HOW TO STAND OUT IN A CROWD
September 5th, 2006
If handled properly, being different can set you apart from your competition, and will become the reason you are chosen for a job over your competition.
If handled incorrectly, being too different, can be the very reason you do not get the job!
There is a fine line when discussing what is appropriate when trying to set yourself apart from your competition. Hopefully the following examples will give you some valuable tips on standing out in a positive way.
APPROPRIATE: Put your resume on a good stock or linen paper - light beige, grey or off-white
INAPPROPRIATE: Put your resume on bright yellow, red, blue or purple paper
APPROPRIATE: During an interview compliment a picture of the interviewer’s family
INAPPROPRIATE: Mention your children (unless they ask)
APPROPRIATE: Wear something “in style” as long as it is conservative
INAPPROPRIATE: Wear something “trendy” or provocative
APPROPRIATE: Research the Corporation/Firm you are interviewing with and mention what you learned (make sure the information is positive.)
INAPPROPRIATE: Go in unprepared and try to “wing-it” (ignorance won’t “fly”)
APPROPRIATE: Bring to your interview a recent article that relates to the Company and /or that field.
INAPPROPRIATE: Bring nothing! (You won’t make much of an impression)
APPROPRIATE: Bring in a list of well thought out questions to your interview. Make the questions intelligent and use them as an additional way to “sell yourself.”
INAPPROPRIATE: Ask questions about YOU (vacation requests, holidays off, when is your first raise, etc.)
APPROPRIATE: Bring in a “Brag Book” of your RELATED accomplishments!
INAPPROPRIATE: Bring in nothing – or your Cub Scouts trophy from 3rd grade.
APPROPRIATE: Send your interviewer a hand written thank you note – highlighting some of the reasons why you would be a great fit for their opening (give examples)
INAPPROPRIATE: Send nothing! OR send an e-mail everyday for 1 week, send a thank you note and then leave 3 thank you voice mail messages. (DO NOT BE A STALKER!)
You may laugh at some of these examples but I have actually seen ALL OF THEM in my 12 years of Recruiting! Making a good impression is everything in a job search! The first impression is a lasting one! Make yourself “STAND OUT IN THE CROWD,” BUT….PLEASE do it APPROPRIATELY!! Good Luck!!
Nancy J. Phillips, CPC