boost your chances of getting a job

BOOST YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING A

It can be harder still to compete with others for the perfect job. Though any job requires you to possess the right qualifications, often it is the intangibles that will make you shine over other applicants.

You must essentially sell yourself. Here is a look at some of the ways you can increase your chances of getting an interview and also make yourself stand out when you meet with prospective employers:

THINK DIVERSELY

For many people, the skills they learn in their job are transferable in a surprisingly good way to other positions.

Just because your last job was in one field doesn't mean you have to stay there.

Consider which skills might translate into other areas and look past your typical field when searching for places to apply.

WORK WITH PROFESSIONALS

Consider making some calls to local recruiters or headhunters. This is a great way to get your name out to other people…

…and if you get to know your recruiter, they often can talk you up before you get an interview. This may give you an edge over the rest of the hiring field.

DRESS THE PART

When you are interviewing, be certain to dress appropriately. You don't have to overdress, simply wear a nice version of what you would wear to work.

Consider the atmosphere of the place, and if you don't think that they will be comfortable with things like piercings and tattoos, then consider covering the tattoos and removing the piercings before the interview.

ASK ABOUT YOUR INTERVIEWER

One major thing that will help you to stand out is to ask questions about the person who is doing the hiring. If you see photos on the desk or other memorabilia, ask questions about the interviewer's family or interests.

If you are new to the area, ask for recommendations for food or entertainment. Anything that gets them talking about themselves will help you to be memorable to your potential employer.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK

The more you know about the company and the position coming into the interview, the better chance you have at sounding excited, knowledgeable and prepared.

The best way to show this knowledge is not to spew facts at them, but instead to come up with thoughtful questions that show that you've done some research about the company and position before coming in for the interview.

SEND A THANK YOU

Follow up the interview with a handwritten thank you. This is a dying art but it is an important way to distinguish yourself.

If it's down to you and one other person, small thoughtful gestures like this can give you that little extra push that may just put you on top.

ASK ABOUT SIMILAR POSITIONS

If you felt like your interview went well but you don't get one job, you can follow up and ask them if they know of any other positions available.

This also puts one more person who is familiar with your qualifications on your side, and they may be able to give an informal recommendation that eventually secures you a different job.

Seeking a new financial advisor position?

Speak with the experienced financial advisor recruiters of Willis Consulting Inc.

They can many top industry contacts and can help you land the position you want.

See open positions at http://www.willis-consulting.com/financial-advisor-jobs/

Los Angeles Office: Corporate Headquarters719 Yarmouth Road, Suite 203Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274310-373-7400 PST

Scottsdale Office8970 E Raintree DriveSuite #300Scottsdale AZ 85260

New York Office244 5th Avenue, Suite 1855New York NY 10001212-726-2041 PST