Be the Stand-Out Candidate

By : Catherine Lang-cline

One of the simplest ways to get a job often gets overlooked for being almost too simple: be likable. If it comes down to two completely equal candidates, the one that they like better will always win. As a matter of fact, if the more likable one is even slightly less experienced, they will still choose him or her over the less likable one.

Many candidates focus completely on the weight of their experience and overlook the weight of their personality. In today's economy people are having to do more with less. Teams are smaller than they once were, so the interpersonal fit of the team is very important. Companies are being selective in who they choose. They want someone others will enjoy working with.

You can use this fact of human nature to your advantage when you go on the job interview. Prepare carefully ahead of time and do what you need to do in order to feel confident and comfortable. That way you can focus your energy on the interviewers, company and opportunity.

If you're distracted by insecurities, that will come across. People who seem nervous
might lose points for seeming like they cannot handle pressure. Quiet people may come across as aloof. People who talk too much can come off as desperate or bad listeners. The most likable candidates strike a good balance between listening and talking and they do both in an engaged and active manner.

The best way to give yourself an advantage is to really observe the person interviewing you and try and read what they are looking for. Do they need someone outgoing? Do they need someone with attention to detail? Do they need someone to be a ringer on their golf team? If that is you, devote some time to speaking on that. Find the pain point and make this the reason you are going to stand out from everyone else they interview. Make it the focus of how you will fit in. Find the common ground.

If you're prepared enough to confidently put forward your best self, clearly show how you eliminate the company's pain points and come across as someone anyone would love to work with, you greatly increase your chances of receiving a job offer, at which you can decide if the job seems like a great fit for you too.

This article may be reprinted when the copyright and author bio are included

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Taxi Drivers, Beware of Chief Inspectors Asking For Refunds

By : Nicholas Robus

The names have been changed to protect the shameless guilty conniving so and so that tried to rip me off last week. But it's a great story so I have decided to share.

For those of you that do not know me I own and operate a taxi company in a small town called Rye on the East Sussex Kent border.

On Monday last week I received a call from me father who was manning the taxi phone saying he had received a call from a Chief Inspector "Wexford" stating that he wanted to speak to the owner of the business and would not be able to speak to anybody else regarding the matter, my father had taken his phone number and asked me to call him back as a matter of urgency.

I was quiet taken back by this and thought it all sounded a bit serious, but I'm an honest chap and didn't thinks it would be anything to worry about.

I took down the number and proceeded to call the Chief Inspector. A mildly Scottish voice answered the phone with a "Helloo"

"Chief Ispector "Wexford"?" I asked.......

"Yes Speaking." was the reply.

"Hello." I said. " Nicholas Robus here from Taxi - Time Ltd, Rye, East Sussex. I believe you were trying to contact me as a matter of urgency, How can I help you."

"Yes I was." slightly more abrupt then before came the reply.

"On Saturday night I took a cab ride with one of your guys from Icklesham to Fairlight Lodge Hotel, it took over half an hour, the driver went all around the houses and charged me £27.50 then short changed me by £2.00. The driver in question is a crook and a thief and should by charged under the full extent of the law. I would like a refund for the full amount.

Now bearing in mind who I work for.......... If I don't receive a cheque from you for the full £27.50 I will be having a word with my colleagues in your area and making it very difficult for you to go on operating as a Taxi Company.

Do I make myself clear."

Now I am not easily shaken, but the tone and confidence of this guy made me believe he was deadly serious. And under normal circumstances I would have been annoyed by a call like this and immediately trying to find out which driver had done the job so I could give them a rollicking.

But, in this instance I could not do that as I had done the job myself.

I remembered the man in question, and also remembered that I had actually undercharged him by a couple of quid because I forgot to start the meter and only remembered a mile or two down the road. and as for short changing him this was just a blatant lie. The tight old bugger made sure he got his £2.50 change. I don't like to stereo type but there are clues if you read between the previous few lines.

My company does a great deal of work with the local council and we are also bound by a strict code of conduct set out in the Rother District Council Miscellaneous Provisions act for Hackney carriage and Private Hire operators. Any form of legal proceedings against myself or my business could have far reaching effects, and I was a little unsettled by the claims being made by the Chief Inspector.

However I was in the position to make counter claims as I had provided the service personally.

I informed the "Chief" that I had been his driver and justified the fare to him and also informed him that his claim of being short changed was not true. I also offered to send him his refund as a gesture of good will along with a photo copy of our fare card and some google maps with the route, mileage and fare calculations so he could see for himself that he had not been ripped of as he claimed.

I also stated that if after looking at the evidence he was still not happy he was free to cash the cheque for the refund.

To which he replied. "Oh I will be cashing the cheque, and if I'm not happy with what I see I will still be having a word with my colleagues about you."

I took his home address and thanked him for his time, reasuring him that everything would be in the post in the next couple of days.

After hanging up I replayed the conversation in my head and a few things didn't quit stack up, like the fact that he could not add up, he was only asking for a refund for the fare and not the £2 he claimed to have been short changed. By now I was now a little riled and felt like having a bit of a dig back, so I phoned him back and asked if I could check his credentials.

"Why would you want to do that" he exclaimed.

I explained to him that as a taxi driver I carry a badge and my identity can be clearly seen by my customers and also that we often have leaflets pushed through the door by our local force telling us to check peoples identity before allowing them in our home or handing over any money.

I was just doing my due diligence as he could have been just trying to get some money out of me.

"I work for Scotland Yard, SO13, I cant give you information like that due to the nature of the work we do, but believe me I am genuine, I am a very high ranking officer, you could walk into any police station in the country and find out I am who I say I am. If you really want to go down this road my colleagues are only a phone call away, remember who I work for"

I thanked him again for his time and reassured him once more that the cheque would be in the post.

Then I thought. Walk into any Police station in the country. Not a bad idea that.

So on my way home I popped into Rye police station and asked for their advice.

Once I had recounted the telephone conversations the officers at the station stood with a look of stunned confusion on their faces.

"Oh Dear" they said.

"We not sure quite how to deal with this." "I think we better take a statement"

It turned out that if this guy was not who he said he was he was in trouble. The police take a very dim view of people impersonating police officers, especially if it is for personal gain.

But if he was who he said he was he was also in serious trouble for using his power and position to sort out what was a personal dispute.

I made a statement and left it in the hands of the police to deal with and was given the advice under no circumstances was I to have any more dealings with him and not to send anything in the post.

24 hours later I was informed by Rye police that he was not who he claimed to be and was thanked for bringing this to their attention, it was being dealt with and he could expect a knock on the door from a member of the police in his area very soon.

