Boost Your Potential

Networking involves mixing with other professionals in your industry and in other sectors of professional careers, in settings that can be casual or more formal, planned or unplanned and often involving meeting new people with whom there has been no previous relationship. Networking provides resources and expertise for professionals to share information about various business events and news, updates on various types of industry or area developments which could impact jobs and other interesting facts which could affect personal performances or a business’ performance. Contacts may also make suggestions when they have experience in an area being discussed or could offer other resources.

Networking is about building relationships that are mutually beneficial. Networking contacts begin a relationship by demonstrating they can be trusted by showing respect for the other professional. As the relationship grows, each person comes to understand the other as a professional which would make a networking contact likely to recommend or refer a job seeker.

Anyone seeking a new position, perhaps uneasy with networking, may be unaware of the vast array of resources available to support a job search. Networks are actually quite large, with numerous sources to be considered.

• Family – You can explain to your family the type of position being sought and an introduction or referral may be possible if family members know of position.
• Friends – this includes classmates, relatives of friends, neighbors or teammates. Because a relationship has been established, friends may make suggestions or contacts.
• College or One-Stop Career Counselors – these professionals regularly become aware of openings and if your search has been discussed, your interest would be considered if an opportunity becomes available and the counselor trusts the job candidate.
• College Professors – reach out to professors who know your academic work well; they may be able to connect you to professionals in their network who have job openings. You may also want to consider using at least one college professor as a reference if you are a current student or recent graduate.
• Church, Synagogue, or Mosque – in many instances, people attending your place of worship may feel there is a similar set of values and be comfortable recommending an available job opening.
• Former Bosses or Coaches – part-time, summer or full time jobs, as well as sports teams, will have proven your value as part of a working group. The boss or coach will have direct knowledge of your performance and may feel comfortable making a recommendation if they were impressed.
• Former Co-workers – people with whom you previously worked, either still at the company or perhaps have moved on, may know of new opportunities.
• Alumni Groups – graduates from the schools you attended may have suggestions as they have been in the same situation. Networking events, perhaps suggested by these groups, are opportunities to establish and build relationships.

Begin by making a list of possible contacts for your job search.

When making an introduction in the professional setting, a common question would be to ask about your interests. Recent graduates may be asked if they have made a decision about their new career search and if the candidate has identified where their job focus will be directed.

Answering this question effectively will help anyone in a job search. Having a vague response and not identifying a focus area will not provide your network contact with enough information to assist you with your search. Perhaps use a brief example or story to help illustrate your point. Most people enjoy stories, which are easier to remember, so creating an answer that includes a short example of how a problem was solved or how a great idea was developed, will be memorable and help create a sense of why you should be considered for a job.

Contacts Count (www.contactscount.com), a nationwide firm specializing in business networking, has a simple formula that can be used to develop an answer. It involves two parts:

• Decide on a phrase that focuses on one skill or talent.
• Come up with an example to provide a vivid picture.

Example:

A job seeker wants to get an information technology job such as a computer systems administrator. The candidate excels in determining space requirements and what upgrades a company might need and has just completed such a project as a volunteer at a local non-profit organization.

• Decide on a phrase that focuses on one skill or talent: Ability to determine space requirements and upgrades
• Come up with an example to provide a vivid picture: Work at my local non-profit where I analyzed the upgrades needed for better efficiency and recommended new software. I can insure the software can be integrated into the system.

When the candidate puts the two together, they have a clear, concise and compelling way to answer the question “What are your job interests?”:

“I have been working as a volunteer at the local non-profit to identify their space requirements for the addition of a new contact management system and website. I was able to determine the appropriate upgrades and recommended new software. Over the past month, I have insured the existing hardware can support the newly installed software. I would like to find a permanent position to support and maintain the company’s computer system.”

This answer helps networking contacts visualize the type of job the candidate desires. Individuals without current employment and/or new graduates can use volunteer experiences, sports or club teams examples and leadership in extracurricular activities to demonstrate their interests. Hearing this information, networking contacts may be able to think of companies that need that type of skill. Specific and vivid answers will be most helpful.

Networking cards are similar to business cards, with contact information and a brief description of the candidate’s interests. The goal is to make it easy for contacts, with whom the candidate has discussed their job interests, to get back in touch, especially if another job has come to their attention.

There are four essential things to include on the cards:

• Name
• Phone number
• Email
• What you do: Information Technology, “Support and Maintenance of Computer Systems”

Including an address is optional but could be helpful if information needs to be mailed.

Sample Card:

Carrying these cards at all times is beneficial in the job search because networking opportunities can happen everywhere. Cards can be designed using a template and printed on business card stock, which is easy to locate at such places as Staples or Office Depot or online sites such as www.vistaprint.com, provide free cards (there is a shipping and processing charge).

