The challenging economic climate in the U.S. has been tough on both individuals and businesses. For many people seeking employment, the job search has meant countless hours fine tuning resumes and looking for opportunities that align with their experience. While the jobs picture has improved slightly over the past year, scores of individuals continue their quest to land the right position.
Restaurants are one example of how a down economy directly affects businesses. Unemployment or underemployment results in tighter personal finances and fewer trips to a favorite local restaurant. That often means a struggle for food establishments to stay afloat. The past few years have also been difficult for food service personnel with experience to continue climbing the proverbial ladder of success. Compared with just six years ago, there are simply fewer opportunities to make those moves. While not impossible, those types of changes can be difficult. To increase your chances of landing your next job, here are some points to remember.
Start by giving your best. According to the old adage, you only get one chance to make a first impression. Primarily, this refers to how you look. Dress professionally even if you know the company is a casual environment. It is more important to be over dressed than too casual.
Second, come prepared with a list of skills you can bring to the company. Years ago, applicants would simply create a basic resume listing job experience. Those days are gone. Now, companies want to know specific outcomes from your most recent position. They want to know why they should hire you. Emphasize what makes you stand out from other candidates.
Next, you must have integrity. Always be honest and transparent regarding anything in your past. It shows your character. Remember, most companies do background checks. In addition, some companies will even check your postings on social media. It might seem fun to post photos of that party you attended last weekend, but remember that potential employers might also see that material.
Fourth, be informative and knowledgeable. If you get an interview, your potential employer will want to know what you know about them. Do your homework. You don’t need to memorize all the data on the company’s website. However, you should be familiar with basic facts, including the history of the company, the primary types of clients or customers they service, the CEO and other pertinent information related to the department in which you desire to work. Also, don’t be surprised if the interviewer asks why you want to work for this company. In fact, that question might be part of the online application process.
Finally, ask questions. Avoid ending an interview without seeking to know more about the company and the position. This is part of your preparation for an interview. As you look through the company’s website, jot down 4-5 questions that you would like answered. By the way, be sure they are actual questions, not just something random that you ask to impress the interviewee. Be genuine. For example, you could ask, “What is a typical day like in this position?” or “What are your expectations?”
Now that you know what TO DO, there are also some important things NOT TO DO. Here is a simple reminder list to consider.
- DO NOT be late! Employers want to see they can count on you, starting with the time you arrive for an interview.
- DO NOT speak negatively about your former employer. Always word comments in a positive manner.
- DO NOT wear heavy perfume or cologne. Your interviewer could be allergic.
- DO NOT talk incessantly when asked a question. Answer the question completely, yet efficiently. In other words, get to the point. Along with that, be a good listener during the conversation. Avoid thinking about the next thing you want to say.
- DO NOT discuss salary unless asked. The money topic will come later if the company is interested in hiring you.
These guidelines are not the end-all, be-all to interview preparation, but they are a great place to start. Remember to be enthusiastic, maintain a good level of energy through the interview and be positive.