Just because Wi-Fi is available, doesn’t mean you should be.
As reported by TechCrunch last week, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) “switched on wireless connectivity in 30 underground subway stations around Manhattan.” What’s more, over the next four years, cell phone service and free Wi-Fi will expand to all of the MTA’s 277 subway stations.
For many New Yorkers, this is great news. Professionals can be more productive during their commute, which may translate to shorter work hours in the office, or at home during family time. Job seekers can also reap the benefits of having phone and Internet access while in transit by taking advantage of the uninterrupted search time for job sourcing, networking and applying.
However, just because Wi-Fi is available, doesn’t mean you should be. Typically, the best policy is to never speak to a recruiter or participate in an interview while commuting.
Between interrupted service, booming MTA announcements, and crowds of strangers filing in and out at various stations, there’s no way to guarantee a professional and confidential conversation. Remember, you only get one chance to make a first impression. Don’t let a subway ride derail a potentially valuable connection. Before you accept a call in transit, ask yourself the following questions.
Can you control the environment?
Don’t answer the call if your current location is noisy or your cell service is spotty. Instead, let the call go to voicemail, and call the person back as soon as you can find a quiet spot where your call won’t be interrupted. It’s important to return the call within the same business day, even if it’s after normal business hours. There’s nothing wrong with leaving a message to say you’re sorry that you missed the call and would like to speak the following day.
Are you prepared to answer the caller’s questions?
Sometimes a recruiter will reach out immediately after you submit an application –before you’ve had time to prepare for the phone screen. If that’s the case, use the rest of your transit time to review the job description and your application. Have copies of these materials handy when you return the call so you can tailor your responses to reflect your qualifications for the role.
Will your conversation be confidential?
If you answer your phone in a quiet subway car, then assume your conversation will be overheard by others. While you may not recognize anyone in the car, that doesn’t mean your conversation is safe. There’s no way of knowing who is in that car, or who they might know. This is especially important if you’re currently employed and exploring other opportunities. The last thing you want to do is get caught talking to a recruiter with a colleague standing in the same subway car.
Whether you’re underground in the subway, watching your kids at the playground, or ordering coffee in a crowded cafe, pause before fielding a phone call from an unknown caller. If you can’t guarantee a professional and confidential conversation in a controlled environment, then you’re better off returning the phone call later that day when you can.
Amanda Augustine is the Job Search Expert for TheLadders. She provides job search and career guidance for professionals looking to make their next career move. Have a question for Amanda? Submit your question here for a chance to have it answered in her weekly column, and be sure to follow @JobSearchAmanda on Twitter and “Like” her on Facebook for up-to-the-minute job-search advice.
My interview with Successfully Unemployed’s Alan Sherwood about career transitions.
Recently I had the pleasure of chatting with Alan G. Sherwood, MBA, host of the radio talk show, Successfully Unemployed, on Toginet radio.
In addition to his radio show, Alan owns and operates two small successful businesses: a consulting firm that specializes in capital and endowment campaigns, planned giving programs, executive search and career coaching; and a real estate investing and property management firm. He is the author of the book, “Successfully Unemployed,” that teaches the suddenly unemployed how to turn what appears to be a tragedy into a personal and professional triumph.
During the radio show we covered a wide range of topics, from job goals to career transition to turning your passion into a profitable business. Click on the following link to download the podcast. Below are some of the questions I fielded and links to more information on the topics. Enjoy!
How Do You Figure Out Your Dream Career?
What we desired in our twenties may no longer hold true a decade or more later. As our lives change, so do our career plans. It’s important to do a little soul-searching to reevaluate your career goals at any stage of your life and modify your long-term strategy for success.
3 Easy Ways to Rethink Your Goals
How to Get Your Dream Job Now
“Find out what you like doing best and get someone to pay you for doing it.” –Katherine Whitehorn
How Can People Best Leverage Their Skills into a New Career?
Do your research. Join relevant professional organizations and attend trade shows to start building your new professional network. Subscribe to publications and set up Google News Alerts to learn the industry jargon. The more you learn, the easier it will be to identify how your skill set is applicable in your target line of work.
