1. Learn About the Company
The telephone can be your best resource. The telephone is often first contact with an employer - make a good first impression - be organized and confident.
- Act honestly and ethically
- Be prepared before you starting making phone calls
- Gather, from various sources, a prospective employer list
- Prepare your list and make calls at a time when you will not be disturbed
- Be positive and enthusiastic, speak audibly, be articulate
- Find out and write down the name and title of the person who can help you - (someone in the department in which you would like to work)
- Immediately state who you are and why you are calling
- Have a schedule of your available time for appointments and a calendar handy
- Write down the results after each call
- Never say that you have no had any experience. Refer to related volunteer work or hobbies
Find out about the company as much as you can.
Employers are always impressed by candidates who have done their homework before an interview.
- What is the business of the organization?
- What is the company best know for?
- What are its products or services?
- How are the products produced?
- Where are its plants, offices, or stores located?
- What is its growth record?
- What market does the company target?
- What are its new products?
- Are there any plans for expansion?
- If the company sells, to whom does it sell? Retailers? Wholesalers?
- Who are the company’s suppliers?
- Who are the company’s competitors?
- What is the company public image?
- How does the company rank in the industry?
- If it s a non-profit organization, what purpose does it serve? How is it funded? Whom does it serve? What functions does it perform?
- Is the organization family owned? If so, will this affect advancement potential?
- What is the turnover rate at the organization?
- What is the organizational structure? How centralized is it? Do subordinates participate in decision-making activities?
- What are the duties and responsibilities of the job?
- What kind of training do new employees receive?
- What are the avenues for advancement?
- When and why is this position available?
