New Year, New Job. 10 Quick Tips to Help You Win.

Does your New Year’s resolution include scoring a new job? If so, it may be time for a resume overhaul and a quick update of your interviewing skills. This is especially important if it’s been a while since you’ve been in the job market. Since you’re eager to play the game, we’ve put together some tips to help you prepare and win. Here’s our advice:

1. Become familiar with the organization you are interviewing with and the job description for which you are applying.
2. Avoid salary and benefits questions at the first meeting, unless the interviewer mentions it.
3. Prepare a list of questions about the position and the organization.
4. Research online the most commonly asked interview questions and know your responses.
5. Be prepared to discuss your most recent position and the highlights of the job.
6. Be sure you know how to get to the interview location so that you can be early (about 10 minutes will do).
7. Bring extra copies of your resume.
8. Your interview starts the minute that you walk through the door, so be sure to be professional and courteous to everyone (especially the receptionist).
9. Body language is powerful. Use eye contact.
10. Smile and be yourself.

If you’re thinking of reworking your resume, be sure to keep it to two pages or less (unless you’re applying for an executive-level position). Emphasize your best moments by listing your accomplishments for each past role in lieu of copying and pasting job descriptions. This will also help guide you through positive conversations about your experience during your interviews. Employers will focus most closely on the last five years and your most recent position when asking questions in your interview. Be sure to have examples ready to share with them about your “Rockstar Moments” of positions past.

You also may want to consider customizing your resume slightly to cater to each job you apply to. The strengths you possess that match up with the skills required for each job should be highlighted on the resume you submit to strengthen your chance of getting noticed by future employers.

Now, put your best foot forward, print out a few fresh copies of your resume and get out there!

Also, if you’re looking for a place to interview in Bradenton, Florida (and a government job), Manatee County Government is looking for qualified candidates to fill a multitude of positions! To see a list of the most current available jobs and to apply, visit: www.mymanatee.org/jobs