• For college/university students – the Career Center on campus may schedule events with alumni, business organizations and industry job fairs, as well as chambers of commerce or other networking groups. Check the schedule at the Career Center.
• The newspaper, radio announcements and business publications for associations in the industry of choice also share upcoming events. Libraries have a book, titled the Encyclopedia of Associations to help find an organization in an area of interest. This book has a comprehensive listing of groups representing a wide variety of industries. After identifying organizations of interest using the book, visit each organization’s website for details about upcoming meetings.
• Ask networking contacts for suggestions about meetings they attend or groups they support. Ask to attend as their guest. This would offer an opportunity to interact with professionals in a setting with someone for support.

There is expected conduct and etiquette during networking or other professional events that will present you as professional, offering contacts and referral sources assurance in recommending you for a new position.

Keep the following tips in mind:

• Sharing a conversation that is beneficial to both parties. While listening carefully to your networking partner is important as well as polite, being part of the conversation is essential. The other person will be interested in your point of view and experience and an interesting exchange only occurs when both people are engaged in conversation.
• Good partnerships mean respecting the other person’s point, which means allowing the other party to complete their point without interrupting. By not interrupting and providing them courtesy to finish, the candidate will demonstrate professional respect.
• A candidate’s appearance can be a good indication of how the person will represent the perspective company. People will form an impression based on the candidate’s appearance and use that impression to reflect on how they would perform in the job. If the networking event is casual, such as an outdoor event, it is still important to represent yourself as a professional.
• When meeting or greeting someone, a professional handshake always makes the right impression. Shaking hands, using an easy but firm grip, will display a professional approach. However, placing your hands on the person’s shoulder or arm may be perceived as too forward, trying to dominate or take control of the conversation.
• It is important to remain at a reasonable space from the person being greeted without crowding. In the United States, standing too close can invade a person’s private space, perhaps causing the person to take a step back. It is even more critical to respect the customs of other nationalities and other country’s cultures, where networking can be very different so it is important to check local customs.
• To have a contact remember your name, wear your name tag on your right shoulder. This is a well-known marketing technique because most people shake hands using the right hand, which causes their eyes to go directly to the right shoulder where they can easily glance at the name tag. Because 77% of all people are visual learners, this will enhance remembering because the contact will both hear the introduction and see the name tag. Another important rule – remembering names is an important skill to develop because it creates value.
• Your cell phone should always be turned off during a networking event. When at an event, anyone in a conversation would perceive an interruption from an outside phone call as rude. The conversation with the contact takes precedence and may represent a new opportunity. If you are expecting a call that cannot wait, alert the other person to that circumstance early in the conversation.
• Eating at a networking event or even during a job interview requires good manners and careful food choices. Make certain to choose foods that are not messy or difficult to eat. Again, the appearance made by the candidate will reflect on their professionalism.
• A handwritten thank-you note is the best way to acknowledge someone’s assistance in the job search. It is important to thank anyone who helps you. It could be the referral source, the associate supporting the search or the career center professional who receives the note and that person will immediately know they made a good choice with their recommendation. While an e-mail note of appreciation is acceptable, a brief handwritten note is best to explain how their help supported your job search efforts.
• Be Responsive. If a networking contact requested a resume or other information, it is important to send the materials within 24-48 hours. Do not wait. Prompt follow-through is a way to be seen as reliable and competent.
• Time management is one of the most respected attributes for any professional, in any industry. Returning phone calls on time, arriving promptly for events and meetings, and answering correspondence in a timely manner will enhance and prove your professional reputation. Being reliable is essential in business.

Being uncomfortable with networking should not prevent a candidate from being effective. There are suggestions to help job candidates feel at ease, particularly if the candidate is shy or reserved and uncomfortable opening the conversation.

Being introverted or feeling uncomfortable at networking events is not uncommon, but it is still possible to be successful at networking events. People who are more reserved, usually listen well and will be able to gather valuable information. Asking good questions is the key to getting good information. By having a few questions prepared, as well as responses to possible questions to be asked at the event, the candidate can be successful and feel at ease.

Planning ahead of the event can help ease anxiety and below are other suggestions to make the experience more comfortable:

• Attend the first few networking events with a friend or associate to help gain comfort with the experience. After arriving and making initial conversation with a small group, venture off alone for a short time to make another contact to avoid spending the entire time together.
• Set a goal, perhaps to make one or two new contacts, during the event. Once this has been accomplished, it will be easier to relax for the remainder of the event. If a large group of people is intimidating, concentrate on a few individuals and acknowledge success after talking with one or two.
• Identify several questions for use when you are meeting someone new. Focus on finding out about the new contact by asking simple questions about how they became interested in their line of work or have they always worked in the industry in which they currently are employed.
• When given the opportunity, consider being a volunteer at the event. By arriving early and perhaps checking people in or take reservations gives an opportunity to begin a conversation. A volunteer job provides an expected way to get an introduction, which provides a way to seek people out later in the event.
• Look for people standing alone and make eye contact, smiling to see if they appear friendly. Introducing yourself to someone new as quickly as possible after arriving helps to reduce anxiety. Even if you feel anxious, it’s important to show a positive attitude. People want to be around others who are friendly.