5 Tips on Making a Career Transition
Transitioning Your Way to a New Career
How Do You Turn a Hobby into a Paid Career?
If you want to turn your hobby into a paycheck, you first need to learn the business side of your extracurricular activity. Seek out a mentor in the same industry to show you the ropes and help you fill in any skill gaps. Look for what’s missing in the industry. You’re already a customer – what have you caught yourself wishing for?
Second Acts: Turning Your Passion Into a Paycheck
“It is never too late to be what you might have been.” –George Eliot
What Are Some Tips for Older Career Changers?
Consider an encore career. It’s an appealing option for job seekers at retirement age who want to continue working while making a lifestyle change. In fact, a 2011 research study concluded that nearly 9 million Americans between the ages of 44 and 70 are in encore careers.
7 Tips to Start Your Second Career
How to Launch An Encore Career
Is Networking Really That Important?
Yes! Employee referrals are a very valuable tool in the job search, especially when you're looking to transition to a different career. They can help you bypass the gatekeepers and open doors that would otherwise be closed. Network as much as possible with people in your chosen line of work to identify people who will advocate on your behalf.
Networking Anytime, Anywhere
Work Your Next Networking Event
How to Network Without Begging
Career transitions can be very tricky, but they’re not impossible. Sometimes it's necessary to take a step down or sideways to move forward. However, the ultimate rewards are worth it when you're in a career that you truly love!
Amanda Augustine is the Job Search Expert for TheLadders. She provides job search and career guidance for professionals looking to make their next career move. Have a question for Amanda? Submit your question here for a chance to have it answered in her weekly column, and be sure to follow @JobSearchAmanda on Twitter and “Like” her on Facebook for up-to-the-minute job-search advice.
Incorporate networking into your regular routine to boost your career.
Experts agree that networking is an important aspect of every professional’s career advancement, whether they’re looking for that next promotion or wanting to make a transition. In fact, studies show that you are 10 times more likely to land a role when your application is accompanied by an employee referral. But referrals don’t just fall in your lap; you have to get out there and build your network.
Between juggling your responsibilities in the office and at home, and trying to fit in a little “me” time, you may feel like there isn’t any room left to focus on networking. Nothing could be farther from the truth! From your next kickboxing class to your child’s soccer game, there are a number of networking opportunities already penciled into your calendar. Here are four ways to incorporate networking into your already-busy life.
Pitch Your Brand While You Play There’s no better way to form a real connection with someone than over a shared interest. When you’re not working, what do you like to do? Do you volunteer at a local animal shelter on the weekends or are you a regular at fitness boot camp? Use your hobbies as a way to casually approach networking and meet new people. This is a great alternative to a more structured networking event.
Make it a Family Affair
Whether you’re coaching your daughter’s softball team or organizing a bake sale for your church, family activities are networking goldmines. Use these opportunities to get to get to know your family’s friends and colleagues. You’d be amazed at who you could meet at your nephew’s tennis match or your spouse’s work reception.
Network at Work
Who says you can’t grow your network while on the job? Unless you work for a small organization, chances are you aren’t buddies with all of your colleagues. Grab a cup of coffee with a coworker from a different department to learn more about their side of the business. Approach a more senior colleague to be your mentor and schedule a monthly lunch. If you’re sent to a conference for work, make it your goal to meet at least five new people.
Socialize with Your Smartphone
Thanks to advancements in technology, we now have the ability to network on the go. Whether you’re standing in line at the grocery store, taking a quick lunch break, or commuting to the office, you can easily whip out your smartphone or tablet and start making connections. Join relevant professional groups on LinkedIn and connect with fellow members. Shoot off a quick email to the woman you met at your photography class last night and schedule a lunch meeting. This will keep your networking efforts going, no matter where you find yourself.
Whether you love it or loathe it, approach networking with an open mind. There’s no one right way to network, so find the method that works best for your schedule. Don’t discount those you meet through your social activities. While your new connections may not be appropriate for your targeted line of work, who's to say they don't have friends or family members who are? Give these options a try and you’ll be sure to steer your network in the right direction.
