Hello, Pardon the rant...but this is the OffTopic Section.
How many of you out there are looking for a job? Hitting dead ends? Not getting call backs? Well I have a few very simple pieces of advice that seem to be outside the realm of "common sense" when it comes to selling yourself as an attractive candidate for hire.
I've worked in various retail positions throughout my work history and I'm always surprised that some folks either don't know, don't consider, or completely disregard a few of these:
1. Show up to inquire about a job, pick up an application, or go to an interview in your best clothes.
I've seen too many people come in to pick up an application in flip flops, shorts, old dirty sweaters, etc. This is your first impression, folks! You don't get to make a second first impression. So even if you're just heading out to pound the pavement and grab a few apps, put on your Sunday best, at least. No one likes to be judged, but your employer will judge you anyway.
2. Do not ask to borrow my pen to fill out your application. Or use my counter.
The first rule about getting a job is to show you have your life together, even if you don't. And part of having your life together is having the right tools for the job. A pen is the most important tool when you're out looking for a job. As far as where you should fill out the application: Somewhere else. Go around the corner to the coffee shop (but make sure you don't ask for an application while you're there!).
3. Please, Please, don't call me "bro."
Odds are the person you are talking to is the manager (or it should be). For all intents and purposes, this person deserves your respect. He or she, is afterall, the one that holds the keys to your employment. Show some respect, even if you don't feel they deserve it for whatever reason you've decided upon meeting them. This includes making good eye contact, presenting a firm handshake, and speaking in a professional business manner. There's no such thing as being too formal at one of these meetings. If your demeanor is too stiff or rigid, the person taking your application will let you know, and it won't be a bad thing.
4. Don't shop, lollygag, or hang out.
That's cool that you like the stuff I'm selling, but don't you have someplace to be? Like filling out that application or getting another? Certainly you have an interview scheduled somewhere.
Again, my apologies for the ranting nature of this post, but it comes with the best of intentions. Sometimes you don't realize the mistakes you commonly make unless someone points them out. These are just a few I witness on a regular basis. Thoughts? Care to add your own?
