You are having a hard time finding a job and believe that it is due to all the competition. It’s true, due to all the layoffs there are a lot of people looking for employment. However, that is not the only reason you can’t find a job. The list is actually a little longer. After being out of work for a while, desperation does sink in. People begin to get careless, sloppy and at times even pushy. It’s understandable that they would feel this way with everything going on but you have to be more cautious. Remember, employers have the upper hand right now, they have many people to choose from, and competition is strong.
When you go to an interview, be prepared, don’t hesitate. If you didn’t get the job, don’t blame the interviewer. Try to remember everything that happened during your interview. You will be surprised as to what happened and you didn’t even notice. Right now, employers are looking for people that are good at multi-tasking, have initiative and are able to solve problems on their own. Because of the layoffs, many of the positions will not have lots of training. Be careful not to commit any of the mistakes noted.
EXPERIENCE
Managers just don’t have the time to train new employees for long periods of time. They need someone that will be able to just jump in and take over. Experience is a must in whatever field you are applying for, just because you are available and enthusiastic is not a good enough reason for them to hire you.
ATTITUDE / PERSONALITY
Interviews can be tiring. Some people go to so many interviews that at some point they become disinterested and start to show signs of boredom. Others will head into an interview so sure of themselves that they come off as being cocky and arrogant. Make sure not to show any of these two attitudes during an interview and otherwise, no will hire you. Be enthusiastic and confident, just don’t overdo it.
RESEARCH / ASK QUESTIONS
Many interviewers have said that completely tuned out of the interview the minute they knew the interviewee had no knowledge of the company or had any questions. Just sat there and nodded with a silly grin or blank expression. The minute an interview has been set up, go on line and do some research. Write down some key points. Prepare some questions regarding the company, such as their long term goals, where they are heading, growth opportunities, etc. This shows them that you are really interested.
FALSE INFORMATION
No matter how desperate anyone feels, do not update a resume with false information. Don’t lie on your application. They do check this and the moment they find one lie, it’s over. They will completely dismiss the applicant. They feel that if they lied about something as simple as that, what else can they expect? Keep it honest, if your concern is being dismissed without getting a chance, take advantage of the cover letter. Note on the letter, what you have to offer, strengths, experience, accomplishments and any concerns if necessary.
HAVE ANSWERS
Interviewers will ask questions during the interview. You must have answers and you can't pause for too long. They always want to know where you see yourself in the company, what career movements can you make within the company. Be quick with your responses and clear. Make sure your answer makes sense. If you can’t answer any questions, pause for too long or can’t make any sense, you can forget that position for good. Answering these questions shows signs of interest, initiative and desire to grow within the company.
MONEY
No one can deny that one of the most important things when looking for employment is the salary. Managers commented that if money is brought up at the beginning of an interview it showed the applicant didn’t care about the position. It was all about money. Wait until the end of the interview, let them bring it up. When they ask about previous salary, be honest, they will check. Interviews are hard enough, so don’t make them any more difficult. Any mistakes will prevent you from being hired. Another important thing to remember, if you had problems or weren’t happy in your previous employment, when asked don’t be negative. It’s best to say that it was time to move on, you wanted the opportunity to find another employment giving you a chance to try other careers, etc.
No matter what type of job you have applied for, interviewers don’t enjoy negative comments or attitudes. They don’t enjoy wasting their time and that is what they will feel once the interview is over. Even if you didn’t get the job, it’s okay. There have been times that later on, they have checked old applications and offer the applicant a position in the company. They have done this because they were left with a good impression. So, be honest, keep it clean, show interest, be enthusiastic and be ready to let them know why you are the right person for that position.