Remember, most people welcome conversation and may be introverted as well. By deciding to enjoy the evening and find ways to laugh, the event can be a success.

Different federal agencies – and the companies that complete contract work for them – operate on slightly different timelines when it comes to hiring individuals and vetting them for new security clearances. But every timeline is lengthy.

Look at intelligencecareers.gov to find the most up-to-date timelines for each agency. As of spring 2020, the average time it takes to land a job offer and security clearance to work at the National Security Agency is 33-42 weeks. Successful applicants for jobs with the Defense Intelligence Agency or Director of National Intelligence typically require 20-plus weeks to complete the hiring and security clearance procedures while applicants to the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency typically need 18-plus weeks.

There are several things that the applicant can do to help this process move as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Prepare in advance for the SF 86: You don’t have to wait until you receive a job offer to start working through the SF 86. Go to www.opm.gov/forms, download a copy of the SF 86 and begin compiling the needed information. It could enable you to start that new job a few weeks sooner.

Full, honest disclosure: Provide true and complete answers to questions on the SF 86 and to the investigators’ questions. Applicants – including transitioning military who have been through background checks and security clearances before – sometimes try to “self-adjudicate.” They might omit certain details they believe could be problematic in obtaining their security clearance. Failure to fully disclose, however, can prolong the background investigation, raise serious questions about the applicant’s integrity and ultimately result in the denial of a security clearance or job offer.

Be prompt, be available: When a federal official contacts you for a Personal Subject Interview, a polygraph or other appointment, take the first available date. That practice will avoid prolonging the security clearance process and demonstrate your commitment to securing a clearance and starting work. Also keep the agency and investigator informed of your current address and full contact information.

Once you have been selected for a position requiring clearance, you will then complete security forms (SF85P and SF86) or Electronic Questionnaires for Investigations Processing (e-Quip) and other supporting documents. Your signature on these documents will allow the agency to check your history, including employment, credit and financial records, military background, police record, medical records and other areas of your life.

The security office will generally submit your forms or e-QIP to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) which will conduct the investigation. A prerequisite for accessing classified national security information is the completion and favorable outcome of a background investigation. The scope of the investigation will vary, depending on the nature of the position.

Local agency checks will be conducted to review your criminal history within the jurisdictions where you have lived, worked or attended school. During the investigative process, inappropriate conduct from your past may be uncovered. This is not automatic grounds for denial of a clearance. In fact, the investigators will look deeply into the actual incident and determine its relevance on a case-by-case basis. They will consider the following factors:

• The nature, extent, and seriousness of the conduct;
• The circumstances surrounding the conduct, such as your knowledgeable participation;
• The frequency of the conduct and how recent it was;
• The extent to which participation was voluntary;
• The presence or absence of rehabilitation and other permanent behavioral changes;
• The motivation for the conduct;
• The potential for pressure, coercion, exploitation or duress; and
• The likelihood of continuation or recurrence.

The investigation may also include interviews with co-workers, family, friends and other acquaintances; a review of your medical, credit and financial history; a criminal records check; and questioning regarding illegal drug usage, contact with foreign nationals and other topics.

Background investigations that include interviews must include a sufficient number of people who know you well, such as neighbors, co-workers, supervisors and, if applicable, former spouses. Background investigators will want to talk to as many knowledgeable people as possible to get a balanced, accurate, and comprehensive picture of you. Later, you may have an opportunity to refute any misleading or false information that was reported about you. When investigators are conducting interviews with your references – those that you supply and those that are developed by the agency – and your past and current employers, they are trying to determine particular information about you.

Many types of background investigations involve a personal interview, which is used to validate the data you filled out in your SF86 and clarify any other information about you. Investigators will be sure to verify:

• Your U.S. citizenship and the citizenship of immediate family members
• Your date and place of birth
• Your education level
• Your employment for the last seven years
• Your financial status
• Completion of the SF86 and that it is current within 90 days of the investigation.

To obtain a security clearance for a civilian position at NSA and some other federal agencies, applicants must take a Full Scope polygraph which covers both counterintelligence and lifestyle issues. Consequently, the test can include questions about espionage, sabotage, terrorist activities, deliberate damage of government information systems or secret contacts with foreign agents, as well as questions about you involvement with drugs, alcohol, crime, financial mismanagement or efforts to falsify your SF 86.

