Creating An Interviewing Strategy To Land You A Job
Creating an interviewing strategy to land you a job that you dream of needn't be difficult if you plan your job hunting campaign and do preparatory research.
Sometimes all it takes to achieve an interview is a phone call. Make sure you find out about a particular company's application process is before you take your first step.
Mailing a resume
When you're preparing for job interviews, most employers prefer you to send your resume by mail. For this type of approach, it is essential to include a cover letter with your resume. The cover letter is a concise, one page document that identifies the position that interests you and gives a few details of your qualifications and skills. Its most important function is to ensure that your resume will be read.
Do your strategic research before starting to write your letter: make sure you address it to the person in charge of the hiring or interview process. Avoid sending a general mailing cover letter if you possibly can.
E-mailing your resume to gain an interview
If a recruiter has requested resume submissions by e-mail, make sure that you understand the preferred method of delivery. It's possible to attach your resume as a word document or PDF file -- but some employers are wary of opening e-mail attachments from unknown correspondents and will prefer to receive all documentation pasted into the body of the e-mail itself.
Make sure that you identify yourself and the job you are applying for in the subject line. This will facilitate the task of sorting through large numbers of applications for the recruiter (or their clerical staff) and your message will avoid the risk of being deleted!
Faxing Your Resume
Again, you will need to include a cover letter when you fax your resume. If you are not using your own fax machine, be sure to include your own complete contact information.
Delivering Your Resume By Hand
It's best to do this only if specifically requested by the employer. Make it your business to dress just as if you were attending the job interview itself. A company may ask you to do this if you are going to be working directly with customers. The employer may even offer you a brief interview on the spot, to assess whether they will require a formal interview later. You may be asked to complete a job application form as well.
Smile and be polite, no matter who you are talking to. A warm, confident manner will help you to create a strong first impression.
Read the next article in this series: Interviewing Like An Expert
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