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Since 100% of your score in obtaining a firefighter badge is in the oral
board, what are you missing that's keeping you from gaining that badge?

If you are on AOL or having trouble reading this visit
http://www.eatstress.com/FireZineNov03.htm

FireZine
Cutting edge interview skills to get that badge from Fire Captain Bob.
More than 2,132 candidates have received their badge from this program!
November 1, 2003.  Copyright Code 3 Publishing 2003
captbob@eatstress.com   web site:   www.eatstress.com  888-238-3959
(see bottom to leave "FireZine")
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     No one ever lost credibility by
           being interesting.
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Nothing counts til you have the badge . . . Absolutely Nothing!

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Please forward or recommend this FireZine to anyone you
know that wants to shorten the learning curve to get
that badge! 

If you are receiving this issue as a forward, and want
your own subscription, visit
 http://www.eatstress.com/firezine_signup.htm   

To leave this list see below

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             In This Issue
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1. Quick Presentation Skills Tip

2.  Entry Level Skills Tip  

3.  Robs Corner

4.  Promotional Level Skills Tip
     (Entry level should read this too)

5.  New Badges

6.  Humor

7.  Resource Websites for Candidates

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1.      Quick Presentation Skills Tip
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Land mines!!!

I talked to a number of candidates recently who wished they had another
a second chance.

The psychologist asked a candidate how often he consumed alcohol?  Oh, I
have 2 or 3 beers a night after work as I mow the lawn or wash the car.
Even though this candidate had read our psych report on drinking and
drugs he still said this. When I asked him why, he said the psychologist
was so friendly he didn't think it made a difference.

A friend introduced a candidate to me at breakfast that just completed
his psych for a large department.  His aunt is a psychologist.  She gave
him the MMPI2 written test and told him what they were looking for.  I
said, you don't have to tell but how did you answer the psychologist
when he asked you if you had ever used drugs?  He said he told him I
used pot around 15 times.  I asked him how the psychologist could have
found that out if he had not told him?  Well, he probably couldn't have.
 If I told you that too often candidates are eliminated from the process
because of past drug use would you have told the psychologist?  He said,
no.

Another candidate from Oregon was in background for a department that
does not give a poly.  He's a volunteer for this department. His dad's a
firefighter. He wrote on his background packet that he had stolen
several items, had sex with a 17-year-old minor when he was age 18, and
much more.  I asked him how they would find this information out if he
hadn't created the trail?  He said they wouldn't have.

Not only did the above candidate not make it through background, he was
asked to turn in his gear for the volunteers.  The other two candidates
didn't make it either.  All candidates created trails where they didn't
have to. 

Those candidates who are honest to a fault diminish their chances of
passing the psychological interview and the background! That's right.
You folks want this job so bad you will tell the psychologist anything
he wants to know. Once you start down this road of total honestly,
creating trails where you don't have to is where you get into big
trouble. Especially when the psychologist says, "Everyone has skeletons
in their closet, this interview is not designed to eliminate you from
the process, or you don't want to be too squeaky clean." So you open up.
Then the phone stops ringing and no one will talk to you. You are out of
the process Mcfly. And, you don't know why.

For more on Creating Trials see:  http://www.eatstress.com/trail.htm

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Check out http://www.eatstress.com/newpage2.htm and learn how entry
level and promotional candidates are improving their interview scores up
to 15 points and nailing that badge! 

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Want Captain Bob to come speak to your group?  See
http://www.eatstress.com/seminar.htm

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2.      Entry Level Skills Tip 
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Multiple Job Offers

Hi Capt. Bob, I was wondering if you can offer me some advice pertaining
to getting hired with one department and leaving for another one. I'm
currently being considered for a job with a smaller dept. and if
considered they want to rush to get me setup so I can join the rest of
the recruits fortraining.

My problem is I'm almost done with the hiring process with another dept
and all I need is a psych test, which I will do soon!  I like both
departments but I have preference towards one and the one I want seems
like it will take longer to get back to me than the other one. 

If offered a job with the dept. I want, how should I go about telling
the other dept that I'm going to another one? 

Thank you for your time! I look forward to getting your new book and
reading the psych report!   Ryan

Reply: It is my opinion and experience to go forward with both (no don't
let them know of each other unless they ask specifically by name the
other department) and make the final decision as the process unfolds.
You never know what's going to happen in the hiring process. Follow each
job offer until the end of the process. If you like one department
better and tell the other one good by, what are you going to do if the
one you likes doesn't hire you?

One of our candidates got 3 job offers in 8 days. He went forward in all
3, and then made his decision.

Take a free test drive of sample chapters from the new book Becoming a
Firefighter here:
http://www.eatstress.com/firefighterbook.htm

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Bottom line getting a badge is all presentation skills!

