As a business owner, I am sometimes amazed when I interview people for open positions. I would like to give some tips I have come across of what not to do.
• When a potential employer calls for an interview – don’t say now what job is this? I have applied to so many I can’t keep track. In an environment where customization will make you stand out, keep a spreadsheet of where and what positions you are pursuing.
• If you show up for an interview, actually research the company you are interviewing for. Understand their business and see what value you bring to the table. I can’t tell you how many fail to show an interest in who they may be working for.
• A job post indicates they don’t want any calls regarding the job and ask for a resume. Follow instructions and give the necessary info I need to make the right choice. No one wants to go to an interview for a job that is simply not the right fit.
• Spell check everything.
• Some fail to read the job description and don’t even know what job they applied for. I had an applicant try to sell himself as a PR guy for an account rep job. Don’t apply for something you’re not passionate about. You’re wasting everyone’s time.
• My biggest pet peeve of all: During the initial phone and interview process, don’t argue about the amount of pay you may be getting. I sometimes hear the attitude that a job isn’t worth going to unless they make so much more than they did whey they had a full-time job. They would rather be unemployed. A person with that attitude will NEVER be happy regardless of what an employer would offer them. They get in the way of themselves landing the job. So, who is it to say you were the right candidate in the first place? Please reserve those conversations for a second interview where negotiation is more appropriate.
I truly feel for the applicants that apply for the jobs posted. I see it’s tough out there. I so appreciate the ones with great attitudes, who are well prepared and are appreciative of the opportunity.
Lots of luck in your job search.
