Anyway, it got me thinking about appropriate attire. In the business world we often have to assimilate. We show up when the boss says so, we follow policies and procedures specific to our role in the company. For me (and other professional communicators), we write the way the company’s styleguide mandates. And we all dress according to the company’s guidelines. This is important when interviewing to get the job also - maybe even more so.

My advice to you - it is always better to err on the side of conservatism. Even if you know the company has a laid back dress code, dress up for the interview. It shows initiative and concern for the company and the position for which you are interviewing.

Recently, a young lady who was interviewing for an administrative position at a local Dallas company was witnessed wearing the following: a cardigan/sweater set (not too shabby); long shorts (borderline); and long boots. The person who shared this information with me even referred to the boots as, dare I say it?, hooker boots! I’m sure the young lady thought she looked smart and modern, but I bet if she knew that her accessorizing left that impression with potential coworkers she would have worn something else.

Don’t miss your chance to make a good first impression. No matter what your mom told you - looks matter. And sticks and stones may break your bones, but words from an potential employer can hurt you!

A few simple rules:

1. Take the conservative route. Wear dark blues and blacks.
2. Choose shirts with (rather than without) collars.
3. Long pants are always safe. Ladies, if you choose to wear a skirt, keep it at a respectable length. Remember in high school when the principal made you do the finger tip test. With arms at your sides, if your fingertips passed your skirt - it was too short!
4. Invest in yourself! Buy one or two 3-piece suits. You can find some nice, affordable products at your local Target or Wal-mart. You only need a couple to go on interviews.

Best of luck in your journey! And don’t forget to continue to strive for excellence in dress once you secure the position.

Even if you don’t live in the same area for your entire career, the world is smaller than you might think. Always, leave on a positive note. Don’t pull a Conan! As much as you’d like to tell your former employer what you think about him, her or the company itself, this is never a good idea. It might work in Hollywood, but it does not work for the average employee. You may even feel that you are entitled because we all know there are some bad bosses out there. This will never work out in your favor, especially if it is not your choice to leave. If it is your choice to leave, it may make you seem cavalier, and you never know when you might run into that person again.

So, what should you do as you exit a company? Whether it’s by your choice or the company’s, this is what you should do.

1. Keep your emotions in check. There is no need to be overly exuberant nor should you show anger or frustration. This will just make you appear unprofessional.
2. Ask for an exit interview to give the employer the opportunity to share areas in which he or she feels you can grow. This can help you in the your next position.
3. If the change is by your choice, give sufficient notice. Two work weeks is standard in the United States.
4. During the time left with your employer, be polite and helpful. The notice is to help the employer make the transition, not a slacking off period for you.

We do know that word travels fast, so keep it together. Do the right thing. After all, it truly is a small, small world.

• Email

Clearly address the recipient and remind him or her of the position for which you applied. Re-state your interest. Use a concise, attention-getting subject line. Make sure that your message is free of spelling and grammatical errors.

Never assume gender. In a world where moms name their children Apple, Shiloh, and Phinnaeus, you just never know and it’s never safe to assume. So, be safe rather than sorry and simply address the recipient by first and last name. Using the first name only can appear too casual and referring to someone as Mr. or Mrs. relegates your position as a professional. On that same note, make sure that you spell the recipient’s name correctly. Take time to re-read your message (backwards, to catch spelling errors), and don’t be afraid to hit send!

Remember, having a call to action is important. Close with a request for an interview and provide contact information.

• Snail Mail

Follow the same email guidelines for snail mail. Handwritten notes are typically better received than printed notes. And always be sure to personally sign the note.
• Phone Call

Following up with a phone call can be appropriate but difficult to talk to the person. If you get voicemail, which you more than likely will, be prepared. Preparation will help you avoid stammering a stuttering. Clearly, state your name, phone number and reason for calling. Thank the person and restate your name and phone number. Recite the numbers individually (e.g., “five-five-five-two-one-two-one;” not “five-five-five-twenty one, twenty one).

The early bird may get the worm, but persistence does pay off. Best of luck!

• Offer constructive criticism.
  

People make mistakes. This is actually the best way to learn; however, correction must be given in an environment that fosters productive change. Berating, belittling or patronizing and employee is no way to help him or her grow. (Read David Grossman’s article on offering meaningful feedback.)

• Encourage productive behavior.
  

Have you ever heard: No one notices when I do something right, but everyone notices when I do something wrong? Remember to acknowledge, encourage and reward good behavior.

• Develop a specific career path with measurable goals.
  

Work closely employees who have expressed an interest to excel by developing a specific career development plan that includes measurable goals. Meet with the employee regularly to make sure that he or she is on task to complete the plan within a specified time period.