Check out http://www.eatstress.com/faq.htm for the FREE 101 Inside
Secrets How to Get a Badge!

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Announcing the Gold Package!

If you really want a firefighter job you will want to have every tool
available to shorten the learning curve between you and that badge! Our
new Gold Package gives you every skill and tool you will need! It
includes:

The Oral Board Entry Level CD/Video Program that has helped over 2,100
candidates nail that badge! And, Captain Bob's new book! Becoming a
Firefighter----The Complete Guide to Your Badge!

Step by step, this has everything you need to know in the process,
starting with the application, written, physical, oral, psych interview,
background, polygraph, and medical to gain a badge.  The Gold Package
contains the inside "Nuggets", tips and resources you can't get anywhere
else to shorten the learning curve and the distance between you and that
badge.  As a bonus, the book includes our Special Psych Report (a $20.00
value).

Take a free test drive of sample chapters from the new book Becoming a
Firefighter here:
http://www.eatstress.com/firefighterbook.htm

Check out the Gold Package here!:
http://www.eatstress.com/goldpackage.htm

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Ask Captain Bob any questions

E-mail Mailto:captbob@eatstress.com

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 3.     Robs Corner 
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Down in the dumps

So there you were standing in produce, you see a guy you went to school
with, he is also testing for a fire job. He's on top of the world, you
ask him why. "Because I start the academy with metro fire next Monday!"
he tells you.

Your stomach does a flip-flop. You get chest pain. You had that one. You
were telling people you were in; the interview couldn't have gone
better.  Hey, I was at the top of the list.

So you tell him how happy you are for him and move on, .to the hard
liquor area. Not again, you might be the last person from your
firefighter I class to get an offer. This sucks. You go home, draw the
curtains, light candles, and stop eating until further notice.

Does this sound familiar. Well unless you are the one chosen, it will
happen to you. There is no job that has a higher rate of rejection than
the fire service other than being a movie actor, and at least they get
invited to cool parties when they're out of work. You've still got to
work.

I recently got passed over for the job of captain, five times. I was
number one on the list, and stayed there. So what do you do? Being drunk
all the time helps for the first week, but then it gets old. You have no
idea what went wrong. Was it me? Was it something I've done in my past,
am I over qualified, under qualified, were the raters qualified?  Did
what I said to the assistant chief at the physical agility somehow hurt
me? You'll find out, you don't really appreciate sleep, until you can't.

O.K., "move on back"*. Take a look at what you're doing right, and what
could be better. If you don't know, go ask. I talked to most of the
chiefs that I interviewed with, and instead of going in with the
attitude of what did I do to piss you off, or telling him I thought he
was my friend. I said " I'm treating my testing process as a learning
experience, what did you see I could do better, did I do anything you
wouldn't have, did I leave some things out, or include to much?

You wouldn't believe the response I received. I've come to find out the
people on the panels are real people, real firefighters and they care.
They also feel some measure of guilt and pity for the people they pass
over. You can use that. Pump them for everything that they may have
wanted for the questions they asked. I was surprised to find the
questions I didn't like, they didn't like also. They don't write them,
just asked them. By the time I went for my sixth interview, I had it
down, and I'd heard all the questions, and knew which chief liked which
answer. I knocked them dead. The other two guys, who started off 11
places below me on the list, didn't have a chance. I'd heard all the
questions, and knew what they were looking for. I'm now a captain. 

After all I've been through, do you know what they call me at work?
.They call me CAPTAIN. My paycheck says captain. In the long run, I've
missed only six months as a captain. I'll be a captain for at least 15
years; it's not that big a deal. The reason I'm here is attitude. Now
matter what happens you smile, even if it's like a guy putting a
cigarette out in his hand, you smile. Don't let them think they got you.
 
I've heard guys say, " Wow, no matter what they do to him he just
stands back up and asks for more.  It may have been killing me, but they
didn't know.

You would be amazed how even if you take thirteen tests, ...in five
years after you're hired, you won't remember, or care, .you got it. You
will understand why Capt. Bob says, " nothing counts until you have the
badge, nothing. You don't know how good it is!
      
*James Brown, "Get on Back" cc.1968

CAPTAIN ROB (Thank you)
NRTC@SONIC.NET
http://www.eatstress.com 

You can read more of Rob's wisdom by visiting

http://www.eatstress.com/robs_corner.htm

Captain Rob is Captain Bob's Son.  He does all the entry level coaching
by phone nationwide.  You can contact him direct with your questions or
set up a coaching appointment at 707-869-1330.  or e-mail Rob at
nrtc@sonic.net

For more on entry level coaching visit
http://www.eatstress.com/private%20coaching.htm

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 4.     Promotional Level Skills Tip
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One of the areas promotional candidates get into trouble in the fire
simulations is they lose equipment.  You can overcome this by using a
piece of paper with a line drawn down the center.  When you order
equipment put the responding units on the right hand side of the line.
When you assign the equipment move it to the left side of the line.

