9 Tips From My Years Working in Human Resources

Although the processing of hiring new employees has changed somewhat over the last few years due to the Covid outbreak, fundamentally some things remain the same.

While working in Human Resources along with the Safety, Medical, and Workers’ Compensation Departments, I was able to learn a great deal about the hiring of new employees and the maintenance of their employment status.

If you are seeking new employment, getting ready for an interview, or are waiting for a reply from a prospective employer, here are my tips:

Resumé — Most of the time a one-pager is what is wanted. Two pages is lengthy for most positions you are applying for. However, there is always an exception to this rule. If you do have to go to two pages, retain only the relevant history and skills pertinent to the job you are applying for. Remember to curtail your objective from the beginning to the position you are applying for.

Dress Appropriate — Dress according to the job. Suits for men and women for business career opportunities, and a nice shirt (maybe tie) with a smart-looking pair of men’s slacks for industrial or other types of careers.

Nose or Lip Rings — Take nose or lip rings out before the interview. Until you find out the dress code, it is always best to bank on the conservative side.

Before the Interview — Do your research. Research the company’s website. Google the product/s or services your potential employer deals with. This is extremely important. The more you know about them, the more enthusiasm you can show. Tell the employer you are interested in the company and the product or service they are providing.

Prepare Your Answers — Just a few. Of course, you don’t want to appear robotic. However, there are a few questions that most employers will always ask…What positive skills or skill set will you bring to the job? What is your best attribute? What might your negatives be? Think them over and have an idea of how and what you will say.

Relate to the Interviewer — While in the lobby, or as you enter the interviewer’s office, look around for pictures or trophies that may indicate the personality of the person you are speaking with. Does it reveal a conservative background? Or, are there humorous signs on the desks or walls indicating a more laid-back atmosphere? Try and relate to those vibes. My daughter does this before every interview. She lands every job!

What Time to Arrive — This is important. Don’t arrive too early. The staff may be busy and unable to accommodate you that early. This could be a source of irritation. Of course, absolutely don’t arrive late. Unless there are unforeseen circumstances on your way there, leave enough time to arrive promptly.

Don’t Talk About Your Personal Life — I’m a talker. This point has always been hard for me. Most questions about race, age, and family, are illegal unless they relate to affirmative action. See the following informative article on what can and cannot be asked in an interview at Zety. However, there are some questions that can be phrased to you that do not break the law. Put your mind at ease and check the list out. Remember, you don’t have to answer something that is asked which may be out of bounds or illegal.

Don’t Be a Nag— It is always nice to send a “thank you” card to the interviewer. Do not call and call to see if you have gotten the job. You should always ask how long it will be until they get back to you with a decision. Wait within the timeframe they give you. Managers get upset with the ones that continually call. I have been an eyewitness to that!

All of the above being said you may be asked to interview on Zoom. If this is the case, make sure your background and lighting are good before the appointment. Get rid of distractions around you. There is an option to see yourself on Zoom before you hit the actual video to connect. Use it.

I sincerely hope some of these things will be reminders of proper etiquette, and how to conduct yourself in an interview. Be confident. Be yourself. Never be cocky.

Whether you are seeking a high-end paying position or a job as a side hustle, these tips will help.

Good job hunting my friend. You’ll do just fine.

I also have a blog for the unemployed or underemployed with many more suggestions. The blog is, The Every Day Life of the Unemployed. This blog contains many articles in the archives section.

This story previously appeared on Medium.com.