Amanda Augustine is the Job Search Expert for TheLadders. She provides job search and career guidance for professionals looking to make their next career move. Have a question for Amanda? Submit your question here for a chance to have it answered in her weekly column, and be sure to follow @JobSearchAmanda on Twitter and “Like” her on Facebook for up-to-the-minute job-search advice.
Reap the benefits of professional guidance throughout your entire career.
This Thursday, April 25 marks the twentieth anniversary of Ms. Foundation for Women’s Take Our Daughters And Sons to Work® Day.
This program, which was expanded in 2003 to include boys, aims to empower children to “reach their full potential and live fulfilling lives.” As founding mother Marlo Thomas mentions in her article, Take Our Daughters And Sons to Work® Day is not your traditional career day – it’s a chance for parents and caregivers to mentor their children and show how women and men come together and share the workplace.
This celebration couldn’t have come at a better time.
With Sheryl Sandberg’s book Lean In topping the best-seller lists these days, the topic of mentorship is hotter than ever among the professional community – and with good reason. The right mentor can be a powerful tool in your career arsenal. In fact, Sheila Wellington, former president of Catalyst Foundation and author of Be Your Own Mentor, believes it’s one of the main reasons why men tend to rise higher than women in the workplace – men are more likely than women to have mentors throughout their careers.
Not only can mentors help shape your professional skills, they can teach you the ins and outs of your industry, help you navigate corporate politics, overcome adversity, and introduce you to the right people and resources to advance your career.
If you don’t currently have a mentor in your life, use this day an excuse to find one. Click on the following link to read about the five types of mentorship: the Sensei, Entrepreneur, Peer, Protégé, and the Unconventional Teacher. Identify what type of mentor is right for you and seek that person out.
Mentors come in all shapes and sizes, each offering different types and levels of support throughout your career. Remember, mentorship isn’t handed to you – you have to ask for what you need. Don’t be afraid to approach someone you meet and ask the questions you really want to know – you’ll be amazed at what may happen!
Click on the following links to learn more about Ms. Foundation for Women and the Take Our Daughters And Sons to Work® Day program.
Amanda Augustine is the Job Search Expert for TheLadders, the online job-matching service for career-driven professionals. She is a Certified Professional Career Coach (CPCC) and Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) who provides job search and career guidance for professionals looking to make their next career move. Have a question for Amanda? Submit your question here for a chance to have it answered in her weekly column, and be sure to follow @JobSearchAmanda on Twitter and "Like” her on Facebook for up-to-the-minute job-search advice.
Help the planet while you hunt for your next job.
Happy Earth Day everyone! All around the globe, events are being held to raise awareness of climate changes and global warming. While the issue may seem overwhelming, little changes can be made each day to help protect the environment and live greener, more sustainable lifestyles. Here are five ways you can help the planet while you hunt for a new job.
Mobilize Your Search
From online applications to virtual to-do lists, there are many ways to conduct a job search without sacrificing a ton of trees. Ditch your filing cabinet and switch to electronic files that can be stored on a computer or USB flash drive. Consider uploading your documents to an online service like Dropbox so you can access them anytime, anywhere. Look into apps for your smart device that can take the place of other, less sustainable job-search methods.
Green Your Workspace
There are a number of ways to make your home office earth-friendly. Set your computer, printer and other devices to energy-saving settings and be sure to power down when you’re done working for the day. Plug all your hardware into a power strip with an on/off switch so you can easily turn everything off at once. Put a few plants near your workspace to absorb indoor air pollution and increase the flow of oxygen near your desk. Also opt for recycled paper and sustainable products to organize your area.
Opt for Eco Business Cards
If you’re currently unemployed or searching on the sly, I highly recommend creating business cards that use your personal contact information. Go green by downloading an app to digitize your business cards or purchase business cards made of recycled paper from online retailers such as Etsy or GreenerPrinter.com.
