Tips

The Resume

The first impression a prospective employer forms of you is as they read a resume, and perhaps an accompanying cover letter. Employers get a lot of resumes. You have 30 seconds to capture their attention! It is important to read and proof your resume. The basic resume should not be longer then two pages, and should be laser printed on good quality paper, either white or ivory shade. If you don not have a computer, invest in a good service to prepare your resume. A resume should contain an objective, summary of qualifications either in sentences or bulleted form, an employment history beginning from the most recent employment, and an educational summary. References and salary history should be on separate sheets for use as needed. Personal information such as age, marital status, etc. has no bearing on your ability to perform and is unnecessary and illegal information for an employer to have during the initial stages. Cover letters should always be addressed to a person by name and title, except in the case of a blind ad. Research the company and include relevant comments in your cover letter.

The Interview

At this stage your job is to sell yourself to the interviewer. Gather information on the company before the interview. Call and ask for an annual report, literature, or information about their history and products. If you are interviewing with a builder, visit their project, walk through the models, and be aware of the type of housing they build. You will appear much more aware and intelligent if you can truly discuss their product. Arrive early for the interview, and carry spare copies of your resume. Have a list of pertinent questions prepared. Do not ask about salary, benefits, vacations, etc. Be friendly, cheerful and businesslike. Ask questions about the position and what background the ideal person would have. This gives you an opportunity to bring out your similar qualities. Your past success needs to be told.

Negotiating

Now is the time to sit down and carefully review what the job has to offer. Before you arrive for the final interview check with similar companies and find out what salary ranges are for similar positions if you are unsure of where you are in the range. This will give you more confidence as you prepare to negotiate, if that is necessary. If you are working with a recruiter, they should take care of the offer process for you. Only at this interview should you ask questions about benefits, vacations, pension plans, 401K's etc, since these are a part of the overall package. It is best to say something like, "I believe with my background and skills I will be an asset to your company, and I'm interested in the total package you offer. What figures did you have in mind?" Now be quiet! Take a look at the total package. Quite often a lower salary figure is more then compensated for by a great benefits package so don't reject a low offer out of hand.

Settling In

Your approach, attitude and behavior during the first few weeks of the job will set the tone for your whole career. Be mindful of the some good business etiquette, and proceed cautiously until you determine the office "culture" and the behaviors of peers, superiors and subordinates. There is usually a "honeymoon" period the first few weeks during which you can settle in and become familiar with the corporate structure and key players. It is best to listen much more then you speak during this time. Do not criticize or compare. Learn everything you can before offering too much advice. New ideas are more readily accepted after you have been absorbed into the mainstream. If you are replacement hire, you may be faced with some negative attitudes. You should ask during your interview if there are any special problems you need to be aware of. Remember a smile and a sincere attitude will go a long way.