Top 50 Tips For a Successful Job Search-parts 5

 

 Jobs Employment, Career Job, Employment Job

 Author: Carol Albert

24. Be sure the timing is right. If a recruiter calls you unexpectedly and it’s not a good time, politely offer to call them back later in that same day. That way you can focus without distractions; they understand you have a life. Plus, you’ll have time to review the details of the position and the company and collect your thoughts before returning the call. Better yet, when you are in job search mode, let your calls go into voicemail so you can take control of the return phone call.

25. Be a compelling communicator. Since there is not an opportunity to see facial expressions and body gestures on the phone, your voice qualities have to be top notch. Sounding confident, interested, cooperative, and pleasant is a skill that is worth practicing before going live.

26. At the balance of power. You are not in the driver’s seat with the interview process. Let your interviewer guide the call and ask the questions. At the end, if they invite you to ask any questions, always find out what the next step of their process is. Close the call by thanking them for their interest and expressing your own.

Ace the Interview

27. Knowing a little means a lot. Visit the company’s website and be familiar with their products or services. Determine what makes them different from others in their industry. That way when the question, “What do you know about our company?” comes up, you’ll have a great response.

28. Dress the part. Keep the “one-up” rule in mind. Always dress at least one step up from what you would be wearing on the job. It’s far better an option to be overdressed than it is to be underdressed, so respect the process and your interviewer by suiting up.

29. Go with your “Sunday Best”. You never know what the taste of your interviewer will be, so it’s always best to be conservative in your style and color choice. You can’t go wrong with a solid color suit or separates and a button up shirt or blouse. Avoid open toe shoes and over accessorizing.

30. Arrive 10 minutes early. Not a half hour early. Not 10 minutes late. Ten minutes is enough time to settle down a bit before you actually meet. If for some reason you will be late, realize you have possibly blown the interview, but make a phone call to explain your situation.

31. Make a powerful introduction. Set the tone for a great meeting with a warm handshake, look in the eye, “happy to be here” smile, and “Hello, Mr. Insertnamehere, it’s nice to meet you.” Regardless of gender, it is proper in a business meeting to greet your host with a handshake. It should be appropriately firm and use the full hand.

32. Bring additional copies of your resume. This shows your interviewer that you are prepared and resourceful. Plus, now you get to show off that baby in its intended form; resume paper still exists.

33. Be polite. Wait to be shown where to have a seat. Don’t put your personal belongings (ex. Padfolio, keys, and resume copies) on his/her desk without asking first. Accept the glass of water if offered. You may need it since you will be doing most of the talking, and being nervous can make you choked up and dry.

34. Honesty is always the best policy. A good part of the interview is centered on your work history. Be honest about your skills, contributions, and reasons for leaving. There is a way to present even not-so-pleasant situations in a reasonable and understandable way. Covering up, omitting information such as work history, or lying is sure to come to light eventually.