What You Wish You’d Known Before Your Job Interview – INFOGRAPHIC

Find a Job by Sharpening Your Soft Skills

Many qualified workers find themselves competing for a small number of jobs as the economy continues its slow recovery. In the wake of the recession, how will you stand out amongst the crowd of people applying for your job of choice?

Demonstrating your soft skills – your positive attitude, flexibility and ability to interact with other people – can help give you an edge when looking for a job. Potential employers want to see that you not only have the skills and knowledge to perform the technical requirements of the position, but also that you will be an energetic and motivated team player.

Soft Skills that Lead to Job Success

Ready to give yourself an edge in the employment hunt? Employers are looking for individuals who can demonstrate the following skills:

• Teamwork and collaboration skills: While your job is unique to you, don’t forget that you’re also part of a larger team. Close relationships with coworkers can improve productivity and morale. Make sure that the workload is being shared and avoid unnecessary conflict whenever possible.

 

• Enthusiasm: Showing excitement about your job shouldn’t end once you’ve aced the interviewed and landed the position. Demonstrate initiative and show your passion for your job by pursuing new and challenging work. Perform tasks before being asked and volunteer to take on additional responsibilities when possible.

 

• Oral and written communication skills: Ideal employees know how and when to share their ideas and concerns with their supervisor. Instead of complaining about a stressful situation, explain what is happening and offer suggestions on how you could do your job more efficiently. And don’t forget to listen – employers report entry-level candidates often struggle with listening carefully. Ask questions and take notes to ensure you understand what is being said.

 

• Professionalism: When you went on your interview, you made sure that you dressed to impress and were on your best behavior. Carry that attitude into your work life by wearing the appropriate attire for your work setting, arriving on time, turning off your cell phone and speaking in a respectful manner with everyone with whom you interact.

Learn more about improving your soft skills by checking out AOL’s “Top 10 Soft Skills for Job Seekers” and the DOL’s report, “Soft Skills: The Competitive Edge.”

 

By Jenni Baker
GII Sr. Communications Specialist

There Is No Such Thing As Being Overdressed For An Interview!

It is imperative that one dress appropriately for a job interview.   First impressions can last a lifetime so making the right one can make all the difference in how a future employer perceives your  attitude and work ethic.  If one takes the time to properly groom and dress, then it should be inferred that their time spent on the job will also be spent diligently.

What to wear for men:

-Suit (solid color – navy or dark gray)

-Long sleeve shirt (white or coordinated with the suit)

-Belt

-Tie without bold designs or loud colors

-Dark socks

-Conservative leather shoes

-Little or no jewelry

-Neat, professional hairstyle

-Limited aftershave

-Neatly trimmed nails

-Fresh Breath

-Portfolio or briefcase

What to wear for women:

-Suit (navy, black or dark grey) – The suit skirt should be long enough so you can sit down comfortably

-Coordinated blouse

-Conservative shoes

-Limited jewelry (no dangling earrings or arms full of bracelets) – No jewelry is better than cheap jewelry

-Professional hairstyle

-Neutral pantyhose

-Light make-up and perfume

-Neatly manicured clean nails

-Fresh Breath

-Portfolio or briefcase

Things to avoid During an Interview

(you would be amazed at how often interviewees arrive for an interview with the following items):

Revealing Clothing, Too Much Jewelry,  Flip Flops or Sneakers, Visible Underwear, baggy clothes, Poor Footwear, Hats, anything Denim, Stained Clothing, Excessive Jewelry (no nose, tongue, or eyebrow rings), Baggy Pants w/out a belt to hold in place at WAISTLINE, Midriff, Mesh, Halter, Tank Tops, or Spaghetti Straps, Remnants of a Late Night Out, Graphic T-Shirts and cover large or offensive tattoos.  Do not bring in portable electronics (ipods), turn your cell phone off, do not chew gum or suck on a mint, do not carry large bags or backpacks into the interview.

Dressing for success is crucial to landing a job.  Even if the job you are interviewing for requires a uniform or casual clothing, be sure to dress your best and follow the above guidelines.  There is no such thing as being overdressed for a job interview!

Fredrina Pinkney

Employment Retention Specialist