The Do's and Don'ts of Resume Writing and Interviewing

Resumes

1. Do use good quality stock (white or cream) resume paper instead of plain copy paper.
2. Do proof read your resume, use spell check and ask a friend to review the resume to find mistakes you might have missed.
3. Do choose a common font, avoid artistic fonts or graphics.
4. Do mail your resume in an 8 ½ by 11 inch envelope.
5. Don't include personal information such as your weight, height, religion, hobbies, age, race, family or marital status.
6. Don't include reasons you are no longer working for previous employers.
7. Don't use a tiny font in order to include all your information on one page. If you need to use 2 pages to provide the information then do so but be sure you are including relevant information.
8. Don't lie about experience or dates of employment or exaggerate duties. Some employers may verify your work history and discovering lies or exaggerations will not provide a positive picture of you as an employee.
9. Don't include copies of letters of recommendation, transcripts, awards, etc unless specifically asked to do so.
10. Do remember that this is the first impression an employer will have of you and you want it to be your best!

Interviewing

1. Do arrive early for your interview but by no more than 10-15 minutes.
2. Do bring breath mints, tissues, a small sewing kit, etc. for any minor emergencies.
3. Do dress to impress but not distract- when in doubt, don't wear it! Limit jewelry, cologne/ perfume and makeup.
4. Do prepare for the questions you will be asked and bring specific examples of past successful experiences with you to the interview.
5. Do prepare a list of questions YOU want to ask beyond the basics of "how much will I make" and "when can I start".
6. Do bring several copies of your resume in case you interview with more than one individual.
7. Don't slouch or use closed body posture during the interview.
8. Don't be rude to people you may meet during your interview- everyone is a potential interviewer!
9. Do be clear and concise in your answers and include specific examples of your strengths or achievements.
10. Do allow ample time for the interview in case it runs long!
11. Don't get distracted by other things during the interview- this is your one chance to make a great impression.
12. Don't forget to write down who you are meeting, where and when and bring that with you to the interview. You may be nervous so don't rely on your memory!
13. Don't forget to thank the manager at the conclusion of the interview, ask for a business card in case you have further questions and shake their hand. Do follow up with a thank you note a day later (mail or email are both acceptable formats).
14. Do make notes after your interview and include important names and facts about the unit that you want to remember.
15. Don't be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the unit/ facility in a professional manner!