1. Choose your attitude. You are allowed to feel sorry for yourself for a short period of time and then move on. Force yourself to smile and be an inspiration to others. Act like job hunting is the greatest thing that has ever happened to you.
3. Make your resume stand out. If you don’t know what makes a resume “sing”, find out. Read all about it or consult an expert. Make it easy to read. Sometimes a professional photo of you helps. Remember to check for typos.
5. Brush up on your body language and communication skills. Maintain eye contact, lean in when you should to show interest, watch for signals given by your interviewer; e.g. crossed arms, facial expressions and checking emails or texts.
6. Should I try to close on the interview? Absolutely! Some interviewers may want to see if you approach the job interview like you approach a prospective sale. You may want to do a trial close or two. Also, make comments on what you can do to bring value to the team and speak as if you are a part of the team.
7. Paraphrase JFK. “Ask not what they can do for you, but rather what you can do for them.” It’s all about the value you can bring to the organization.
8. Are you talking to the decision maker? If not, why are you talking to someone who can’t hire you?
9. Avoid discussing income and benefits unless it seems appropriate to do so.
11. Dress for success. Shine those shoes, clean your nails and make sure there is nothing in your teeth. Watch the perspiration index and please, no extra perfume or cologne.
FINALLY . Follow through. Send an email message specifically addressing something discussed in the interview. Then, send a handwritten note of appreciation. The time you spend on this will be well worth it!