Landing a Job Offer - Keeping Your Name Fresh in the Mind of Employers

When looking for a job there are several things you can do to make sure that employers hire you and not the other guy for the position. Resumes, internships, research, and networking are often not enough to land the job. Here is a list of 8 effective ways to achieve success and get that job offer you are looking for.

1. Develop Goals
It is important to develop goals related to your career. You should identify what job title you are interested in and companies you are interested. Take some time to think through what is important to you as far as location and working hours of varies companies.

2. Do your Homework and Research the Company
Most employers will ask you little bits of information about their company during the interview. If you don't know the answer it could be disastrous. Use the internet to find the company and research it and the position you are applying to. For example, when I conducted an interview with Allstate, I was asked during the interview to fill in the following blank, "With Allstate, you're in good ___."

3. Sell Yourself
Kevin Donlin, creator of TheSimpleJobSearch.com says that you should include a "P.S." at the end of your cover letter. This is because it always is read by employers and is intriguing. Find little ways to make yourself stand out from the crowd. Don't be afraid to talk about your accomplishments and work ethic.

4. Take the Guess Work Out
Employers will often ask you how much money you want to make. They may not know how much you are worth. Let them know but be reasonable. Use online resources to your advantage to research salary information. Also discuss with them the exact position you are seeking and qualified for. Companies often have several very different positions to fill.

5. Use Testimonials
The words other people say about you is powerful and allows employers to better gage who you are. It may be a good idea to include in your resume a few short quotes about yourself from past coworkers or clients.

6. Prepar for the Interview
although your potential employer may already have your resume, make sure you bring another copy or two. Also be sure to bring your references. Remember to arrive early, but not too early, and be upbeat. You may want to work on your handshake and be sure to thank the interviewer.

7. When Disaster Strikes be Ready
At any time you may lose your job and need to seek a new one. Make sure that you keep your resume updated and backed up in case of computer failure.

8. Give Employers a Reason
After the interview make sure to include a short and effective thank you to your interviewer or interviewers. Never be hesitant to ask for business cards during the interview if you don't have all of their contact information. If you can find a positive way to incorporate a new a fresh way to give employers a reason to hire you for the job it will keep your name fresh in their minds.

References
MSN Career Builder