Are you prepared for the hiring process? Be smart.
#1: Social Media & Email
Do you know how many times I have had to tell people to change their email to something not obscene or to take down the drunk photos off of Facebook. Keep your email and social media professional and clean! It is not that hard. It baffles me every time I see it. An employer is more likely to hire someone whose email is their name over someone whose email is “hotmama05.”
Basic fact: ALL employers are googling who they are interviewing. Such basic rules, but people do it all the time! Don’t smack talk other people - especially past employers - don’t be inappropriate in any way, including nothing illegal.
Your profile photo should be the real you but keep it… not professional necessarily… but, you know, friendly.
Post content that is creative, compelling, highlights your variety of interests, demonstrates good communication, and calls attention to positive things in your life.
#2: References
You would again be baffled at the number of references I have called over the year where they throw the candidate under the bus. Haha – makes me shake my head because I wonder why wouldn’t people, while asking a reference if they can use them, ask them what they will say? Just because they are willing to be a reference, that does not necessarily mean that they will be a good one.
We find that this is a common mistake many job seekers make. Do not assume feedback will be good, ask, or you may end up throwing yourself under the bus!
#3: Multiple Interviews
Be prepared to interview more than once! Employers are wanting to reduce as much risk in hiring you as possible. They want to get to know you, see if you are consistent in each meeting and get to know the human that you are as opposed to just your skill sets.
This works well for you, too, because you need to screen them to decide if the work environment and culture suits you. Be yourself, be genuine and be honest in your interviews. Don’t be afraid to laugh and try to relax!
#4: Skills Assessments
Employers will sometimes require skills assessments to be completed during the interview process. These will vary from company to company.
Generally, these assessments are designed to gauge your ability to complete the responsibilities outlined in the job description. They also show which candidates are willing to complete additional steps and at what speed. Do you complete the requested assessments right away or do you wait for them to remind you a couple of time? Again, shocking how we, as recruiters, have to give multiple reminders! Do you want the job or not!?! Sheesh.
#5: Background Checks
You may be asked to undergo a background check, such as a criminal record or credit check. Some jobs will require a passed drug test prior to hiring.
Be aware and prepared to be asked for a background check. It may cause pause for the employer if you seem hesitant. If you have something to disclose, be upfront and be honest. There’s no point in hiding anything.
Job searching is stressful – the more prepared you are, the more confident you will seem, and the more you can focus on your interviews. Good luck! Be genuine!
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