9 Dec 2009
Phone etiquette
Don't chew gum.
Be polite AT ALL TIMES, even if the information you're receiving isn't what you want to hear.
Ask for correct spelling and pronunciation of names.
If you're put on hold, don't get impatient.
Thank people for their time and information.
Never insult the alligator as you are crossing the bridge... build boats instead!
The telephone is going to be your best friend...it can make you or break you in this process, so BE AWARE!
How to fly in for the interview.
Don't check your luggage... carry it with you.
Wear professional attire on the plane, especially if a company employee is meeting you at the airport.
Be polite to everyone... you never know who you're sitting next to.
Avoid alcohol.
Take with you some spare cash and a credit card (not one that has maxed out).
If you're driving to the interview, make sure your car is clean (INSIDE and OUTSIDE...this includes the trunk).
During the interview.
Collect the interviewers' business cards. (Write Thank You notes to everyone with whom you interviewed.)
Thank the interviewer for his/her time.
Firm, confident handshake (and eye-contact).
Ask when you might hear from them regarding a decision.
Ask if you should call in a week if you haven't heard anything.
How to handle the $ question.
Never, Never, Never ask, "how much does the job pay" in any way, shape or form!!!!!!
When the interviewer asks you what your salary requirement is, respond with "I'm currently making $XX and I'll consider any fair offer."
Dining etiquette.
Don't order the most expensive or the cheapest item on the menu.
Avoid alcohol and carbonated drinks.
Whatever beverage you select, don't drink too much of it (a long afternoon of interviews can be a nightmare if you have to keep taking restroom breaks!).
Don't be too picky with how you want your food prepared.
Order an item that can be eaten with a knife and fork. (It's tough to make a good impression while trying to handle a greasy cheeseburger.)
Don't overeat (interviewing is stressful enough without having to fight off an afternoon slump).
Thank your hosts for the meal.
Don't offer to leave the tip.
Be polite to the waiter/waitress.
How to ask your questions.
Hold your questions until the interviewer invites you to ask.
Before the interview, write down all the questions you want to ask then refer to them when it's your turn.
Take notes during the interview so you'll be able to refer back after the interview.
How to follow up after the interview.
Mail a typed business letter.
Fax a typed business letter.
Mail a handwritten Thank You note. What you send is determined by the formality of the company. Whatever you choose... make sure it's timely!
How to accept an offer.
Thank the interviewer for the offer.
Accept graciously.
Reiterate that you are excited about the opportunity of working for the company.
Ask when your start date should be.
Try to give your current employer at least 2 weeks notice. DO NOT suggest you quit immediately. Employers will predict how you will treat them based on the level of courtesy you extend to your current employer.
How to ask if there is relocation assistance.
"If I were hired, what is the process for relocation?"
"Does ABC Company provide assistance, and is it coordinated through Human Resources?"
"Do I pay my own expenses, then turn in receipts for reimbursement?"
How to move from HERE TO THERE after the offer is made and accepted.
Ask for a copy of the relocation policy.
Keep all receipts.
Don't spend the company's money just for the sake of it (be sensible with expenses).
If all it takes to move you is a U-haul truck, then just use the U-haul.
How to reject an offer.
Be gracious.
Thank the interviewer for the offer.
Explain why you can't accept.
How to resign from a job.
Be gracious.
Be professional.
Don't insult your boss (you may need to re-apply one day PLUS he/she will be providing references for you.
Always resign in writing.
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