some advice for that job interview

First, I will begin by saying that I had 6 interviews this week with potential candidates for my department. It reminded me of how LOST people are when it comes to resumes, applying, the actual interview, follow-up, etc. Here are a couple pointers, based on some of the mistakes I witnessed this week.

-PREPARE AN IMPECCABLE RESUME! It will be the hiring manager's first impression of you. I tossed about 15 resumes because they were ridiculous. Don't include an objective, it's cheesy and predictable. Do not put education before job history if you do not have a college degree. Don't leave out job's from your job history on the resume that you want to talk about in the interview. It feels questionable. Why didn't you include it? Lastly, do not put "References available upon request" at the end of the resume. The hiring manager will ask for references so have them available.

-DO NOT SHOW UP LATE! Being too dressed up is better than not dressy enough. Show up clean, sharp, dressed to impress this person. Look your best. Don't chew gum. Do not leave your sunglasses on your head.

-Be honest and interesting. Understand that you are not the only one applying for the position. Act like you want it! Stand out but don't talk too much. Answer questions genuinely. For the most part, if it's a good interviewer they can see right through your bullshit. Be clear and honest. Sell yourself but be slightly modest. No one likes a person that says they have no flaws.

-Do not talk about money, how times are tough for you, that you have a mortgage to pay, that you are a single parent trying to earn a living. Don't tell the interviewer your sob story. Be confident and sell yourself not your problems. Don't divulge too much personal information. Remember this is the very first time you are meeting this person.

-Be ready for any type of question. Don't let the interviewer catch you off guard. PRACTICE BEFOREHAND IF YOU HAVE TO!

-Lastly, do not pester the hiring manager. One follow-up call is enough. An e-mail is OK too. If they want you, you will get a call back. You don't want to look needy!

Don't forgot there are millions of people just like you looking for a job.

-Kat