any human resource, hiring managers or personal types here tonight?

[lifesbeautifulmagic]

I have been looking for a job for awhile now, and all of a sudden, I have a couple of interviews. One potential employer is asking me for two writing samples, and I am wondering what is appropriate for that? My school days are long over, and any writing I have done lately is of the personal, journal nature, and probably not fit for this purpose.

This is for an office manager type position. I am asking because I have never had to submit something like this for my usual administrative type jobs, and I just want to be sure whatever I do will move me in the direction of getting a second interview.

What would impress you, and how long does it have to be? Thanks for any response...if I am lucky enough to become employed, I would be happy to buy you a beer someday.

[pacalo]

1. Former HR employee here, but I wasn't involved in the hiring process.

My area was everything but hiring: employee records, public relations, policy & procedure, & arbitrary issues.

If they want you to give them a writing sample for an office manager position, then it seems they're interested in spelling, grammar, & writing quality. Write a page, or even a couple of paragraphs, about what skills you could bring to the company, past experiences that improved your job, etc.

I haven't been out looking for personnel-type work in years; I've never heard of a request for writing samples. Perhaps someone else will give you better, more up-to-date answers.

And good luck!

[lifesbeautifulmagic]

4. thanks,

appreciate it. Here's hoping for the best.

[MiddleFingerMom]

2. Don't refer to it as the personal office...

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...they take that kind of personnel.
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:)
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[lifesbeautifulmagic]

3. Good one!

That's what I am worried about, that and there, their and they're. :)

[Duer 157099]

5. Not an HR person, so take this with a grain of salt

If it were me in this situation, I would write something directly addressed to the person who would be reading it (the HR person I suppose) and the topic would be something like me debating about what topic to write about for this writing sample. I'd consider various topics and delve into them briefly and discuss the pros and cons of going with that topic. And I'd make it funny, but intelligent and well structured at the same time. Some of it could discuss why you want to work there or what you expect or pretend you already work there and were writing a summary of some project.

That way, they are entertained (hopefully) and remember you.

But again, I'm no HR person nor have I ever hired anyone nor have I ever had to submit a writing sample for a job. So, grain of salt.

[SOteric]

6. Select written pieces about the length of the average memo

A couple of paragraphs, no more. Steer clear of controversial topics (like politics) and always maintain a professional demeanor.

One selection should be explanatory in nature, for instance, briefly explaining a new procedure to be implemented. Keep it free of buzzwords and logical in progression. Make sure it's so simple a goober could understand it, AND make sure you don't seem condescending. (This can actually a pretty thin tightrope to walk.)

Another good option might show persuasive writing. Again, keep it brief. This time you'll want to avoid sounding heavy handed on the one hand and whiney on the other. Just briefly discuss why you think doing "this way" is better, or "that client" should be given a priority contract..whatever. Stick to the facts of the issue and the desireable result of your proposal.

An optional third piece would be something warm and congenial in a professional tone. (Congratulating a colleague on a success, announcing someone's retirement/promotion/transfer).

Good luck with your interviews! ;)

[Turbineguy]

7. I suppose

you could write something about how you plan to spend your workday on the internet in the DU Lounge.

Mmmmm..... Perhaps better not.:evilgrin:

[Rabrrrrrr]

8. Just send a couple of my old rants - no need to credit me. That's what they're looking for.