Everett, Wash.
Published: Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Don't turn to antics in your job hunt

By Eve Nicholas

 Some job hunters will try anything to stand out from the crowd. Especially in a competitive job market, these risk takers resort to off-the-wall tactics, such as sending carnival-colored resumes, delivering flowers to the employer's office, or showing up at a lunch meeting without an invitation.

It's true that you must capture attention in order to land a job. You need to do something to get noticed, or you'll miss out on great opportunities. But even in industries that rely on creativity, such as advertising and entertainment, there is a line that shouldn't be crossed.

Most companies seek out individuals who challenge the status quo while maintaining their composure. They favor real-world experience over antics, and they'd rather hire someone with innovative ideas and solid achievements over, well, just about anyone else.

So, how do you win an employer's attention in a tough job market? Return to the fundamentals. Most job hunters don't enjoy the chore of resume writing and the tedium of practicing for interviews. But this is critical. If you want to stand out, you must improve your presentation.

It's up to you to ensure that bosses read your letter, review your resume, and shake your hand at the end of every interview knowing (without a doubt) that you will add value to the workplace. You'll bring in new clients. Negotiate profitable deals. Simplify the office. Inspire coworkers. Whatever talents or expertise you possess, figure out how they fit in with a company, and present them in a way that definitively proves that you are the ideal person for the job.

A terrific resume is energizing. Not just for you and your career, but for the employers who sigh with relief (and joy) when they come across a strong, powerful document that makes them stop in their tracks.

The same holds true for cover letters and interviews. They're invigorating! An outstanding letter can single-handedly open doors, and a seamless interview has the potential to revive your career, changing your life on the spot.

If you are in the habit of sending lazy correspondence or slouching your way through job interviews, it's time to whisk into action. Don't be tempted by shortcuts, pranks, games or inappropriate gestures. Instead, sit down and evaluate your career, figure out your strengths, and build a job search strategy from the ground up -- one that earns an employer's consideration by highlighting your real-life experience and assets.

By the way, you don't necessarily need a lot of hands-on work experience to outshine other candidates. Even newcomers to the job market will excel with a well-written resume, a persuasive cover letter and a confident yet humble interview style.

Here's a quick reminder for job hunters at all levels: Always research the company before arriving at an interview. Learn as much as you can about the business, and get ready to engage in a discussion about your talents and abilities, and the ways that you will improve the business, from your first day on the job.

As I mentioned, every industry has a line that shouldn't be crossed. It separates a compelling candidate from someone who takes pointless risks. Be professional. Make a dynamic, job-winning impression based on your merits.

Send your job search questions to Eve.GetAJob@gmail.com.
© 2009The Daily Herald Co., Everett, WA