Get a Job
Job Interview Tips
So you wrote a sparkling resume and you have an interview set up with your prospective employer. Now here's your chance to land the job. Use the following techniques to really sell your skills and market yourself as a desirable employee:
First impressions are crucial.
The most qualified people don't always get the job, but the candidate who makes the right first impression does. People size you up within the first ten seconds of meeting you, therefore it is important that you give off the right vibes. While first impressions are somewhat out of your control, as they are based on innate gut reactions, there are things you can do to improve the situation. You should be well-groomed and professional looking, maintain eye contact, and give a good firm handshake.
Dress for the job you want.
In interview situations it is always better to overdress than under-dress. Look conservative and put together. Avoid bright colors, bold patterns and keep jewelry to a minimum (a pair of small studs and/or a watch or bracelet is more than enough). As far as hygiene goes, shower and dress as close to your interview as possible. Carry paperwork or resumes you have in a neat portfolio or briefcase.
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Keep nail polish colors conservative and your nails short. That means you might have to give up those inch-long acrylics for a week or two. Clear polish, a French manicure or going au naturel is best.
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Style your hair in a tasteful conservative manner. Getting a professional blow-out is recommended. Long hair should be pulled back into a simple bun or chignon.
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Now is not the time to break out your killer three-inch peep-toe stiletto pumps. Keep your heels low (no more than an inch) and close-toed.
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Makeup should be applied with a light hand. Keep your colors mute and conservative. If you wear foundation, either take the time to find a formula that matches your skin flawlessly or forgo it.
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Wear hosiery that matches your skin tone. And please, no runs!
Interviewing Do's and Dont's
- Be on time! Being five to ten minutes early is desirable. Arriving any earlier than that may inconvenience the interviewer who may have to interrupt another task or interview to find some place to put you.
- Listen to each question carefully and answer it correctly. Don't stray off subject.
- Don't put down your last employer and workplace.
- Don't talk too much, but don't talk too little.
- Be prepared. Research the company you are interviewing with.
Special Employment Opportunities
The following companies offer special programs to military spouses and servicemembers who are returning to the civilian work force:
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Operation Career Front
The Home Depot provides career opportunities for veterans, servicemembers separating from active duty, reserve component members and military spouses in Home Depot stores and distribution centers. The program has employed more than 33,000 former military personnel and spouses since its conception in 2004. More information and applications can be found the Home Depot Careers page.
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Operation RE/MAX
Real estate is an attractive career choice for military spouses and family members. It's flexible, entrepreneurial and the nomadic lifestyle of the military community provides a litany of potential home buyers. RE/MAX offers real estate training and mentorship to licensed real estate agents with a military connection RE/MAX can also help put you in contact with agencies that will help fund your real estate education and licensing.
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Welcome Home G.I.
The Welcome Home G.I. Program offers free web-based training for bilingual (English and Spanish) servicemembers, veterans and their family members who desire to become mortgage brokers. After completing training, applicants will be placed with one of the following financial institutions: BB&T Mortgage, CitiMortgage, Freddie Mac, GMAC Mortgage, or US Bank.
Fill out an application in order to register for the program.
