Interviewing, occupational and customer-service skills are not something you are born with—they are usually learned by watching others. The interviewing process can be extremely uncomfortable and sometimes even scary to those who are unfamiliar, but here are some great tips in learning how to "land that perfect job":
1. Have a well-constructed résumé (preferably one page) ready to hand to the prospective employer. Most word-processing programs have good outlines you can use. Be sure to have someone review the résumé for grammar and typos.
2. Visit the prospective employer's Web site to gather as much information about the place of business. Once you feel informed, go in person to ask the prospective employer for an application. This will be their opportunity to form a first impression of you, so plan your attire and appearance carefully. For example, refrain from wearing nose, mouth or eyebrow jewelry or heavy make-up; wear clean and pressed clothing; and be freshly showered. Remember, this is not the interview but it is still important. Since the employer is not having a conversation with you, how you present yourself is the only impression he or she will have to set you apart from other job seekers.
3. Once you have the application, inform the prospective employer when you will return with the completed form. Give yourself time to copy the application so that you can practice writing a draft. You do not want to have to return to the same employer and ask for a second application. Once you are sure the draft is complete, copy or type the information in ink on a fresh application.
4. Return to the prospective employer at the time you said that you would be returning. This shows them your ability to manage your time and to be punctual. It is fine to politely ask if the person doing the hiring is available. If that person is unavailable, do not press to talk to the manager. If you are too persistent or annoying to the person accepting your application, that information will surely be passed on to the hiring manager. Treat everyone with whom you come into contact as if he or she were the one making the decision to hire you.
5. Hopefully you will be selected for an interview. The interview can be stressful for even the most experienced job seeker; it's completely natural to be nervous. Don't start the interview off on the wrong note by arriving too early, i.e. 15-20 minutes early, or too late. A great trick would be to arrive early and wait in your car, or in the vicinity, until just about 5 minutes before the interview is scheduled. This will keep you relaxed and calm before the interview instead of anxious and running around. Be prepared for the interview by learning as much as you can about the business and job for which you are applying. Remember to sit up straight and make eye contact; listen to the questions being asked and respond honestly; and most importantly try to sit still—don't fidget or play with your hair—and keep your hands relaxed. If you do not understand a question, don't try to answer it; ask for clarification so you can answer it appropriately.
Looking for a job is always stressful, no matter how long you have been in the workforce. However, knowing how to present yourself to an employer helps to open doors for you, and the more these skills are practiced, the easier it will get. Good luck!
For anyone needing help with their résumé or other related issues, please feel free to e-mail us—we are here to help.
This column contains human resource suggestions by human resource specialists. This information is not intended as professional or legal advice of any kind.
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