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A resume, no matter how good, will not get you a job by itself. However, a good resume will attract the attention of the hiring manager and secure a job interview. The purpose of a resume is to disclose your accomplishments and qualifications to a potential employer. If the employer likes what she sees, she will contact you for a face-to-face meeting.

Think of your resume as a promotional brochure about you. You need to show a potential employer what you have accomplished and where your experience lies. Your strategy should be to emphasize the experience and skills that a particular employer is looking for.

Your resume is also an example of your communication and organizational skills. A well-done resume is itself another reminder of what kind of valuable employee you would be. Likewise, a sloppily produced resume is a terrific way to get yourself taken out of the running before it even starts.

Here are some tips to help you build a successful resume:

Keep it concise. - Employers have lots to do, so don't make the mistake of asking them to read through an unnecessarily long resume. A long, wordy resume will put off someone who is already short on time. Resumes should be one page, if possible, and two if absolutely necessary to describe relevant work experience. A two-page resume is no advantage if it's full of information that isn't reasonably applicable to the position you're applying for. Use the space only if you need it to fully disclose your accomplishments.

Make your words count. - Your use of language is extremely important; you need to sell yourself to an employer quickly and efficiently. Address your potential employer's needs with a clearly written, compelling resume.

			Avoid large paragraphs (over six or seven lines). Resumes are often scanned by hiring managers. If you provide small, digestible pieces of information you stand a better chance of having your resume actually read

			Use action verbs such as "developed," "managed," and "designed" to emphasize your accomplishments.

			Don't use declarative sentences like "I developed the..." or "I assisted in..."; leave out the "I."

			Avoid passive constructions, such as "was responsible for managing." It's not only more efficient to say "Managed," it's stronger and more active.

Make the most of your experience. - Potential employers need to know what you have accomplished to have an idea of what you can do for them.

			Don't be vague. Describe things that can be measured objectively. Telling someone that you "improved warehouse efficiency" doesn't say much. Telling them that you "cut requisition costs by 20%, saving the company $3800 for the fiscal year" does. Employers will feel more comfortable hiring you if they can verify your accomplishments.

			Be honest. There is a difference between making the most of your experience and exaggerating or falsifying it. A falsified resume can be easily spotted by an employer (if not immediately then during the interview process), and if it doesn't prevent you from getting the job, it can cost you the job later on.

Don't neglect appearance. - Your resume is the first impression you'll make on a potential employer, and a successful resume depends on more than what you say; how you say it counts as well.

			Check your resume for proper grammar and correct spelling-evidence of good communication skills and attention to detail. Nothing can ruin your chances of getting a job faster than submitting resume filled with (easily preventable) mistakes.

			Make your resume easy on the eyes. Use normal margins (1" on the top and bottom, 1.25" on the sides) and don't cram your text onto the page. Allow for some breathing room between the different sections. Avoid unusual or exotic font styles; use simple fonts with a professional look.

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How to handle the phone interview

You just got word that you landed a job interview with a company that really interests you -- only there’s a slight catch.

You won’t be meeting with your interviewer(s) face to face. Instead, you’ll be taking part in a phone interview, the results of which will determine whether you’re invited to meet with company representatives in person.

Many companies use phone interviews as an initial employment screening technique for a variety of reasons. Because they’re generally brief, phone interviews save companies time. They also serve as a more realistic screening alternative for cases in which companies are considering out-of-town (or out-of-state and foreign) candidates.

So the chances are pretty good that, at some point in your job hunt, you’ll be asked to participate in a 20- to 30-minute phone interview with either one person or several people on the other end of the line. In many ways, the way you prepare for a phone interview isn’t all that different from the way you’d get ready for a face-to-face interview -- save for a few slight additions to and modifications of your list of preparation tasks.

Here’s what to do:

Treat the phone interview seriously, just as you would a face-to-face interview. - A phone interview seems so informal on the surface that it can be easy to fall into the trap of "phoning it in" -- i.e., not preparing for it as well as you would for an in-person interview. Don’t get caught with your guard down. Be sure to research the company, study the job description, and practice your responses to anticipated questions, just as you would for any other interview.

Have your resume and cover letter in front of you. - You’ll almost certainly be asked about some of the information that appears on these documents. You might also want to have in front of you any supporting materials that relate to information in your resume and cover letter, like documents you’ve designed or written, a portfolio of your various projects, or the written position description from your key internship.