Now I don't know about you, but I would love to be a fly on the wall when that happens.

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Getting Into ACCA Jobs and Careers

By : Ivan Kandol

ACCA jobs are accounting jobs. They are very abundant because meeting the qualifications can be somewhat difficult. There is a lot of formal schooling involved and there are certification tests that have to be passed.

The salary range is rather handsome and they are much sort after positions. You simply have to put the time in to make sure that you are able to meet the qualifications. Starting off with a good solid education will go far when it comes to being the perfect candidate for ACCA jobs.

Education

You have several education options when it comes to getting the right education for these jobs. You can go to a formal college that offers a degree program in this field. This wills probably the most heralds and respected option. Some vocational schools will also offer these programs.

Specialty business schools also will offer the courses that are needed to prepare you for ACCA jobs. Many business schools specialize in these course offerings. Gaining entrance into some of the top business schools can really be a rather competitive undertaking, but in the end is well worth the fight.

Intern Time

In addition to formal education a good idea to prime yourself for one of the great ACCA jobs is to do a bit of interning at a company that you would hope to work for someday. Usually internships are largely unpaid; they are something that you do while you are still a student. The best part of these unpaid jobs is that you not only get some much coveted experience but you also will get your foot in the door with a company that you want to work for. This is the perfect way to be able to put something on your resume when it comes time to find a job.

Finding a Job

Because ACCA jobs are so warranted there are complete websites that are dedicated to these types of jobs. Basically if your education is up to par and you can provide a bit of experience background, you will be able to find a job of your choosing.

The process is quite simple. Many of the websites are free to a potential candidate for these types of jobs. You simply register, fill out some pertinent information and you will be on your way to being offered ACCA jobs.

ACCA jobs are easy to come by, well paying and a really great career.

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What Duties Are Often Included in an Accounting Job Description?

By : Ivan Kandol

An accounting job description will outline all the duties that are expected from an accounting position. There are many duties that are expected from an accounting job. Surprisingly enough the description may use somewhat vague language to not scare off the candidate.

There are some key phrases that might clue you into what the job really entails. It is important when you are looking for a job that you look for these key phrases so that you will understand what you are up against.

Other Duties as Assigned

When you read the phrase other duties as assigned you need to understand that this is a very vague statement. In some cases this can actually be used as a legal defense if the point arrives where you may have to litigate with an employer over salary or unfair treatment. For instance when you sign on for a job that has other duties as assigned in the accounting job description you are actually agreeing to take on duties that may have nothing at all to do with accounting.

Of course sometimes you simply have to accept the job regardless of how vague the description is. You can ask for additional information during the interview, but usually the employer will not elaborate on the description simply because they want the leeway to assign what they feel they need to.

The Breakdown

Most accounting description documents are very detailed, and will break down each duty in easy to use language. It is not only used to give you a good idea of what is expected, but it is also used as a way to gauge performance. This description will be used as a jumping off point for future performance assessments.

It is very important to understand your duties so that your ratings will be favorable.

Understanding an accounting job description will go a long way in job satisfaction. It is certainly the key to performing as you are expected to. It is literally amazing how many people do not read their job description completely, they glace through it without reading the fine lines, or without reading the complete document. Do not take it for granted that the accountant job description will only have accounting duties listed, it may have a few surprises. Do yourself a favor and thoroughly read through the description to avoid any future problems.

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40 Tips for Job Seekers Over 40

Too often, companies emphasize hard work over experience, when instead they should put smart work ahead of hard work. Ever felt that kind of disdain? Then this list is for you.

Cute dog

1. CareerJournal.com: Start by deciding what you want to do next. Emily Allen, manager of the Workforce Initiative Program at AARP: for older workers, it’s often “the first time in life that they can consider what they want to do rather than what they need to do.”

From Forbes.com via YourHRGuy via Waypoint:

2. Midlife job seekers need a resume that looks forward, not backward. To quote from the article- “a résumé shouldn’t read like the testimonial at your retirement dinner.” Rather- “Change the perspective from “look at everything I have done,” to “look at everything I can do for you.””

3. Don’t be defensive and don’t omit dates. You’ve worked hard to get where you are, so be proud of what you’ve accomplished along the way and be even more enthusiastic about what you have yet to accomplish.

From BBC News:

4. Age stereotypes exist no matter how old you are, so get over it. According to the article, “the worst thing a job seeker could do is try and emphasize the positive qualities which employers associate” with your age.

5. Play up any qualities you have that are usually associated with younger people.

6. Resist being put off by younger-sounding ads that use terms like fast-paced and multi-tasking. Growing a family requires tremendous multi-tasking skills, so know that you can compete with anyone.

7. Learn new skills and technologies. Prove that you can teach an old dog new tricks. Everyone knows how difficult it is to keep up with an evolving field, all the more impressive when you’ve been doing it for a long time. The latest tool for job search is Twitter, and my free e-book The Ultimate Twitter Job Search Guide will teach you everything you need to know about it.

8. Be open to new careers. Think about the skills you have that are transferable to another industry or profession; it’s never too late to find a dream job.

9. Join a group of people like yourself for support, advice and networking purposes. Be part of the JobMob Community, other Internet groups, or perhaps a local job seekers club.

10. Go employ yourself. With a lot of experience, it may be straightforward enough for you to enter consulting, doing the work you know but charging higher prices than former colleagues.

11. Stay healthy by exercising and eating a balanced diet. This is always important, more so when you’re in a difficult transition period between jobs.

12. Make time for friends and family. Job hunting is similar to actors auditioning for a role; there can be many rejections before a break comes and you will need every bit of encouragement that they can give you.

13. Volunteering is a great way to “keep a work-based routine and keeps you involved in the community” which also translates into many networking opportunities.

From Job-Hunt.Org:

14. Update your knowledge before sending out resumes. Even if you’ve been keeping up with new skills and technologies, you may have missed the latest industry jargon and trends.

15. Limit your resume to two pages, and focus on the past positions that are most relevant and impressive with regards to the job you are applying for.

16. If you are interviewed by a younger manager, make a point of describing situations where you worked well with younger people, especially if they were younger leaders.

From Quintessential Careers:

17. Downsized? “If you’ve been downsized, look for work as soon as you can. The longer you’re out of work, the harder it will be to find a new position.”

18. Aim for companies that embrace older workers. SimplyHired 50+ and Jobs4.0 are two job search engines specializing in this domain (both are US-only, unfortunately).

19. If your children have already moved away, offer to put in hours that are difficult for younger people who have family obligations to manage.

