by Tom Shafer
November 13, 2021
So, a reader (actually a former student) recently asked me if I had any advice about landing a good job right out of college. Of course, I said yes and sent him some information that he claimed later was quite helpful (he acquired very nice employment!). Back when I was a professionally paid educator, I taught a Research and Exposition class to seniors that included a career unit covering everything from applying to colleges or first jobs, resume and cover letter writing (both current and just leaving college), and mock interviewing. My kids actually used the skills (and documents produced) to help them through the rigorous and confusing process of stepping into the adult world of employment. At my wife’s request (she works for a nursing college), I recently created the following guide to the interview process (which I used with my students but have updated to bring it from the dark ages). I thought I might add it to my site — just in case some of you are interested or are actually seeking a job or career. Enjoy and/or good luck!
The days of just showing up with resumé in hand for a job interview are long gone. Many companies post their job listings online (with job sites like Indeed and Glassdoor), so you must navigate portals that start with an application and then request a resumé and a cover letter — the first steps to getting in the door for a face-to-face interview. So, here’s what you need to know to land the job — and career — you covet.
The application process
To get in the door for that interview, you need to stand out.
■ Use key words from the job description. Many companies use computer programs to sort and process applications, and likely these algorithms are focusing on key words. Use them liberally on the application and in your cover letter and resumé.
■ Concision. Your resumé should be no more than two pages and free of grammatical errors. Experienced applicants with lots of work experience might stretch the resumé more than two pages — but only if absolutely necessary.
■ Use bulleted phrases focusing on skills and those key words. You’re trying to get past the computer program and its algorithms, and brief bulleted points will help you to that end.
■ Create (or update) your online profile. Because so many employers utilize LinkedIn to evaluate and compare prospective candidates, a strong online presence there (with your most updated resumé) will definitely increase your opportunity for employment — and stepping through the door.
■ Networking. Networking is a valuable way to broaden your profile and enhance your chances for employment. Recent college graduates should stay connected with fellow classmates and professors, and should attend and actively participate in career and job fairs. Experienced applicants should utilize current and past colleagues, and perhaps join professional associations and organizations affiliated with their careers. You never know where a tip for a job will come from, so all avenues should be left open and/or fully explored.
■ Social media. If you haven’t already done so, you need to clean up your social media profile. Today’s employers will search your Facebook and Twitter accounts, so you should remove any unacceptable comments or photographs.
The video interview
Once you hurdle the application process, the next step might be a phone or video (like Skype or Zoom) interview.
■ You should dress as if you are attending an actual interview, even if you are meeting by phone. You will approach the call more seriously and more professionally.
■ You should be prepared to address and elaborate on all job requirements.
■ You should be enthusiastic — genuinely! — about the job and the company. The interviewer should be able to hear it in your voice.
■ Research the company as thoroughly as you can, utilizing their own website. An internet search might provide insight into work culture and whether employees (or formers) enjoy working there.
■ Research the job posting as well for additional information about qualifications and expectations — and salary range.
■ Be prepared to answer this question: Why are you the most qualified candidate for this job?
■ Be ready for this question as well: Give me one reason why we should not hire you? You might open with, “I think you should hire me, but if you need one reason, it might be that I don’t necessarily know all of your processes, etc., but I will catch on very quickly.”
■ You will likely be asked to name your strengths and weaknesses. Rehearse three solid responses for strengths and just one weakness. The weakness you provide should not be disqualifying in any way, and should focus on “inexperience with _____” but that you are working to improve your performance in that area. You might also mention that you are a hard worker — that you are a quick study and will pick up _____ in no time.
■ Be prepared to ask the interviewer at least a couple of questions. Examples might include “What do you expect from team members in this position?” or “What is your favorite part about working here?”
The face-to-face interview
■ Dress for success — and don’t lather on your Axe or Chanel! Think professional or business attire: for women, a nice blouse and dress pants (or a skirt); for men, a suit jacket and slacks with a shirt and tie or a sweater and button-down shirt with tie.
■ Plan to be at your interview 15 minutes early. Use Google Maps for an estimated time of arrival, or better yet, drive the actual route yourself. This is an appointment you definitely don’t want to be late for.
■ Remember the phrase, “You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression.” Since handshaking is a no-no in post-Covid time, making direct eye contact is even more essential. Utilize a greeting like, “My name is ____, and it is my pleasure to meet you.”
■ Remember to be polite to everyone you meet — and try to remember names as best you can. The person who welcomes you in the office might be asked for his or her impression.
■ Be prepared to provide copies of your resume and cover letter. More than one person may be sitting in on your interview.
■ Be prepared to answer some of the same questions from your phone or video interview, especially those concerning expectations, strengths, and weaknesses.
■ Try to be as concise with your answers as possible. This shows a level of preparation that companies appreciate — and expect.
■ As with the first interview, be prepared to ask the interviewer at least a couple of questions.
■ The end of the interview is the expected time to ask about salary. From your prior research, you will already know national and regional ranges, and should have a good idea of this company’s actual pay. If you are asked what you would like to be paid, offer a range that is similar to the other ranges but includes what you think is the actual number. If offered the job, you can always ask to negotiate your salary — politely and respectfully.
■ Formally thank the interviewer with a “thank-you note” once the interview is complete — whether you have successfully won the job or not. This little act may well reap future benefits — you just never know.
