Searching for that Perfect Fit for the Available Position? ~ 102

An excellent candidate for the technician position has applied for a job that you have posted. There are a million and one things that you need and want to know from this person before committing to offering him a career with your company. Whether he applied online, or from a referral, always, always interview as though you know nothing about this person. Whatever processes you have in place for interviewing, proceed with all of them, no matter how well you may think you know the applicant.

During an interview, there are the obvious things to watch for, such as timeliness, how well they prepared for the interview, hygiene, lack of cell phone calls and texts, etc. Remember, this is most likely their “best” that is before you.

There are online screening tools available for testing for dependability, decision making, work values, etc. This is a great advantage, being in our field, mistakes can be costly. This lowers the chance of hiring someone who may not follow directions well, or is consistently late.

Drug testing almost goes without saying. Most companies require it before hiring, and even have random drug testing throughout their employment term.

Check all references provided. Keep in mind that attitude, motivation, enthusiasm, work ethic, and desire to learn are as important as skills and education. This is the case with any position. If someone wants it enough, they will work hard to achieve it, and most likely enjoy a job more if there was work involved getting there. Ideally, they should be willing to keep the pace, stay up to date and anxious to learn more, as technology is improving and changing every day.

Beware of “I have always done it this way.” Does the employee seek new ways to learn and enjoy the challenge of being educated on the latest technology? Certifications for completed classes to learn new skills listed on a resume or discussed during an interview are good indications of an enthusiastic employee.

With these few easy steps, finding and keeping the right technician will be a great benefit for many productive years in your company.

Preparing for an Interview - Interview Tips 102

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.

First Impression Counts 

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.