You should prepare for a suitability polygraph by:

• Reviewing the information contained in your SF86
• Getting a good night’s sleep
• Taking regular medications
• Not skipping any meals
• Coming with an open mind
• Allowing enough time in your schedule
• Arriving early

Polygraphs can be intimidating so it’s helpful to understand the process and follow a few best practices.

The Process: The polygraph is completed in three phases. During the pre-test phase, the examiner reviews the releases which the applicant needs to sign, and explains the equipment used in the test. The examiner and applicant talk through all the questions that will be asked and the applicant can raise any questions or concerns about the test. Experts urge applicants to treat this as a conversation and an opportunity to get more comfortable with the process.

During the test, the examiner asks the pre-approved questions as well as several irrelevant questions. The examiner asks the set of questions several times in order to obtain better readings. Examiners realize that many candidates feel stress during the polygraph and can adjust their equipment accordingly.

Following the test, the examiner and applicant may discuss any answers that generated an inconclusive result or that suggest deception. They may develop an alternate, preferable way to ask about the same topic.

Applicants get three opportunities to take the polygraph before a final adjudication of their security clearance application is completed.

Best Practices: Polygraph experts recommend applicants avoid over-preparing for polygraphs and simply treat them as honest (if somewhat unusual) conversations.

• Provide true and complete information on your SF 86, and answer the examiner’s questions truthfully, promptly and completely. Address sensitive and even problematic topics honestly. Any effort to conceal or downplay such issues could lead an examiner to conclude that an applicant is being deceptive.
• Avoid researching polygraph strategies online. Many websites contain misinformation about polygraphs, including so-called strategies for passing or beating a polygraph. Such sites can be misguiding, heighten an applicants’ stress level and even lead an examiner to suspect deception.
• Follow your normal routine preceding the polygraph – get a typical night’s sleep, eat your typical diet, go to the gym, etc. Some stress is common among individuals taking polygraphs. So do the things that make the day feel normal and make you feel comfortable so that you can minimize your stress.

The adjudicative process is the careful weighing of a number of variables known as the “whole person concept” and includes an examination of a sufficient period of your life to determine if you are an acceptable security risk. Available, reliable information about you – past and present, favorable and unfavorable – is considered in reaching a determination of your eligibility for a security clearance.

Adjudicators, who render clearance decisions, review the completed investigations. They consider all the available information – the good, the bad and the ugly – when making clearance decisions, applying the criteria for access to classified or sensitive information as spelled out in Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) 704.

Adjudicators assess the collected information against the ICD 704 Adjudicative Guidelines to decide if you are eligible for a clearance or a position of trust. If no significant adverse information is uncovered, you’ll be granted clearance eligibility at the level requested by your agency. If significant, unfavorable or unresolved material develops, it could mean that your case will be delayed until additional information is gathered and facts are verified. Ultimately, you may be denied a clearance.

Clearances can be denied only on the basis of substantive information that raises concerns about stability, loyalty, character, judgment, reliability or trustworthiness. They are never denied on the basis of gender, race, religion or sexual orientation.

The Department of Defense has gone to great lengths to ensure that the clearance process is fair and balanced. Clearances aren’t denied without people getting a chance to give their side of the story – to explain or rebut any derogatory information that has developed.

Federal agencies will normally accept another agency’s investigation as the basis for granting a security clearance, provided your last security clearance investigation was completed within the past five years for a Top Secret clearance and 10 years for a Secret clearance, and you have not had a break in service of more than two years. Also considered is whether there have been any significant changes in your situation since your last investigation. Some federal agencies might have additional investigative or adjudicative requirements that must be met prior to their accepting a clearance granted by another agency.

Specifically, there are 13 Adjudication Guidelines that adjudicators consider when determining eligibility for access to classified information and eligibility to perform sensitive duties. A brief summary of each guideline is provided below, or you can review the full document on the guidelines here.

• Allegiance to the United States: An individual must be of unquestioned allegiance to the United States. The willingness to safeguard classified information is in doubt if there is any reason to suspect an individual’s allegiance to the United States.

Example of a concern: Membership in an organization that supports overthrowing the U.S. government.

• Foreign Influence: Foreign contacts and interests may be a security concern if the individual has divided loyalties, is vulnerable to pressure from any foreign interest, or foreign financial interests which may be manipulated to help a foreign person, group or government in a way that is not in U.S. interests.

Example of a concern: Failure to report, when required, an association with a foreign national.

• Foreign Preferences: When an individual acts in such a way as to indicate a preference for a foreign country over the United States, then he or she may be prone to provide information or make decisions that are harmful to the interests of the United States. This category is primarily relevant to dual citizens. Examiners want to ensure an individual isn’t taking advantage of the benefits of their other citizenship, such as traveling on a foreign passport.

Example of a concern: Failure to report to an appropriate security official the possession of a passport issued by any other country.

