How To Get the Interview

Landing the interview for the job that you want doesn't have to be rocket science. Sometimes you can score the interview by simply making a phone call. There are many ways that people go about trying to accomplish this. The methods can vary by company. It is best to know what the company's application process is before taking your first step.

Generally, when a company is hiring they post an ad in the newspaper or an online job bank. How to contact them is usually included in the ad as well. You don't want to email a resume to a company that is requesting that you go direct to apply. You don't want to call a company that requires a faxed resume either. By ignoring their initial contacting information you will almost guarantee that you will not get the interview because you have already proven that you cant follow simple directions.  When instructions are unclear or difficult to follow, if a phone number is provided, a simple anonomous call with a few probing questions will generally get you the information you need. Just make sure that you are asking the right person to begin with.

Sometimes, you can hear of a job lead from a friend, parent, neighbor or collegue before the job has even been posted. If this is the case, ask the friend if they will give their employer your resume and cover letter if appropriate.

If your friend doesn't actually work where the lead came from, you can try calling about the position and ask what the application procedure is.  Just be careful that your friend or neighbor is a respected employee, the last thing you need is guilt by association.

There are four general methods of applying for a job, and they include these basic methods:

• Sending your resume
• Faxing Your Resume
• Emailing Your Resume
• Walk-In Your Resume
• Telephoning for an Interview