Get to Work !

Unemployed? Then your job right now is to find a job. Don't let personal distractions keep you from putting in the hours necessary to continue your search. Think of this as going to work.      Research companies, industries and positions. Knowledge is power, and power gives you confidence -- something you'll need to succeed in interviews.

First comes the phone

Telephone screening is becoming very common as the first step in the interview process so you need to be prepared for the phone to ring at any time. These screenings usually last 10 to 15    minutes, depending on your answers and fit for the job. It's helpful if you've thought about   questions likely to be asked during the screening (Why did you/are you leaving your job? What makes you qualified for this position?) and prepared your answers.

Put Up With Rejection?

When rejection comes, it may trigger old wounds from past experiences. You may feel hurt, angry or fed up. Instead of being stuck in feeling rejected, take back the power by staying proactive. If you really wanted to work for that particular company, sit down and write a letter, stating how disappointed you were. Remind them of all the positive traits you could bring to the organization. Let them know you are still interested in working for the company if something should change or open up.

Know What You Offer

Prepare answers for open-ended questions, like, "Tell me about yourself," by making a list of your skills and traits that match the employer's requirements. The closer your skills and traits are to the job description, the better chance you have of landing the job. You should leave the interviewer with a clear picture of what you have to offer.

Prove What You Could Do

Always put a positive spin on your answers to difficult questions. If you lack a particular skill or don't know a certain computer program, be sure to emphasize how quickly you learn. Give an  example of a time when you were able to get up to speed in a similar situation. Companies are  interested in people who can hit the ground running.

Sell Yourself

The product you are selling is you. Give them reasons to buy. Tell them what you can do for them. Emphasize what you can bring to the company, department and position. Convince them that your product is better than the competition's.

The World's Toughest Interview Question

Here's a real heart-thumper: Why have you been unemployed so long?
You won't make a great impression by saying, "I wanted to be a full-time parent." Or worse,     "No one would hire me."

When asked this question, give a brief answer and then move on to explain that you're a good fit for the position. For example, "I wanted to be a full-time mom, and I've stayed current in the field. Now that my child is older, I'm eager to get back to work. When I saw your ad, I got excited,     because I could be of help to you."