A Few Dos and Don'ts to Get That Interview

Whether you're sending out resume after resume to no avail or just breaking into the career search, there are steps you can take to increase your chances of landing a job interview. An employer often receives a stack of resumes for the same position, so it's important for you to put in some extra effort to stand out among the other candidates. Consider these tips to get that interview.

1. Do: Pay Attention to Your Online Presence

Potential employers often scope out candidates before scheduling a job interview, so make sure your social media profiles are presentable. Explicit language and inappropriate photos are likely to turn off any hiring manager, so be wary of what you post and share.

2. Don't: Call If the Job Posting Says Not To

If a job posting specifically states to not call or email, respect the company's wishes. Going against the company's preferences shows that you don't follow instructions and is likely to cost you the job interview.

3. Do: Use Social Media to Your Advantage

Use social media as a way to create a professional portfolio. Utilize LinkedIn to network with other professionals in your industry, and use Facebook or Twitter to share interesting articles about your career field.

4. Don't: Provide a Fluffy Resume

Make sure your resume contains work experience, education and qualifications that are relevant to the position for which you're applying. Avoid too much fluff in your resume; if a hiring manager has to wade through a lot of unnecessary information, your chances of landing a job interview are low.

5. Do: Proofread Your Resume

A subpar resume can hold you back from getting a job interview. Look over your resume, and correct all spelling and grammar errors. Mistakes on your resume or cover letter show a lack of attention to detail.

6. Don't: Nag the Hiring Manager

It's acceptable to call the hiring manager and follow up after sending your resume. This ensures that your application packet was received and shows your interest in the position. After you receive a response or acknowledgement, don't continue to bother the potential employer with emails or phone calls.

7. Do: Know When to Give Up

If you don't get a call for a job interview and your follow-up phone calls go unanswered, realize that it's time to cut your losses. Don't spend any more time on emails or phone calls to the hiring manager; move on to a new job prospect.

8. Don't: Get Frustrated If You Don't Get a Response

Don't get frustrated or angry when you don't get a job interview; review the scenario, and decide what you can learn from it. Take the time to spruce up your resume for next time.

Hiring managers often have a difficult time narrowing down the candidate pool when there are many submissions for the same position. Be sure you get that interview by following these tips and separating yourself from the other candidates. However, if your job interview doesn't result in employment despite your best efforts, just move on and try to learn from your experience.

Photo courtesy of renjith krishnan at FreeDigitalPhotos.net