20. Registering with a temp agency is a good way to update your skills or learn new ones, especially if you are someone who prefers ‘learning by doing’.

More from Quintessential Careers, on resumes:

21. List about 15 years’ worth of jobs on a resume, and only mention others if you have a compelling reason.

22. Consider a chrono-functional resume style to emphasize relevant skills.

23. Soften the job titles on your CV as necessary to avoid appearing overqualified.

24. Be sure to specify any recent professional training courses you attended in order to demonstrate your willingness and ability to stay up-to-date.

25. Looking for your first salary after a long time as a homemaker or volunteer? Learn to portray your skills as transferable to your next job.

Quintessential Careers on interviews:

26. “Realize that you will probably be interviewed by someone younger than you, and don’t be unnerved by that situation.”

27. “Be prepared for interview questions that are inappropriate, borderline illegal or downright unlawful.”

RetirementJobs.com on resumes:

28. “Check for arcane acronyms.” Avoid appearing outdated.

29. “If you have good computer skills, be sure they are highlighted to help overcome the perception that older people are less computer savvy.”

30. “If you are looking for career continuation… use a more traditional resume. If you are planning to change significantly… summarize your long work career in a single paragraph. Then focus… on skills you have developed and accomplishments… that are applicable to your new career focus.”

I’ll add…

31. Look in the mirror, or perhaps have someone do it with you.

32. Prevent yourself from feeling that you missed an opportunity solely because of your age. Most of the time it simply isn’t the case, so avoid clouding your understanding of what the issue really was and focus on any potential improvements for the next interview.

33. Follow job blogs like JobMob and the others listed above. Jobs4.0 in particular likes to hear about older workers’ new job experiences.

34. Do a startup. People tend to associate startups with young go-getters and will be more likely to remember a standout older person taking those risks. Leverage that recognition along with your experience and contacts as you move forward. Plus – with a longer credit history, banks are more likely to help you with financing than a student who only recently opened a first account.

35. Do a startup where your exit strategy is a job offer at another company. As you make progress with your new business, job opportunities will arise through your new network of contacts around the startup.

36. Do a startup of a third kind – take the initiative to form a local support group or job club if you can’t find one in your area.

37. Network, network, network. Many contacts accompany much experience over a long career, and you should use that broad reach to find the people that can help you most.

38. A career coach may be able to guide you towards your objective. Prices can be high, so first try being your own career coach instead.

39. Consider boomeranging- returning to work for a former employer. You may still know people on the inside who can vouch for you.

40. Don’t try to act young in your eyes, you will just look old in their eyes. Always be yourself- it has gotten you this far already.

This article is part of LifeTwo’s Carnival of Careers in Middle Age.

Find this post useful? Subscribe to JobMob via RSS or email and follow me on Twitter for more job search tips where there’s no such thing as being ‘over the hill’.

--Jacob Share

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How To Master Telephone Interviews

By Nathan Newberger

Don't be afraid to pick up the phone! The telephone interview is by far becoming more and more popular. Many job hunters still get that adrenalin rush even with the phone interviews. But following the tips and advice in this article will help you master the phone interview and get you to the next step - the face to face interview.

Often, the first step in the hiring process is the telephone interview.

Companies and the recruiters they employ use the telephone interview to develop a pool of candidates to look at closer, and to pare down the number of applicants for a job opening.

The advantages to the company are:


• the cost is less.

• the list of questions can be standardized.

• the interview can be delegated to a lower level (cheaper) employee.

• it can be done quickly.

The aims on both sides of the telephone are limited. The caller wants a selection of qualified candidates, and the process screens out many candidates. If the call is a straightforward screening call, the caller will likely ask about your experience, availability and salary requirements. Your strategy is to provide facts that support your resume, with some context about your performance. Try using numbers and facts to be effective, however, you don't want to volunteer anything that could disqualify you . Make every effort to sound professional but not personal, as this call is not to establish rapport.

Since you are unlikely to win the job from a telephone interview, your goal is to secure an in-person interview with the person who has the authority to hire. Approach the call with that attitude.

Managing the Telephone Interview

Try to reschedule surprise interviews. Say that you have a conflict and suggest a time you can call back. When you call back, be prepared for the call just as you would for a full-dress interview.

Have ready


• pen and paper, a calculator

• the job ad and the resume and cover letter which you sent in response to the ad.

• a list of your accomplishments which relate to the job you are discussing.

• research you have done on the company.

• a short list of questions about the job.

• your calendar.

The Techniques of a Pro


• Smile - it comes through in your voice.

• Speak directly into the phone.

• Don't smoke, chew gum, eat or drink anything. It all telegraphs to your listener.

• Stand up. Your voice sounds stronger.

• Avoid ah, er, hum. This habit is especially noticeable on the telephone. This takes
practice. So practice.

For a winning performance


• Confirm the caller's name and company. Get the caller's telephone number.

• Be aware that the caller can't see you - can't see your hand gestures, can't see you
taking notes.

• Pace the call. Let the caller do most of the talking, without interruptions.

• Do use the technique of repeating or re-phrasing questions. It tells the caller that you
listened carefully, and gives you time to think about your answer.

• Avoid the simple yes or no; add selling points at every opportunity.

• If you need time to think, say so - as in radio, silence during a telephone conversation is
dead air time.

• Compensation issues come at the end of the interviewing cycle, never at the telephone
stage. You can truthfully say you don't know enough about the job to state a salary figure.
And, of course, you would need a personal interview to really talk with the company.
Which is another way to go for the personal interview. Re-affirm your qualifications,
express your interest in the job and the company. Say you would appreciate the
opportunity to talk about the job further - in person.

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Dress For Success

By Nathan Newberger

Its true - You Are What You Wear! Especially when it comes to the job interview.

Believe it or not, you are examined from head to toe in all interviews. Not only is your experience and personality sized up...but also your appearance. The dress code for men and women differ substantially so this article is broken up into seperate sections for each gender.

Before you go on that job interview, make sure you read these dressing tips! Many people take for granted the appearance aspect of the job hunting process. The better you are dressed, the more confident you will feel and exude.

There's no impression like the first impression. Initial decisions made about you in the first three minutes of the job interview are nearly irreversible.

The purpose of your clothing is to project an image of professionalism. Consider:


• Your clothes should subtly add to your appearance. More importantly, clothing shouldn't
detract from your business persona.

• Much as you may want to stand out, wearing the business "uniform" communicates
instantly that you are a mature, stable professional and a member of the team.

• Even if the internal dress code is very casual, your interviewing attire should adhere to a
conservative standard.

• Dress up - the best you would ever dress when actually employed there.