Make a cheat sheet. - Jot down a few notes about the most critical points you want to make with your interviewer(s). Are there certain skills and experiences you want to emphasize? Do you have certain interests or passions you want your interviewer(s) to know about and understand? Be sure these pieces of information appear on your crib sheet. Then touch on them during the interview, even if your only chance to do so is at the end of the session when the interviewer asks you if you have any questions or anything to add.

Get a high-quality phone. - This isn’t the time to use a cell phone that cuts in and out, or a cheaply made phone that makes it difficult for you and your interviewer(s) to hear and understand each other.

Stand up, or at least sit up straight at a table or desk. - Again, there’s a psychological, frame of mind aspect to consider here. But on a more tangible level, research has shown that you project yourself better when you’re standing up, and you'll feel more knowledgeable and confident.

Phone interviews can be tricky, especially since you aren’t able to read your interviewers’ nonverbal cues like facial expressions and body language during the session -- a big difference from the typical interview. But if you prepare well for your phone interview, you won’t need to read anyone’s nonverbals to gauge your performance. You’ll know for sure how you’ve done because you’ll be invited to a face-to-face interview, where you’ll have yet another opportunity to prove you’re the best person for the job.

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How to handle the face-to-face interview

Practice your answers to common questions. Likewise, prepare a list of questions to ask the employer. Most interviews follow this pattern: First, you answer questions about your experience and qualifications, then you ask questions about the job.

Prepare your interview materials before you leave. Bring several copies of your resume, a list of references, and, if appropriate, any work samples. Make sure they are all up-to-date. Dress professionally and comfortably. You will be judged in some respects by what you wear. When in doubt, dress conservatively.

Before the Interview

			Be on time. Being on time (or early) is usually interpreted by the interviewer as evidence of your commitment, dependability, and professionalism.

			Be positive and try to make others feel comfortable. Show openness by leaning into a greeting with a firm handshake and smile. Don't make negative comments about current or former employers.

			Relax. Think of the interview as a conversation, not an interrogation. And remember, the interviewer is just as nervous about making a good impression on you.

During the Interview

			Show self-confidence. Make eye contact with the interviewer and answer his questions in a clear voice. Work to establish a rapport with the interviewer.

			Remember to listen. Communication is a two-way street. If you are talking too much, you will probably miss cues concerning what the interviewer feels is important.Remember to listen. Communication is a two-way street. If you are talking too much, you will probably miss cues concerning what the interviewer feels is important.

			Reflect before answering a difficult question. If you are unsure how to answer a question, you might reply with another question. For example, if the interviewer asks you what salary you expect, try answering by saying "That is a good question. What are you planning to pay your best candidate?"

			When it is your turn, ask the questions you have prepared in advance. These should cover any information about the company and job position you could not find in your own research.

			Do not ask questions that raise red flags. Ask, "Is relocation a requirement?", and the interviewer may assume that you do not want to relocate at all. Too many questions about vacation may cause the interviewer to think you are more interested in taking time off than helping the company. Make sure the interviewer understands why you are asking these questions.

			Show you want the job. Display your initiative by talking about what functions you could perform that would benefit the organization, and by giving specific details of how you have helped past employers. You might also ask about specific details of the job position, such as functions, responsibilities, who you would work with, and who you would report to.

			Avoid negative body language. An interviewer wants to see how well you react under pressure. Avoid these signs of nervousness and tension:

			Frequently touching your mouth

			Faking a cough to think about the answer to a question

			Gnawing on your lip

			Tight or forced smiles

			Swinging your foot or leg

			Folding or crossing your arms

			Slouching

			Avoiding eye contact

			Picking at invisible bits of lint

After the Interview

			End the interview with a handshake and thank the interviewer for his or her time. Reiterate your interest in the position and your qualifications.

			Send a "Thanks for the Interview" note. After the interview, send a brief thank-you note. Try to time it so it arrives before the hiring decision will be made. It will serve as a reminder to the interviewer concerning your appropriateness for the position, so feel free to mention any topics discussed during your interview. If the job contact was made through the Internet or e-mail, send an e-mail thank-you note immediately after the interview, then mail a second letter by post timed to arrive the week before the hiring decision will be made.

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Answers to common interview questions

"Tell me about yourself." - Make a short, organized statement of your education and professional achievements and professional goals. Then, briefly describe your qualifications for the job and the contributions you could make to the organization.

"Why do you want to work here?" or "What about our company interests you?" - Few questions are more important than these, so it is important to answer them clearly and with enthusiasm. Show the interviewer your interest in the company. Share what you learned about the job, the company and the industry through your own research. Talk about how your professional skills will benefit the company. Unless you work in sales, your answer should never be simply: "money." The interviewer will wonder if you really care about the job.

