Tips for Interacting with a Hiring Manager
Most of us have been passed over for a job at some point. In many cases, after receiving the generic, “You were one of many qualified applicants” we’re left wondering where we went wrong. Whether we want to admit it or not, it’s true that a first impression is a lasting one. How you initially present yourself can make or break your chances of getting hired. A hiring manager is considering your compatibility for a position starting from the very first email exchange. At WiseHR Group, we believe that every individual holds unique value and has gifts and talents worth exploring. You are more than just one name in a sea of applicants. We want to provide a few practical tips for successful interactions with hiring managers so that your distinctive strengths and qualifications can be the focus in any interview setting.
1. Use a Professional Greeting
Always keep a professional, formal tone in any correspondence regarding a job. Never address a hiring manager with “Hey” or “Hi there”—even in an email. If you do not know the name of the person you are trying to reach, you can use the generic greeting “Dear Hiring Manager.” When you are signing off, the traditional “Sincerely,” or “Regards,” followed by your name, are both appropriate.
2. Research the Company
The Internet is a great resource. Visiting the company’s website is a good place to start. You should familiarize yourself with how they’re structured, how they position themselves in the market and their mission. Don’t feel like you need to learn each employee’s name and every important date in the company’s history, but taking a few minutes to learn the basics will go a long way.
3. Come with Questions
Don’t be caught off guard—the person who interviews you will surely ask if you have any questions by the end of interview. Come up with a few about the business and some about the interviewer’s specific experience with the company.
4. Dress to Impress
Think about the job you want—not the job you have—as you consider what to wear for a Skype or in-person interview. If you’re unsure of what to put on, err on the side of more professional. It’s better to be overdressed than underdressed for the occasion. Consider your audience in all aspects of your appearance for an interview. Your hair, makeup, nails and any accessories should all reflect a professional, well put-together attitude.
5. Be Prepared
It may seem overkill in a world that relies so heavily on computers, but you should bring three physical copies of your resumé and a list of references to your interview, as well as something to write with and write on. You’ll want to make sure everyone you meet with can have your credentials in front of them, and you’ll want to have a place to take notes for your own records.
6. Prove You Value Punctuality
Hiring managers will appreciate it if you arrive early. Plan for delays in your commute, and try to get there with time to spare. If you get there too early, it may be an inconvenience to them. You should avoid arriving more than 10 or 15 minutes early.
It’s important to stand out to hiring managers in a positive way from the very beginning. The great thing about these tips—you can start implementing them immediately! Take a few extra moments ahead of every opportunity to see where you can earn extra points in the area of professionalism. These adjustments will go a long way and could mean the difference between moving up in the interview process and being passed over.
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