Some "Do's and Don'ts" For Potential Employees

I have seen some pretty crazy things on resumes and been involved in some very interesting interviews during my 12 years as an employer.  I feel that I need to provide some "do's and don'ts" in regards to resumes and the interview process.

1.  Create a professional email address.

I recently had a resume where the applicant had listed their email address.  It was something along the lines of sexyhotmama @whatever.com.  Once I saw this I was no longer interested in looking at the rest of the resume.  I strongly suggest that everyone create a professional email address for their resume. 

2. Verify that your references will provide a positive response.

I contacted a reference an applicant provided only to realize they had a falling out with each other.  This reference did not paint a very good picture of this person. 

3.  Prepare yourself/family for a phone call.

Any incoming call can be a potential employer.  Be prepared to get a call for a phone interview at any given time.  Our company spends a lot of time on the phone speaking with our clients and their patients.  So strong phone skills are a must.  Use proper grammar.  If you provide a phone number that anyone in your family may answer, be sure to let them know you may get a call from a potential employer.  About a year ago I called a phone number listed on an applicant's resume and her boyfriend answered.  He was belligerent and actually cost his girlfriend a chance at an interview.  Also leave a basic voice message recording.  Don't try to be a DJ and have a clever intro with music.  Employers are looking for professional people.

4.  Dress for success

Take the time to dress professionally; even if you are just dropping off a resume.  There is nothing worse than having someone drop off a resume wearing flip-flops and cut-off shorts.  Once again employers are looking for professionals.  Personally I would rather have someone come to an interview overdressed as opposed to underdressed.

5.  Don't share your personal problems.

Have you ever been standing in a check out lane at the grocery and the person behind you shares way to much personal information?  People would be amazed at the personal things people have shared with me during an interview.  There is no need to share your personal health problems or the drama you are currently going through with your parents, boyfriend/girlfriend, husband/wife, or kids.  These types of comments are a huge red flag for employers.  Always keep personal issues just that....personal!

These are just five areas that potential employees can take into consideration when applying for a job.  In the end remember everything boils down to being professional.