Last summer, I was on a mission to obtain my very first job. I was a sophomore in college with very little job experience (no job experience as a matter of fact), and I had no clue what I wanted to do. I definitely wanted to do something that I truly enjoyed, but I wasn't exactly sure what that was. I called my local Panda Express, applied to work at the nearest Bath and Body Works, and then something unimaginable happened. I decided to inquire about working at what is now my absolute FAVORITE store in the entire world: Godiva Chocolatier!
I remember how overjoyed I was to find out that (during my UCF Transfer Student Orientation) my then hiring manager had left me a voicemail inviting me to come in for an interview only a few days after I had submitted my application for employment. How did I get the call so quickly, you might ask? Continue reading to find out!
1. Submit an introductory email (i.e. cover letter) to the store you are interested in working for.
This was actually the main reason why my then head manager chose to invite me to partake in an interview with her in the first place. I mean, think about it. EVERYONE sends in an application for employment, but not everyone sends in an introductory email or cover letter to go along with it. In the email, you'll basically want to INTRODUCE yourself to the company. Let them know WHY you're passionate about working for them in the first place, as well as WHAT qualities you possess that will enable you to be successful if you are offered the job.
2. If prompted, submit a professional resume.
Most companies will usually require you to submit a professional resume to them in order to be considered for employment, and that is why you need to make sure that yours is in the best possible condition that it can be. I strongly recommend using myperfectresume.com to create yours, as it will provide you with both a layout and helpful instructions to create the perfect resume!
3. Have someone mock interview you before you attend your actual interview.
This is a BIG one. Taking part in a mock interview with someone (or even practicing answering some general interview questions on your own) before your actual interview date will show the hiring manager just how prepared and determined to work for their company you really are, and this will definitely help you stand out during the recruitment process. Having a friend who is an actual manager of a company mock interview you would be even better, seeing as they've been through the entire hiring/interview process before and can provide you with some tips and tricks to help you to win over one of their own.
4. Make the company realize WHY they need to hire you in the first place.
Aside from selling yourself to your dream company in your introductory letter, you must also do so during your interview with the hiring manager and with any other individuals you may interact with from the company before that time. Show them why you'd be the PERFECT addition to their company. Think about how you can best stand out to them during the interview and then act accordingly (maybe come prepared with some questions to ask regarding the company). Make them remember you and WANT to hire you. Show them why they should hire you to work for them out of all of the other employees who have applied for the same position you have.
5. Make a few visits or phone calls to show the company you are genuinely interested in working for them.
Although this tip is pretty straightforward, it's also a great way to stand out to that dream company of yours! After all, making a few visits or phone calls will not only show that you are genuinely interested in working for them, but it will also provide them with a face and personality to supplement the job application you submitted to them previously. Don't be afraid to ask to speak with the hiring manager either, as they're the ones who will be deciding whether or not to hire you in the end.
6. Maintain a positive attitude at all times.
This goes for communication both in person and over the phone. After all, companies are looking for people who are going to bring in business, and negative employees are only going to do the opposite. One phrase that I like to keep in mind when it comes to this kind of stuff and pretty much everything else I've ever faced in life is the fact that, "Positivity attracts positivity." Think about it. It's pretty accurate. Here's an example: if you are a generally negative person, then you are more likely to attract negative experiences and people into your life. However, if you are a generally positive person, then you are more likely to attract those that are more positive and rewarding.
7. Make sure the job you're applying for is a job that you really want.
*SIGH*
There is nothing worse than dreading having to go to work every day simply because you chose to work for the wrong company just to make a decent paycheck. Keep in mind that it's not all about the money, it's about growing as an individual and getting to do something you truly enjoy on a daily basis. In other words, make sure that the company you decide to commit to is one that you'll truly enjoy working for for an extended period of time. I can honestly say that out of all of the companies I've ever thought of working for over the summer, I know for a fact that I truly wouldn't be happier working anywhere else but Godiva Chocolatier.
Summer is the perfect time to score that one dream job you've always wanted but were too busy to take on during the school year. In order to obtain it, however, you'll need to stand out from the crowd and demonstrate why you truly should be given the opportunity to take it on in the first place. Follow the above steps, show that company why you'd be the perfect new face to represent them, and I can almost guarantee you'll win them over!
