Page 234 - Marky Stein - Get a Great Job When You Don't Have a Job-McGraw-Hill (2009)

Fearless Interviewing

I bet by this point you’re ready to grab your briefcase and run to
your next interview. That’s great! And your enthusiasm will help
you in interviews too, but before you dash off, there are a few
small (but important!) matters to attend to—those extra touches
that will make you feel totally prepared and give you the confi-
dence to stride into your interview like a champion.

1. You need to assemble some references and recommen-
dations. (Don’t worry—they don’t have to be from the
Secretary of State or Donald Trump.)
2. Next, you need to prepare a neat and classy presenta-
tion packet. A presentation packet is a simple paper fold-
er with one “pocket” on the inside of each flap where
you’ll place some essential documents needed in the
interview, like letters of recommendation, a list of refer-
ences, and an extra copy of your résumé. (It’ll cost you
about 69 cents!)
3. Finally, you need to be absolutely sure that come wind,
rain, or fire, you get to the interview on time.

Recommendations

If you are like most professionals working today, you’ll probably
hold several jobs between now and the time you retire. In fact,
according to statistics compiled by the U.S. Department of Labor,
most adults will hold over five jobs in a lifetime.
People leave jobs for many reasons: a better offer, a less
demanding commute, a desire to change industries or cities, a
discovery that they’d like to pursue another interest or dream, a
feeling they’ve reached a “dead end” for advancement, or a bet-
ter personality fit with their boss or coworkers.
Often these transitions are smooth; on occasion they are dif-
ficult or acrimonious. But if at all possible, try to get a letter of
recommendation on company letterhead from a supervisor, manag-
er, officer, or executive of the company before you leave. Most
bosses, even when the separation from the company may have
been less than pleasant, are still willing to write you a letter of rec-
ommendation. Even if you were fired, an employer would rather
give you a positive-sounding letter and bid you luck on your way

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