by D. P. Noe

Created on: October 02, 2009

You have been sending resume after resume and no one is calling you. Your first step to the interview is your resume and often the resume may be part of your problem. Sending out the same resume to every job opportunity and not specifying your resume to the job you are applying can put you on a dead end street.

If you are trying to get the job you want, there are things you can do to increase your chances. Often there are many applicants for the same job and the competition for a certain job can be put you right in the middle. The first step in getting a job is getting your foot in the door and getting an interview. What can you do to compete with all the resumes an organization gets for a specific job? Getting your resume selected for the job interview should be your first goal.

Your resume should be carefully put together to highlight all the areas that make you the right candidate for the job you are applying for. Focus your resume to meet the qualifications of the job your are applying for. If you are using the same resume for all the jobs you are applying for, this may the reason no one is calling you. Your resume should be concise and influence the organization that they need to call you for that interview. Long resumes and resumes put together in a rush that do not show why you are qualified for a specific job will never get you in the door.

Once you have received the call for an interview remain professional on the phone and thank them for considering you for the position. At the interview you need to look good and present yourself well. Dress is an important first impression, make sure you are dressed appropriately. Spending money on an outfit may help to get the job. If you are short on funds, borrow an outfit from a friend or visit a local resale shop. Introduce yourself, shake hands and always maintain eye contact. Remember that you are the one that has to make a good first impression.

The actual interview is your time to shine. Plan and practice in front of a mirror how you will answer questions. There are questions you can anticipate based on the job you are applying for.Keep you answers focused to the question and do not throw in things not pertaining to the position. When it comes to your turn to ask questions the wrong reply is that you do not have any. This may cause concern to the person interviewing you that you do nit have very much enthusiasm for the job you are applying for. Bring a list of questions to ask and always keep them professional.

It may pay off to have a portfolio that you can leave with the interviewer. A portfolio shows that you have taken the time to show and highlight your strengths. In the portfolio any letters of recommendation from previous employers will help to validate your qualifications. During this entire process keep eye contact and do not drift away because it may cause a potential employer to view you as disinterested. Potential employees want the best person for the job and it is up to you to show to them you are the right person.

At the end of the interview shake hands and thank the interviewer for taking the time for the interview. This is also another opportunity to show enthusiasm and that they really need to hire you. Every ounce of professionalism mixed with some enthusiasm will help the interviewer to remember you. Showing an extra spark, presenting your qualifications and focusing on successes in the past that highlight your strengths is your stepping stone to getting that job.

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