Hints To Follow When Applying For A Job

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 29067, 2 December 1959, Page 21

Hints To Follow When Applying For A Job

When you have made your choice of a career, you have to face up to finding a job. This is where you have to “sell” yourself, in advertising parlance, to an employer. He is, in this sense, the customer, and he will want only the best. Therefore you must make the best of yourself in your interview with an employer.

Remember that first Impressions given to a prospective employer may be the < ones that count. If you are answering an advertisement, it is preferable to telephone for an appointment Be punctual for appointments, as lateness gives the impression of slackness and indifference. Your manner of dress will be noted. It should be neat, tidy, and suited to the occasion. An employer will also notice how you speak—slovenly speech, poor grammar, and slang expressions must be avoided. Be careful how you sit or stand. A poor posture and lounging habits give a bad impression. Try not to be nervous. A pleasant, co-operative attitude and a willingness to answer questions frankly and directly will count in your favour. As a general rule, allow the employer to ask questions first, before you ask yours. Have a clear impression of what you want from the job so that you Can ask intelligent questions. These points can make the difference between success or failure in obtaining a position in the career of your choice. You must also study other factors about careers. These may be even more important in relation to success or failure than those already mentioned. They are: • The day-to-day work of the job, not just its “glamour.” The method of entry. The opportunities, when quali3ed, for promotion. The salary or financial assistance available. The number of openings available, and where. We have already warned you about choosing a career just because it appears to be exciting, omantic, or glamorous. There s not much danger of this if you are careful to find out about iust what you will do when you start in a particular occupation.

Before finally choosing your career you must inquire about openings—the actual chances of ‘getting a job.” You will want, '.oo, to go a little further and discover what lies ahead in the vay of promotion and what work and study that entails. How you anter the job, the commencing salary, and boarding or other allowances payable are all details that you should know about.