Tips to Becoming a Top-Notch Job Candidate
- Make sure to include all your contact information at the top of your resume. Be sure to include your address, phone number, cell phone number and e-mail address. Double check to make sure all the information is correct (no transposed numbers etc.).
- List your experiences starting with the most recent. Be sure to include dates of employment, job titles and job duties.
- Write your job duties and career achievements clearly and succinctly. Bullet points are a clear, concise way to convey information.
- Check and double-check your resume for grammar and typographical errors. Don’t assume that spell checker will catch everything.
- Always be truthful about the information you put on your resume.
- DO your homework on the company. This shows that you are interested in the company itself, not just a position. Websites, libraries and business journals are excellent sources of information.
- DON’T be late to your interview. Get clear, specific driving instructions, including parking availability. Give yourself plenty of time to avoid traffic situations etc. If you need to, take a test drive the night before so you are familiar with the route. There is never an excuse for being late.
- DO be prepared to fill out any application information the company may require. Make sure you complete any paperwork legibly, completely and honestly.
- DO come prepared for the interview. Have extra copies of your resumes available as well as a list of professional references, should the interviewer ask for them.
- DO make sure your attire is clean, pressed and appropriate for the interview. A first impression is a lasting impression.
- DO conduct yourself in a professional manner with a positive attitude.
- DO turn off cellular phones as soon as you enter the office.
- DO thank your interviewer by sending a handwritten thank you note for their time. Take this opportunity to further express your interest in their company.
- Describe your ideal job/work environment.
- Be prepared to list strengths and weaknesses.
- Where do you see yourself in 2, 5, 10 etc. years?
- How do you handle stressful situations?
- How do you handle multiple tasks/projects with overlapping deadlines? Describe tools and methods used to complete a task in a timely manner.
- Describe your biggest success in your career to date. What made it so?
- Why do you think you want this marketing/sales/administrative position?
- Why should we pick you for this job?
- What do you feel is the most important aspect of this position?
- Do you have a formal training period?
- What are the past significant contributions this position has made to the company?
- Never ask the interviewer about salary/benefits on the initial interview. Let the interviewer bring up these topics.