• Sexual Behavior: Sexual behavior is a security concern if it involves a criminal offense; indicates a personality or emotional disorder; may subject the individual to coercion, exploitation, or duress; or reflects lack of judgment or discretion. Sexual orientation or preference may not be used as a disqualifying factor in determining a person’s eligibility for a security clearance. Examiners will look for evidence of criminal sexual behavior, recent or frequent use of prostitutes, or viewing of child pornography.

Example of a concern: Sexual behavior of a criminal nature, whether or not the individual has been prosecuted.

• Personal Conduct: Conduct involving questionable judgment, lack of candor, dishonesty or unwillingness to comply with rules and regulations can raise questions about an individual’s reliability, trustworthiness and ability to protect classified information. Examiners will look for evidence that an applicant has hidden or distorted some aspect of their personal information on the SF 86 and in other examinations.

Example of a concern: Deliberately providing false or misleading information concerning relevant facts to an investigator or security official.

• Financial Considerations: Failure to live within one’s means, satisfy debts and meet financial obligations may indicate poor self-control, lack of judgement or unwillingness to abide by rules or regulations. An individual who is financially overextended is at risk of having to engage in illegal acts to generate funds. Unexplained affluence is often linked to proceeds from financially profitable criminal acts.

Example of a concern: A history of not meeting financial obligations or an inability or unwillingness to satisfy debts.

• Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption often leads to the exercise of questionable judgment or the failure to control impulses, and can raise questions about an individual’s reliability and trustworthiness. Examiners will look for signs of alcohol abuse, including instances of public intoxication and Driving Under the Influence (DUI) convictions.

Example of a concern: Alcohol-related incident, such as driving while under the influence.

• Drug Involvement: Use of an illegal drug or misuse of a prescription drug can raise questions about an individual’s reliability and trustworthiness, both because it may impair judgment and because it raises questions about a person’s ability or willingness to comply with laws, rules and regulations. Many applicants are hesitant to disclose isolated instances of experimenting with drugs in their youth. Full disclosure is always the best course. As long as the applicant has not used drugs in recent years, those isolated youthful incidents are generally not grounds to deny a security clearance. Applicants, however, should be cautious about their behavior in states or countries where marijuana or other drugs are legal. Recent and/or repeated drug use in those settings typically is not excused.

Example of a concern: Recent drug use, illegal drug possession or drug dependence.

• Psychological Conditions: Certain emotional, mental and personality conditions can impair judgment, reliability or trustworthiness. Examiners will look for evidence of untreated mental illness, unreliability or dysfunctional behavior.

Example of a concern: The individual has failed to follow treatment advice related to a diagnosed emotional, mental or personality condition, such as failure to take prescribed medication.

• Criminal Conduct: Criminal activity creates doubt about a person’s judgment, reliability and trustworthiness. Examiners will look for evidence of felonies, misdemeanors and infractions. As with youthful drug experiments, a youthful infraction can be tolerated if the applicant has demonstrated good behavior since and has good character references.

Example of a Concern: A single serious crime or multiple lesser offenses.

• Handling Protected Information: Deliberate or negligent failure to comply with rules and regulations for protecting classified information or other sensitive information raises doubt about an individual’s trustworthiness, judgment, reliability or willingness to safeguard such information and is a concern. These can range from repeatedly failing to lock a safe to showing a callous attitude towards your duties. They are any behaviors that suggest the applicant might fail to properly handle classified information.

Example of a concern: Collecting or storing classified information in an unauthorized location.

• Outside Activities: Involvement in certain types of outside employment or activities is of security concern if it poses a conflict with an individual’s security responsibilities and could create an increased risk of unauthorized disclosure of classified information. Examiners will explore the applicant’s outside activities and personal connections to identify any situation that might present a serious risk.

Example of a concern: Service or employment with the government of a foreign country.

• Use of Information Technology Systems: Noncompliance with rules, procedures, guidelines or regulations pertaining to information technology systems may raise security concerns about an individual’s trustworthiness, willingness and ability to properly protect classified systems, networks and information. Information Technology Systems include all related equipment used for the communication, transmission, processing, manipulation and storage of classified or sensitive information. This category covers such activities as excessive illegal downloading of music, misuse of a workplace computer system (for example, to access pornography) or hacking.

Example of a concern: Illegal or unauthorized entry into any IT system or component thereof.

Naturally, some thoughtful reflection on your military service, other work experiences, training, skills, strengths, interests, favorite (and least favorite) jobs, ambitions and lifestyle preferences will lead you to solid ideas about the types of jobs and careers you would like to pursue after leaving the military. You should also be open to new opportunities that are different from your current job.

Some career-focused conversations can also help you identify the most desirable civilian careers. For example, contacting former commanding officers or military colleagues who have already left the service can lead to especially insightful conversations about civilian job options and the opportunities that might suit you best.

