Know-How Exchange : Career/Training

Is it a promotion for you? I mean, do you work there already?

I wouldn't do too much detail. You would be surprised at what companies will do with FREE plans you offer.

If you don't work there already, do the research on their competition and point out some of the strengths...of the competition...and how you would combat that....not too specific and not in writing.

Michael

Since they know you don't know much about the organization, the job details, etc. realize they must see something about you worth talking further about. Instead of telling them what you'd do, focus on asking them questions. Read as much (and talk to as many people) as possible. Read their website, press releases, testimonials, etc. Learn who they sell to, their competition, etc. Then you can go into the interview with some knowledge and a fistful of questions. Show them you've done your basic homework.

As far as my expectations for hiring you - I'd expect you to learn how things work, the problems we face, how we solve them, and then ask you to describe what issues you see as an "impartial" observer. What best practices in your career can help this business?

Dear Zoepuffer,

My guess is the job will include a great deal of lead generation (finding potential new residents for the community) for the sales team(s) to call on. I base this on your statement that the hiring manager is responsible for inside sales.

Specifics are difficult to articulate because the Sr. Living market is currently impacted by the depressed housing market: no one will move into the community when they can't sell their current home. Get familiar with the state of the housing market in your area as well as AZ, FL, AR and other "snow bird" areas -- many retirees are moving back to familiar space, i.e., family and friends, due to grandchildren and current/future health issues.

Check out Horizon Bay, Sunrise Sr. Living and the like to see what their sites look like, etc. A few other groups to know and look into: aahsa.org, nic.org, glynndevins.com, to name a few. Google them and look at the "Similar" results too.

Factoid: as of last fall (Nov 2009) the average print advertising spend per month, per site for the larger Sr. Living organizations was 20-30k USD. Bring a couple $ saving ideas to the interview and you should be golden.

Lastly, your skills are probably right up their ally -- network with real estate agents and community groups, give presentations to the influence-rs and prospects, manage the marketing spend, etc. AND, I'm sure the main goal is to get folks into the independent units; they'll move to the assisted and skilled categories over time.

Hope this helps and good luck.