next »

[MaryG]

I'm always interested in knowing what has been helpful to people as they look at jobs and applying for them. What's the best advice you received? The best thing I heard was just a passing comment in which somebody said "There's nothing wrong with applying for a job you don't think you're qualified for. If you're confident in your skills you can convince them too." It gave me a new perspective on "selling" my skills.

[stanford]

The best job advice I have gotten was alway look professional no matter what type of job you are applying for.  A professional look, includes wearing a dark suit to the interview, present yourself as friendly and polite.  You should also make sure your resume is up to date and always send the a thank you letter to the person who interviewed you.  A professional look and behavior will let them know you are a serious and mature candidate for the job.

[lava]

When someone asks me for job advice I always tell them to network with other people.  This is the best way to find upcoming work before others.  In fact, my brother got his job from networking with someone in his church.  At the time, he was new in town and started talking with someone about his work qualifications and the type of job he was looking for.  Word got around the members of the church that he was looking for work and someone referred him to a place that was hiring.  He was lucky to find the job and he is still working there today.  So remember to always network with everyone.  Chances are you're going to need their help in the future.

[Richard - Premier Recruitment]

Yes I agree with the above and always research into the company before attending an interview, so many candidates make the mistake of not knowing the job or company when they attend and it does them no favours.

[Danniet]

The best advice I was ever given was to be confident. Go in with a strong confidence in your abilities and that shines through. I have found that this is very valueable information. You could be completely underqualified for a position but if you show the confidence you have in yourself to do the job the employer will see this as a golden attribute.

[freeform]

Fill their need - even if it's not in the job description.

If I were applying for a job with a startup for example, I'd be selling not only my ability to do the job in question but also my willingness to be proactive in helping them win new business - something they need that's probably not in the job description.

If it was a restaurant I'd be talking about how I'd help turn passing trade into regular customers through my excellent customer service skills.

[attagirl]

I would have to say that there have been a few things that I have kept with me. One is one that you mentioned about applying for a position that you are not qualified for. You never know you skills may outweigh what skills you are missing.

Also there never be afraid to ask someone how they went about applying for a specific job you are interested in.