Getting your head in the game

If one motto applies when you start looking for work, it’s “be prepared.” Most people are good about the basics: updating their resumes, letting their network know they’re searching. But a few key things often get overlooked. Attend to these and you’ll be miles ahead.

1. Make yourself reachable
   Be sure employers can get in touch with you.
   
   
   • Provide a number where they can reliably leave a message.
   • If you have a cell phone, give that number, too. Get in the habit of answering politely and professionally—it’s easy to be too casual on a cell.
   • If people will be taking messages for you, make sure they know the information you need: employer’s company and contact name; telephone number; address; time concerns. When you’re seeking work, your family and friends are your agents : make sure they know it.
   
   
2. Be ready for action
   Sometimes you have to attend a meeting or an interview at a moment’s notice. Make sure you have clean business clothes ready and waiting at all times.
   
   
3. Remember what you’ve applied for
   It always makes a good impression, when a potential employer calls to set up an interview, for you to recall applying—and for what role. Sometimes, companies will contact you to ‘discuss’ your application: this call is really to determine if you should be granted an interview. If you seem distracted or disengaged, you may lose the opportunity to get your foot in the door.
   
   
4. Watch your tone
   It’s surprising how often people try to break the ice in conversation or deflect a compliment by putting themselves down in a joking way. “I’m so clumsy.” “I can never remember a phone number.” “I’m so dumb, I never have a pen with me.” Don’t do this! Whether you’re joking or not, a put-down is a put-down and employers read it as a lack of confidence.