I coined this word to draw attention tothe nervous and apprehensive way ofsaying something in the job search thatmakes you feel like a buffoon. A "blurt"is a catchy way of saying: Gaffe.

When is a blurt inappropriate? For example,the interviewer has explained to you whatthe job duties are and you say: "Oh, I can'twork on Saturdays". The interviewer hasnot said anything about Saturday work,only about what the job duties are. You,as the job seeker, not only made a "blurt",but you jumped ahead of what the inter-viewer might or might not have ready tosay. You were not listening and fumbledyour way out of the next phase of theinterview, if there is to be one.

Since "blurting" is a common occurrenceand often done because of nervousness,here are some tips to keep it under control.

1. When approaching a friend or acquaintanceabout who you might want to talk to about anopening , don't talk about your predicament orprevious employers. Your network probablyknows more about why you're not in thatlast job than you do.

2. Prepare a simple script when approachinganyone about a possible job. Memorize yourscript when you are talking to people or justgathering information. It will help keep you ontrack.

3. Rehearse for an interview. Know enoughabout the employer for you to feel comfortableand knowledgeable. Be friendly and relaxed.Stay on the subject, even if there is a longperiod of silence. A "blurt" often happens whenyou feel the need to fill in a silence void.

Sure, you can't help but make some mistakesand gaffes along the job search route. Somemay be really funny and need to be kept incontext. A gaffe MIGHT get you a job if it isnot too pronounced. A potential employerwith a sense of humor might want you tocome in on Monday! Don't always count onthat, just do your homework.

© 2004

Marilyn J. Tellez, M.A.Certified Job & Career Transition CoachEmail: doitnow@nwinfo.netWeb: http://www.doitnowcareers.info