Here's how to dress for the best possible outcome:


• Research the prospective employer - companies and even industries have definable
corporate cultures. Find out what the corporate uniform is - and wear it.

• Select an outfit you have worn before and are comfortable wearing.

• Try on the outfit a few days before - enough time to have drying-cleaning and repairs
completed.

• Check the ensemble for missing buttons, frayed cuffs and other needed repairs.

• Everything must be clean, neat and ironed.

• No bulging pockets or sagging coat lining.

• Hair and nails must be clean and groomed.

• Scent should be low-key or absent.

• The favorite color of most Americans is blue - it conveys trust, calm and confidence.
Blue is a very good interview color.

The Fine Points


• Shoes should be comfortable and polished. Shoes that are well cared-for signal "Good
attention to detail."

• Be parsimonious with scent - many people are allergic and too much perfume is an
instant interview killer.

• Jewelry - real jewelry, if you have it. No jewelry is better than fake. No rhinestones
cufflinks, no cloth watchbands, no novelty tie tacks.

• Clean and polish your briefcase or purse; organize the inside.

• A winter coat must be cleaned and pressed, particularly since a coat may be the main
item your interviewer first sees.

• Your umbrella should be in conservative colors (black, tan, navy, gray) and in working
order. Do not leave it to drip on the company carpet.

• Bring a pen and paper; check that the pen works and doesn't leak. Store them in the
inside jacket pocket, where you can easily find them.

• Allow time to dress with care and deal with emergencies. Examine the results, front and
back, in a mirror.

Men - Consider These Tips/Advice


• tailored suits in navy, gray, beige. (black is a funeral color, avoid it.)

• dark suit, light shirt

• natural fabrics - wool/wool blend for the suit, cotton for the shirt, silk for the tie

• business shoes and over -the-calf dark socks

• matching silk tie in low-key colors

Women - Consider These Tips/Advice


• simple, tailored suit

• tailored dress

• dress & jacket combination

• simple blouse

• natural fabrics - wool/wool blend, cotton and silk

• conservative colors - blue, gray, beige or black

• avoid loud or flashy styles and colors

• use makeup sparingly.

• low -heeled pumps, flesh colored stockings

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Watch out for ILLEGAL Interview questions!

by Nathan Newberger

This information can help you when you are interviewing for a position and also when you conduct interviews yourself.

I’ll quickly cover the following:

A) Why Employer Ask Illegal Interview Questions.
B) Examples of Illegal Interview Questions.
C) Tips on How To Respond to Illegal Interview Questions.

Job Interview Fact
U.S. law prohibits certain types of questions and you are by no means required or obligated to answer these questions. These questions are prohibited for a reason: to keep employers from unfairly trying to weed you out as a possible employee.

A) Why Employers Ask Illegal Interview Questions.
The interview is where you get your chance to sell yourself directly to the employer. During the interview the employer is obviously trying to learn more about you and how you may or may not fit in the company.

The main reason why an employer might purposely slip in some illegal questions is basically to try and get information to keep you from getting a job. Most illegal questions revolve around personal information and asking them is usually not related to the job and is often discriminatory in nature.

Another reason some employers ask illegal questions is because they just don’t know any better. Many interviewers are not trained at all and simply don’t know what is legal versus illegal. Please keep this in mind, it may just be a poorly trained, inexperienced or just curious interviewer and not meant to be harmful or discriminatory at all.

B) Examples of Illegal Interview Questions.

Illegal questions generally fall into 4 categories:

1. Disabilities & Physical Skills
2. Personal Background
3. Race, Creed, or Color
4. Family & Relationship Items

10 Sample Illegal Questions:

1. How tall are you?
2. Are you a US Citizen?
3. How old are you?
4. Are you really a man?
5. Are you Chinese or Japanese?
6. What religion are you?
7. Have you ever filed for bankruptcy?
8. Have you ever been arrested?
9. Are you married?
10. How many children do you have?

C) Tips On How To Respond To Illegal Interview Questions.
First and foremost, avoid reacting in a hostile fashion remember that you can always decide later to decline the job offer. Your goal during the interview is to try and get the job offer.

Response 1:
Go ahead and answer the question. If you don’t feel uncomfortable and you think your answer is in your favor, why worry? Go ahead and answer the question and make no mention that you think its improper or illegal. Just remember that you run the risk of harming your candidacy if you give an answer not favorable to what the interviewer has in mind.

Response 2:
Refuse to answer the question. You are within your rights but in a delicate and sensitive area with regards to the potential job offer. You can say politely that you don’t feel comfortable answering the question and ask to move on. You may even want to mention to the interviewer that the question is illegal and doesn’t pertain to the job. The key here is to be as tactful as possible. But keep in mind, you may come across as confrontational or not a "team player" in the eyes of the interviewer.

CONCLUSION
Generally speaking, its better not to confront or debate the interviewer about the legality of a question. But if you have any uncertainty about the questions, you should be alert to any pattern of discrimination especially if you notice several illegal questions. Try and remember the questions and speak the employer’s HR director and get answers to what may have happened.

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8 Telephone Interview Preparation Tips

by Nathan Newberger

TELEPHONE INTERVIEW BACKGROUND

Telephone interviews are quite common in today’s job market. They are offered for a variety of reasons including cost savings, screening of candidates and out-of-town applicants. To successfully navigate the phone interview, it is important to have a solid game plan in place for preparation.

The following 8 quick telephone interview tips will help prepare yourself for a successful call.

1. DO SOME RESEARCH
Try to find out who will be interviewing you. Will there be multiple people on the call? If possible get their names and titles. Become familiar with these before the call and you will have one less thing to worry about during the call. Try and get some background on the interviewer. Any insight you can gain about him/her will allow you to better tailor your responses to make the best possible impression.

2. ORGANIZE YOUR THOUGHTS
Make a list of your accomplishments, goals and strengths. On another list write out your weaknesses and what you are doing to overcome them. On a third sheet write down why you are interested in the company. Think carefully about all of these items as they often come up in interviews.

3. PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE
Never forget that a telephone interview is still an interview. Take time to practice interview questions with friends or family. Ask them to provide honest feedback so you can improve your responses. Mock interview questions can easily be found on the internet or the bookstore. If you get stuck on a question, sample answers to these questions are often provided as well.

4. DO A SOUND CHECK
During the mock interview, have your friend ask you questions both over the phone and in person. Make sure that he/she listens not only for content, but also tone, rate and clarity of your speech. If possible, record yourself speaking. Are you speaking slowly and clearly? Can you easily be heard? Is your voice portraying you as a confident and enthusiastic candidate? If not continue to practice until you are comfortable.

