by Helen Orloff
Today, as the economy continues to change and companies agree outsourcing is an attractive option was, the job search seems, dare we say, daunting? The smart way to find a job in any economy, however, is to assume it's going to be difficult and to develop a foolproof plan. In short, from now until you land a position, your job is finding a good job. Think of it as the part-time position that pays dividends for a lifetime. Your excited-bites called interviews are coming your way…When contact is made, the prep work does not cease.
Here are 3 steps that Rod Colon, my friends in the ETP Network and Carl Reid, founder and President of Savvy Intrapreneur have helped me develop.
Career Cooking 101:
Just as you would go through the steps of cooking a meal (reviewing the recipe, making a shopping list and boning up on unfamiliar techniques) for yourself or a loved one, preparing for a job interview is no different. We are aware to do our homework by researching a company’s website but what abut taking notes to address in the interview? Have you asked yourself what you would change? How would you contribute to further the success of the company or organization? Always keep in mind the WIIFM theory from the employer’s perspective when preparing for an interview.
Did You Say Sports?
Staying topical about a myriad of subjects is extremely important. I was on an interview and about lost my teeth when a board member’s closing question was “In your opinion which is worse, what happened with Bonds or what is going on with A-Rod? Hmm, not only did I breathe a sigh of relief (avoiding the kiss of death response of I don’t know or who is A-Rod) I quickly realized my opinion was tied into skills that would serve the organization.
Not a Dirty Word
Ask! I can’t stress strongly enough to ask questions of your interviewer(s) Not only does it show initiative, it sparks for you further questions to ask. This is a golden opportunity for you to shine and stand out from other candidates. What better way to leave your interviewer(s) with a firm hand shake and the impression that you took the time to ask probing questions and you are quick on your feet. Remember in preparation and posture that you are interviewing the company as much as they are interviewing you.
Yeah, I Get It
Jotting down some key information from your interviewer(s) response is a good way to show you “get it” Once the responses are in, it can behoove you to say so what I hear is……and numerate some key points. You will leave a lasting impression that you are connected and aligned with the organization, have a full handle on the position and a good match!
Show Me the Money
Ok, you got a gut feeling that you aced the interview. Your heart begins to race and your brain is already spending the first paycheck. Easy does it! Before you can begin to take that first sigh of relief, count the green and add the company perks in your head, what worked for me is follow-up aka never let ‘em forget you! Since board members usually have email addresses outside the organization, I’ve called the company and conveyed to the Administrative Assistant that I would like to send personalized letters to each interviewer. Before you know it, viola!—a received email containing board member’s email addresses.
Stuck In the Mud
The best tip I can give a job seeker or a new entrepreneur is “Next”. Have that great interview or potential client meeting but don’t get stuck in it too long. You have put your best foot, you covered all your bases and forward and now it’s time to let it go. now it’s onto your next opportunity. Even in a good economy it can take months to find a suitable job. Research, refine and act! Don’t ever give up on yourself- you have a unique set of skills, knowledge and experience.
About the Author
Helen Orloff is Founder & President of diversity training consulting firm Right Way Advisors, Inc..
Email: HOrloff@RightWayAdvisors.com
Web: www.RightWayAdvisors.com
Tel: (866) 546-4944 Ext: 200
The purpose of a resume is to obtain an INTERVIEW, not a job. Landing a job is up to you during the interview.