It's not uncommon at the end of the drill for the raters to ask you
where certain units are assigned.  Using this simple formula you always
know where the units are assigned.

For more on our promotional program visit
http://www.eatstress.com/promo.htm


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 5.  New Badges
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Captain Bob, I just wanted to drop you a line and say thanks for all
your help.  About a year ago I bought your video and audio program.  The
information was incredible.  Although I never fully understood until I
saw the results of my interviews.

I had been testing for about 3 years with no results.  I had never
received a passing score in the oral interview.  I felt like I had very
good credentials and could not understand why I was not getting hired.
I had my BA from Cal-Berkeley, I spoke Spanish, I had my FFI and I was a
paramedic!

After using your program I have received 6 chiefs interview.  3 of which
I received job offers and the other 3 lists were canceled due to budget
restraints.

I have accepted a job offer with Los Angeles City Fire Dept. (LAFD).  I
start the academy on Nov. 24th 2003.  This is truly a dream come true.
Once again I want to say thank you for your enlightenment.

Sincerely, Patrick Leonard

Capt. Bob, I received "the call" Tuesday 10/21/03 for a Firefighter
position with the City Of Rialto. Up until 3 years ago, before I ordered
your entry-level tapes, I was not passing interviews. After receiving
your tapes and viewing them for less than five minutes, I figured out
that I was an ass for not doing it sooner. I know for a fact that I
added at least five years  to my goal attainment for being a typical
hardheaded guy. I can whole heartedly say, from the bottom of my heart,
that I am where I am today because of you sir. You didn't give me
answers, yet you showed me to use what I had all along to my benefit,
along with all my phone calls and e-mails you so unselfishly answered. I
start November 3rd 2003. Part of me is scared and part of me is so
excited. I can remember daydreaming about how it would be like (and if
it would ever happen) when and if I got hired. You helped remove the
"if" and helped me replace it with "when" I would receive the offer. It
is better than winning the lottery! On behalf of all the people that
supported me through this long, emotional rollercoaster...

Respectfully,
Firefighter Joe Valdez (I love the sound of that)

Hi Captain,
This is Branden Eaton from Sierra Vista, AZ. I just wanted to thank you
and your son for all of the great advice. I read the book, watched the
video, and constantly had the CD on my computer.  I tested for the Sierra Vista Fire Departments Reserve program; with your help I was #1 on the written, #1 on the physical, and most importantly #1 on the oral board!

The chief has decided not to put me through the academy because I have my firefighter 1 and 2 certification. He is going to put me straight online. I got thejob! I will review all of the material again when I test for the full time position. Once again THANK YOU! Branden

Hello Capt,
             After ten years of testing I finally got an offer. The oral
was the one thing holding me up. After purchasing your tapes, I took
your advice & memorized my personal script & made it sound natural to
where even I was impressed with it. How do I know the offer wasn't a
coincident? I got 2 job offers the same month after never getting any
after 10 years of trying. I now work for Sacramento Fire Dept & love it.
I could go on but I'll keep it short................THANK
YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Erik W

Hi Captain Bob- I had written you a year ago telling you of my
acceptance to a full-time midwestern fire department.  Well, it's been a
year, I'm still here and just passed my probationary period.  I just
thought I owed you one more thank you for your program and it's
fantastic content.  I recommend it to many of my friends seeking
employment in this AWESOME career.  Thanks again friend!  -D. Olson

Hi Captain Bob, I just wanted to drop you a note to say thanks. I
ordered your Entry Level Program a couple of years ago.  I had been
trying to get on with a large city fire Department for several years,
but I never made it past the first oral board.  I got on with a smaller
fire department after buying your products, and continued to test with
my dream department. 

Today, I was notified by my dream department that I ranked number 1!!!!
I will start next month. I'm very excited, and I just wanted to thank
you for your help. Sincerely, Jan

Dear Capt. Bob,

I wanted to thank you for putting together the conquer the job interview
CD and DVD. I recently tested for one of the departments I was really
hoping to get on with, passed the physical part and the written, and the
oral interview went great. At the conclusion of the interview the chief
told me that out of all the candidates ( I was one of last to be
interviewed) I had been the most well dressed and prepared. I came out
#2 on the hiring list and now have the job I have been waiting so long
for. Thanks again for your great nuggets!