5. FIND YOUR LOCATION
Stake out a quiet space to occupy during your interview. Ideally, there should be a comfortable place to sit as well as a table to lay out your papers. Try and find a low-traffic spot where members of the household are un-likely to disturb you.

6. ORGANIZE YOUR PAPERS
Have a copy of your resume and cover letter close at hand. Take out those lists you made while organizing your thoughts. In addition keep any notes related to the company that you feel may be helpful during the call. Spread these items out across your table so they are easy to access. Only keep what is truly necessary. Too much paper can be a distraction.

7. GATHER YOUR WRITING TOOLS
Place a notepad and several pens or pencils on the table. These will be helpful in writing down notes, questions and most importantly, your interviewer's names.

8. ELIMINATE DISTRACTIONS
As the appointed hour draws near, make sure that the television and the radio are turned off. Exit your email and turn off your computer screen. If possible, disable your call-waiting. Let your family or roommates know about the timing of the interview so they do not accidentally disturb you. Place a do not disturb sign on your door as a gentle reminder.

CONCLUSION
By following these 8 basic tips, you are making a great impression and on your way to the onsite interview. Remember, the phone interview is very important and you should plan and prepare for it carefully.

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Avoid Potential Interview Disasters

by Nathan Newberger

There are definitely things that you can do to avoid minor mishaps which could ultimately blow an interview. Become familiar with these 7 potential interview disasters so you can prevent them from obstructing your path to that ideal job.

1. DON'T ARRIVE LATE
Showing up late is both rude and inconsiderate. Is this the first impression that you want to leave with a potential employer? Map out your route and try it out before the interview. Plan on being at least half an hour early to your appointment. This will provide a buffer to protect against wrong turns, traffic jams and all the other mishaps that may befall you. If you arrive early, you can use the time to calm your nerves.

2. DON'T SAY THE WRONG NAME
Many a nervous candidate has been known to accidentally call the interviewer the wrong name. In order to avoid this disconcerting faux pau, find out who you will be speaking to before the interview. Memorize the name(s). If this information is not available prior to the meeting, then write the person’s name on your notepad as soon as you sit down for the interview. If you do slip-up, do not make a huge fuss. Apologize quickly (and sincerely) and move on.

3. DON'T SAY THE WRONG THING
Choose your words carefully. Avoid impulsive answers; the first thing that pops into your head may not be the best response. Remember, it’s ok to pause if you need some time to think. Feel free to say "that’s a good question; let me take a moment to think about it." This demonstrates that you think before you speak. Is your everyday speech peppered with expletives or other potentially offensive phrases? If so, take care to avoid these during your meeting.

4. DON'T BECOME SPEECHLESS
Interviews are stressful situations for even the most qualified candidates. This tension can lead to candidates "freezing up" during the meeting. Alleviate some of the expected stress by practicing mock interview questions. Have a friend conduct simulated interviews. If possible, have him/her conduct the interview in a variety of manners including reserved, rushed, and disinterested. This way you will be better prepared for whatever the interview may bring.

5. MONITOR YOUR INTERNAL SYSTEM
Nature has a funny way of acting up at the wrong moments. Fortunately, you can help prevent these unwanted incidents. Avoid the awkwardness of a growling stomach by eating a few hours before the interview. Be careful in what you eat and drink in the 24 hours prior to the interview. Do not overindulge; an upset stomach or hangover is formidable distraction.

6. DON'T BE TOO MODEST
The interview is no place for humbleness. Too much modesty can make you appear introverted or lacking confidence. Don’t be afraid to be your own cheerleader. Prior to the interview, make a list of your accomplishments both personally and professionally; practice talking about them. Have a friend listen to your answers as you practice. This will help prevent you from crossing the line between justifiable pride and boasting.

7. DON'T LACK ENTHUSIASM
No one wants to work with a stick in the mud. With this in mind, how can you prevent from appearing lukewarm? Smile and maintain eye contact. Sit forward in your chair. Avoid speaking in a monotone. Be positive in your responses.

CONCLUSION
By preparing yourself against these potential interview disasters you are one step closer to getting the job of your dreams. Remember sometimes it really is the little things that make the difference.

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5 Skills You MUST Convey During The Interview

by Nathan Newberger

No, it's not time to throw your resume in the trash and start a "new age job search". But one thing that any job seeker must understand is that the showcase of talents does not begin and end with the resume. There are many "secret" abstract, often called "soft", skills that employers keep an eye out for.

This article discusses the five key "secret skills" that interviewers examine and how to demonstrate them in an interview situation.

These five skills are:

1. Organizational
2. Critical Thinking
3. Communication
4. Interpersonal
5. Multi-Tasking
1. ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS
Unless you are applying for a job as a mad scientist, organization is an essential skill for any job. Employers can get sense of how an individual will handle large workloads by how organized that person is during the interview. Moreover, a person that makes a sincere effort to stay organized is an employee that will take a job seriously and make a sincere effort to get things done.

The best way to display these skills:


• Dress professionally and neatly for an interview.

• Keep supplies or materials on hand if you think they might be pertinent to the interview.
This can go beyond pen, paper, resumes, and business cards depending on
the position you apply for.

• Organize your thoughts before the interview. Preparation for typical interview questions
will reflect a sense of general readiness.

2. CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS
Nobody wants a mindless drone for an employee. If they did, they would buy a robot. Employers want people that can think on their feet and respond. They are looking for people that won't come crying with every little setback. They are looking for problem solvers. Having critical thinking skills means that you can come through in the clutch.

The best way to display these skills:


• Prior to the interview, prepare of a list of anecdotes or previous jobs that required critical
thinking to solve a problem. When applicable, bring these examples up in the interview.

• Talk your way through the answers. Let the interviewer understand your train of thought
when responding to questions. This can also buy you a little extra time if you are
unsure of how to answer.

3. COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Glossophobia, or the fear of public speaking, is the number one fear in America, but making an impact requires these skills. Unless you can communicate ideas to others effectively, you may not come across as very confident. This is precisely why so many employers ask for individuals with good communication skills, often including public speaking.

The best way to display these skills:


• Practice speaking, or answering interview questions in a mirror. This will get you used
to speaking aloud and let you see the things you may be doing wrong.

• Practice interviews with another person, so you can learn to keep cool when reacting to
another person's comments.

• Stay calm and ALWAYS MAINTAIN EYE CONTACT. It's hard to disagree with a confident
person. Once you SEEM confident, you hold all the cards.