One of the most common mistakes that departing military members make is to accept a limited view of their job and career options. Skills acquired while serving in one role in the military may equip you for a wide variety of jobs in the civilian world.

For example, a member of a military motor pool doesn’t have to limit their job search or career planning to automotive or transportation companies. Their mechanical skills may make them great matches for jobs at manufacturers, heavy equipment companies, construction companies, shipping/distribution companies and other businesses focused on machinery.

Similarly, any individual who has been involved in the boundless logistics of the U.S. armed forces could be well suited to careers in Maryland’s large and flourishing cargo and distribution sector. Think of the activities of the Port of Baltimore, Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport or the growing number of distribution centers – such as Amazon, UnderArmour and Rite Aid – along the I-95 corridor.

Search widely for career options. There are more suitable and desirable opportunities than you think.

Assorted services and websites can enhance this process with tools that assess your interests, skills and work values in order to propose potentially suitable and desirable careers.

• The U.S. Department of Labor website – www.careeronestop.org – provides a wealth of resources, including skills and interest assessments, career profiles, training information, job search strategies and connections to local job boards, apprenticeship programs and networking resources. The site also links to the Veteran and Military Transition Center – a one-stop service for transitioning service members looking for employment, training or financial assistance.
• CareerScope® – https://va.careerscope.net/gibill – offers veterans, transitioning service members and their spouses a free online assessment. Developed by the Vocational Research Institute, Career Scope has proven to be an effective yet easy-to-use career assessment tool.
• My Next Move – https://www.mynextmove.org/vets/ – enables veterans and transitioning military to explore career options, various industries and job opportunities that mesh with their military experience and civilian aspirations. The site was created by O*NET – a source of occupational information developed under sponsorship from the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
• Futurelearncareers – https://futurelearncareers.com/ –  free browser for advanced career search that will match your education and skills. Search for any job and receive all the skills, education/courses, specifications, and average salary.

It’s important to know the specifics of a company before going to the job interview. By doing research ahead of time, hiring managers see that preparation has been done and that the candidate was interested enough to learn about the company before the interview. Many job candidates fail to take this important step. The candidate with knowledge of the company stands out. Typically, you will want to determine each of the following pieces of information about a company to which you are applying:

• What they do, who they are and what they provide: Company websites are a good place to learn basic company information, products and services, names of the CEO and other upper personnel in management or a list of existing clients.
• Determine if the company had any newsworthy exposure recently. Identifying the company’s accomplishments for discussion during the interview provides topics for the candidate to highlight as interesting. For example: An award the company has recently received or a new product that has just been launched.
• Find out other information about the company:
  • Contact networking associates, such as alumni or former co-workers. Request information from acquaintances for any knowledge or experience with a particular company or if they know anyone currently working there. Valuable insights can be gained by talking with an employee about their experiences. It is also important to learn about a company’s culture to insure it would be a “good fit.”
  • Google the company. Creating Google Alerts for businesses helps job candidates learn new developments about organizations. A company blog can also provide good updated information.
• Identify the qualifications for the job: Read through the job description carefully. Learn:
  • Specific requirements – i.e., what level of education, other training, security clearance, years of experience, amount of travel required, hours
  • Carefully review any requirements which would eliminate being considered – i.e., no security clearance, lack of a master’s degree or other advanced training, years of experience
• Probable skills needed for employment: Job candidates should consider the following:
  • Skills the candidate possesses which relate to the company’s products and services. It is important to match personal strengths to what the business does.
  • Consider any recent experiences or projects which could help this business. Sharing this information with the interviewer will demonstrate how the candidate would support the company’s bottom line.

Finding any written materials available, such as an annual report, can also be helpful. The Human Resources Department may have information and would help the applicant learn more about the company. Many companies have reports and other materials online.

Questions You Will Be Asked

Being able to speak and write well are essential skills. During the interview, employers want job candidates to answer questions concisely, in an intelligent way, using good grammar. They don’t want to hear “ah’s” and “um’s” or, “like, you know.” They want to see if you have good presentation skills and would represent the company well. Could clients or customers understand what you have to say? Could they confidently have you give a presentation to upper management?

A typical opening question asked early in the interview may be to ask the candidate to talk about themselves. Answering this question and subsequent questions will give the interviewer an early indication about a candidate’s suitability for the position.

Therefore, being prepared about the right response is essential.

There is no way to predict the exact questions that will be asked, but the sites shown below can help as they include examples of probable questions. Days before the interview, potential candidates can choose several to answer or role play with a friend who can select random questions. Practice gives the candidate an opportunity to make changes to strengthen answers. Confidence will build as well.

