How to get the perfect office job
The job market is a highly competitive arena and getting your ideal position in a company you love can take hard work, focus and commitment. However, once you have your perfect job the fulfilment and satisfaction you feel will make it all worthwhile.
Determine What Kind Of Job You Want
Before you can apply for an office job, you first need to know what kind of job you want. If you already have experience in a similar field, then you already have a head start.
But if you are new to the workforce or changing careers and you want a specific office position, then it is important to choose a career path wisely. The best way to do this is to decide what kind of career you want and then research the job descriptions. From the job descriptions, you will be able to tell which career will get you your dream job.
The Skills Needed For an Office Job
As with any other kind of job, office employment requires a particular set of skills. With most office jobs, there is a standard set of skills you will need to be considered for employment. Those could include:
- Familiarity with productivity computer software
- The ability to use office machines such as a copier and an adding machine
- Experience working in a fast-paced office environment
When you start filling out applications for office jobs, you will notice that many of the applications ask about your familiarity with these office skills. The more abilities you have, the better your chances are of getting the job.
Get Ahead of The Pack When Applying For An Office Job
Office job listings can be found in your local newspapers, on job listing websites, and on the websites of the companies in your area or by visiting your local employment agencies. Target particular companies that have large office environments to increase your chances of gaining employment.
One way to get your name in ahead of other people looking for office jobs is to drop your resume off at each company in person. You may be asked to fill out the application at that point, which helps to move your resume to the top of the pile. You want to show each company that you have the desire and dedication necessary to be successful.
The Screening Interview
These days, many companies do a screening interview over the phone as the first interview for an office job. When you schedule your phone interview, make sure it will be at a time when you will be in quiet surroundings. When the human resources professional calls for the interview, go to a room where you can close the door and have complete silence.
The human resources professional will take the phone interview very seriously, which means you should take it seriously as well. Answer the questions directly, but avoid adding too much information. When the phone interview is over, the human resources professional will normally notify you if you qualify for an in-person interview.
If the human resources professional opts to let you know later about a possible in-person interview, then thank the professional for their time and make sure that the company has all of your contact information.
The In-Person Interview
The company's interview process may consist of more than one in-person interview. But you only get one chance to make a first impression, so make that first impression count.
Always be at least 15 minutes early to your interview to allow for time to fill out any extra paperwork the company may require. If you are unsure as to where the office is located, then find it the day before your interview to make sure that you can arrive on time.
You should be neatly groomed and in a clean, professional business suit. Each company will have its own dress code for the office, but you want to look your best for the interview. Avoid wearing too much perfume or cologne, and leave the large jewelry at home.
Bring a portfolio with a pad of paper, a pen, copies of your resume, and copies of your references. Be prepared to collect business cards and put them in your portfolio as well. Take a deep breath before you enter the office building and always be positive during your interview.
Finding an office job requires the right background and job hunting approach. If you work hard to present a professional image, then you have significantly increased your chances of getting the job you want.