4. INTERPERSONAL SKILLS
Along with being able to communicate your own ideas well, you have to be receptive to other ideas and work constructively with them. Companies need versatile team players: people that will work hard on their own and increase the depth and effectiveness of a group effort.

The best way to display these skills:


• As in the case of critical thinking, it is a good idea to prepare a list of examples in which
you were part of a successful team effort. These items may not be on your resume, but
could come up in an interview.

• When possible, reflect back on cases where you coordinated a team effort. It is one
thing to work well in a group, but it is even better when you show that you can
also lead and take charge of a group.

• Don't be afraid to mention troubles within a team that you had to overcome. A group of
people will not agree on everything 100% of the time. Being able to work
through problems and succeed is paramount.

5. MULTI-TASKING SKILLS
Businesses are always happy to drive down costs, and the best way to do this is by hiring fewer individuals who can multi-task. It is often the case that one efficient employee can do the work of two typical employees. Employees are paid for the hours they work, and employers want to get the most out of what they pay. An employee that can complete multiple tasks at once is the solution.

The best way to display these skills:


• When discussing previous positions held, include situations where you worked on
multiple tasks at the same time.

• Prepare a list of projects that required you to separate tasks into clusters that could be
addressed simultaneously. Be ready to explain the thinking behind your separation
system.

• Show a willingness to take on many responsibilities. Any worker can pick up one or two,
but if you can pick up more without getting spread to thin, you become a valuable asset.

CONCLUSION
The resume will always be around and serve as your primary means of communicating skills with a prospective employer. But remember that you are more than just a list of skills on a piece of paper. The interview lets the employer see whats not easily determined from a resume and also your chance to shine. Mastering the art of showcasing your "secret skills" will let an interviewer know you are person they need to hire.

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Mastering The Meal Interview

by Nathan Newberger

nterviews can be nerve-racking, brain-draining, headache-inducing experiences. These days, recruiters have found a way to make the interview even more difficult by combining the experience with a meal. This means that in addition to listening to the interviewer, formulating intelligent responses, and trying your hardest to be confident, you now have pay attention to how you look while eating.

1. MIND YOUR MANNERS
It may seem unnecessary to mention, but those basic table manners you were taught as a child still matter. In casual settings, poor manners are not always corrected. Therefore, you could have picked up some habits that your mother would be ashamed of and more likely than not, your interviewer probably will not be too be impressed by them either.

Here are just a few of the habits you should be mindful of during a meal interview:


• BE POLITE. In addition to evaluating your answers to questions, an interviewer is also
assessing your personality. Be courteous and respectful to everyone,
especially the wait staff. Words such as "please" and "thank you" speak worlds about
your character.

• BE AWARE. Keeping you elbows on the table, chewing with your mouth open, talking
with your mouth full all convey a negative impression. Pay attention to even
your smallest actions.

• BE PREPARED. If you feel uncertain about your table manners, consult the experts.
Emily Post's books on etiquette are considered to be among the
definitive works on etiquette. There is no shame in doing research; after all, this is an
interview.

2. THE DISH DILEMMA
Even though you are being treated to a nice meal, you are not free to order any dish you like. You are in an interview, and therefore, you have the duty of maintaining a certain level of professionalism and formality throughout the meal.

There are no definitive rules of food selection, and you may have to make a game-time decision. However, following these rules will help you steer clear of trouble:


• AVOID MESSES. Steer clear of foods that have to be eaten with your hands or have a
tendency to splatter. It is hard to recover from the embarrassment of
splashing your interviewer with spaghetti sauce, nor do you want to inadvertently adorn
yourself with gravy or cream sauce. So stick to foods that can be cut into small pieces
with a knife and fork.

• NO STENCHES. Avoid foods that have a strong or unpleasant order. You are better off
having an interviewer not remember you at all rather than as the
candidate with bad breath. So no matter how much you love onions and garlic, lay off
the stinkers for one meal.

• KEEP IT QUIET. You need to be able to conduct a civil conversation. Avoid foods that are
crunchy and noisy to eat. In a public setting there is a lot of noise that
could drown out the voice of a person sitting across from you so try not to order food that
would add to the problem.

• FOLLOW THE LEADER. You may be wondering if a menu item is priced too high or if to
order an appetizer first, etc. The answer is to follow your interviewer's lead.
Try to order food in the same price range as the interviewer and order the same number
of courses. You do not want to be sitting idle while the recruiter is still eating.

3. CONSUME AND CONVERSE
You are at an interview and also dining out. This means you need to not only be talking, but also eating. It can sometimes be difficult to do both.

Try and keep these issues in mind when posed with the challenge of eating and talking at the same time:


• YOU ARE IN CONTROL. Don't feel so pressured to talk that you don't eat at all. This can
be interpreted as nervousness.

• ASK QUESTIONS. When going to an interview, it is always a good idea to have
questions. This will allow you get more information on the company and
show that you have done your homework. During the meal interview, it
will also give you the opportunity to actually eat as your interviewer responds to your
questions.

4. FINISHING WITH A BANG
Unlike that of a standard interview, the end of a meal interview does not just end with a handshake and a "Thank You". There are other things to keep in mind including:


• DON'T OFFER TO PAY. It's never expected of a job candidate, and you don't need to do
it.

• NEVER ASK FOR A DOGGY BAG. No matter how delicious the meal was, requesting to
take a portion of it home is not appropriate for the setting.

• REAFFIRM YOUR INTEREST. Let the interviewer know how much you would like to work
for his/her company.

• A "Thank You" AND HANDSHAKE CAN'T HURT. As in any interview, don't forget to thank
the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you. In addition, be sure to
be gracious and say that you enjoyed the meal and end the interview with a firm
handshake. Make sure to follow up with a thank you letter in the morning.

CONCLUSION
The meal interview is tricky, but not impossible. With a little guidance and a lot of confidence, you can sail through them with flying colors. Just try to keep these helpful hints in mind. Good luck and bon appetit!

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Why Am I Not Getting Interviews?

You could be the most qualified candidate in the world, but if your resume does not effectively market your qualifications, achievements, and abilities you will not get an interview and never get the job.

We have written extensively on networking to obtain information on unpublished jobs and to get your credentials in front of the right people (more on networking). It is equally as important to have a quality resume that will have hiring managers asking you for interviews.

Your resume is your first impression, and as they say, first impressions are everything. Many people do not truly understand the power of a quality resume. Many people have simply taken a general template from one of the 1000's of online sites that offer them, stuck their information in it, and then emailed it to general mailboxes posted alongside a job opening.

