From Resume To Follow Up After Interview

Tips On What To Do To Get That Job

Oct 14, 2008 Paym Bergson

Handy guidelines on the process of the job search: quick tips on each part of the process in finding a job.

Intimidated by the process of finding a job? Follow these simple guidelines for a step-by-step manual on what to do to get the job!

Ensure your Resume is Up to Date

Nothing is worse than a resume with errors, incomplete, or does not reflect your most recent work/education. Take the time to go over your resume – and ask someone else to read it over and comment on it to you as well. It's better to catch any potential errors or ways to improve it now, not later.

Write a Cover Letter that Not Only Matches, but Exceeds the Ad

Don't just repeat the ad, show them how you already know how to manage a team or increase business. Think about how you can add value to the company and the position, and quickly state that. Don't give too much away – you want to expand when you get that interview! And consider creating a Skill Set.

Investigate the Advertised Company

If the name of the company is listed in the ad, go to the company's site. Read the overview and mission statement, or anything else that tells you about the company's objectives and goals. Do these goals appeal to you? If so, see if you can add something about the company in your cover letter. Investigate before your interview, so you have a better understanding of the company's directives.

Prepare for the Interview

Always have a few outfits ready for interviews. That way, you will be prepared when asked if you can make it for the next day. Keep copies of your resume, cover letters and references handy. When you get that interview, just scoop up the relevant documents into a folder or binder/clipboard. Ensure you know how to get to the interview, how much time it will take you, and who is interviewing you.

Day of the Interview

Leave enough time to get there a bit early. If you are too early, wait in your car or a local coffee shop. Go in about 10 minutes early. This shows you are prompt and prepared. More importantly, it gives you a chance to look around and see how the office/workers greet each other. You get a quick inside peek into the company culture.

Ensure your clothes are neat, clean and tidy. Dress appropriately - no "after five" attire for a day job; no riding boots for an electrician position.

Ensure your body is also neat, clean and tidy. Good grooming health habits are the expected. Do not wear that expensive perfume that permeates the room – the interviewer may have allergies!

During the Interview

Take your time answering questions, and ask for clarification if needed. Be honest, be friendly, be happy, just don't overdo it. Hopefully you will already be prepared with a couple of questions to ask when the time comes - even if it just asking the interviewer what they like about working for the company. And ask when you might follow up about the interview – if the person would prefer a call or an email.

After the Interview

Follow up! Send a thank you note via email. And don't forget to follow up about the position at the proper time (when the interviewer said might be a good time, or when a decision might be made).

Don't Get Discouraged

If you didn't get the job, and you are able to talk to or email with the interviewer, ask them if further education or more experience would help. The idea here is to get the person to help you help yourself. Even if the interviewer cannot say anything, you had the experience and training of the interview, which will help you on your next one!

And there will be a next, successful one!

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The Process Of Getting A Job

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