Several websites will provide an example of potential interview questions:

• Monster.com has listed 100 potential questions a prospective employer may use in a job interview
• The Muse’s “Ultimate Guide to Answering the Most Common Interview Questions”
• Indeed lists 125 common interview questions and the best ways to answer them
• Glassdoor’s list of 50 common interview questions
• The Balance Careers identifies their top ten interview questions and provides suggestions for providing the best possible answers

Questions You Should Ask

Employers appreciate job candidates who ask appropriate questions as it demonstrates the candidates are serious about the position and have taken the initiative to learn about the company. Prepared questions demonstrate to employers that the potential candidate is serious, pro-active and invested in the job search.

But note these cautions:

• Ask questions that are appropriate, not questions that are irrelevant. For example, using canned questions found in a book or those that have nothing to do with the position will not make a good impression.
• Do not ask about information readily available on their website. This would demonstrate that the candidate did not adequately research prior to the interview.
• Allow the interviewer to control the conversation, providing time to finish their sentence or make their point. Interrupting, even with a very valid point that enhances the conversation, is not appropriate.

Having good questions prepared will demonstrate confidence and interest rather than appearing uninformed. This also supports a desire to be thorough. For an initial interview, it would be advisable to come prepared with between 5-10 questions. However, every interview and interviewer is different and the amount of time spent with job candidates varies. Prioritizing questions helps candidates address their primary concerns first.

Generally, it is important to cover these key areas:

• Overview of job responsibilities
• Resources or training which would benefit the new employee
• Understanding of employee performance evaluation
• Brief job description – if new, discussion of the reason the job was created; if vacated, reason the vacancy occurred
• Discussion of the company culture – i.e., how do people communicate, generally through e-mail, in person meetings, conference calls; are there expected progress reports; are projects completed individually or in teams; do co-workers socialize together, in work and outside of work?
• Share the qualities or traits which help employees succeed

Some questions may be answered during the interview and being prepared to insure all your concerns are addressed will allow both the candidate and the interviewer to feel the discussion was thorough. Asking questions also allows the employer to see the candidate’s personality. When an interview becomes conversational, it provides insight into the candidate’s social skills. Employers are less willing to hire people if they feel they will be unable to be “part of the team.”

Check out these resources for additional help preparing yourself and questions for your interview:

• Job-Interview.Net features rules for asking good questions, samples, and the “Dumb Dozen” (questions to avoid)
• Indeed Job Interview Tips offers articles with helpful hints and tips regarding all stages of the job search process

Prepare to Talk About How Your Experience Will Help the Company

The employer wants to know you can help solve a problem or fulfill a need they have. How does your work experience relate to the skills that are needed? The interviewer will be looking for a match. If you list skills on your resume that have no bearing or give examples that are unrelated to a desired set of skills, the interviewer won’t see a match.

Some interviewers will start by talking about the company and what they need. Listen carefully if they do as you can then point out examples on your resume that show you have experience dealing with a particular problem or need.

Other General Tips

• Avoid complaining or speaking negatively. Employers will not tolerate people who start talking about things they don’t like including past employers, work hours, grunt work, or anything else. This is not the time to complain. In fact, to get and keep a job, complaining will never serve you well.
• Don’t appear overly confident. While it is important to have self-confidence, if you come across as a person who thinks his way is the best or as the “expert” on every subject, that will be a red flag for your interviewer. Be self assured, but not obnoxious.
• Don’t be overbearing. You should not try to control the interview by asking excessive questions or as a way to avoid answering one that is directed to you. You do not want to appear aggressive, rather, engaged in the interview.
• Send a thank-you note. Within 24 hours of your interview, follow up with your prospective employer by sending a thank-you note.

An initial or screening interview may be conducted by phone instead of face to face. From the employer’s perspective, it can be a good way to hear:

• How a job candidate sounds over the phone and if the person communicates effectively
• If he or she seems friendly and enthusiastic
• If the job seeker knows about the company and has the required skills
• If it appears that the candidate would work well with the other employees
• If an in-person interview is appropriate and worth their time

The phone interview is extremely important as it can determine if a job candidate moves forward for further consideration.

Because of the large number of job candidates, phone interviews may be conducted by recruiters hired by a company or Human Resource professionals within the business. Candidates who have the skills and have made a positive impression might then be referred on to hiring managers for the next interview.

