by Cynthia J. Carvajal

Created on: November 13, 2009

I don't have a list of the most important job interview tips, but as far as I'm concerned everything is important when you don't have a job. Having the opportunity to work with a few employers as part of my current employment I don't profess to be an expert, but I can sure tell you by experience what the employers out there are looking at and what they don't like to see. Can you imagine a whole parking lot of people applying for jobs and not one is fully prepared for an interview, let alone a job? Don't go to a job interview or even a job fair dressed as if you're going out for the evening or worse yet, as if you're going to bed for the evening! Spaghetti straps and glitter are a no no for the job scene. Along with tatoos and piercings. Not if you're really serious. And don't go to a job fair dressed as if you just woke up in your pajama bottoms and flip flops. If you're really serious you'll be clean, neat and be wearing a nicely ironed outfit that 'fits' you perfectly. No large dangly earrings or jewelry that will take attention away from what you are saying to someone. Your hair should be clean and neatly pulled away from your face, and guys.. you too. Do your homework. Make sure you've called and asked all about the company you are about to apply for a job with. Everyone loves to hear you've gone the extra mile to find out what they are all about.

Now remember, the interview begins before you even pull into the parking lot. And once you do pull up, beware.. there are windows where people are watching you, and it just might be that prospective employer gazing out his window at you that you're about to meet. So if you're getting a ride, no fussing with your spouse as that could be quite amusing to watch. Once you're actually inside the building, remember to be pleasant and courteous to all you meet. Most bosses depend upon their staff to help them decide if a candidate meets the 'criteria' of a team player. They might ask their receptionist how you acted when told to wait. Some even give specific instructions to their staff, just to see how you react. SMILE. Even if you don't feel like it. Smiling will help relax you and makes others around you feel relaxed also.

What you want to be sure to get across to your potential new boss is how DEPENDABLE you are. There are many, many skilled candidates out there applying for jobs. But the most important skill I believe employees do not think about is dependability. That is the one skill that ALL employers need, and not enough people have. I hear that time and time again, "Just get me someone dependable, who wants to work!" It's one thing to say you want a job. But once gotten, how many are able to keep that job when those personal problems everyone has comes up? So that's my little bit of wisdom. Hopefully you have what it takes to become successful in whatever your chosen field. Just don't give up. BELIEVE IN YOURSELF and you will succeed!

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