This will not work, or will take so long to work a person would probably give up before it does. In today's economy there has been a huge influx of applications to every job posting. Hiring managers and recruiters can only view a certain number of resumes and if yours is not one of them because it does not catch their attention you will not get an interview. To get your credentials in front of hiring managers you have to network (more on networking), but after you have connected with them you need a perfectly formatted resume.

It is imperative to be able to send a resume that reflects a professionals talents, abilities, and accomplishments as effectively as possible to provide every chance of acquiring an offer for employment. The job market is so tight that the last thing a person wants is to not obtain employment because they did not effectively communicate the aforementioned qualities.

For this reason it is imperative your resume be in the top 5% to 10% of marketability, structure, and form. The problem is that there are few people who are expert resume writers and it is not very palatable to be spending money to get a job. There are, however, many free and low cost services that will provide assistance in improving your resume.

Remember, to give yourself the best chance possible of acquiring an employment offer, you have got to first get yourself noticed by the right person and show them you are right for the job.

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Preparing The ‘Perfect’ Application Form

A job application may look like an innocent bit of paper, but don’t be fooled! It can be a ticket to a promising career…or food for an employer’s waste bin. Much depends on your attitude and creativity in filling out the perfect job application.

How creative can you be with names, dates, and addresses? Much of the information seems set in stone. But there are plenty of areas where you can slant the odds to your favour. The trick is to interpret, brainstorm, and customise. Show why you are a match for the job.

Before we get to the creative part, let’s look at the black and white. There may be fewer of these parts than you think. Of course, you must write your name, address, and phone numbers correctly. Be absolutely neat and clear. Give all requested information and leave no blanks. When finished, you will proofread the whole form to be sure it is neat and errorless. After all, you wouldn’t want to be eliminated for something silly–and make no mistake, employers are all too ready to weed you out just to reduce the pile of papers!

Now, for the creativity. You must show that you are eminently qualified for the job, and to do this, you must customise your answers to any question that allows it. Make sure you understand what is being asked. Just think about the employer’s real reason for wanting the information. Don’t get carried away with data that is strictly red tape (e.g., for purposes of identification, etc.). The areas in which you have the most creative freedom are open-ended requests, such as “Describe any skills that apply to the position” or “Summarise any related experience.” On these, you can really capitalise on your strengths. Some areas are partially open-ended. For instance, you may be required to fill out an education chart, including schools, courses, and dates, as well as a similar chart for previous jobs. Don’t think exclusively about formal degree programs here. Have you ever taken a workshop or class associated with a college or other school? If it was relevant to the job, there is no reason you shouldn’t list it. The job experience chart gives even more opportunity for customising. Think of the jobs that used skills most closely related to those required for this job. List those first unless the application specifically requests chronological order. Alternatively, list the most important jobs in order and add a note directing the reader to summary of in-between jobs. (Make sure it is neat and clear!) For both these and more open-ended questions that allow communication of your skills and experience, follow the steps below.

To Customise your Job Application
Though you should always be honest on forms as well as in interviews, there are ways to enhance your attractiveness to a prospective employer. In fact, often you will give a much truer and multi-dimensional picture of yourself by following these customisation steps. The problem is that we are so familiar with ourselves, we tend to downplay our skills and experiences! Attempt to see yourself from another perspective, in terms related to the requirements of this job.

1) Learn all you can about the job tasks. Read the job description and/or advertisement. Look up the company website if they have one. This can give you additional insight as to job expectations—ones that might not be explicit in the ad. If you need more information, don’t be afraid to call the company. Just be friendly and polite, and have clear questions when you call.

2) List all the necessary skills for this job. Include everything you have learned about it. Put requirements in order of importance.

3) Brainstorm: Get a big piece of paper. Using the list of skills, think of all the talents and abilities you have that match. Don’t censor yourself! Write everything you’ve done that uses that skill or related skill. Think of all jobs, paid or volunteer, and even personal activities that use these skills. If teaching is a preferred experience, think of times you have instructed someone, on any level. Granted, just showing your nephew how to tie his shoes probably won’t impress; for now, write it anyway—it may jog other memories.

4) Organise: Now group the skills and experiences to see what best applies to the job as a related skill. For example, if you have been an informational speaker in any formal or semi-formal situation, especially multiple times, this can apply as teaching experience. Let’s say you gave regular reports to your gardening group and showed members how to pot plants.

5) Write: Word your description in a way that highlights the important job skill. If the job requires experience teaching, mention that you have presented informational workshops and given hands-on instruction. If there is room, include evidence of favourable results or positive feedback. At first, write it out without worrying about length and grammar. When you have all the important information, cut it down to a clear and concise summary of your strengths in that area. Do this for each skill.

After completing these steps, try adding the information to a disposable copy of the application form. Make sure what you write in each section is proportional to the amount of space you have and is a directly relevant to the given question. If possible, forget it for a day. When you read it again, you should be in a better position to judge it impartially. Pretend you are the employer under the gun to find the best applicant for the job. Are there errors? Where could you improve it? Think about the kinds of questions it will raise for the employer. (You will need to anticipate these and be prepared with an answer, when you interview, that puts you ahead of the crowd.)

Proofread your application and write or, better, type the final information in the appropriate areas. Give it a final once-over and you are almost ready to fire it off to the appropriate person. If you are mailing it or e-mailing it, write a cordial letter introducing yourself and stating briefly what job you are applying for and, why you want it, and why you are qualified. Even if you must deliver it in person, it never hurts to write a cordial note of introduction. Make sure you have the right address, and spell the recipient’s name correctly!

When you have double checked both the application and the letter, send them off or deliver them in person. Now you will need to start preparing for the interview, which will surely follow the employer’s receipt of your perfect application!

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What to Do When You Lose Your Job

Regardless of who you are or what kind of work you do, losing your job is an incredible blow. The effects can be catastrophic, not only financially but also emotionally. When something so difficult and often unexpected takes place, sometimes it’s hard to know what to do. Here are some tips on what to do when you lose to job – both to keep your spirits up and to get back to work.

* Look for jobs: This is, of course, the most obvious thing you need to do when you lose your job. Your job search will probably occupy at least a few hours a day, and depending on the job you are looking for this can mean working on your CV and cover letter, or it can mean filling out applications. It can mean searching for jobs online at sites, looking in local classified ads, or driving around looking for “Help Wanted” signs.

* Network: “Network” is just fancy way to say meet people. Regardless of the type of job you are looking for, the more people you get to know, the more likely you are to meet someone who knows about a job opportunity that may be right for you. For you, networking may mean going to business conferences, making new contacts on social networking sites, or just attending social functions such as parties or church gatherings.

