Post interivew: Send your thanks!

It is always important to write a note of thanks to your interviewers for providing you with the opportunity to interview and to reiterate HOW you are the best candidate for the job. Here are a few tips:

1. As far as I know, snail mail thank-you notes are still acceptable. Make sure you have the correct address. (Many times the address can be found on the website or at the bottom of an email correspondence. Otherwise, be prepared to ask for a business card at your interview.)

2. BOTH email and snail mail thank-you notes can be sent so that you can remain in the interviewer's mind during decision time.

3. If your interview is out of town then bring stationary and stamps with you so that you can drop the letters by a post office before you leave town. If you do this then the thank-you notes will get to the employer faster. If you're staying at a hotel it is very likely that the front desk can send out your mail. (From personal experience: My very kind Aunt had to drive me to the local Target to pick up stationary after one of my out of town interviews. She even provided my postage and dropped them off at the post office the next morning for me! What's the moral of the story? If you don't have an Aunt like mine then you better buy your stationary in advance.)

4. Write a draft of your thank-you note on a separate sheet of paper or on your computer before writing the message in a thank-you card. Read it aloud to catch mistakes.

5. Write LEGIBLY if you send out a snail mail thank-you card.

6. A generic thank-you (email and/or snail mail) will not help your chances. You should succinctly re-iterate HOW you would be an asset to the company. This will work even better for you if you can refer back to a specific comment made during your interview.

7. Write email and/or snail mail thank-you notes to each one of your interviewers.

8. If you're sending a snail mail card then purchase appropriate stationary. I'd like to define 'appropriate' but it really depends on the company and the type of job. Personally, I'm a fan of Crane & Co but you can also find business thank-you cards at an office supply store.

Interviews: Questions for your potential employer

Always create at least three questions before your interview for your potential employer during the interview so that you are prepared when they ask, "Do you have any questions for us?" Even if they don't ask you that question you should say, "Actually, I have a few questions about this company, may I ask you at this time?"

I suggest looking at the company's website to get ideas for questions. Here are some possible questions:

Logistical
+How soon will this position start?

+When will you be making your hiring decision?

+What benefits are included with this position?

+How many people will I work with directly in this position?

+Are their opportunities for advancement within this company?

+Are their opportunities for professional development within this company (courses, conferences, etc.)?

More Specific
+If you interview with a non-profit it may be wise to ask a question pertaining to fundraising such as, "Will I be fundraising?" Or, "How much of my time will be devoted to fundraising?"

+What is a "day in the life" like for someone in this position?

+Ask a specific question about one of their newest projects or developments. This will demonstrate that you've done your homework and investigated the company website.

+How much of my time will be devoted to specific tasks? Tasks will depend on the type of job. For example: travel time, time with clients, grant writing, fundraising, field work versus indoor work, etc.

Caution!
+Don't ask about your salary during your first interview.

+Don't let the company "bait you" on the first interview about salary. If they ask something like, "What salary range are you looking for?" during your first interview your response could be, "My salary is negotiable. I will have to consider the cost of living in this area and what I would be doing on a daily basis for the company."

Interview Preparation: Clothing

Invest in at least 2 sets of interview attire and keep them on-hand and ready. Here's why:

Today I will have to pick on my little brother. A few weeks ago he went to a job fair to find a summer internship. He wore khakis, a white collared shirt, a tie, and brown shoes. He told me this attire was acceptable for someone looking for a summer internship.

However, after a successful conversation with a particular company he was invited to a next day interview. My brother rarely dresses up. He called me at 10 pm the night before the interview to ask what he should wear. Since you've read my post on "What do I wear for my interview: Part 2 for Gentlemen" you know what I suggested for him...

Well, guess what? He only brought half of his suit to college, forgot his black shoes at home, had no formal ties on hand, his shirt was dirty and had no black socks. His interview was for 10 am the next day. Where exactly does one buy formal wear between the hours of 10 pm and 10 am? (Wal-mart? I don't think so.)

I'm not sure what he ended up wearing---maybe he borrowed some of his friend's clothes. The bottom line is this: Invest in at least 2 sets of interview clothing and keep it ready (cleaned, pressed, and polished) for your big day(s). Why 2 sets? You may have two interviews, maybe even 3. Trust me, prepping your attire ahead of time takes part of the interview anxiety away.

What do I wear for my interview? Part 2 for Gentlemen

You should always dress for success. What does that mean? Well, a lot of things. The general rule of thumb is this: For your interview you should always dress one-step above what you would be wearing to work on a normal basis. Some companies will indicate their dress policy on the website. At other times you will have to ask about the dress policy. Don't be afraid to ask about the dress code during your interview because it indicates that you are interested in company policy and following the rules. You may also ask at your interview, "Is my attire today acceptable for work here?" Be receptive to their response in the event that you need to alter your attire. I met with an expert last week to get some tips on interview apparel. Here is Part 2:

Gentlemen Professional Dress for Interviews

Suit
+Wear the darkest suit you have, preferably crisp black. Chinos or khaki pants with a navy sport coat can also be acceptable.

