Job Hunting Advice and Interviewing Tips
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You can't get an interview without a resume!
Generally speaking, the tools needed for a job search are a resume, cover letter and references. Depending on your field you may also need a portfolio of your work. Here are a few tips from Career Builder to help you create a resume that clearly conveys your strengths and experience:
- A functional resume, which highlights your abilities rather than your work history, is a good choice for first-time job seekers.
- Focus on accomplishments and results you have achieved, rather than simple descriptions of experiences.
- Use action words to describe your experiences, such as "initiated," "produced" and "managed."
- If you are low on practical work experience, look to your part-time work, school activities or volunteer positions. Try to translate how they might apply to the job.
The Internet is full of resources to help you build your resume. Many sites also list common interview questions. Here are a few websites that we like:
- Experience
- College Grad Job Hunter
- U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook
- Monster
- Career Builder
If you have access, you also might want to check out your college's career center. Even if you are out of school, they are usually willing to help out a new graduate.
Prepare, prepare, prepare
The most common mistake people make when going through the interview process is lack of preparation. Gearing up for your interview will boost your confidence and lower your anxiety. Experts recommend that you spend at least three hours preparing for each interview. If you don't have that much time to commit, start with these tips to help you focus:
Read up on the company you'll be interviewing with. Look at the company's website online and try to find a description of the position you're applying for. Read through some recent press releases to get up-to-date on company news. Did the company just make a major acquisition? Win a new account? Be familiar with who they are and what they do.
Make a list of questions. Asking insightful questions sets you apart from the rest of the pack of applicants and lets the interviewer know that you are truly interested in the company and the position. Have 3 to 5 questions ready - you can even write them down in advance and refer to them when it's time.
Make sure you have good directions to the interview site. Check out websites like MapQuest or Yahoo! Maps to navigate your route in advance. Or ask the person setting up the interview if they have standard, e-mailable directions, which can be more accurate than online resources. Make sure you also factor in rush-hour traffic or bad weather that might add some time to your trip.
Don't underestimate the power of first impressions
First impressions - being dressed appropriately, being prepared and being on time - are critical. When you're setting up the interview, try to get a sense of how much time you'll need to allow. Some interviews last an hour and some last the entire workday if the company wants you to meet with a number of people or take pre-employment screening tests. Remember, be on time and turn off your cell phone - two offenses that are sure to make your first impression, your last.
