How to Interview For A Job

This post goes along with the previous one about laid off or lost your job. These are just a few basic tips.

1) What To Wear?
Men…no jeans, no sneakers, no tee shirts, no boots. Wear leather shoes, slacks or chinos and a collared dress shirt. You do not have to wear a tie and jacket, but recommended. A 2 piece suit is best. Be shaven, if you have a beard…cleanly trimmed. Be clean…showered, clean clothes, polished shoes and clean hands especially. Keep jewelry and make up to a minimum.

Women… no jeans, no sneakers, no tee shirts, no boots, NO SHORT SKIRTS and no low cut blouses. Wear leather shoes (with moderate heels) , slacks or chinos or a “business” style skirt or dress and a collared dress shirt. You do not have to wear a tie and jacket, but recommended. A 2 piece suit is best. Be clean…showered, clean clothes, polished shoes and clean hands especially. Keep jewelry and make up to a minimum.

2) What Type Of Job Should I Interview For?
It’s not just about experience, it’s about work ethic and reliability. If a job sounds good and you are interested in it, that’s okay. But, be prepared to tell your interviewer why you are right for the job.

Do you have any special skills or talents that may make you better for this job than someone else?

Will the job or career change be beneficial for me and my family down the road?

In todays job market, I believe you should take a job even if it does not pay exactly what you think you are worth. You can always continue to look and it looks much better if you are working and not just sitting at home. If you have bills to pay, take a job and try to get a second one part time. It will help your finances and show some intiative.

3) Prepare For The Interview
Have a good resume. This post is too short to cover resumes here but…be brief (one page), be concise and show a logical time line. Be as truthful as you can. An outright lie on a resume could sink you. In this job market, employers are checking previous jobs and calling references. Be forewarned.
You can Google..."How to write a resume" for some great free resources.

Know something about the company you are applying to. Check out their web site. Google them. Ask your friends and family if they have dealt with them. If you are going to bet your livelihood on a company, you owe it to yourself to check them out. Think of, and write down questions before hand.

Be on time, or at least 10 minutes early. They are busy and don’t appreciate you being late. Bring a paper and pencil to write questions down as you are talking.

Be friendly, smile and try to relax. When you leave, thank them for their time and get a business card from everyone you talk to. After you leave, send a “Thank You” email for their time and the interview within an hour of leaving. If you do not hear from them in 3-4 days, or within the alotted call back time period, call them and inquire. Be polite and be brief.

These are just a few tips. But, they can help you on that next interview.
Good Luck!

CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/