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Applying for a Job... I have questions

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iSeriesCodePoet

iSeriesCodePoet

Programmer
Jan 11, 2001
1,373
US
I will be applying for a new job and have some quesitons about "procedure".

If I need references, how do I bring it up to a co-worker? I am sure a co-worker would be the best reference.

On the app it asks if it is okay to call the company. What do they ask about? Do they talk to my manager? I would perfer not to tip them off I am looking if possible, but I also don't want to loose an opportunity if I say no.

I know on everything it varies on the company and person doing the hiring, but I don't want my company to get the tip off that I am doing this and expect me to leave or anything.

I might have more questions, but I can't think of any right now. Any help would be appreciated!

iSeriesCodePoet
iSeries Programmer/Lawson Software Administrator
[pc2]
See my progress to converting to linux.
 
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When asked for references, I provide a list ing two parts, one part of professional references and one part of personal references. I do this because on previous occasions, I've had possible employers ask for the other when I've given just one -- both ways.

With professional references, I generally don't pick current coworkers. I will pick highly-placed-as-possible people in organizations for which I have previsously worked. I do this because of the very reason you've mentioned -- I don't want them tipping my hand with my current employer to early. (This can be especially difficult if the possible employer talks to my coworkers yet does not offer me the job. I would then have the problem of dealing with my employer's knowing I'm actively looking for a job, but with no definite prospects on the horizon.)

I can't advise on the question about calling my current employer -- I've never had anyone ask to do it, nor have I had anyone call without my asking.

Want the best answers? Ask the best questions: TANSTAAFL!!
 
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Just ask who you want to be your reference. They should not have a shocked look, if they have reason to be used as a reference.

I usually say no to if you can contact the company. Most companies, I would assume, would understand and it should not hurt your chances. Seems like the company are working for now would look down on it and I wouldnt do it. At the very least it may look bad at worst they start finding reasons to show you the door. Ive seen it happen.

AJ
[americanflag]

Do you feel lucky?


 
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This is a real issue when you work for the same employer for years and obviously can not suggest "previous" one, that can hardly remember you :-(
Try to ask tek-tipsters in your favourite fora for reference.

Regards, Dima
 
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Hopefully checking references will be the last step in the hiring process. I’m sure they would understand if you explained that you wouldn’t mind them calling your current employer but only after they have decided that you are the right person for the job.

"Two strings walk into a bar. The first string says to the bartender: 'Bartender, I'll have a beer. u.5n$x5t?*&4ru!2[sACC~ErJ'. The second string says: 'Pardon my friend, he isn't NULL terminated'."
 
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Well... The other problem is that this present job is my first programmer job as I am only 24. So I have no previous employers short of a sales/technician job at a local shop (which I will use).

I have co-workers/friends I can use for personal, but I don't directly work with them so they can't be used for professional really. I haven't gone fully through the app, so I don't even know if they will have references.

iSeriesCodePoet
iSeries Programmer/Lawson Software Administrator
[pc2]
See my progress to converting to linux.
 
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If this is your first position as a programmer/analyst, the very best thing you can do is bring along a sample of your code. The IT management may overlook your lack of programming experience if the code looks good. As for references, don't use anyone you currently work with unless you have a very high degree of trust in them. Use personal references instead.
 
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The position is for someone with 2+ years and I have about 3 and a half years.

Now does knowing the hiring manager help in situations like this as well? I don't know him very well (friend of my dad), but I do know him. So going back to the previous response, he knows this is my first programming job.

iSeriesCodePoet
iSeries Programmer/Lawson Software Administrator
[pc2]
See my progress to converting to linux.
 
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Now does knowing the hiring manager help in situations like this as well?

The guy's a friend of your dad's? Clueless young man: it doesn't get much better than this. Use it! Get your dad to talk you up to the guy and try to set up a meeting for you. Take it from there.
 
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... that has already been done. This buy has said it would be nice to be working with both Wills (Our last name). I think this new place would be a good opportunity and much better pay. Thanks for answering my questions so far!

iSeriesCodePoet
iSeries Programmer/Lawson Software Administrator
[pc2]
See my progress to converting to linux.
 
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CodePoet,

That is a HUGE advantage. Would you still be working on the iSeries? What are the benefits like? What part of the country (if USA, if not where?) is the job? Any other advantages? I'm not trying to be snoopy, just wondering what other perks/benefits you might leverage.

BTW, we miss you in the RPG forum ;-)

MdnghtPgrm
 
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Still on the iSeries. I don't know it all, but starting two week vacation and chance for that to grow higher quicker (at my present job I get 3 weeks when I hit 5 years and 4 weeks at about 20 years). Health ins is supposed to be cheaper. I don't really know all the details. 3,000 more that I am making now, plus according to my dad, there is usually some sort of pay increase every year, based on what the city counsel says.

iSeriesCodePoet
iSeries Programmer/Lawson Software Administrator
[pc2]
See my progress to converting to linux.
 
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Just joking. You are very regular there. Hence the comment. No offence intended.
 
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Good luck! Sounds like a pretty good job. Hope you get it. I think your chances are good.

MdnghtPgmr
 
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