When applying for a job, there are several things to be aware of and remember. Before submitting a resume, always be prepared to receive a telephone call to discuss the position you are applying for. Learn who the company is, what they do, how they do it, who works there and as much about those people as possible. This is a great start to determine if you may be a good fit. Most companies have a website to begin with. Take advantage of social media by searching for them on Google+, Twitter and Facebook. Review profiles of owners and managers on LinkedIn. This may include more company information as well. Look for length of time in business, locations, divisions and the kind of product or service provided.
Do not be shy about asking employees that you may know for
referrals. If you know someone who works at a company, contact them and ask for
information that may be helpful to you.
When you receive a telephone call and schedule an interview,
review the company again for updates or news articles of relevance. Review your
resume and cover letter submitted so conversation is consistent with
information previously provided.
Confirm with professional contacts and friends they will be references. Make them aware you are interviewing and may receive a call or email so they will be prepared. Gather complete telephone numbers, addresses and emails. List all of this information on nice stationery to provide at interview if needed.
Dress neatly and conservatively. Clothes should be clean and
pressed, hair neatly combed, shoes shined and minimal makeup, perfume, aftershave
and jewelry. A good rule to follow is “if in doubt, do not wear it”. Do not
take away from the interview by wearing distracting clothes or accessories. An
interview is not a good time to wear the bright flowered tie you received for a
gift. A conservative solid or striped tie will not be distracting. A jacket is
always a winner paired with a button down blouse or shirt. After researching
the company, determine how formal is necessary. Anything less than neatly
groomed will lead an interviewer to think this may be the best that it gets.
Interview Etiquette
Leave sunglasses and ear buds in the car, leaving your hands
available, thus avoiding embarrassing scrambling and dropping things. Prepare for an interview by being well rested and alert. If
you are distracted during an interview, an employer may wonder how well you
will focus in a job.
Take a nice folder with extra copies of your resume and
references. An interviewer may not have a copy available or may bring others in
who may like one as well. Include a pen and notepad. Having this information
readily available is also necessary should you need to fill out an application.
All dates and information will be consistent with your resume. Be prepared to take notes. This shows you are interested and also saves you forgetting useful or needed information.
Be on time. Map your route prior to the day of the interview
if you are not sure of the location. Arrive 15 minutes early, even if you stay in
the car for 5 minutes. If you are late, it shows lack of respect for the
interviewer’s time, the company, as well as your time management skills and
work habits. This also allows time to relax and focus before being in front of
your potential employer.
If you have a bottle of water or cup of coffee
beforehand, toss it before even going into a building to interview. This will
save embarrassing spills and distractions. It may be just as well to even pass
on a drink if offered during an interview. Turn cell phones off or silence
before entering the building and put away. It is impolite and distracting for a
phone to ring during an interview.
While waiting for your appointment in the lobby, spend this
time examining your surroundings. Are there books available showing examples of
work the company is involved in? Are there pictures or awards on the walls?
Learn the company mission statement. Leave all emotional baggage behind so you
have a pleasant expression on your face as people walk past you as you are
waiting. Genuinely smile as people may pass by.
You are well on your way to making a great first impression and winning a new job.
You are well on your way to making a great first impression and winning a new job.
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