Job hunting is something that we all end up doing. Perhaps you've just had a baby, or been downsized, or got fired because of the personal injury case you filed against the guy who practically ran you over in the parking garage. So what if the guy just happened to be the CEO. The fact is, you haven't worked for a while now and need a job. When you are job hunting, there are a few do's and don'ts that act as general rules of thumb as far as things that you can do or avoid in order to nail the position. There are a number of websites providing job hunting or resume building tips that will get your foot in the door and a seat in front of an interviewer. The interview stage alone is a process that carries with it an entirely separate guidebook on things to say, things not to say and things to do, or things not to do. When you are job hunting and preparing for that next career move, keep in mind some of these pointers.
1. DO have a professional resume and cover letter. Again, there are all kinds of online tools and templates that can help you achieve this.
2. DON' T put impertinent information on your resume. The name of your personal injury lawyer on your cover letter looks really bad. Also, your interviewer is not interested in how you spend your leisure time. UNLESS you are seeking employment at a kitten orphanage.
3. DO be honest during the interview. If you have lost a job, be honest about it. Chances are if you aren't, your prospective employer will find out anyway. You don't need to mention the parking garage, just be honest about the fact that you've been let go previously.
4. DON'T relate unnecessary information to the interviewer. For example, if you are there because your settlement hasn't come through yet, and you need to pay for your professional injury lawyer, you may want to leave that out. When it comes to the "Why do you want to work here question?" say something about seeking new challenges or something to that effect. They love that.
5. DO be honest about your weaknesses if you are asked. Don't say that your personal injury case has left you with a bad back and you can't sit still for long periods of time. Say something that will make the interviewer reflect your weakness back on the position. "I'm a perfectionist!" works very well in this situation. This might be a good time to lie if you aren't a perfectionist.
6. DON'T mention the word lawyer at all; not unless you are applying to a LAW FIRM. Do not use the word lawyer. AT ALL.
7. DO come prepared with a conversation starter to make your interviewer warm up to you. Review #6 before you pick a topic however.
These are just a few general tips that can help you in the job market and pin down the position of your dreams. Don't worry, we've all been there. A good interviewer will definitely try to make you feel comfortable. Good luck!
No comments:
Post a Comment