Career Program – 5. Get Great Interviews
5. Get Great Interviews
Create a supportive community.
Don’t allow self-doubt to destroy your future
Getting interviews?
If not, perhaps it’s time you learned how others are meeting HR decision makers. Here are some effective but indirect ways to get noticed by the people who can get you hired.
Video: Tips From the Experts
Best Referrals Are
a Friend of a Friend
Ask friends, “Do you know anyone who might know someone?” Then, don’t be afraid to discuss your job search wherever you go-at the gym, church, ballgames, parties, social media and so forth. When the opportunity presents itself, be open and honest about what you’re looking for. Many times, friends of friends will work harder to support you than friends.
Attend Association Meetings in Your Field
Search for associations in your career field and attend their meetings and networking events. You can find where to go under MORE INFO/ ASSOCIATIONS. Meet and greet potential employers and other professionals. When you walk into the room, look around and see who is there and who could help you. But be equally generous and see if there are people whom you can help, too. Helping others can pay back a great interview.
Find Your Social Media Fit
For example, advertising and branding companies might prefer Twitter. “Soft sell” your skills by telling them what you dream of doing and having some interaction with the company, even if it’s with the social media community manager.
If your career is relevant to their industry, you could find support. 44% of employers say, they have hired candidates through social media. Make friends with people who work in your chosen field. Chances are they can get you an interview as well.
Hearing “No” Isn’t Personal.
Referral Do’s & Don’ts
When finding the right people to refer you, especially at a networking event, avoid pitfalls by being the person they want to give support.
- Don’t be nervous or shy. Smile. Keep it light. Others will see you as confident.
- Don’t make it all about you. After saying hello, get them to talk about themselves. Listen for how you can support them.
- Don’t ask for a job. Even if they work at the perfect company for you, they’re probably not the decision maker. And if they are, don’t put them under pressure. Remember they’ll need approvals from others.
How Do You Win Support?
Now that you’ve created an open listening, here’s what to do.
- Do speak with enthusiasm about the job/career you’re seeking. Ask for a business card. Then ask, “Do you know anyone that you can refer me too?”
- Do end the meet-up by looking them right in the eye, giving a thank-you handshake and sending a résumé right away.
- Do send them press articles about their industry. Take their advice and tell them how you did it. If they’re not sure about your experience, offer to work as an intern or for a smaller salary.
What If It’s Not Working?
Perhaps it time to transition into a more in-demand field?
- Apply for a related more in-demand occupation.
- Click on Color Career Indicator 4.1 More Jobs for career niches or specialties within your chosen field.
- Consider getting more opportunity and pay with a certification course or additional training.
Who Would You Hire?
Looking for a job can make you feel worthless.
It’s essential however to feel good about yourself.
Who would you hire? A person down on their luck or full of positive energy?
“You Get back What You Send Out.”
Create a supportive community around you. Don’t allow self-doubt to keep you from moving forward. Be energized. Become excited, looking forward to a new chapter in your life!
• It’s not personal. Don’t let false pride slow you down. Get your face or résumé in front of every friend or prospective career opportunity.
• Run the numbers. Get as many interviews and résumés sent as possible. Make it fun! Run up the interview numbers.
• Be proud of every “No.” Don’t fret over rejections; it will only diminish your self-confidence.
Protect Your Privacy
Almost all employers (93% to be exact) say they will search social media profiles during the interview process. While not limited to these, the most common for recruiters to screen candidates are on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.
Make your accounts private when necessary. Crazy drinking parties or political statements, for example, can end a possible interview. Make your Facebook page Private.