Applying for your first real job can be daunting... From the résumé to the interview, people wonder where they went wrong.
After sitting in on a panel discussion with high-level executives, I made a list of their tips.
Tip #1 - Track Record of Success
Make your résumé stand out from the others by showing what you've accomplished. It's not enough that you've worked at your job for two years. The important thing to companies is what you did in those two years. Feature your accomplishments and make your résumé results driven. If you can, put a monetary value to your results.
ex. Doubled the conversion ratio on five of our main webpages, having an annual estimated increase of $78,000.
Tip #2 - Ability to Learn
Don't worry... David Hunt, head of marketing at Illusive Networks said, "We all have times when we failed, when we didn’t know what we were doing, and when we wanted to quit." It's not so much about always being successful, but rather learning from your mistakes and becoming better.
What?! You don't have years of experience in your field yet? Here's a news flash, nobody else does either. We all need to start somewhere, so if you don't have much to show for experience, focus on what you HAVE done. Focus on the skills that you do have and your ability to learn and be flexible in almost any situation.
Tip #3 - Ability to Influence Others
The companies you are interviewing with are in it for the long haul. They want to know how you are going to benefit them as a future leader. How do you approach situations? How about group projects? The most successful businessmen are motivated and driven to lead a group. These people take initiative and execute on projects, often utilizing the skill of all members of the group. They influence others with their motivation.
Tip #4 - Clear and Concise Communication
Communication was among the most important attributes for many of our executives. They expressed frustration at long answers. When they interview, they prefer clear and concise answers. If they need more explanation, they'll ask for it. CEOs have a tight schedule, and they don't need a novel to figure out your answer to the question.
Tip #5 - Questions About the Company
At the end of most interviews, you'll have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about company or the interviewer. Many candidates, blow this off, and don't ask any questions. Executives from our discussion expressed that these questions may be one of your biggest opportunities to get the job. Scott Overson really emphasized the importance of your answer by explaining how your question shows your preparation. He stated, "Before you interview, do your research about the company. Find whatever you can about the company and embed it in one or two questions to show that you're prepared."
Suggested Articles:
- 13 Habits of Hyper-productive People
- 5 Things Your Boss Won't Tell You
- What I Wish I Had Known Before Starting My Business
The panel discussion was held on Friday, September 11, 2015. Executives interviewed include: Scott Overson, Scott Pulsipher, David Hunt, Jordan Archibald, and Whitney Seamons.