Search for Sustainable Styles
Before you head to the nearest mall to purchase an interview outfit, visit your local thrift store or high-end consignment shop and hunt for lightly worn blouses, suits, and other accessories that are good for your budget and the earth. Better yet, shop online – studies have shown that online shopping may result in 35% less energy consumption. Additionally, keep an eye out for clothing made of sustainable materials such as bamboo, linen made from flax, organic cotton and organic wool.
Commute with Less Carbon
Reduce carbon emissions by targeting companies that are within walking distance, allow you to use mass transit for your commute, or offer telecommuting options. If you’re interviewing for a position out-of-state, find out if the prospective employer is open to a Skype interview for the first round – this will cut costs and your carbon footprint. Pair up with a local peer mentor and carpool to networking events.
Small changes can make a big difference over time. Try to incorporate these tips into your job-search strategy to help the planet during your hunt. Click on the following link to learn more about the history of Earth Day.
Amanda Augustine is the Job Search Expert for TheLadders, the online job-matching service for career-driven professionals. She is a Certified Professional Career Coach (CPCC) and Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) who provides job search and career guidance for professionals looking to make their next career move. Have a question for Amanda? Submit your question here for a chance to have it answered in her weekly column, and be sure to follow @JobSearchAmanda on Twitter and "Like” her on Facebook for up-to-the-minute job-search advice.
In the job search, timing can mean everything.
Earlier this week, droves of U.S. taxpayers headed to their local H&R Block® office or logged on to TurboTax to file their federal tax returns or request an extension before the April 15th deadline.
As I watched a number of my colleagues scramble to send their returns in on time, I started thinking about timing as it relates to the job search. Wouldn’t it be nice if the job search had such clear deadlines? “Call the recruiter back no later than 3:00 p.m. today,” or “follow up on last week’s application by noon tomorrow.” Everything is easier when there’s a set schedule to follow.
I often receive questions from job seekers about when they should follow up on a job application or an interview, so I think today is a good day to talk about timing. Here are a few guidelines to help you follow up on job leads at the right time.
Application Follow-Up
Whenever possible, follow up approximately one week after the job application deadline (if listed). This gives the employer enough time to review the resumes. If the job posting didn’t list an application deadline, the rule of thumb is to follow up one week after your initial application. Click on the following link for information on how to follow up on an anonymous posting.
Interview Thank-you Note
Send a thoughtful thank-you message to each interviewer within 24 hours of every interview. Make sure to collect business cards or write down the proper spelling of interviewers’ names and email addresses during the interview process to ensure a timely and accurate follow-up.
Interview Follow-Up
Once you’ve sent your initial message, follow up via email or by phone one week later (assuming you didn’t get a response) to determine where the employer is in the hiring process and how you stack up against the other candidates. Always tailor the frequency of your follow-up communication to match the proximity of the employer to the hiring decision. If you’ve been given advance permission to follow up directly with the hiring manager, one call a week is appropriate. Don’t call unless you have something to say to influence your cause.
When you’re excited about a particular opportunity, the last thing you want to do is scare the employer away with the wrong type of follow-up. Remember, there’s a fine line between enthusiastic and intrusive. Hectoring the recruiter or hiring manager could backfire badly. Use the guidelines above to properly time your follow-up communication with employers.
Amanda Augustine is the Job Search Expert for TheLadders, the online job-matching service for career-driven professionals. She is a Certified Professional Career Coach (CPCC) and Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) who provides job search and career guidance for professionals looking to make their next career move. Have a question for Amanda? Submit your question here for a chance to have it answered in her weekly column, and be sure to follow @JobSearchAmanda on Twitter and "Like” her on Facebook for up-to-the-minute job-search advice.
Go into every interview with the end-goal of receiving a job offer. Make it your decision as to whether you want to work for the company rather than letting the company determine whether you are a fit.
While interviewing is not always easy, there are certain tricks which can be implemented to increase one's odds of getting the offer and making the hiring manager confident that you are the right applicant. Here are 10 ways to do so:
1. Positive Energy - People are attracted to those who display positive energy, are upbeat and who are optimistic about their career outlook.
