Blue Collar Tip of the Day:

Say What you Mean, Mean What You Say

Ami Williams-Stand-By Personnel, Inc.

Often, during an interview, we want to impress. Sometimes, this leads to "embellishing", which is NEVER a good thing, especially within the Blue Collar industry.  When you're asked about your skills and/or experience, never lie.  It's not like they won't find out because chances are, they'll find out the first day on the job.  When you're asked about skills, don't give an answer that really pertains to what position you want rather than what you're skilled to do. And make sure, whatever you say you're skilled to do, that you're able to follow through.  There's a saying in the sales industry..."under promise, over deliver". This should be true to eveyone in any industry, be it sales, white collar jobs and mostly, blue collar jobs.
Do's and Don'ts:

DON'T 

Employer: So, what kind of job are  you looking for?
Candidate: Oh, I dunno...what do you have? I mean, I've always wanted to maybe do sales or try my hand at welding or some kind of skilled trade.
Employer: Well, uh...hm. What I meant was, what are you qualified to do? What are you skilled at or  what trade do you have experience and how much experience?
Candidate: Oh, well, I don't really have any experience in anything. I've never really worked.
Employer: Okay, well, I think we're done here...I've got your application, I'll give you a call if we have anything that matches your criteria...thank you. (And this is after they thought they were being punk'd, I'm sure of that).

DO

Employer:  So, what kind of job are you looking for?
Candidate: Well, I'm experienced in landscaping, yard work, etc. I've mowed yards since I was a teenager and I've been told I'm very good at it. 
Employer:  Okay,  it sounds like you have a few years under your belt in this type of work...we might have some positions in landscaping or yard work.
Candidate:  Sounds great, I'll take whatever you have for me, if anything, to prove myself.  Also, I'm very sharp so I can learn very quick. If you have a position available where they might allow training, I'm open to that as well.      
Employer: Now you're talking...sounds like you really want to work. I actually do have a position in which we  are willing to train the right person. This could be a great opportunity for a hard working individual, like yourself, to get your foot in the door and possibly grow into what could be a learned skill that will earn you a good living in the near future. Welcome a board!

Whatever you do...always SAY WHAT YOU MEAN AND MEAN WHAT YOU SAY. You won't go wrong.