Shirt
+Wear a white or blue collared, starched shirt. A starched, collared shirt will indicate that you are serious about the job.

Tie
+Wear a silk tie with two colors, perhaps black, gray, blue, maroon, or hunter green. Avoid flashy colors.

Socks and shoes
+Black shoes and socks should be worn with a black suit. Shoes should be shined and have no scuffs or dirt.

Jewelry/Accessories
+Cuff links are not necessary. You may wear them if they are not flashy or gaudy. A black belt should be worn with a black suit and black shoes. Wedding rings and college rings are acceptable.

What do I wear for my interview? Part 1 for Ladies

You should always dress for success. What does that mean? Well, a lot of things. The general rule of thumb is this: For your interview you should always dress one-step above what you would be wearing to work on a normal basis. Some companies will indicate their dress policy on the website. At other times you will have to ask about the dress policy. Don't be afraid to ask about the dress code during your interview because it indicates that you are interested in company policy and following the rules. You may also ask at your interview, "Is my attire today acceptable for work here?" Be receptive to their response in the event that you need to alter your attire. I met with an expert last week to get some tips on interview apparel. Here's Part 1 (ladies first)...


Ladies Professional Dress for Interviews

Suit
+A black pant suit is highly recommended over a black skirt suit. Why? The employer may ask you to do a task that requires bending over or reaching. Trying to do this in a skirt can be awkward and embarrassing. If you decide to wear a skirt suit make sure the skirt is to the knee or longer. Cross your legs when you sit down!

Shirt
+A white or blue collared, button-down, starched shirt should be worn---NOT a playful, flirty blouse. A starched, collared shirt will indicate that you are serious about the job.

Shoes and hose
+You should be able to walk in your shoes. I pity the girl who decides to wear her 3 inch heels for the first time to an interview. You should wear 2 inches or less. Your shoes should come around your heal and over your foot. Shoes should be clean (no scuffs or clinging dirt). I hate hose but it is recommended that you wear hose with a skirt suit, particularly in the winter. Don't wear hose with designs or ones that make you look too tan. Pick a color that matches your flesh.

Jewelry
+Wear modest jewelry. This can include post earrings. Necklaces should not be gaudy. Modest necklaces should be tucked into the shirt so that it does not detract the interviewer. Dangly bracelets and large rings are not recommended.

Nails
+While you do not necessarily have to get a manicure before your interview you should buff and trim your nails at the very least. A clear top coat can give a finished look. I do not recommend getting acrylics or nail colors because they can make performing a task difficult or detract from the interview.

Interview Handshake Snippet

Learn to give a solid handshake. No sweaty palms. No limp hands. None of those hold-on-for-dear-life-super firm handshakes. And, don't shake the interviewer's hand 10 times either. 2 shakes will be enough.

Also, it is flu season. Wash your hands with warm soapy water before an interview and wash them after an interview. Let's keep the germs to a minimum.

Phone Interview Snippet

If you are invited to a phone interview and plan to use your cell phone make sure you have excellent reception. For any phone interview, cell phone or land-line, find a quiet place (no children or family, no traffic noise, no music or TV, etc.). It is annoying and embarrassing to ask someone to repeat what they said.

Phone Interview Snippet

If you are invited for a phone interview and perform better at in-person interviews, ask if that may be arranged instead. In addition, if you are presented with the option of a phone interview or an in-person interview I suggest participating in the in-person interview even if the interview location is far away. Otherwise, you will miss the opportunity to show off your personality and interact with your potential employer one-on-one. An in-person interview will provide insight to both parties, the interviewer and the interviewee. Do you want to work for them? Do they want you to work for them?

Be Professional!

Do not bring your children or friends to pick up job applications or to interviews. You are the company you keep. Here are two unfortunate scenarios that could happen:

1. A mother brings her child to pick up an application. The manager is there and wants to speak with the mother about the job. The child starts crying and is inconsolable. What now?

2. You and your best friend walk into a store together to get applications. You remain professional. However, for some strange reason your best friend decides to ask the manager if you can both be hired. Your best friends says if both of you can't work there then you don't want to apply. (That's a no-brainer for the manager. Don't hire either one of them.) What now?

Have a similar scenario to share? You can post anonymously or send me an email (joblessgenevieve@gmail.com). Thanks!

The Not-So-Good Interviewer

Sometimes you do not know who your interviewer will be. It could be someone you would work with directly if you were employed. Or, it could be a human resources staff member. It may turn out to be just another employee within the company. What happens when it becomes evident that your interviewer has not read your resume (or does not remember reading it)? It is a bad situation to be in, particularly if you only realize this half-way through an interview. Therefore, it is wise to prepare for an interview as if the interviewer does not know anything about you. Come up with key phrases describing what you have done in the past and how those skills will benefit the organization. Figure out how to hit the high points of your resume quickly so that the interviewer knows who they are interviewing and that you are no Joe Schmoe.

