How to Interview For and Land A New Job

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By Rufus Surles
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Applicants abound!

Are you looking for a new job? Are you out of work or are you simply sick of your present employer? Either way, if you want to get hired for a new job you'll have to interview.

This article will explain how to interview for a new job. We'll discuss some of the dos and don'ts so you'll be more prepared for that dreaded job interview.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Resumes
Cover Letters
Note pad
Pen
Fashionable suit

Step 1

Research

When you have an interview scheduled for a new job, research the company.

There's nothing more impressive than a job candidate who is interested enough in a company to learn as much as possible about the company prior to the interview.
Step 2

Have an extra resume

Always take at least 2 fresh resumes and cover letters with you for the interview. Be sure your resume and cover letter are position specific and up to date.

You may need to also fill out an application form. You'll want to be sure you enter the same information on the application as you typed on your resume.

Sometimes you'll be asked to sit for a second interview right after the first, or two managers might interview you at one time. If either of these things happen, you'll want a second resume for the additional party. It'll impress them that you're prepared for this eventuality.
Step 3

Dress conservatively

Dress conservatively but fashionably and groom yourself well.

If you're a bit more mature than most other job seekers, be sure to pay special attention to this step. Take care to dress in a fashion that offers a youthful and up to date first impression. Don't try to be flamboyant or to make a fashion statement; conservative, clean attire is always best.
Step 4

Don't be a buffoon

Be sure to treat the receptionist well.

Employers realize that a job applicant who snubs the lower echelon employees might do the same with the company's clients. In addition to that, how you work with others is usually an important consideration on any new job. Also, you never know who might put in a good word for you after the interview. And what if the boss's daughter is the receptionist?
Step 5

Sincere smile

Smile and be positive from the time you enter the premises.

Be sincere with this step; don't fake it. If you're hoping to find a new job, you should be genuinely happy to have this interview. Be sure to open your mouth and include your eyes in your smile. Say hello to everyone you meet.
Step 6

Shake hands

Offer a firm handshake when introduced to the hiring manager.

Don't offer a wet fish handshake and don't try to be Hercules. Just offer a firm but not vise like grip as you say hello. Greet the interviewer by name if you've been told the name. If not, ask. Something like "Hello, my name's Mary Smith. And yours is?" would be a great introduction.
Step 7

Ask questions

Ask questions related to what is expected of the person who eventually fills the vacant position.

You might also ask questions about management style, employee turnover and growth plans. After asking a question, be sure to shut up and listen! The answers to your questions will tell you what you need to do and say in order to come across as the best candidate for this position.

It might also be a good idea to have a pen and pad ready so you can take notes.
Step 8

Sell your value

Offer suggestions related to what you can do for the company.

Be careful to remain confident yet humble. Arrogance will get you nowhere. Selfish questions are losers. Too many ask about off days and vacations. These questions are best saved for a much later date.

The objective is to get the job; the benefits won't matter if you aren't hired. Dare to be different. Your prospective employer wants to know the benefit of the product you're selling: yourself! Show them with your attitude and interest in their company.
Step 9

Time is valuable

Thank the interviewer for his or her time.

You were offered an opportunity to sell your services to this company. An executive's time is very valuable. Show them how much you appreciate them giving you this audience.
Step 10

Email a thank you note

Follow up.

After leaving, go straight home and write a thank you email as well as a letter via traditional mail thanking them again for the opportunity to talk with them.

Comments

rnhealthinfo said

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on 1/4/2010 How to Interview For and Land A New Job is a wonderful article and anyone looking for a new job should read this! Great tips, 5* and recommend

bahr94 said

on 1/3/2010 Outstanding article, keep it up 5 stars & rec

jswana said

on 1/2/2010 This is a solid and outstanding article. If I were seeking a job I would carry this around as a guideline. This is really good and very relevant. thanks for sharing.jswana 5* and a recommendation.