How to Stand out in the Interview Process

Unemployment is today's household, political and media buzz word. The polls indicate the problem fails to improve with unemployment reaching 9.1 % in July, 2011. That figure is only the tip of the iceberg. Several of the unemployed are not filing claims. In addition to those claiming unemployment benefits are the under-employed (working part time when needing full time work), young adults trying to launch a career or establish gainful employment. Many job candidates fear they will settle for a job that is less rewarding and sustainable. This article will aid you in developing interview techniques that set you apart and get you noticed.

Employers are often overwhelmed by the amount of applications they receive. They try to manage a business, overworked and often wearied of the process while looking for the perfect candidate. Therefore, your first impressions, on paper or in person, must grab their attention. As a manager of a busy dental office, I scheduled the enthusiastic applicant, early in the process. Many experts in the field say enthusiasm is the number one hiring qualification. Although, enthusiasm gets you noticed it may not land the job.

Preparation is key. Before sending out your resume with a cover letter, do your research. Have a general cover letter prepared and then cut and past career, job, or position specifics into the body of the letter. Many times you can peruse through the ad for phrases and descriptions to repeat and include in your letter. Always proof read your letter for grammatical errors and reading ease. The easiest way is to print it off and read it out loud. It is not necessary to clutter it with fancy artwork or impressive style. Most busy employers want the critical information quickly and with ease. When possible find out who to address it to. It is common knowledge that people respond favorably to recognition and hearing their name.

Follow up with a phone call, verifying they have received your resume and cover letter. Be pleasant, courteous and positive. Smile before you call that office. Smiles can be "heard" through a phone call. Listen for the receivers name and address them personally, using their name often throughout the duration of the call. Write the person's name down for future reference. Remembering names is a plus! Ask if they have any questions or where they are at in the interview process. Conclude the conversation stating that you will be looking forward to hearing from them and scheduling a personal interview.

Prepare for the interview by researching the company and gain as much information about their staff as possible. It is easy today to learn about the company environment and even begin to learn names through online social networking. Visit the company website and read about their commitments and accomplishments. Learn what makes them unique. Search for networking reviews among colleagues and business forums. In addition, go to social networking platforms to read about their community and staff involvements.

Take this time to determine what you are looking for in an employer and working environment. This should go beyond the financial compensation package. What type of atmosphere inspires you to be your best and excel? What type of managers or supervisors do you flourish under? Do you prefer working with others or independently? Are you looking for employers that offer advancement and training?

Once the interview is scheduled do not cancel it. As a hiring manager, I was amazed at how often candidates would come late, ask to reschedule or no show. Punctuality is an expectation. Dress professionally and modestly. Be neat and tidy. The most important accessory is your smile. Your handshake should be firm not limp to convey confidence. Greet as many of the staff by name (you can find names off the company website and social networking pages).

Allow the interviewer to take the lead while listening for opportunities to begin interviewing them. You are looking to invest in your career and it is as important as their qualifying a new team member. Ask questions that show you have done your research about their company. Ask about their staff. How long has the current staff been with them? What new employee training is available? What is their management style? The best way to determine how things really happen is to give a scenario and have them describe how they would handle it. Learn to listen for insights through responses to any and all questions.

During the interview, state how you are the best candidate to meet their immediate need. From your research of the company, give an example of how you would perform one of their goals or respond to a probable situation. Ask for an opportunity to shadow or be given a working interview.

In concluding the interview, ask to meet staff and be given a tour if the office is small. Once again, be interested, smile and address staff by name. Determine when you should call to follow up on the interview. Let them know that you would like feedback on their decision so that you can continue to develop in your career search.

While waiting to make the follow up call, review the interview process. Determine what went well and what needs revisiting or revising. Send a personalized, hand written thank you card to the interviewer. Follow up immediately with any information you had promised to forward. Where possible hand deliver it and greet the receptionist by name and with a smile. Use this time to decide if this will be a working environment you can invest in. Your final step is to follow up during the interview process until you are invited to join the team or you decide this is not the best fit. Whether you accept the position or not, you have made a positive impression on those involved in the interview process and will be remembered. Often, as a manager, I retained the applications of those who stood out in the interview process for future reference and opportunities.