In today’s job market, presenting a résumé is quick and easy – it basically involves clicking a button and sending it via email to the prospective employer. But there are several important points to keep in mind before hitting the send button.
- First, make sure you are sending it to the right person. If it’s misguided, it may never get to the individual in charge of hiring.
- Research the company’s Web site and learn all you can about the company before sending your résumé. Compose an intelligent, short, cover letter to accompany your résumé and make sure it is addressed to the appropriate person.
- Review your cover letter and résumé carefully. Have someone you trust proof them. By not checking for grammatical errors, you may risk sending a flawed document and jeopardize any chances for future employment. Résumés are a prospective employer’s first impression of you as a candidate – and could be the last impression if your résumé is flawed, has typos or is not clear and well-presented.
- Résumés should preferably be limited to one page. They should be simple and easy for the prospective employer to read and determine if the candidate has the right qualifications for the job. Keep the design simple, steering clear of elaborate graphics and fonts.
- Remember that hiring managers receive and review many résumés during the hiring period. Tailor your résumé to the specific job you are seeking. Emphasize your skills and qualifications that will help you stand out from others.
If you’ve been fortunate enough to make it to the interview stage, the following tips should be considered:
- Try to get to the interview early. At the very least, be punctual.
- Dress professionally, be assertive, speak clearly and look into the eyes of the interviewer.
- Try to be relaxed and at your natural best. Remember, the interviewer is interested in how you perform under pressure and whether you have the skills and personality that would make you a good fit for the company. In other words, performance and whether you would fit in with the company’s culture are two main considerations for hire.
- Answer all questions honestly. Highlight your strengths and accomplishments and state why you feel you are best qualified for the position.
- As stated in the résumé section above, you should do extensive research before you go into the interview to show that you are informed and knowledgeable about the company and how you could contribute to its success. Give the hiring manager a reason to take a chance on you and set yourself apart from other candidates vying for the position.
- Take a portfolio of your work and demonstrate your accomplishments throughout the interview. Don’t wait until the end of the interview to show your work.
- Ask questions – it shows you are interested and want to learn all you can about the position and the company.
- Finally, ask for the interviewer’s business card and send a hand-written thank you note – yes, hand-written and via snail mail – it makes a difference. Write a clear, well-thought out and concise note that demonstrates your appreciation of the interviewer’s time, expresses your enthusiasm and interest in the position and appreciation for being considered.
Hopefully, if you follow these tips, you will succeed in making it to the second round of interviews and become a finalist for the position.