“Think Global, Act Local”
Gergana Kicheva
(Bulgarian Youth Forum)
I could tell in most details what, when (and all the other Wh-questions) we did at the training and I would find it very easy because I’m very good about talking about myself. However, that’s not the point but to share the knowledge with the rest. We can’t all go to the training, after all. So…hope I will tell some useful things.
Job interview
Jobs.bg is currently the best site for job offers. The job bureaus and the newspapers aren’t a reliable source. Just a few employers publish offers there. Very often there are offers in English – apply, that’s a way to choose more educated people. You choose a suitable photo for your CV (passport type, with a smile on your face). In case you still don’t have one, create an e-mail account with your full names (no “sexy”, “sweet” or similar words). Dress in the way you would go to work on your first day – not too smartly, not with raped jeans. For the boys – a shirt with a sweeter is ok. A suit and a tie could be too much (well, it depends on the job, of course).
During the interview don’t get too close to other people, keep the private distance. Shake hands with medium force – not very lightly but not harmfully. Carry a copy of your CV with you because the employer does not always have one.
When they are asking you for experience don’t forget that each training, project or other activity is experience. Put it that way. You are a member somewhere – this is part of your experience. Work in a team, adaptation in a multicultural environment, presentation skills, they all are important – mention them. Every clever employer (and you don’t need silly ones) would pay attention to a Youthpass certificate. (I.e. international youth exchanges, trainings etc.). Also, don’t get frustrated – in every company there are people, who got their job with connections, but every company needs people who will get the work done – this would be your role.
Projects and ideas
Do not set big, unreachable aims. It’s better to have a smaller target group but to make a huge impact on it. Even before you start putting your idea into motion it is always good to have a little chat with yourself and decide whether there is enough people to benefit from the idea, is there interest, do you have reliable partners, is the time right, do you have the team and the resources to accomplish your goals. Even if somebody turns you down during the execution part and shuts the door in your face – break in through the window – keep trying, keep searching, there is always a solution. Every person has a weak spot, certain attitude and a set of expectations – you have to fulfil them and start speaking in their language to be successful. Nothing is impossible.
The training “Think Global, Act Local” took place in the period 27-30 October 2012 in Sofia and was organized by the National Centre “European Youth Projects and Initiatives”.
Sofia,
20.01.2013