One of the biggest tricks to interviewing is sounding enthusiastic about the position and, by do so ensuring the interviewer that you are interested in the job and are ready to contribute to their team effort.
2. Set firm goals - The best companies set firm goals and do everything possible to obtain them. As a job seeker, you should be no different.
Prior to interviewing, take the time to write down where you want to be in 1 year, 3 years and 5 years. Be specific and map out a step by step plan to ensure that you get there. If we don't know where we are going, our overall achievements are going to end up a fraction of what they could be. Be focused and tenacious in your goals and let those ambitions be heard by the hiring company.
3. Remember it's what you can do for the employer - The best way to sell is to talk in terms of what the other person wants.
Take the time to think about what benefits and skills you bring to the table. Read over the job description and envision the concerns and needs of that employer.
By speaking about how you can deliver the desired results, you are more likely to get an offer and, when you do you have more leverage negotiating the salary you want. In essence, give the employer what they want and you will get everything you need.
4. Be approachable and likable - When interviewing, the hiring manager is going to look for intangibles such as whether you are going to fit in with the corporate culture a.k.a. will you get along with the employees and enjoy working there.
The best way to make the interviewer confident that you'll fit in is to be approachable and likable throughout the interviewing process. Don't play hard to get, remain easy going and connect with the individual on a personal basis. Remember to smile.
5. Focus - If we are focused 100% on an interview, psychologically we can't be nervous, tense or judgmental of ourselves. The best conversations occur when both parties are fully engaged and this happens when everyone is focused on only the interview and nothing else.
Leave everything unrelated outside of the room and if you find yourself distracted or getting nervous the simple remedy is to put your mind at ease listening only to what the interviewer is saying rather than what you are telling yourself.
6. Strong mentality - Remember to always approach the interview with fearlessness, optimism and confidence. Don't be afraid of failure. Rather be honest and authentic; it's the most anyone can ask of you.
7. Never get discouraged during tough interviews - The best interviewers are going to ask you tough questions. Never take it personally, rather consider it due diligence on the end of the interviewer and be thank you that you are speaking with a hiring manager who knows what they are doing.
When we think upbeat thoughts, the positive energy allows us to focus and come across more upbeat and engaging. If you find your answers slipping, quickly pick yourself up. Everyone gets discouraged; though, when we begin to take difficult interviewing questions as due diligence as opposed to a personal knock, we are more apt to be successful.
8. Be determined to get the job - Luck favors those who are determined to reach a specific goal. As a job seeker, you should have a focus and drive to ace every interview that you go on making sure to leave multiple positive impressions on employees throughout the company.
You should expect to win. When we are focused, driven and expecting success, it comes.
9. Ask the right questions in the right manner - When you ask questions, don't come across as skeptical or prying, rather ask the questions because you want the information. People don't like hidden agendas and interviewers are no different. Prior to interviewing, formulate some interviewing questions that you are comfortable with and deliver those inquiries in a non-assuming, intelligent manner.
10. Focus on the positive aspects of the position - Regardless of pay, title or industry, there are both positive and negative aspects to any position. It's your choice what you focus your attention on and it's a lot more productive to hone in on the things you enjoy about the job rather than letting the downsides cloud your judgement and outlook.
Take the time to write the benefits of working at the company on a sheet of paper. Everyone likes a sincere compliment and it never hurts to convey those points of interest to the hiring manager.
In the End
You should look at the interviewing process as enjoyable rather than considering it a chore. Think positively, stay focused, follow your intuition and you're bound to get the position that you want.
Ken Sundheim is the CEO of KAS Placement Recruiters, an executive search firm based out of New York City specializing in sales and marketing recruitment of all levels. Ken also maintains a blog.
Although the past few months have been great for job creation, the March Jobs Report didn’t tell the same story. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. added 88,000 jobs in March (although the unemployment rate did drop to 7.6 percent). Compared to last month, U.S. employers added 236,000 jobs, which is up from 119,000 in January.
