The Crash Dump Archives

>I’ve lost jobs over the decades for lots of reasons… it happens when you work for humans. Conflicts, stored hurts, business vision changes, personnel politics… whatever. That’s real life. Good economy or bad economy…. job hunting is work. Too many people I’ve met asking me for advice on how to find work are actually looking for an easy in, and there ain’t one, Bubba.

The job you need, the job you want, you have to stand out. You have to do your homework. If you show up “hoping something may happen” for the sake of keeping your spouse off your back… don’t waste your time or theirs.

Here’s some common sense tips that will make you 97% more attractive than most that show up looking for work these days.

Preparation

• Learn about the organization. Google your buns off.
• Have a specific job or jobs in mind. “Whatadya got” doesn’t cut it anymore.
• Review your qualifications for the job.
• Be ready to briefly describe your experience, showing how it relates it the job.
• Be ready to answer broad questions, such as “Why should I hire you?” “Why do you want this job?” “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
• Practice an interview with a friend or relative. DO THIS WITH SOMEONE you trust will give you constructive feedback.

Personal appearance

• Be well groomed. You’ll be surprised to know that 4 out of 10 show up for a job looking like they’re on their way to a night club. Even if it’s a night club job, don’t dress like a customer. Duh.
• Dress appropriately. Need some hints? Watch a cable news cast. That’s how you dress for work in a professional environment.
• Do not chew gum or smoke. BUT—brush your teeth and spare not the Scope.

The interview

• Be early. LEAVE YOUR SMARTPHONE IN YOUR CAR! Most people think they’re shift begins when the POSTED SCHEDULE says their shift begins. Nope. 20 mins early is recommended. In case of bad traffic or other unexpected delays (spilled coffee on your lap). Decision makers NOTICE employees that are early for their shifts. Show off your eagerness and be early!
• Learn the name of your interviewer (DON’T KNOW UP FRONT? ASK!!!!!) Write their name out phonetically and memorize it… use it a lot when speaking with them. Greet him or her with a firm hand-shake… but not like a professional wrestler!
• Use good manners with everyone you meet.
• Relax, slow down, and answer each question concisely.
• Use proper English-avoid slang or cute phrases.
• Be cooperative and enthusiastic.
• Use body language to show interest-use eye contact and don’t slouch. I like to put a band-aid on my chest to remind me when I’m slouching (it tucks on my skin when I slouch).
• Ask questions about the position and the organization, but avoid questions whose answers can easily be found on the company website. I will occasionally mention a fact I read on their company website, “I read you’ve been in business since 1911… what a impressive heritage that is in today’s times!”
• Also avoid asking questions about salary and benefits unless a job offer is made. I NEVER EVER EVER EVER talk money until an offer is made. DON’T DO IT!
• Thank the interviewer for their time and consideration when you leave and shake hands.
• If the interviewer doesn’t mention when there will be a follow up or decision made, I think it reasonable to say, “I’m very excited about the possibility of working here soon, when can I expect a follow up call from you regarding this position?”
• Send a short thank you note following the interview. I keep a few in my car with some stamps so I can mail it out immediately. HAND WRITTEN!!!

Information to bring with you

• Social Security card and Government-issued identification (driver license).
• Resume AND application. Although not all employers require a resume, you should be able to furnish the interviewer information about your education, training, and previous employment.
• References. Employers typically require three references. Get permission before using anyone as a reference. Make sure that they will give you a good reference. Try to avoid using relatives as references. Choose people that you’ve know for several decades if possible.
• Transcripts. Employers may require an official copy of transcripts to verify grades, coursework, dates of attendance, and highest grade completed or degree awarded.

When you’re unemployed, you should attempt to schedule 3 interviews each day. 1 in the morning, and two in the afternoon. Allow about 90mins for each interview. Bring a sack lunch and some bottled water. Plan your trip out with an online map service. Your job search is your “full time job” until you land the gig you want for the money you want.

You’re not the only applicant… so make sure you don’t put all your egss in one basket. You are unique… make sure as many employers know about you as possible. Many a time has an employer not hired me but recommended me to others THAT HAVE hired me. You’re not only interviewing, you’re networking!