Here they are, with no fluff. I coach and speak with job seekers daily. The winners do these things; the frustrated don’t.
- Confirm the day before. You want to use every opportunity to make a good impression. This can start before you get there. Call, confirm, and say thanks. Your brand just got better as you demonstrated your thoroughness and professionalism.
- Arrive just a few minutes early and introduce yourself clearly and confidently. “Hello, I am Bill Florin and I am here for a 10 o’clock appointment with Sue Smith.” Smile when you say that. Thank the receptionist. S/he talks. You want to impress everyone.
- Bring and offer hard copies of your résumé. Say, “I brought extra copies of my résumé. Would you like one?” Simple.
- Be ready to respond to, “So, please tell me about yourself.” I spoke with a client this week who interviewed with three separate people on the same day in the same firm. They all started that way. She was ready! (Extra-credit tip: See “Question 1” for more help on responding to this.)
- Have some company and job-specific questions written down and ready to go. You will be asked, “What questions do you have for me?”
- Take notes about your discussion so that you can…
- Send a thank you letter or note. Recap a point or two from your interview and how you will be a great addition to the team vis-à-vis that point. (Have you seen “Thank You Letter of Doom“?)
- Have your references ready to go at the interview. Offer them at the close of your meeting.
Will these eight pointers get you the job? No, but they will help (and they might!), and most people will not do all of them. Go get that job!
Bill Florin is President of Resu-mazing Services Company in Monroe, Connecticut, USA.
Work: Getting It & Keeping It 