How to Find a Job: When There Are No Jobs (Book 1) a Necessary Job Search and Career Planning Guide for Today's Job Market (Find a Job Series) by Paul Rega Page A
“Snowball Effect.” Ask the employer if they are aware of any companies that may be hiring individuals with your background. If they are aware of any companies, ask them for specific contact names and if it would be okay for you to indicate that they referred you. I think you can see the networking potential of the “Snowball Effect” and its nearly endless potential if you simply ask the proper questions. A typical question an interviewer may ask you towards the end of the meeting is, “Do you have any questions regarding the position?” Any specific questions you may have regarding the position, company etc. should be addressed at this time. It is never appropriate to discuss salary or benefit issues during an initial meeting. However, a wise interview strategy is to ask the hiring authority what their thoughts are regarding your background and how they feel your experience may be a fit for the position. You should ask the hiring authority after your meeting what the next steps might be in the interview process and when you might expect to hear from him. Should the manager suggest that you contact him if you have any questions regarding your interview, I would strongly consider acting on his invitation regarding any further questions you may have. Finally, you should ask for business cards from everyone you speak with and take note of all administrative assistant names you may meet. I discovered early in my sales career that by addressing an administrator by name made a tremendous difference whenever I called or visited the company. By extending bona fide courtesy to the administrative assistants I spoke with, courtesy was usually offered in return. The individuals I spoke with were very willing to assist me in reaching their bosses. I attribute their willingness to assist me to my friendly mannerism and my extension of courtesy by addressing them by name. My Father told me many years ago, “A person’s name is the most important sound to an individual’s ear.” I have seen his wise words in action and the results are well worth the effort it may take to remember the names of anyone you may meet during the interview process. If you find that a potential employer is difficult to reach by telephone, try asking the company’s receptionist for the individual’s personal assistant. Once you reach their administrative assistant, ask her what her name is and introduce yourself. When you make an effort to ask what someone’s name is and you remember their name, most people will be happy to assist you with the information you need. Indicate to the assistant that you have been having difficulty reaching her boss and would greatly appreciate any help she may be able to provide you. Most people want to help other people, especially when they are addressed by their name and in a courteous and respectful manner. I would encourage you to use this approach with everyone with whom you speak during an interview, as it is a very effective way to communicate. Proper Attire for an Interview Proper attire for an interview involves using common sense and dressing appropriately for the occasion. Dressing for the occasion means that you are trying to make the best impression possible to secure the position you seek. When considering appropriate attire take into account the type of position you are seeking as well as the type of organization. Each company has its own culture including how their employees are expected to dress. You should try to research this point and dress in the same manner for which employees of the company you seek employment dress. For example, if all the male employees in the department you wish to work wear a suit and tie then you should dress accordingly. A potential employer will immediately make an assessment of you even before you are able to speak, simply based upon how well you are dressed and groomed. Proper attire coupled with a well-groomed appearance is crucial to your interview success.