Congratulations we are delighted to offer you the job!
…It’s every job hunter’s dream to hear these words. Whether your dream job is a Slitting Machine Operator, Customer Service Rep or Director of Operation, landing that job isn’t always an easy task, but here are some helpful hints I have found over the years as someone who has recruited and interviewed folks at Pro Tapes® from entry level packers, shipping and receiving clerks to Quality Control Managers.
When you define your “Dream” job keep an open mind.
Companies and jobs are constantly evolving, or at least they should be if they want to keep up with the ever changing marketplace. What you are expected to do on your first day may not be what you are expected to be doing 2-5 years down the road. The job of a Slitting Machine Operator at Pro Tapes® 10 years ago is different from the job today. Newer more efficient tape slitting machines, manufacturing software and new innovations to the tape slitting and conversion process have all had an impact on reshaping the job and the associated job duties and expectations. Always keep an open mind and be willing to be versatile, innovative and evolve with the changing times.
When applying for the job be assertive not aggressive.
Don’t be afraid to follow-up on your application/resume with a phone call. Be polite and keep it short. Let the recruiter know you are interested in the position and that you just wanted to be sure they received your application or resume. Be respectful of their time and let them know you look forward to meeting them in person.
When interviewing, be present, “lean in” and be genuine.
Try not to talk too much, but one or two word answers are not good either. Give relevant and complete answers but don’t give information not asked. Relax and have fun! It’s sort of like a first date, you are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you. If you are offered the job you will have to perform the required duties and work as part of their team, so be sure it’s a team you want to join and work closely with. If you tend to be a shy or nervous person, check those traits at the door! This is your future we’re talking about, no time for shyness or nerves! Remember, they put their pants on one leg at time, just like you and they need to fill the opening just as much as you want to be the one filling it, so from that regard the playing field is level.
Be memorable.
Whether it’s wearing a snazzy tie or stylish shoes, admiring your host’s office or socks or broach, if appropriate, or sharing a short funny personal story about yourself that does not disclose inappropriate personal information. Finding a connection like if you’re a Giants fan and you notice a Giants bobble head on the desk or know a fun fact, not fake news, about the company. Don’t presume to know everything about the company. Take the research you’ve done and use it to stand out, show you took the time to learn about them and ask questions to find out more about the company. This can’t be stated enough, lean in and be genuine and above all relax and be you! If you are truly a match you have to keep it real and let your personality and values match the company’s culture and values. For example, Pro Tapes® Vision and Values are:
Pro Tapes® Vision Statement
Pro Tapes® is committed to being the world’s premier converter of pressure sensitive adhesives. We foster a culture in which our people openly collaborate, respect & value diverse views & opinions, and adhere to the highest standards of business conduct. Functioning as one team, with one goal; to consistently exceed our customer’s expectations.
Our Core Values
Teamwork * Customer Service * Caring * Innovation & Creativity * Dedication to Quality
Final thoughts . . .
- Don’t take a bath in your cologne or perfume.
- Deliver a firm hand-shake but don’t cut off their circulation.
- Make eye contact but don’t stare.
- Be interested but not creepy.
- Be confident but don’t be arrogant.
- Smile it displays happiness and helps to lighten the mood.
- Follow-up with an email thanking them for their time, referencing a piece of the interview you thought went particularly well or something that came up which will set you apart from the other candidates and restate that you are interested in the job and look forward to hearing back from them soon.
Your “Dream” job is out there waiting for you to land it, so good luck and remember most “Dream” jobs are not found immediately, they evolve and are created by you and your employer over time as your skills rise up to successfully serve the needs of your organization. Best of Luck!
