Whenever you meet a potential employer – at a job fair, at an interview, or at a networking event — you need to be ready. Ready to impress. Ready to charm. And ready to land a job. Here are three more tips that will help you stay top of mind even in a sea of competition.
Be Human
While it’s important to be professional, search for a common interest between you and your contact. Is it a sports team? A hobby? A hometown? You’ll be much more memorable if your conversation includes more than just business talk. Potential new hires are also potential new friends. Coworkers spend a lot of time together so make a good impression professionally and personally.
Have a Question
One good question shows that you’ve researched the company, that you understand the business, and that you’re seriously interested in this company or this position. It keeps the conversation balanced and might even spark a few other talking points for both of you.
Express Interest
No one will know how interested you are unless you say it. If you would love to land an interview, say it. If you’d love to learn more about future opportunities, tell them. Once you’ve introduced yourself, sold yourself, and impressed them with your confidence and knowledge, it’s time to seal the deal and tell them you want to be a part of their team. Don’t leave any potential career situation without a business card and a firm handshake.
Image by Pickersgill Reef.
February 14, 2013
Career Advice