A FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION:
I have an excellent resume but I am still having trouble landing a job. I graduated in the top 10% of my class and have a professionally prepared resume that should guarantee me a good job. I am at a loss. Can you help?
If your resume is appropriate and you are diligently seeking employment but can't get your foot in the door, focus on appearance and demeanor.
LOOKING THE PART CAN GET YOU THE PART
If possible, emulate the appearance of the interviewer or employer. A clean-shaven, meticulously groomed employer is not apt to hire an applicant with greasy hair and garments with that "slept in" look. If the boss wears a three-piece suit and a tie, don't show up in ghetto baggies. If you have to walk in cold, clone a network news anchor's appearance. They usually dress for maximum public appeal.
Job-hunting is not a venue for your latest fashion statement, tattoo, nose ring, or musical icon. Inappropriate dress, green hair, long fingernails, pierced body parts can turn off a prospective employer. What you and your peers consider stylish might look like a freak show to an employer of another generation. Your right to personal expression might fly at home or on campus; employers want people that reflect their values not yours.
A common misconception is that the employer will see your strong points in spite of your first impression. Total nonsense! Employers hire individuals that conform to company policies and maintain company standards. Political correctness mutes or precludes published company standards. That doesn't mean they don't exist. Employers reject many applicants for non-resume reasons. They read into appearance and demeanor. In our hyper-litigious society, perceived trouble makers are not worth the risk and simply don't get a callback.
Deficiencies in reading, writing and basic math are common even in college graduates. Stammering, like, you know, okay, right with a valley girl inflection will keep you out of many offices no matter what is on your resume (One applicant pronounced it rezoom). Slouched posture, excessive makeup, nail biting, hair twirling, smoking, gum chewing, and other unconscious habits indicate a lack of self-discipline.
Young people often cling to the notion that they should always be themselves. Part of being yourself should include adaptability. You wear a bathing suit to swim, a formal outfit for a wedding, and a costume on Halloween. Think of your work appearance as role-playing
Remember that the employer is hiring YOU not just your resume.
...EU...
