com/phone_interview_etiquette.html).
FACE-TO-FACE INTERVIEWS
Before the Interview
· Get the interviewer’s name, title, and phone number; find out if you will have more than one interview.
· Map the route and estimate travel time (see mapquest.com). If possible, take a test ride out to the company a day or two before the interview at about the same time, so you can judge traffic. Give yourself an extra 30 minutes if you are unfamiliar with the area. Bring money to cover tolls and parking.
· Dress professionally and conservatively. The University of Oregon has an excellent online FAQ sheet on dressing for interviews (uocareer.uoregon.edu/dressforsuccess/dress.asp), including typical dress codes for various industries. Syms has created a website for college students who are starting to prepare their wardrobes for the business world. Click here for basic wardrobe necessities, interview outfit information and a guide to business casual (symsdress.com/).
· Check your grooming: shower well, wear deodorant, brush your teeth, comb your hair and trim your nails. It may sound obvious, but first impressions mean a lot in a job interview. Avoid cologne. Remove piercings, cover tattoos and keep your hair color in the range of normal human hair.
· Bring extra copies of your resume. See our Do’s and Don’ts of the Job Search Process for information on preparing for the interview, including how to create a complete interview kit.
On-Site
· Arrive early — at least 30 minutes prior to interview time. You may need to fill out an application.
· Turn off your cell phone!
· Smile.
· Shake hands gently but firmly.
· Listen carefully:
. Make eye contact. While this is one of the areas that varies from culture to culture, in America it is customary and considerate to maintain eye contact while someone is speaking.
. Watch your nonverbal cues — posture, gestures, etc. Egrad.com has an excellent article on body language that covers everything from what to do with your hands to how to sit in your chair during the interview (egrad.com/index.cfm?action=story&iStoryID=265§ionID=39&subSectionID=44).
. For more tips on how to improve your listening skills, read “Listening Skills During Interview”: (videofact.com/mark/vfworkplace6.htm)
· Take notes – this will help you remember your questions and review main points at the end of the interview.
· Be positive and confident about your accomplishments and experiences, but don’t be a “know-it-all”.
· Be interested in the position — ask about the job. For more information on asking questions during an interview, see our Preparing for the Interview: Part III — Asking the Right Questions.
· If you are meeting with more than one interviewer, pace yourself. Act as if each interviewer is the only one, but feel free to repeat your strong points to each person.
· NEVER ask about salary. If asked about your salary expectations, give a general range (e.g., mid-$60Ks), but say you are flexible and that it really depends on the job responsibilities and total compensation package.
At the Close of the Interview
· Ask what comes next in the process and for the interviewer’s timeline.
· Tell them you want the job. If things have gone well, don’t be afraid to express your interest: “I enjoyed meeting with you today. I believe I have a good understanding of the position and that my skills and experience would make me an asset to your company.”
· Shake hands and say thank you.
After the Interview:
· Write a brief thank-you note or e-mail to each interviewer: review your understanding of the position, state how you can contribute to the group, and thank them again for their time. Any e-mail correspondence should use proper grammar, spelling and complete sentences. For more guidance, read: “Write a Thank-You Letter that Helps Clinch a Job Offer” (careerjournal.com/jobhunting/interviewing/20041116-marcus.html).
· Contact your recruiter to give feedback on the interview.
· Follow-up. If you promised a list of references, send it. If you said you would check back in a week, do it.
Some Additional Tips
· If your interview includes a meal:
. Brush up on your table manners.
. Order a light, simple meal (avoid onions and garlic, messy sauces and finger foods).
. Don’t order the most expensive item on the menu.
. Don’t drink alcoholic beverages.
. For more tips about meals and interviews, click here: jobsearch.about.com/cs/interviews/a/interviewdining.htm
· Slow down. Almost everyone talks too fast when nervous.
· Don't discuss controversial topics.
· Don't argue.
· Don’t smoke or chew gum.
· Return calls promptly.
Think you’re ready? Take this job-hunting etiquette quiz (quintcareers.com/job-hunting_etiquette_quiz.html).
Analytical Consultant
International Loyalty Marketing firm is seeking Sr. Analysts and Consultants for their Atlanta office. Individuals will be responsible for data mining, statistical modeling, segmentation, hypothesis testing, trend analysis, and reporting using SAS. The candidates will be responsible for understanding the client's business objectives and overall strategy to ensure that analysis is appropriate to the clients' needs. Candidates should be client focused with strong analytic skills that include segmentation, retention and customer segmentation modeling. Strong SAS required. Retail or CPG experience preferred. Salary $80,000-120,000. Resumes to ndarian@smithhanley.com. Reference 3008597.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
2007 Salary Information
This year promises to be even more exciting for the quantitative professional. The career information most frequently sought by clients and candidates in the field revolves around salary and other forms of compensation. Whether you are planning to grow your staff this year or are assessing your own career path, here are some points to consider:
Hot Skill Set – Web analytics, pricing, credit analytics, analytically-based strategy.