Yours in brotherhood, Ryan

To see how candidates have improved their position in gaining a badge
visit
http://www.eatstress.com/newpage152.htm

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Check out the current "Bonus Nugget" oral board tip
http://www.eatstress.com/bonusnugget.htm
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Check it out Captain Bobs book, Eat Stress For
Breakfast. 
www.eatstress.com/stressfire.htm

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 The Formula
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Here's what we know after 30-years of experience. Candidates
who get our CD/Video Entry Level or Promotional Program, use the work
booklet, practice with the all-important TAPE RECORDER, and come back
for a private coaching session, catapult themselves into the Olympic
camp. That's where you get a shot at that badge you have been
looking for.

One on one coaching sessions are where you get dialed into making your
best presentation. It can make the difference between being down on a
list and being in the top 10 going for the chief's oral. Candidates
armed with this information are the one's who are smoking past you in
the oral, grab the badge and leave you as the bride's maid again. We
know because we get the calls when they get their badge! You can contact
my Son Rob direct to set up a coaching session @ 707-869-1330.  Robs
e-mail is nrct@sonic.net
T
o learn more about private coaching visit
http://www.eatstress.com/private%20coaching.htm

You start by ordering our Entry Level Audio/Video or Promotional Program
from the products section of our web site below or by calling our
distributor Rayve @ 800-852-4890. This program will keep you motivated!
Consider also getting our new book "Eat Stress For Breakfast" to help
you along your journey.

"Nothing counts 'til you have the badge . . .  Nothing!  And, there is
no feeling like proudly wearing the badge."

Check out the specials on for entry level and promotional testing
http://www.eatstress.com/newpage6.htm

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 6.     Humor
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There are only eleven times in history where the "F" word has been
considered acceptable for use ... they are as follows:

11. "What the @#$% do you mean we are sinking?" -- Capt. E.J. Smith of
RMS Titanic, 1912

10. "What the @#$% was that?" - Mayor Of Hiroshima, 1945

9. "Where did all those @#$%ing Indians come from?" -  Custer, 1877

8. "Any @#$%ing  idiot could understand that." - Einstein, 1938

7. "It does so  @#$%ing  look like her!" - Picasso, 1926

6. "How the  @#$%  did you work that out?" - Pythagoras, 126 BC

5. "You  want  WHAT on the  @#$%ing  ceiling?" - Michelangelo, 1566

4. "Where  the  @#$%  are we?" - Amelia Earhart, 1937

3. "Scattered  @#$%ing  showers....My ass !" - Noah, 4314 BC

2. "Aw c'mon. Who  the @#$%  is going to find out?" - Bill Clinton, 1999

and .......a  drum roll please........

1. "Geez, I  didn't  think they'd get this  @%#*^ing  mad." Saddam
Hussein, 2003

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 7. Resource Websites for Candidates
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Perfect Firefighter Candidate.  Job listing and a complete resource web
site with a community bulletin board.  
http://www.firecareers.com

Don McNea Fire School, Inc. is the #1 Firefighter Preparatory Entrance
School in the Country.  They have the inside information how to tackle
those psychological and personality questions on the written.
http://www.fireprep.com  

Learn how entry level and promotional candidates are improving their
interview scores up to 15 points and nailing that badge!
http://www.eatstress.com/newpage2.htm

FREE 101 Inside Secrets How to Get a Badge!
http://www.eatstress.com/faq.htm

Check out the specials for entry level and promotional testing:
http://www.eatstress.com/newpage6.htm

FIREHIRE, Entry-level firefighter examination process:
http://www.firehire.com

Firenuggets.com "The magazine dedicated to keeping firefighters safe"
http://www.firenuggets.com

Firemanjobs:  firefighter employment job listings
http://www.firemanjobs.com

You can learn more about physical agility training from
www.firefightersworkout.com 

B-Pad Assessment Devices.  If you're an agency looking for a new
dimension to evaluate candidates, or a candidate wanting information on
how you can orientate your skills for this evaluation check out their
web site:
http://www.bpad.com  
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       ARTICLES FOR YOUR PUBLICATIONS
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I have many articles available for reprint in your
publication, newsletter, etc. You may use
articles written by me that you see in FireZine or
visit our web site @ http://www.eatstress.com/faq.htm
All you have to do is print the article in its entirety along
with the by line, the credits, and complete contact
information found at the bottom of the web site page. I would
appreciate a tear sheet or electronic copy too. Thanks

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http://www.eatstress.com/firezinearchive.htm  
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THE SMALL PRINT

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TIME TO SHARE. Please send your
ideas, questions, your success stories and when you
nail that badge to captbob@eatstress.com

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Nothing counts til you have the badge . . . Absolutely Nothing!
==========================================
Code 3 Publishing.  Fire Captain Bob Smith, Speaker, Author, Publisher
Information Products on How to Get a Badge.
Web site:  http://www.eatstress.com  Over 300 pages of helpful
information.
Phone: 888-238-3959  local 925-846-3959 Fax: 925-846-9650
 E-mail Mailto:captbob@eatstress.com