Friday, September 9, 2011

5 Ways to Land the Perfect Job


As the hiring manager for one of the nation's largest Fortune 500 Companies, I learned a great deal through the years about hiring, interviewing, and securing that dream job. Employers want to leave your interview feeling like they just hired "the one". Do you know how to become that person?..

1. Any job is better than no job. Even in light of difficult economic times, it is imperative that applicants have some job. If you have been laid off at the local plant or your corporation has down-sized, work ANYWHERE. We would much rather see you flipping burgers at the local pizza joint, cutting yards, or washing cars, than doing nothing. It shows a desire to work hard and a high level of integrity - both of which are admirable.

2. Be on time. Five minutes early is on time. Ten minutes early is early. On time is late. I have cancelled interviews with an applicant that is late. It leaves the door open for too many excuses down the road.

3. Dress the part. No matter what the position entails, wear a suit. It shows you are eager for the job. My first job was at a local pizza restaurant. I wore a suit and landed the job on the spot. As is often said, "Dress for the position you want, not the one you have." If dressed too casual, it is hard for the interviewer to move past your attire into your intellect. It is much better to over-dress than under-dress.

4. Come prepared with an accurate, up-to-date resume. Never lie on your resume. We will find out and you will automatically be disqualified. Be sure that you have a professional resume. Take some time and research how to do one if you do not already know. It is worth the extra effort. About half of all resumes get put into the "no" pile, simply because of typos, lack of dates, or lack of professionalism. Don't be one of those.

5. Be honest. Do not say you know how to operate the latest DOS-based marketing program, if you don't. Do not say you are familiar with the operation of heavy equipment, if you are not. Even if we hire you, we will fire you just as quickly, if you are not honest. It is much better to say, "I am not familiar with that program, but am a quick learner and eager to try new things."

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