Get the Job Offer Next Time!!

We see it everyday -- terrific candidates passed over based solely on their resume, an application, how they presented themselves, or on the interview itself.  Research indicates nearly 90% of hiring decisions are based on first impressions -- and justified with logic later.  Qualifications and experience are definitely critical, but when those things are equal between you and another candidate - how you present yourself before and during the interview will help ensure you get the offer you want!

Easier said than done, of course, but here are a few of the reasons we've learned about why qualified candidates don't always get the job offer:

1. The resume you use is key... don't cut and paste from your current job description (yes, this happens). More than 1 page is the norm again, readability and formatting matter. Develop your content around accomplishments that pertain to the job, AND... run spell check!

2.    Do you put your name and contact information in the header of your resume? A lot of hiring and recruiting company applicant tracking systems don't read headers correctly. Your beautiful resume may be in their system - but possibly without your name or contact information.

 3. Fill out the employment application completely.  Even though the questions may be redundant to your resume… do.it.again.  Cutting corners and writing “See Resume” will be duly noted, and usually not in a good way.

4. Is there anything on your Instagram or Facebook you wouldn't want a prospective employer (or your Mother) to see?  Hesitate posting the picture of you wearing a lampshade at your neighbor's last party. If you can't help yourself, set your security levels! Many companies and recruiters are checking candidates' social media profiles to help determine cultural fit.

5.  Research the hiring organization in advance. Know as much as you can about them, e.g., the awards they've earned, the customers they serve, their mission and vision, etc. Align your talents with the organization's needs, and share what will matter most to them.

6.   Were you just called in for an onsite interview? Dress to the 9 ‘s! Ring around the collar, a wrinkled shirt, an edgy hairstyle, body piercings, visible tats, shirts buttoned wrong (yes, this has happened)... these are all marks against you.  And, while the hiring organization may have a "Casual Dress" policy - it doesn't mean you go to the interview that way. Put your absolute best foot forward. It demonstrates respect.

7.    Pay close attention when you speak.  Not too fast, loudly-enough and clearly is important. Listen 1st, and take extra care not to interrupt, over-answer a question or make it tough for the interviewer to speak.

 8. Show some humility (if you have some). In an effort to appear confident, some candidates come off like a know-it-all and act as though they have nothing to learn. No matter how many years' of experience or how many degrees you have, you can and will learn from others in a new position.

9.   Keep your religious and political opinions to yourself.  In today's world... at least 50% of the people who interview you will probably have opposing beliefs and opinions -- and they run deep.     

10. Show gratitude. Thank interviewers for their time. A follow-up email or card still goes a long way.

Of course, there are many other ways to prepare for getting the job... and that's the key... "Prepare". Get credit for who you are and the value you can bring... When you do, you will get the offer you really want!