Interview Snippet

Snippets are here! Most of my posts aren't short enough for twittering yet. However, every now and then I may post a single quick tip ("Snippets"). You know, one that you can read in 5 seconds and move on with life.

+Create 3 intelligent questions to ask before an interview so that you are prepared when the interviewer asks, "Do you have any questions about what we do?" Ask for details about the organization which demonstrate your initiative and interest. After a first interview do not ask about your salary.

Rejection

I've been rejected many, many times. I know people of all ages who have lost their job(s). You are not alone but you have to keep swimming. This is about keeping your head above the water and beating the odds. Stay busy enough so that you do not wallow in self-pity.

Job rejection comes in many forms: the no-response, formal snail-mail letters, emails, by phone, etc.. I have had potential employers explain exactly why certain candidates were ruled out and I've seen many form letters stating something like, "There was an overwhelming response and many well-qualified candidates..." But, I will tell you this: If you are rejected after an interview you should ask something like, "For future interviews, is there anything I could improve upon?" You never know if the person they decided to hire will work out with the organization. You may get a call back even after a rejection. You just never know.

Interview Tips

I am amazed at what can come out of a person's mouth during an interview. Here is an article from CNN/career builder about "43 Weird Things said in Job Interviews". I found it humorous but believe there are folks out there who need to know that those type of answers are not acceptable! Saying something inappropriate during an interview is just an easy way to rule you out of the potential candidates pool. There are too many people looking for jobs right now! Don't forget it!

Follow-up!

If you are serious about getting a job, following-up on job leads should be your #1 priority. It is time consuming but it is necessary. So...

+If someone provides you with a lead on a job, make sure to follow-up and thank that person. Failure to follow-up is rude and indicates that you are not serious about getting a job. Right now there are just too many people looking for jobs. You can be easily replaced by someone more eager.

+After an in-person interview it is often recommended than you send your interviewer(s) thank-you notes as soon as possible. I usually send mine by snail-mail. Email may be appropriate as well depending on the situation.

Common Interview Questions

Here are the most common questions I've had during interviews. The questions you will likely hear from the potential employer are indicated in bold but you should remember to "drive-it-home" by answering the associated unspoken questions in italics.

1) Tell me about yourself. (Why are you a good fit for the organization based on your background?)

2) What do you know about our organization? (How does your previous work relate to the goals and daily activities of the organization?)

3) What are your strengths? (How can the organization use your strengths to prosper/grow?)

4) What are your weaknesses? (Admit to one and turn it into a strength.)

5) What is your greatest accomplishment to date? (How will this accomplishment benefit the organization and what does it indicate about your character?)

6) What is your definition of teamwork? (Provide your definition and personal example.)

7) Why should we hire you? (Why are you the organization's best option and a good investment?)


Please comment (anonymous posting is an option) so that we can gather more!

Temporary Employment

Do you need an interim job? Here is what I did and it works:

1. Seek out businesses in town that are thriving. They may need extra help.

2. Dress for success when seeking employment even if you are just walking in for 5 seconds to pick up a paper application. First appearances are crucial.

3. If you are looking for a retail position I recommend shopping around before asking about employment. Engage an employee in a conversation about their products. This will allow you to get a feel for whether you may want to work there or not. Before leaving the store you can say something like, "Would you happen to be looking for extra help or hiring?"

4. I advise dressing professionally to submit your application in-person as well. You never know when someone may want to do an impromptu interview.

5. After submitting your application in-person kindly ask, "Who may I contact about open positions?" Make sure you have a pen and paper to write down their name and number. You may have to wait a few days and then contact that person about open positions.

To the Forgotten, Jobless Graduates:

There is not much in the news about jobless, recent graduates. In our current recession, many of us have been and will continue to be crushed by those who have years of work experience for entry level jobs. This presents a bit of a financial problem for most of us...

My name is Genevieve. I am a scientist and I recently secured a full time position completely unrelated to my academic background. When I began applying for jobs in November 2008 I had no idea how to write a cover letter, apply for a federal government job, create an effective resume instead of a curriculum vitae, or what to prepare for a phone interview. Trial and error can be quite time consuming. The process I use to apply for jobs now is completely different from when I started. If only I knew then what I know now.

This blog was born out of my desire to provide helpful tips for recent graduates entering the job market for the first time, for those re-entering the job market after a long period of unemployment, or for those just looking to improve their job searching and application techniques. I truly believe that the best tips come from those who are currently searching for jobs, have held many different jobs, or are hiring personnel. I have experience in the first two categories. Many of the tips come from my personal experiences and from kind friends, family, and colleagues of mine representing many occupations and fields of study. This blog is an open forum. We can agree to disagree. As I post my tips, please add your likes and dislikes as well as comments about what you have found that works and does not work. Comments should be written in a way that will be helpful for all readers---this is not a blog for personal tirades. Happy job hunting!