"Why did you leave your last job?" - The interviewer may want to know if you had any problems on your last job. If you did not have any problems, simply give a reason, such as: relocated away from job; company went out of business; laid off; temporary job; no possibility of advancement; wanted a job better suited to your skills.

If you did have problems, be honest. Show that you can accept responsibility and learn from your mistakes. You should explain any problems you had (or still have) with an employer, but don't describe that employer in negative terms. Demonstrate that it was a learning experience that will not affect your future work.

"What are your best skills?" - If you have sufficiently researched the organization, you should be able to imagine what skills the company values. List them, then give examples where you have demonstrated these skills.

"What is your major weakness?" - Be positive; turn a weakness into a strength. For example, you might say: "I often worry too much over my work. Sometimes I work late to make sure the job is done well."

"Do you prefer to work by yourself or with others?" - The ideal answer is one of flexibility. However, be honest. Give examples describing how you have worked in both situations.

"What are your career goals?" or "What are your future plans?" - The interviewer wants to know if your plans and the company's goals are compatible. Let him know that you are ambitious enough to plan ahead. Talk about your desire to learn more and improve your performance, and be specific as possible about how you will meet the goals you have set for yourself.

"What are your hobbies?" and "Do you play any sports?" - The interviewer may be looking for evidence of your job skills outside of your professional experience. For example, hobbies such as chess or bridge demonstrate analytical skills. Reading, music, and painting are creative hobbies. Individual sports show determination and stamina, while group sport activities may indicate you are comfortable working as part of a team.

Also, the interviewer might simply be curious as to whether you have a life outside of work. Employees who have creative or athletic outlets for their stress are often healthier, happier and more productive.

"What salary are you expecting?" - You probably don't want to answer this one directly. Instead, deflect the question back to the interviewer by saying something like: "I don't know. What are you planning on paying the best candidate?" Let the employer make the first offer.

However, it is still important to know what the current salary range is for the profession. Find salary surveys at the library or on the Internet, and check the classifieds to see what comparable jobs in your area are paying. This information can help you negotiate compensation once the employer makes an offer.

"What have I forgotten to ask?" - Use this as a chance to summarize your good characteristics and attributes and how they may be used to benefit the organization. Convince the interviewer that you understand the job requirements and that you can succeed.

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What to wear to an interview

Interview Attire for Men - Interviews aren't the time or place for fashion trail blazing. Deviating from the long-established attire standards may prove deadly. Follow these simple tips, and leave your sense of fashion adventure in the lobby.

The Suit

Colors: - Interview suits should be navy blue or charcoal gray. Some dark brown suits may still be acceptable, but should generally be avoided. Earth-toned colors, like tan, light gray or olive green, aren't formal enough and shouldn't be worn. Black suits are plenty formal, but are inappropriately flashy. You basically have two choices: navy blue or charcoal gray.

Pin Stripes: - Pin stripes are permissible, but only if they are subtle. They add a touch of flair and can liven up a gray suit nicely.

Style: - As with color, you aren't given a lot of latitude here. You should wear a two or three buttoned, two-piece suit. Four buttoned suits may be seen as too trendy, and three-piece suits may be viewed as ostentatious.

Fit: - Suit jackets should fit so that they can be easily buttoned without any significant tug marks across the fabric. The arms should be long enough so that about a ¼ inch of your dress shirt can be seen beyond the cuffs when your arms are relaxed by your side. If you have a "normal build" (a typical shoulders-to-waist ratio), then your ideal suit size is your chest size. If you have a "distinctive build," then you'll definitely want to get measured by a tailor.

The Shirt and Tie

Color and Collar: - White shirts are the safest and most conservative. Cream, almond and pale-blue shirts are also acceptable as long as they are solid without any stripes or patterns. Point collars are recommended for an interview, but spread collars are fine as well. Avoid cotton-blend shirts, polyester shirts, or any shirts with a shiny finish such as rayon. Shirts should be 100% cotton.

Tie Color and Size: - Wear a tie between 2 ¾ and 3 ½ inches wide. It should feature a traditional pattern and be made of pure silk. Don't wear trendy ties (the Who Wants To Be A Millionaire look, for example) or ties made of anything besides 100% silk. Your tie should reach, but not exceed, the top of your belt buckle. Do not wear a bow-tie to an interview.

The Knot: - Windsor knots are generally preferred at job interviews as they are arguably the most conservative. Four-in-hand knots are fine as well. Knots should be neat and fit within the space created by your choice of collar. If you insist on wearing an alternative knot style, such as a Shelby, you'll want to choose a white dress shirt with a spread collar that will accommodate it. Lettered tie-tacks are fine, but avoid any religious or political insignias.