• Avoid multi-page emails.

Don’t send emails that go on and on regarding undesirable behaviors. If something truly needs to be addressed, use effective and meaningful face-to-face communication.

• Don’t be Hitler.

Don’t be a dictator but rather assist the employee by being a developer of projects. Avoid communicating in writing by using all CAPS. Don’t bark out orders or give answers; instead teach your employee how to come to effective solutions on their own. (Teach a (wo)man to fish.)

By fostering a learning environment, both you and your mentee will become better professionals and feel more fulfilled in your respective positions.

Michelle Hopkins of Plano, Texas recently started a writing and editing job. Her cover letter was a major factor in securing the position. Because she was seeking a writing position, she “threw out” the rules of maintaining a brief cover letter and wrote one that conveyed her personality as well as her writing skills. She also felt it beneficial that an actual person reviewed her resume rather than a computer program.

Hopkins commented, “I feel like a big factor in why this cover letter/resume/writing samples ‘hit’ was that it was seen by a person and was not screened by a computer program. I’ve found many companies use those programs where they are looking for keywords, and I received numerous form rejection letters I do not think I would have received if a person had looked at my letter and application.”

Hopkins was right. Debra Nicholas, the managing editor who hired her, said that she personally reviewed all of the cover letters and resumes that were submitted by more than 100 applicants. She found a diverse range of submissions. Some applicants included cover letters while others did not. Because she was looking for a writer, those that included cover letters that provided an interesting introduction were given a second look. Nicholas said, “The cover letter brings a person into one place, completing the package. The best cover letters were clever, conversational and informal.”

In fact, Nicholas said that she began to see a pattern in cover letter style with respect to when the person was educated. Those who were older (e.g. baby boomers) tended to have more formal cover letters while younger candidates were more inclined to include many links to personal and professional websites to paint a clearer picture about themselves. Nicholas noted that the links were helpful in allowing her, as the interviewer, to get a better picture of the candidate. However, some of the links were harmful to the candidate in that they demonstrated poor writing ability, a dislike for the writing field or were unprofessional in nature. It is important to monitor to your digital reputation.

So, how did Hopkins win over Nicholas? Nicholas said, “She really showed that she wanted the job, not that she was just applying for it. She did her research and followed up.” Additionally, Hopkins’ cover letter and resume were free of grammatical and spelling errors. Errors will definitely get a candidate’s cover letter and/or resume placed in the rejection pile.

The cover letter is alive and well. Here are some helpful tips on crafting one.

1. Don’t use a form letter.
2. Be concise, but also be complete.
3. Be careful of grammar and spelling errors.
4. Address the cover letter to a specific person whenever possible.
5. Develop a position-specific cover letter so that it is tailored for the job you are seeking. Do this by speaking to the requirements detailed in the job posting.
6. Don’t re-hash your resume in your cover letter.
7. Proofread, proofread, and did I mention, proofread?
8. Close with a request for an interview and your contact information.

In today’s society it is common for a person to change jobs or companies multiple times. Because of this common practice salary negotiations occur daily. To be successful, you must make salary negotiation a part of your skill set.

Even though negotiation happens all the time women, unfortunately, do not negotiate as often or as aggressively as men. As a result, they leave hundreds of thousands of dollars on the table and add more layers to the proverbial glass ceiling. Similarly, new professionals and those who have been laid off are typically less aggressive about negotiating because they feel as though they don’t have much bargaining power.

No matter your gender, age, experience level or current situation; it is essential that you negotiate and secure the salary you deserve. Don’t dread it; embrace it as part of your path to a successful career!

Some Tips:

1. Be prepared to negotiate by conducting thorough research of similar positions in the area or gathering information from colleagues and mentors. However, don’t be too anxious and bring up salary too early in the negotiation process. Wait for the prospective employer to “show his or her cards” first.
2. Be excited about the opportunity but not overly excited.
3. Maintain reasonable expectations for the job offer.
4. Remember there are other factors in the negotiation process. The job offer includes the entire package, not just the annual salary. If you can’t get the cash you seek, consider health benefits, vacation and paid time off, 401K benefits, flex time, bonus potential, etc.
5. And finally, stay calm and in control. It is important to come to a mutually agreeable offer so that both sides win. Once you do reach an agreement, ask for the final offer in writing.

If Mr. Franklin was alive today, I’d argue with his statement. There have been several people who have cheated death and taxes. Knowing this, salary negotiation should be a piece of cake! Happy Bargaining!