Fast Moving Market – Candidates (especially at the more junior end) are receiving multiple offers and are going off the market in three to five weeks, much faster than the more typical eight to twelve weeks we’ve been used to seeing.
Relocation Challenges – Many companies are reassessing their relocation packages as the housing market continues to stagnate in many parts of the country. Unless these packages contain a safety net to cushion probable double mortgage payments, many candidates are not able to accept offers that require relocation.
Sign-on Bonuses – are back! In the last 90 days, nearly 40% of all offers have included a bonus as an incentive for candidates to “sign on”.
Cross Industry Job Changes – Candidates are changing industries far more frequently, even at the more senior level. Client companies are making offers to candidates coming from other industries as the talent pool tightens. This provides candidates with an ideal opportunity to expand their knowledge across industries.
Compensation – Many companies are offering more competitive packages to attract top talent. Here are some guidelines:
Vice President/Director $135,000 to $250,000 On the corporate side, this level typically involves managing a group – the bigger the group, the higher the salary. Oftentimes, the top salaries are offered by boutique consulting firms where business development may play a major role in the compensation package. Of course, ability to provide thoughtful leadership and strategic vision is essential at this echelon.
Manager $110,000 to $140,000
This position is often attained as the result of an internal promotion. Interpersonal skills are key – especially those demonstrating initiative, team building and the ability to direct group projects. While technical competence is important, remember that emerging executive-level administrative skills are what really count as you move up the business ladder.
Senior Statistician $80,000 to $120,000
Talented business statisticians with excellent communication skills can command base salaries of up to $120K. To move up from here typically involves picking up management responsibilities or business development skills.
Senior Analyst/Analyst $60,000 to $85,000
These are our most sought after candidates. With a master’s degree in a quantitative discipline and two solid years’ experience in the corporate world, this candidate will often receive multiple offers and be snapped up quickly. The market is red hot for candidates with this degree of experience – back to the level of the dot com boom.
Entry-level Masters $50,000 to $65,000
Demand continues to increase over 2006’s healthy level. Because companies are not always successful in hiring enough talent with one-to-two years’ experience, they will often choose an entry-level candidate with solid academic credentials. Hiring candidates who might require visa sponsorship has become commonplace; clients not willing to do this greatly reduce their pool of applicants.
As always, we welcome your comments and insights. Feel free to weigh in on the topics we’ve touched on here and to participate in an on-line salary discussion.
Let us know if Smith Hanley Associates can be of assistance to you in 2007!
Hot Skill Set – Web analytics, pricing, credit analytics, analytically-based strategy.
Fast Moving Market – Candidates (especially at the more junior end) are receiving multiple offers and are going off the market in three to five weeks, much faster than the more typical eight to twelve weeks we’ve been used to seeing.
Relocation Challenges – Many companies are reassessing their relocation packages as the housing market continues to stagnate in many parts of the country. Unless these packages contain a safety net to cushion probable double mortgage payments, many candidates are not able to accept offers that require relocation.
Sign-on Bonuses – are back! In the last 90 days, nearly 40% of all offers have included a bonus as an incentive for candidates to “sign on”.
Cross Industry Job Changes – Candidates are changing industries far more frequently, even at the more senior level. Client companies are making offers to candidates coming from other industries as the talent pool tightens. This provides candidates with an ideal opportunity to expand their knowledge across industries.
Compensation – Many companies are offering more competitive packages to attract top talent. Here are some guidelines:
Vice President/Director $135,000 to $250,000 On the corporate side, this level typically involves managing a group – the bigger the group, the higher the salary. Oftentimes, the top salaries are offered by boutique consulting firms where business development may play a major role in the compensation package. Of course, ability to provide thoughtful leadership and strategic vision is essential at this echelon.
Manager $110,000 to $140,000
This position is often attained as the result of an internal promotion. Interpersonal skills are key – especially those demonstrating initiative, team building and the ability to direct group projects. While technical competence is important, remember that emerging executive-level administrative skills are what really count as you move up the business ladder.
Senior Statistician $80,000 to $120,000
Talented business statisticians with excellent communication skills can command base salaries of up to $120K. To move up from here typically involves picking up management responsibilities or business development skills.
Senior Analyst/Analyst $60,000 to $85,000
These are our most sought after candidates. With a master’s degree in a quantitative discipline and two solid years’ experience in the corporate world, this candidate will often receive multiple offers and be snapped up quickly. The market is red hot for candidates with this degree of experience – back to the level of the dot com boom.
Entry-level Masters $50,000 to $65,000
Demand continues to increase over 2006’s healthy level. Because companies are not always successful in hiring enough talent with one-to-two years’ experience, they will often choose an entry-level candidate with solid academic credentials. Hiring candidates who might require visa sponsorship has become commonplace; clients not willing to do this greatly reduce their pool of applicants.
