Job Hunting? Here’s How to Ace That Interview!

It's natural to feel nervous about a job interview! After all, you want to appear modest but confident, eager but not desperate, and you certainly want to stand apart from the other candidates. Here are a few tips that will help you to master these key traits and ace that upcoming interview.

  1. Do meaningful research. Instead of simply researching the company’s earnings and the name of its founder, dive a little deeper. Read the company blog or even check out articles about the company in different media or magazines.
  2. Interview earlier in the week. If you get to schedule your own interview, aim for earlier in the week. That way, your interviewer will feel fresh and open to new candidates (although you might want to avoid the dreaded Monday morning).
  3. Be firm about your salary. While you may feel like you’ll make yourself seem greedy if you ask for more money, a bit of polite negotiation proves that you know your worth.
  4. Ask your own questions. Most interviews end with the interviewer asking the interviewee if he or she has any questions, which is a great opportunity for you to really shine. Ask well thought-out questions about the work atmosphere, goals for the company, or even what a day at the office usually entails.

12 Surprising Job Interview Tips [Forbes]
Interview Tips [Career Center]
6 Interview Tips and Tricks for 2014 [Business News Daily]

Job Hunting? Check Out These Cover Letter Writing Tips!

A cover letter isn’t always required when applying for a job, but it might just be the thing that sets you apart from equally qualified candidates. Here are a few smart ways to make yourself sound capable and well rounded in your cover letter.

  1. Think of a cover letter as its own entity. A cover letter is separate from your resume, so avoid repeating the same points that you’ve already made in your resume. Instead, focus on showcasing your unique voice, expressing your interest in the field, and highlighting your talents.
  2. Be succinct. A cover letter should be no longer than three paragraphs long and should take up approximately half of a page. Anything longer than that puts you at risk of losing the reader’s interest.
  3. Address no one. You should attempt to begin your letter with “Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],” but if you don’t know the name of the person reading, simply jump right into the first paragraph to avoid sounding vague and impersonal.
  4. Include a strong closing sentence. Oftentimes, applicants find it very difficult to end a cover letter, so be sure to focus most of your energy on this part. Explain how your unique skills and experience make you a good candidate for the job, then quickly sign off to avoid rambling.

6 Secrets To Writing A Great Cover Letter [Forbes]
Top 10 Cover Letter Writing Tips [About Careers]
Expert Advice: 8 Tips for Writing a Standout Cover Letter [Nerd Wallet]

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