In the 60s, a military-themed show called “Gomer Pyle, USMC” aired on CBS. The title character, played by Jim Nabors, was simple-minded but often shed little bits of wisdom-filled light throughout the course of the show. He once said, “Ill-gotten gain never lasts long.” And even though that show is more than 40 years old, that bit of wisdom still rings true. Lying to get ahead is never a good long-term solution.

There is no such thing as a “little white lie.” Lying is lying. Saying you obtained a four-year degree when you purchased it online - lying. Telling people you graduated from one college when you only attended there for a short while - lying. Misleading people to believe you graduated from one branch of a multi-system university when you really graduated from another, less-known branch - lying. Fudging your earnings from a previous employer in hopes of getting more money from a prospective/future employer - lying.

Lying not only compromises your professional, and sometimes personal, reputation; but it affects the colleagues you’ve worked with at school and in the business world. It might be difficult, but you should always be truthful.

Be honest. Tell the truth. Work harder. Be better. You’ll be respected in the long run. You’ll maintain the integrity of those associated with you, and you’ll be able to sleep at night.

Professional Affiliations

Most professions have an association or organization affiliated with a particular industry. If you plan to be a part of an industry for any substantial length of time, it is well worth the investment to join one of these groups. One way to test or try out a specific organization is to join the group on LinkedIn. Evaluate the members and what type of activities and benefits the group offers. Finally, you may want to inquire with your employer to see if they will cover the cost of membership. Annual dues can range for $20 dollars to several hundred.

Internal Training

Larger companies typically offer on-the-job (OTJ) or internal training. Check with your human resources (HR)/personnel department on possible opportunities. This not only demonstrates your desire to improve yourself, but it also shows your commitment and loyalty to the company.

Continuing Education

Whether it’s a one-time class or an advanced degree, formal training beyond your current level of education can be helpful in developing your career. Many colleges and universities offer professional continuing education cources. Investing in this type of education benefits you and the company you currently work for as well as future companies you may work for. Many companies will share in the cost of these type of courses.

You might also consider investing the money and time in obtaining an advanced degree. This can really help set you apart, and many organizations provide tuition reimbursement as part of their benefits package, especially if the degree is related to your position within the company. Education is invaluable and is something you can definitely take with you as you further your career.

Final Thoughts

Whatever you do, remember continual improvement is essential. Don’t be left behind. Get on the bus, and be better!

Smile and Shake Hands

When you meet your interviewer, greet him or her with a warm, genuine smile and firm handshake. A smile is a universal communication symbol that is well received in all cultures. Your handshake should be firm and dry. Try to avoid sweaty palms by visiting the restroom right before your meeting. Likewise if you wash your hands prior to the interview, make sure you thoroughly dry them.

Connect with Direct Eye Contact

When you meet your interviewer establish and maintain direct eye contact. Throughout the interview make sure you look the interviewer in the eye. This demonstrates that you are listening and interested in what he or she has to say. Making eye contact when you respond conveys honesty. Try to avoid fidgeting with your hair or papers. Don’t look down or into dead space. If you do this the process may come to a dead end.

Reduce Verbal Utterances

Um, ya know, clearing your throat. These are all things that are common in daily, casual conversation. However, they can quickly change the focus during a professional interview. Be mindful of these utterances and the type that you use. Constant repetition can cause the listener (read: interviewer) to hone in on the utterance and pay less attention to what you are really saying. These actions can also make you seem less than honest.

Be Honest

More than ever ethics and integrity are important. If you don’t know the answer to something; say that. It shows that you are able to face and address your shortcomings. Emphasize your willingness to learn and seek out the right answer. Never lie or make up an answer to impress an interviewer. It’s not smart and can ruin your professional reputation. Just ask Jayson Blair about make believe.

Final Thoughts

The interview process can be a stressful one, but it is necessary for the company to find the right candidate and for you to find the right position. Practice does make perfect (or close to it), so conduct mock interviews. If possible, record yourself so you can hear how you sound. And finally, be confident! You have the skills, you just need someone to offer you the opportunity.

Best of luck!

To network is essential in the job search today. It really is about who you know then it’s about what you know. So, how do you get to know people? Start networking. Check your local newspapers and staffing agencies as well as conducting web searches to find out what groups are near you and when they meet. There are many industry-related groups. So, if you’re an accountant, there’s more than likely an group for accountants that meets on a regular basis. There’s also general career organizations that meet.

Networking events can take place in a variety of settings from a relaxed social hour to a formal meeting where a speaker offers advice in the form of a presentation. The groups are out there. Networking is available. You just have to seek it out. You never know who you’ll meet, and how they might help you land that next targeted position!

So, go network.