As always, we welcome your comments and insights. Feel free to weigh in on the topics we’ve touched on here and to participate in an on-line salary discussion.
Let us know if Smith Hanley Associates can be of assistance to you in 2007!
Thursday, February 1, 2007
Suggestions for a Successful Interview
Suggestions for a Successful Interview
Interview Preparation
* Find out specific facts about the company; products and services, current growth and future growth potential REVIEW THEIR WEBSITE;
* Review the job description; be prepared to discuss your academic work as it relates to the position.
* Create a list of questions beyond job content
* What types of people have done well?
* Is there career planning for top performers?
* What is management’s leadership type?
* Remember that an interview is a “two-way street”. Plan to assess the company: Will they provide the environment, culture and opportunity that fit’s your personality and career goal?
* Be prepared to answer questions like:
* Why accomplishments have you achieved in your current role?
* Why would you like to work for our company?
* What style of management gets the best from you?
* What have you learned from some of the jobs you have held?
* What are your major weaknesses and what are your strengths?
* What do you think determines a person’s progress in a company?
* What does “teamwork” mean to you?
* Make sure you are dressed professionally and well groomed.
* Have extra copies of your resume and have writing materials on hand for taking notes. Arrive Early (15 minutes)
Interview
Through the interaction, the interviewer will be assessing your strengths and weaknesses. Specific characteristics will be probed such as attitude, aptitude, stability, motivation and maturity.
* DO shake hands firmly (but not too hard) and make eye contact. Smile and say hello.
* DO make sure you know who you are speaking to, ask the interviewer their title or their job responsibilities. Ask for their business card.
* DO follow the interviewer’s leads, but try to obtain a full description of the position and duties expected early so that you can relay your appropriate background and skills.
* DO always conduct yourself as if you are determined to get the job you are discussing.
* DO make a personal connection with the interviewer when appropriate. Create a conversation or dialogue when possible
* DO be relaxed and natural. Speak clearly. Respond to questions honestly and directly. Ask the interviewer to repeat any questions you don’t understand.
* DO be confident. Give clear examples of how you have used your skills and experience to solve problems. Be able to discuss anything on our resume.
* DON’T answer questions with a simple “yes” or “no”.
* DON’T “over-answer” questions.
* DON’T ask about the salary or benefits, this is something your Smith Hanley representative handles for you.
Closing the Interview
Take notes during the interview. At the end of the interview, reiterate the main points of your discussion, your strengths, and your interest in the position. Make sure you understand what happens next in the interview process.
Interview Preparation
* Find out specific facts about the company; products and services, current growth and future growth potential REVIEW THEIR WEBSITE;
* Review the job description; be prepared to discuss your academic work as it relates to the position.
* Create a list of questions beyond job content
* What types of people have done well?
* Is there career planning for top performers?
* What is management’s leadership type?
* Remember that an interview is a “two-way street”. Plan to assess the company: Will they provide the environment, culture and opportunity that fit’s your personality and career goal?
* Be prepared to answer questions like:
* Why accomplishments have you achieved in your current role?
* Why would you like to work for our company?
* What style of management gets the best from you?
* What have you learned from some of the jobs you have held?
* What are your major weaknesses and what are your strengths?
* What do you think determines a person’s progress in a company?
* What does “teamwork” mean to you?
* Make sure you are dressed professionally and well groomed.
* Have extra copies of your resume and have writing materials on hand for taking notes. Arrive Early (15 minutes)
Interview
Through the interaction, the interviewer will be assessing your strengths and weaknesses. Specific characteristics will be probed such as attitude, aptitude, stability, motivation and maturity.
* DO shake hands firmly (but not too hard) and make eye contact. Smile and say hello.
* DO make sure you know who you are speaking to, ask the interviewer their title or their job responsibilities. Ask for their business card.
* DO follow the interviewer’s leads, but try to obtain a full description of the position and duties expected early so that you can relay your appropriate background and skills.
* DO always conduct yourself as if you are determined to get the job you are discussing.
* DO make a personal connection with the interviewer when appropriate. Create a conversation or dialogue when possible
* DO be relaxed and natural. Speak clearly. Respond to questions honestly and directly. Ask the interviewer to repeat any questions you don’t understand.
* DO be confident. Give clear examples of how you have used your skills and experience to solve problems. Be able to discuss anything on our resume.
* DON’T answer questions with a simple “yes” or “no”.
* DON’T “over-answer” questions.
* DON’T ask about the salary or benefits, this is something your Smith Hanley representative handles for you.
Closing the Interview
Take notes during the interview. At the end of the interview, reiterate the main points of your discussion, your strengths, and your interest in the position. Make sure you understand what happens next in the interview process.
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