What Every Job Seeker Needs to Know

Finding a good business job can be a job in itself. To see what job seekers need to know about securing a position in today's business market, I spoke with Roberta Chinsky Matuson.

Roberta is the founder and principal of Human Resource Solutions. With more than 20 years of HR experience, Roberta is well-versed in the field and knows exactly what hiring managers are looking for in today's job market.

Here's what she had to say to about job hunting, networking, interviewing, and getting hired:

There are a lot of reports surfacing about a tougher job market. Do you think it has become more difficult for qualified job seekers to find an appropriate position?

It is difficult to predict the future. I prefer to deal in the here and now. We know job seekers are having a tough time as companies shed jobs daily. This makes for more interesting headlines. However, I have a number of clients who are actually adding to their workforce. Yet, these companies rarely make the headlines.

What can new business school grads and other job seekers do to give themselves an edge over the competition?

You have to rely on yourself. One visit to the Career Placement Office or the Alumni Placement Office will not result in multiple job offers. Job seekers must use all the tools they can pull out of their toolbox, particularly in this tough job market.

What else can job seekers do to prepare themselves for the job market?

You have to stand out in a very crowded field. Here are some ways you can do this:

1. Your resume must be perfect. No room for grammatical errors or typos.
2. Update your look. If the last suit you bought has shoulder pads, then it is time to take a trip to the mall to buy a replacement. While you are there, be sure to stop by the hairdresser for a fresh new look.
3. Get out from behind your computer and start networking the old fashioned way. I’m all for social networking, but you must get out there and "press the flesh." It is all about timing. You may very well run into your old boss who happens to be hiring again.
4. Define the value you can bring to an organization, rather than thinking about what they can do for you.

Is there anything job seekers shouldn't do?

They should not rely on one method of job seeking as you need to have all pistons firing in order to make it to the finishing line.

How important is it to write a targeted resume and cover letter for each job prospect?

For some job seekers, I suggest they have two or three versions of their resume. This may require a few tweaks here and there. Job seekers are advised to have several well-written cover letters that can be customized for the job they are applying for.

Job seekers are often told that they should practice answering some of the most common interview questions prior to the actual interview. In your opinion, what are the three most common interview questions?

• How would your previous boss or co-workers describe your performance?
• What are your weaknesses?
• Why should I hire you?

Is there anything job seekers can do after an interview to increase there chances of getting hired?

Good manners never go out of style. A customized thank-you note is always appreciated. At the end of the interview, job seekers should always ask about next steps. Ask when you can follow up with the interviewer. This way the ball is in your court.