TIPS AND ADVICE

Here is just some helpful tips and tricks earned from the experiences of myself and a few other industry professionals in helping you get the job or the gig.
 
1. Be Aggressive - For every one job there are at least 50-100 applicants from all over the U.S. that are viable and, most likely, hundreds more that have applied. Be true in your pursuit and be aggressive in nailing the interview. Make friends, build relationships. What they say is true - networking is key. What keys do you have?
 
2. Be Professional - Being aggressive does not mean going down there everyday because you want the job; nor does it mean calling the prospective job every day. Harrassing is not professional. Allow a reasonable time between the initial resume and the possible call back (it can be up to 4 weeks). Don't send a resume with soda stains on them. Even if the job has a casual work environment, probably not a good idea to dress for an interview in your favorite blue jeans and barefoot (unless they say that's ok). Always conduct yourself in a professional manner and that will shine through above all else...and your competition! At the same time, there is a valid point in that you don't want to overdress for the part. If your job is in production and is not specifically an office-related job, it may be overkill to show up in a 3 piece suit. Nevertheless, just because your interviewer might be conducting your screening wearing a sundress and no shoes, doesn't mean you should!
 
3. Research your target - Find out, if at all possible, who your interviewing parties are, latest company news, latest news about the prospective department or individual for which you will work, their professional nuances (i.e., the individual's likes and dislikes, decorum of the department, corporate atmosphere, etc.), who owns the company, etc. All of these bits of information are lethal in an interview and show your level of professionalism, knowledge and dedication to your career.

 
4. Send a thank you note - It's almost never done, but it certainly can sway the votes in your favor. Sending a thank you notice to the recruiter and/or any other interested party can certainly illustrate your professionalism and awareness of certain protocols. As well, it's a nice gesture. And, still today, it's almost never done although everyone says to do it!
 
5. Follow instructions - If the job posting says to send a salary history, then send the salary history. So many candidates lose the opportunity because they follow instructions incorrectly, do not include the proper paperwork, or fail to fill in the application correctly. Small errors can erode your clear chances at the job.

6. Understand business protocol - Meaning, for instance, if you are a writer, don't send a blind spec to a network. They, in most cases, won't read it. It's always best to know someone on the inside who can get you a meeting. Sending blind mailouts will only result in frustration on your end. Don't apply for positions that are not listed. You most likely won't get a call (NOT true for internships - most companies are hiring interns year-round with or without advertisement).
 
7. Don't lie - We all know people do it and we all know that people get away with it. In this business, it will catch up to you eventually - usually at a time when you really need a job. People talk in the supermarket, in the gym, at temple, wherever they see eachother, they talk. Your lies will only we well known and your chances at advancement will diminish the more they are used. Just stick with the facts.
 
Hopefully, these seven tips should give you a great start to a successful and fruitful career!

 

As reprinted from the L.A. Weekly - KHIZ Channel 64 / DirecTV 64 - 8PM Saturdays

SHAMELESS PROMO SECTION!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Back to Home