One of the big reasons the actual unemployment rate dropped, and the number alone doesn’t reflect this, is a result of the number of people who simply stopped looking--they are not counted as “unemployed.” As more people stop looking, that will undoubtedly lower the unemployment number--but there’s still more work to be done until we’re in the clear.
So, what can the latest job reports teach you if you are looking for something new? Here are few ways job seekers can capitalize on the these reports:
Look into hiring industries
If you’re looking for a new job, it would be in your best interest to find one in an expanding industry. For instance, professional and business services added 51,000 jobs in March. In addition, the healthcare industry saw continued job growth with a gain of 23,000. Construction, leisure, and hospitality also added jobs.
Tip: If you look into different industries, be sure to highlight your transferable skills. Typically, if you aren’t seasoned in a particular industry, you may not be as successful as other job seekers with more experience. However, if you show how your skills can benefit the job and the industry, you’ll have a much better chance at starting a conversation, getting an interview, and landing the job.
Make a move
Ultimately, you may have to make a move in order to find a job. The advantage of moving, particularly to a major metro area, is the fact that many areas have seen job growth over the past few months. While relocating for a job can be intimidating, it’s often necessary. Otherwise, you could be stuck in a rut, or worse, fall behind in your career.
Tip: Do your research and find out which city will be best for you. Although big metropolises like New York City or Los Angeles may seem attractive, they may not work best for you, your industry, or your lifestyle. Research job openings in your industry in different locations, talk to your network, and understand what you’ll be losing and gaining by moving to any given city. That way, there are no surprises--and you’ll be able find a job you love in an area you’ll be satisfied with as well.
Evaluate your options
Typically, we look for full-time positions that offer benefits or perks. However, in today’s economy, we may not always have those options. So, it’s important to evaluate your options and open your mind to alternative opportunities.
For instance, the March Jobs Report indicated average hourly earnings actually increased over the past 12 months. Although hourly or temporary work may not be in your plan, the fact is, many industries are seeing huge gains with these types of jobs -- and evaluating these options can actually help you grow as a professional.
Tip: Part-time or hourly work gives you the chance to try out more than one job. If you have the chance -- and the time -- try taking on multiple gigs. When you do so, you’ll be able to figure out what you like, what you’d rather avoid, and what can positively contribute to your career.
As the March Jobs Report indicated, landing a job in this economy may not be the easiest thing to do. However, as a job seeker, you just have to look into hiring industries, relocate if applicable, and evaluate different options. When you do so, you’ll be on the fast track to landing fulfilling opportunities and growing your career.
What do you think? What are some other ways to capitalize on the March Jobs Report?
Sudy Bharadwaj is a co-founder and the CEO of Jackalope Jobs, a platform that helps job seekers find a job via their social networks. Learn how Sudy and Jackalope Jobs obsess over job seekers by connecting with them on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
Join me and iVillage to take charge of your career.
Here at TheLadders, we like a good challenge. In the office, we’re always pushing ourselves to work harder so we can find the right person for the right job. Off the job, many of us train and compete together in co-ed sports leagues and triathlon competitions.
Right now, the office is preparing for summer races, including the J.P. Morgan Chases Corporate Challenge® and Aquaphor® New York City Triathlon®. What's more, our CEO and Co-founder Alex Douzet has a number of IRONMAN competitions on his calendar.
Challenges can be good. They help us break down big projects into smaller, manageable tasks so we can take action. They can also motivate us when we’ve lost sight of our goals.
That’s why I’m proud to announce that we’ve teamed up with iVillage for their Take Charge of Your Career Community Challenge®. If your job search has stalled or your current position has lost its luster, now’s the time to spring into action!
Starting Monday, I’ll send you daily emails with loads of information to help you explore your career path, give your professional brand a facelift, build your career network, and negotiate your salary or raise. Whether you’re just starting out, looking for a promotion, or wanting to change jobs, this challenge will give you the tools and skills needed to get ahead in your career.
