Know What You're Getting Into
One of the most critical factors in landing a job is understanding
what the job entails and who you would potentially work for. Going
into a job interview armed with a true understanding of the job
duties and firm's direction can be what separates you from other
applicants. This is this advantageous for the job seeker and impressive
to the potential employer. There are a few smart things to do in
order to learn about the job and company you are applying for.
Going beyond the website for information!
It's pretty common practice
to jump onto a website to learn more about a firm. However, the
information on a website is often fairly vague. It is recommended
that a job applicant call a human resources or marketing person
to ask questions about the inner workings of the firm. Try and
learn about any recent and exciting news about the company so
you can speak intelligently about where the company is going and
what it's doing in the market place. Know who its competitors are
and what its reputation is in its market sector. Be informed.
Do you get it?
One of the most critical factors in bringing on
an employee is having the impression that the candidate "gets
it". An applicant must do some creative things to get a realistic
grasp of the position they are applying for. When interviewing,
ask what a day-in-the-life is like for others in similar roles.
The applicant should ask to speak with someone that already holds
a similar position in the firm. Discover what are the biggest challenges
and benefits of the position. The more the applicant knows about
the nuts-and-bolts of the job, the better impression the hiring
manager will have of their ability to execute the position.
The "x" factors!
An "x" factor is that intangible
something that makes a candidate stand-out. One important "x" factor
in selecting a candidate is whether they speak the same language.
If an applicant is not able to mirror and reflect the communication
style of the hiring manager, they're not likely to get hired. Candidates
need to display flexibility and an ability to integrate into a
new and unfamiliar work culture. Pay attention to the phrases,
buzz words, and jargon used by the hiring manager and use them
as well. Making note of the communication style of firm can be
critical in helping a candidate determine whether they want to
continue with the application process themselves. If you're not
able to speak the same language, you probably won't be able to
communicate at work.
Source: ZweigWhite
Back to Career Center
|