Are you actively on the hunt for a new job? Finding one that interests you is just the starting point.
Human resources practitioner Tania McDonald-Tomlinson advises that once you've identified a job vacancy, there are critical considerations you need to make before even initiating the application process.
The practitioner says questioning the position is paramount.
"Are you qualified for the role being advertised? What do you know about the company and are you aligned with their core values? Is your resume a true reflection of your qualifications, skills and experience?" she explains are all essential queries you should ask yourself once you have zeroed in on a prospective employment opportunity.
Next step: The job application
At this juncture, McDonald-Tomlinson, who is currently director of people operations and special projects at JPS and a former vice-president of HR at Mayberry Investments, recommends that in doing so, you should edit your resume for grammar and that the content must be truthful.
"Do not exaggerate or sell yourself short as the recruiter needs a real picture of the person behind the application, so the contents must be a true reflection of you," she told Loop News.
"Ensure that you represent accurate qualifications as background checks are done so what you have on paper can be proven."
Immediate reactions matter and with this mind, it's best to have someone edit your cover letter and resume.
"The worst thing to have as a first impression is terrible grammar. That could be the difference between a 'file 13' and a call for an interview," cautions the veteran HR professional who holds a master’s in human resource development from the University of the West Indies and a bachelor's in human resource management from University College of the Caribbean.
"Find out who the cover letter is to be addressed to and make sure the address is accurate as when bulk applications are being sent, it is very easy to make mistakes in this area, the correct name [of the human resources person] but the wrong company."
On the matter of people utilising Chat GPT or AI to craft their cover letters, McDonald-Tomlinson encouraged prospective job applicants to "edit the output and make it sound like you, as recruiters can spot 'fake' a mile away as we use AI too. Recruiters value authenticity. We need to see the real you to see if you are an organisational fit."
Should you've made it to being called in for an interview, by all means, do not make these cardinal sins in your wardrobe selections.
A definitive don't, she warns, "is wearing uncomfortable clothing. You do not need to be distracted by ill-fitted clothes in an interview. You also do not want what you are wearing to distract the hiring manager or interview panel."
For women, this means no short, low-cut or tight clothes. Meanwhile for men, she recommends "no pants below your waist, and pants legs so tight you can't sit properly. Clothes must be crush-free and clean smelling."
Abide by a simple credo: wear clean, simple clothing appropriate to the position you are interviewing for and call ahead to find out the dress code of the organisation.
"Also ensure your body and hair are clean and make sure you smell fresh. But no overpowering cologne or perfume as some people are allergic to strong smells," McDonald-Tomlinson noted.
Try to get to the interview at least half an hour before the appointed time to have leeway for any unforeseen issues which may arise, and to settle yourself and observe the environment. "This quiet time in the space also helps you to decide if this is the place for you," the HR expert said, adding that you should be courteous to all you meet. "Some interviews start with the receptionist, or the security guard, how you treat them could reach the ears of the hiring manager."
You should walk with your updated resume, a notebook and pen.
"Have questions ready and ask if it's okay to take notes during the interview," she advised. "You should actively listen, and if you do not understand a question, ask for clarification. Do not zone out during the interview and establish eye contact."
Post-interview, acceptable etiquette according to McDonald-Tomlinson makes it fine "to pen a simple thank you and email the relevant person. It does not guarantee you will be the chosen one, but it shows you went a little above and beyond for the opportunity. Calling may be more 'invasive' and you may not be successful in reaching the person. An email will reach them."
By Omar Tomlinson