Sign up for this free Challenge to get your Career Resolutions back on track before Memorial Day. Here are a few tips to get ready for the challenge ahead:
Pencil us in
It's important to dedicate time each week to prepare for a competition. The same can be said about our career challenge. Take out your calendar now and block off time over the next four weeks so you can put my tips into practice.
Join with a friend
I’ve always found it easier to stick to a routine when I’m not alone. Find a friend or loved one who’s reconsidering their career or search for a new job and sign up for the Challenge together. Work on your assignments together to keep on track and make the process more fun.
Celebrate the milestones
It can take a lot of time to reach your goals. I’m going to give you a bunch of small assignments to work on throughout this challenge. Consider every assignment you complete to be a mini-victory towards your ultimate goal, and celebrate it as such.
I look forward to working with you over the next four weeks. Please click on the following links to learn more iVillage’s Take Charge of Your Career Community Challenge®.
Amanda Augustine is the Job Search Expert for TheLadders. She provides job search and career guidance for professionals looking to make their next career move. Have a question for Amanda? Submit your question here for a chance to have it answered in her weekly column, and be sure to follow @JobSearchAmanda on Twitter and “Like” her on Facebook for up-to-the-minute job-search advice.
Don’t let the joke be on you – properly prepare for each interview so you don’t look like a fool.
Happy April Fools’ Day everyone! While April 1 is not considered a national holiday, it is widely recognized and celebrated as a day when people play practical jokes and hoaxes on each other.
While it may be fun to be a prankster, you’ll find that many people do not enjoy being the butt of someone else’s jokes – especially in the workplace. This is especially true during the job search. The last thing you want to do is look foolish in front of an important networking contact or potential employer. Avoid these five mistakes that will leave you looking foolish in an interview.
You arrive late to the interview
Don’t send the wrong signals before the interview begins. Consider a dress rehearsal before the big day. Commute to the employer’s office at the same time of day you are scheduled for your interview so you can budget your travel time appropriately. Always pad in extra time, just in case something comes up. Find a nearby coffee shop so you have a place to go if you arrive too early for the actual interview. I recommend showing up fifteen minutes before your scheduled meeting to allow time to fill out paperwork.
You didn’t prepare your elevator pitch
Chances are you will be asked to tell the interviewer a little bit about yourself. I can guarantee the interviewer doesn’t want to know about your love of long walks on the beach (unless that’s part of the job). And you’re not doing yourself any favors by asking the interviewer what they want to know about you. Before the interview, review the job description and think back to your initial phone screen to determine the core must-haves for this role. Use those top requirements to modify your elevator pitch to explain your qualifications for the role.
You didn’t research the company
There’s nothing worse than showing up unprepared for an interview. Employers want to know you took the time to read their website and recent news articles about their organization and industry, so that you have a good understanding of how they work and what’s going on in their world. Prove that you’ve done your homework by asking questions that reflect this research. Whenever possible, find someone you know who works at the company and grab a cup of coffee with them to learn more about the organization and its culture.
You have no questions for the hiring manager
It’s essential to have good questions ready – even if you’re meeting with the nth person at the company where you’re interviewing. Have at least five questions prepared that prove you’ve done your homework on the organization and are truly interested in working there. These questions will also help you gain a better understanding of the role, its requirements, and the company culture so you can determine if it’s a good fit for you.
You forget to follow up after the interview
Think of your thank you message as a tool to influence the interviewer and advance your position. If you skip the thank you, you’re missing out on an opportunity to keep your candidacy top of mind and reinforce your interest in the role. Send a thoughtful thank you note to each interviewer within 24 hours of every interview. Make sure to collect business cards or write down the proper spelling of the interviewers’ names and email addresses during the interview process to ensure follow-up in a timely manner.
Properly prepare for your interview and you’ll be sure to avoid looking foolish. Click on the following link for more information on interview preparation.
Amanda Augustine is the Job Search Expert for TheLadders. She provides job search and career guidance for professionals looking to make their next career move. Have a question for Amanda? Submit your question here for a chance to have it answered in her weekly column, and be sure to follow @JobSearchAmanda on Twitter and “Like” her on Facebook for up-to-the-minute job-search advice.