Preparation for the phone interview should require the same planning as done for a face-to-face interview. This means researching the company and devoting time to practice answering interview questions. A phone interview may be as short as 15 minutes. Job seekers can impress the interviewer by following the following suggestions:

• Be prepared. Have notes, resume, questions and achievements available for quick referral. When examples of skills or accomplishments are requested, having bullet points for quick reference will be helpful.
• Have paper and pen to take notes and write down relevant questions that come up during the interview so that they can be asked when the opportunity arises.
• If possible, use a landline telephone – cell phones can have static or service can be interrupted.
• Project a smile by physically smiling. The interviewer cannot see the candidate and therefore the tone of voice becomes even more important.
• Consider standing up while talking and use good posture, which will help combat nerves.
• Do not use familiarity by addressing the interviewer by his/her first name without being invited to do so. Address the person as Mr., Ms. or Dr. It is important to be friendly but convey professional respect as well.
• Avoid eating or chewing gum. However, having water is acceptable provided the candidate makes no sound when sipping.
• Insure the area where the conversation is held is quiet so there are no distractions or interruptions.
• Be concise and answer each question without rambling.
• Speak in a modulated, paced tone of voice, avoiding speaking too quickly. Enunciate words clearly to allow the interviewer to understand your responses and questions.
• Even if the interviewer calls at an unscheduled time while in the car, explain the circumstance and ask to return the call after arriving at a destination or pulling over. This will demonstrate sound judgment for the interviewer and let them know that rules and procedures are important.
• Thank the interviewer and then ask about the next step in the process as well as requesting a phone number or e-mail address of the interviewer.
• Send a thank you note immediately (no later than 24 hours).

There are several tasks which, when done in preparation for the job interview, provide the candidate with greater assurance of success. Here are suggestions to make the preparation go smoothly.

Determine Location Prior to the Interview

Research the location where the interview will be held well ahead of the scheduled time. If time permits prior to the interview, consider a drive to the site at the same time as the interview, if possible, to judge traffic conditions. Find the nearest parking facility. If the office or room for the interview is unclear, perhaps go into the building to find out the exact room or office.

If driving a distance, use a map service to find exact directions and note the time they recommend – then add 30 minutes. It is essential to arrive at least 10 minutes early to the interview.

NEVER be late!

It is always possible that unforeseen problems could occur, such as a terrible accident delaying traffic. Always have the hiring manager or interviewer’s phone number so a call can be made immediately to let them know of the situation. Notifying the interviewer of the delay is something that job seekers must do to be considered a serious candidate.

Appropriate Attire

An important step in preparing for a job interview is determining the appropriate attire for the position. Hiring managers will form an immediate impression based on the appearance of the candidate because the choice of attire indicates the importance the candidate has placed on the potential position. Choose interview clothing prior to the interview, insuring the attire is clean and pressed. Eliminate scuff marks from shoes and select appropriate accessories prior to the interview. Preparing attire well ahead will insure preparation for the interview is as stress-free as possible.

It is best to come in professional business attire for an interview unless specifically instructed to wear something more casual. This typically means a suit or dress that includes classic accessories such as a tie, subtle jewelry and/or a blazer.

This demonstrates the importance of the interviewing process and allows the candidate to highlight themselves, rather than distracting the hiring manager by bringing attention to their attire.

Every company wants to make sure their employees represent them well to customers and clients. Appearance is therefore critically important.

Materials to Bring

Copies of resumes and other relevant material should be prepared in advance. A portfolio or folder to be taken to the interview with these materials, along with any questions to be discussed, should be placed for easy access when ready to leave for the interview.

Relax

On the day of the interview, remaining calm is important. Having the right mindset for the interview will allow the candidate to appear confident and relaxed. Each candidate understands how they are best prepared, individually, with the right meal, exercise, music, etc. The candidate should approach the interview as poised and prepared as possible to insure the potential employer has a positive first impression.

On the Day Itself

After arriving to the interview site, a last minute check is always in order. Find a restroom and:

• Smile in the mirror to see that teeth are clean and free of debris.
• See if any buttons are unbuttoned, a collar is bent, or anything else needs to be corrected.
• Look for wind blown hair.
• Check for sticky or dirty hands. Paying attention to grooming is essential to make a good first impression.
• Locate a pen in case writing is required.
• Have all interview materials easily accessible.
• Take a couple deep breaths to relax.
• Let personality and confidence come through in the interview.

Job seekers should arrive at the office 10 minutes early. It is courteous to greet the receptionist with a genuine smile, letting him/her know of the interview appointment.

In all likelihood, it will be necessary to wait. While seated, there are ways to make a good impression. For instance, sit up straight. Don’t chew gum or use an electronic device during this time.

When the interviewer meets the job seeker, they be watching will be watching for how the candidate:

• Looks
• Acts
• Communicates – both verbally and written

To make the best first impression, walk up to the interviewer with a genuine smile, make eye contact, and give a firm handshake.

Wait to be invited to sit down. During this time, the interviewer is observing everything the job seeker does and is forming an impression. Make certain to not slouch in the chair but have good posture and lean forward slightly. It will be easier to pay attention and remain engaged in the conversation this way.

When leaving, thank the interviewer with a smile and a handshake. It is appropriate to ask what the next step will be in the interview process and when and how the decision will be made. Thanking the receptionist before leaving is important to do as well.