The Shoes and Belt

Shoe Color and Style: - Interviewees should wear black, oxblood or brown leather shoes. Black shoes are strongly recommended as they match almost with any suit, and are easy to coordinate with a belt. Rubber soles are acceptable if they are low profile (that is without noticeable treads). Loafers are forbidden.

Belt: - Your belt must always match your shoe color. Large or flashy belt-buckles aren't permissible, but suspenders are, provided that they fit properly.

Miscellaneous

Socks: - Socks should be dark and complement your suit. They should be long enough, at least mid-calf length, so that no one can see your leg when you are seated.

Jewelry: - Only wedding rings are universally permissible for men. It's recommended that you remove all other jewelry, including earrings, for an interview. College rings are typically acceptable for younger interviewees. Cufflinks, provided that they are small and conservative, are fine.

Briefcases: - A small leather briefcase or portfolio is recommended to carry your notebook and resume. Do not bring a large briefcase or everyday bag with you.

Cologne: - Be careful! Remember that you'll probably be interviewing in a small, stuffy conference room. Use little cologne, or none at all.

Hair: - Hair should be clean and well kept. Shorter hair is generally considered to be favorable. Facial hair is discouraged, although well-groomed mustaches are usually acceptable.

Interview Attire for Women - The manager who'll be interviewing you for that new position will probably be interviewing many others as well, possibly on the same day. It's therefore crucial that you stand out from the pack.

Don't try to distinguish yourself by way of your attire; that's more likely to be harmful or distracting than helpful. Stand out by polishing your interviewing techniques with online tools like the online virtual interview, brushing up on corporate and industry knowledge, and by arriving punctually, well-rested and well-groomed. It's important that you never let your clothes, for better or for worse, upstage your performance.

The Suit and Blouse

Suit Color: - Women should choose a dark suit in black, navy blue, or gray for a job interview. Avoid patterned suits other than hose with subtle stripes. Ideally you'll want to own at least two interview suits of varying colors. You can, however, simulate a second suit by simply using different blouses underneath the same one.

Blouse: - While white or ivory are always safe bets, any light tone that matches your suit is appropriate. The fabric should always be natural—either silk or cotton.

Style: - Skirts are traditionally preferable to pantsuits as they are more formal, but in all the most conservative of environments either are acceptable. Your suit should be comfortable, but not casual or sporty in appearance. The climate may factor into your decision; a skirt is preferable in wet weather since pants may get damp, but wrap-around skirts can be tragic on windy days.

Fit: - Avoid tight-fitting suits! Suit jackets should fit so that they can be easily buttoned without any noticeable pull marks across the fabric. Skirts should at least reach your knees.

Accessories

Shoe Color and Style: - Interviewees should wear dark, polished, closed-toe leather pumps that match the interview suit or are one shade darker than it. The heel should be one to two inches high, according to your height. Try not to wear a brand new pair of shoes since walking may be awkward or uncomfortable at first. If necessary, break new shoes in at home before your interview.

Belt: - If you are wearing a belt, choose a small, conservative, solid-colored leather style belt with a simple buckle. It should match your shoes and purse.

Purse: - Your purse should be small and plain, matching your the shoes and belt. Avoid using an everyday purse for an interview, especially if it is filled with belongings. If you are carrying a cell phone or pager in your purse, turn it off before you begin your interview!

Finishing Touches

Make-up and Nails: - If you wear make-up, be sure to use light shades for an interview. Apply it in a bright room to simulate the lighting conditions in most offices. Nail polish should also be of a light shade or clear. Of course, make sure your nails are properly manicured and are clean.

Stockings: - Wear plain stockings that best match your skin tone. Keep a spare pair tucked away in your purse for emergencies.

Jewelry: - Jewelry should be kept to a minimum. If you wear earrings, plain studs are the most cautious. A single necklace is acceptable, as is a watch and a ring or two. You may wish to add a pin to your suit jacket to add color and pizzazz, but be sure to shy away from any controversial insignias.

Perfume: - Use only a little perfume, or none at all. People can be allergic to certain perfume scents, plus you'll probably be seated in a confined space.

Hair: - Your hair should be clean, dry and neatly combed. Women with longer hair should wear it back so it doesn't become a distraction. Dressy hair clips should replace more bulky, everyday clips. If it is damp on the day of your interview, take this into account and adjust your hairstyle accordingly to avoid frizzing. Always carry an umbrella if there's even a remote chance of rain or snow.

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