Getting a job is an essential building block for gaining experience and advancing your career, whether you aspire to become a doctor or nurse, join the military, or start your own business. However, everyone needs to start somewhere and gain basic experience in the workforce. Nowadays, many people apply for jobs but receive no response, leaving many to wonder, “Why won’t I get hired despite sending out my resume?” This situation can be confusing and frustrating.
While resumes are important, there are additional factors that employers consider, which many applicants often overlook. These can significantly increase your chances of making a good impression during your interview.
During an interview, it’s not just about how polished your resume looks; it’s also about how you present yourself. Employers look for candidates who take pride in their work and carry themselves with confidence. Showing confidence can leave a lasting impression on your potential employer. I spoke with Mr. Austin, a teacher at PHS who previously worked at GameStop for seven years and has experience hiring individuals. When I asked him what he looks for in a candidate, he said, “As an employer, I look for someone who shows up looking clean and confident. I don’t want to see someone in lazy clothes or lacking personal hygiene.” He emphasized that he also seeks candidates who are confident in themselves and can answer questions with assurance, stating, “I want to see the person’s real personality in the interview.”
Different employers have varying expectations; some are more relaxed, while others are straightforward. This diversity can be overwhelming. To avoid appearing out of place or overly nervous, it’s highly recommended to take deep breaths and collect yourself during the interview. Even though it may seem like a small thing, this can significantly help you articulate your thoughts more clearly when responding to questions, making the interview process smoother for both you and the employer.
I asked my sister Olivia what she thinks is most important during an interview. She responded, “Having a well-made resume is very important. Everyone should go over their resume and ensure it includes any relevant information listed clearly before applying.” She also shared her experience of applying for a job for the first time, saying, “I was very scared because I kept thinking about all the things that could go wrong. When I stepped into the room, my heart was racing, and I felt like the air had left the room. But as the interview progressed, I remembered what my mom told me: to take deep breaths and not overthink things. In the end, I was hired a few days later, which made me feel a wave of happiness mixed with nervousness.” Her experience helped me appreciate what a job interview can truly be like.
The final step in preparation is essential: review your resume thoroughly and highlight anything that could make a good impression, including school accomplishments and personal achievements. Be detailed in your resume and prepare for any questions your employer may ask.
Gabriella, my other sister, advised, “You don’t want to skip out on important details in your resume. Fill out the required fields, such as your age and Social Security number, if needed. Additionally, include a few small achievements, as these can tell your employer more about you.” She further mentioned, “Having accomplishments can leave a positive impression because it shows you are a hardworking and focused individual.”
Overall, being confident, calm, and ensuring your resume is comprehensive can significantly increase your chances of obtaining a job. Employers are looking for candidates who take pride in their work and can be relied upon to get the job done, no matter what that job may be.