* Pick up new skills: The types of skills that will improve your chances of getting a job will vary depending on what kind of work you’re looking for. Maybe you could work on your typing skills or learn to use a new computer program such as Microsoft Excel or QuickBooks. Public libraries and community colleges often offer free or low cost classes in computer skills, and libraries usually have books detailing how to use different computer programs. Working on your Spanish or another language could also help you land your next job, especially if you are looking for a job in customer service or human resources. Consider using online tutorials or books and educational DVDs from your local library or bookstore to improve.
* Keep a regular schedule: If you got up at 6:30 every morning when you were working, keep getting up at 6:30. It may be hard to get out of bed when you have nowhere to go, but you’ll be more likely to be productive if you maintain your normal sleep patterns and schedule. After all, looking for a job is your new job, even if your new office is your kitchen table.
* Get out of the house: Let’s face it – losing your job can be terrifying, stressful, and depressing. Sitting around the house all day, even if you are searching for jobs while you do it, is bound to add to your feelings of anxiety and depression. Make sure you get out of the house for a while every day, even if it’s just to head down to the local Starbucks or library to cruise the net for jobs.
* Keep moving: Arguably the best natural way to improve your mood and keep your spirits high is to exercise. Whether it means going down to the gym, doing a workout video, or just taking your dog on a long walk, make sure to get some exercise everyday to boost your energy and keep you feeling good during your job search.

Feeling discouraged is natural for anyone who has lost a job; the important thing is to not let depression get in your way and keep you finding a new job. With these tips, along with patience, perseverance, and support from those you love, you are bound to get through this.

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Top Ten Mistakes When Writing a Cover Letter

When unemployment is high, competition for the few positions available gets fierce. This means your application has to be perfect to give you a chance at an interview. Any mistakes on your cover letter or application letter you send with your CV could cost you the job. Here are ten of the most common errors to avoid.

Spelling and Grammatical Errors
This is the biggest mistake anyone can make with a job application cover letter. Proofread your letter and ask a friend to do so as well. Take care over the letter.

A simple spelling mistake effectively says to the prospective employer, “I do not care about what I do, and I will be this sloppy or careless in work I will do for you too.” You certainly would not consider employing anyone who said this in an interview, so why should a prospective employer bother to interview you, if you cannot bother to double check what you wrote in your cover letter.

Starting Every Sentence with an “I”
While you want to market your skills and abilities to the prospective employer, starting every single sentence with “I can do…”, “I have done…” etc, is tedious to read and is not effective. You need to add interest to the letter by writing in a way that avoids repetition, and starting every sentence or paragraph the same way.

Try other sentence beginnings, such as, “In my role as xxx, I achieved …” or “My experience in xxx is extensive, or “With 20 years experience in xxx, I will provide your company with …”, or “This role is similar to my position at xxx.”

As well as not starting every sentence with “I” or the same style of beginning, avoid the use of “I” too many times in the letter.

Creative Desktop Publishing
This is a business letter, not a brochure. Avoid using desktop publishing programs such as Microsoft Publisher and adding clip art, effects, or fancy fonts. Choose an accepted generic font like Arial, Times New Roman, or Verdana. Keep sub-headings to a minimum and use a simple bold to accentuate the sub-headings, rather than italics or any other fancy font. The font size should be a visible 12 point.

Making the Letter Too Short
A cover letter is supposed to be a vehicle to explain to prospective employers why you should be employed and how you meet the selection criteria for the position. Simply stating, “Please find my attached CV in application for the position of Managing Director,” will not win you an interview for the job. Make sure you address the selection criteria mentioned in the job advertisement or position description. A cover letter should be one to two pages at the most, properly formatted. Writing concisely is good, but ensure you include enough detail to market yourself to a prospective employer.

The 500 Word Paragraph
Break up your paragraphs. A cover letter should not be one lengthy paragraph with a salutation at the top and a signature at the bottom. Try to address one or two selection criteria that go together in each paragraph. Each sentence should have between eight to 15 words, and each paragraph should contain two to three sentences.

Talking Nonsense or in Strange Language
No-one actually says, “Please find enclosed herewith my CV.” Although the job application is a formal document, use every day language. “My CV is attached for your information,” is fine.

Another common error is trying too hard to sound impressive, and ending up not making sense at all. Re-read your sentences and ensure you have not said something strange, or a sentence that cannot be understood by a normal business person. One teacher wrote the following in a real cover letter, “I am a conduit for mainstream educational formal connections and I work to build an individual’s creative forms.” Huh? Write in every day language to make your letter clear.

Making the Reader Squint
You know that a cover letter should never be more than two pages long, but you have so much to say that you reduce the font down to such a small size to make your letter fit. Instead of reducing the font, write your letter using concise language and use fewer words. A good cover letter should have a wide margin of two or three centimetres on both sides, and will use 12 point size font.

Using Handwriting
The only place handwriting should appear on the cover letter is your signature. Handwriting a cover letter shows a lack of interest in the position, especially in a technological era where computers are easily accessible. Borrow a computer if you have to but always type or word process your cover letter. It looks more professional. One of the worse mistakes people make is handwriting a couple of sentences on a post it note and sticking it on the resume as if it was a cover letter. Write a proper letter or don’t bother applying for the job.

Not Including All Required Details
Often job applicants forget to include all contact details on the cover letter, or assume that the resume will have these details. However, it is possible for prospective employers to separate cover letters from resumes. Therefore, you need to make sure all the details are included in the cover letter.

Cover letters should start with your contact details including your name, a full address (not a post office box as this makes it look as if you are a transient), email contact and telephone contact numbers. This should appear on the top right hand side of the page. Below this, with a line space in between, the receiver’s contact details including name, position, company name and address should appear on the left hand side of the page.

Leave a space line after the address and then insert the date, spelling out the month in full. Leave another space line before the salutation. You should include the details of the position you are applying for, in case the company is currently recruiting for several jobs. Include a handwritten signature at the bottom of the cover letter.

Justifying Right and Bad Formatting
Justifying text right means that big gaps appear in the cover letter and this makes the letter harder to read. Keep a professional appearance to the cover letter with plenty of ‘white space’. Every paragraph should be separated by a line of white space, as this makes the letter easier to read. You do not want a prospective employer deciding not to interview you, simply because your letter was too hard to read due to bad formatting. Make sure the letter looks professional.

Avoiding these ten common mistakes will help you to write a better cover letter. Proofread and double check what you are sending, before you sign the bottom of the page. Your cover letter is an important facet of the job application process and you need to spend some time and care on writing the cover letter properly.

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