Q: How do I dress to impress for an interview?
A: Remember to dress for the job you want and not the job you have! Always strive to look professional in your appearance which includes being clean, neat and, yes, conservative. Think job and not church or going out with friends!
Q: How do I make my resume stand out?
A: Make sure you apply for jobs in which you MEET THE QUALIFICATIONS. Nothing excites a recruiter more than finding a candidate whose qualifications are a great match for the job! Make sure it’s neat, easy-to-read and free from typos.
Q: How do I stand out among the many candidates at a job fair?
A: Target the companies you like ahead of time, practice a brief introduction of who you are, what you’re looking for and what you have to offer before you arrive, then present your best and most confident self. Don’t come across as desperate and willing to take any job.
Q: What’s the best follow-up move I can make after interviewing?
A: Send a thank you email, letter or note. If you’re the only one who does it, it makes you look good. If you’re the only one who does not do it, it makes you look bad.
Q: Is there a best day for me to apply for a job?
A: Not really. A recruiter still determines the pace in which they review applications and resumes, so even if you apply on Monday, there’s no guarantee that the recruiter will review your information before Thursday or Friday.
Q: If I have a felony or misdemeanor, how should I fill out an application?
A: Always be honest. Since many companies conduct background checks today, they’ll find out if you aren’t telling the truth. If there’s room, try to briefly explain the circumstances which may help you with the recruiter.Q: What are the best job sites to use in a job search?
A: The most popular general sites are still Monster, Career Builder and Hot Jobs. However, many recruiters prefer to search LinkedIn.com to find talent. Register and complete your profile today so you can get noticed tomorrow.
Q: How soon after interviewing should I call the company?
A: It depends on the instructions given to you. If they commit to following up with you within one week, give them one week. If they ask you to call back in three days, call back in three days. Following instructions during this process is very important.
Q: What’s the best way to answer interview questions?
A: Follow the S-B-O process: S = Situation (briefly explain the situation that occurred); B = Behavior (tell what your behavior was); O = Outcome (what was the outcome/result)
Q: Can I ask the interviewer questions during an interview?
A: Absolutely! It’s not only the smart thing to do; it’s your right. Ask about how you’ll be evaluated, who your coworkers are, your boss’ management style and the biggest challenge in the job. Keep questions to no more than four.
Q: How do I network to find a job?
A: Start with people you already know – family and friends. Ask them who they may know that they can introduce you to, and NEVER do anything to make your friends and family look bad while networking with their referrals.
Seek out ways to help others because it comes back, and be sure to stay in touch.
Q: What’s the most important thing I can do when looking for a job?
A: Be clear on what it is you’re looking for. Many people want a job but have no plan. Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s easier to determine who, what, where and how in your search.
Q: What tips can you give for creating a good resume?
Q: When looking to change careers, how can I make my resume appeal to a recruiter or hiring manager?
If you have any relevant experience, create a section called “Relevant Work Experience” and list it underneath that header. Be sure to list your “Relevant Work Experience” section before you list your “Other Work Experience” section.
Q: If I do research on a company, what exactly should I look for?
Such things as what products/services they offer, are they financially stable or struggling, are they buried in scandal and lawsuits and for what reason(s), what is their reputation in and out of the industry and do they have a history of discrimination.
(Other areas of importance to you – family friendliness, work attire, charitable giving, etc.)
Q: What are the worst things I can do in an interview?
Q: How do I prevent myself from being so nervous during an interview?
Prepare. Take time to rehearse answers to interview questions. The more you prepare, the more confident you’ll feel about your ability to interview well. As your confidence grows, your nervousness will decrease.