Be successful and land a job

It’s a challenge to land a job these days.

The unemployment rate is 12 percent in California and few jobs are available.

The increased competition means that students have to try harder and prepare themselves for a challenge.

When applying for a position, job seekers are trying to sell themselves and must prove they fit the job description.

“Students need to be really persistent, can’t get discouraged, stay positive,” said Tedd Goldstein, supervisor of Student Employment Services at Citrus College.

Students who are seeking for a job can head over to the Student Employment Services center. Take advantage of what is offered to us as students here at Citrus.

The goal of the Student Employment Services Center is to inform students of new job opportunities and offer assistance in getting hired.

As soon as there is a job opening, the information about the job is posted at the bulletin boards.

The Student Employment Services Center is located on the first floor of the ED Building and can be reached at (626) 914-8596.

Here are a few helpful tips that might help you prepare for a job interview.

1. Allow yourself extra time and be sure to arrive a few minutes early for the interview. Being punctual will make a good impression.

2. Dress professionally. Men should wear a long sleeve shirt with collar, slacks, and dress shoes. Women should avoid wearing too much jewelry or too much makeup and dress conservatively. Less of everything can in some cases are better. If you have facial piercings or tattoos, covering them might be the best thing to do.

3. Make sure all mobile devices are turned off or on silent mode. Having your phone ring in the middle of the interview is annoying and unprofessional.

4. When you’re being introduced to the employer, make sure you make eye contact, greet that person, smile, and shake hands. First impressions always matter.

5.  Listen carefully. Throughout the interview, allow the employer to finish asking the question before you start answering. Interrupting is rude. If you need the employer to repeat a question, then ask. It is better to request clarification than to remain quiet. When you’re answering, make sure you don’t use slang or vulgar language.

6. Brag. Let the employer know any of your achievements, awards, volunteer work, or skills that will make you stand out over anyone else. In other words, sell yourself.

7. Once the interview is over, thank the employer for his or her time and communicate that you hope to hear back soon. Be courteous and respectful when walking out.

8. If you don’t receive a call back within a week, make that call back and ask for an update on the status of your application. This will let them know you’re still interested in this job.

Following these steps will not only give you confidence in interviews, but also raise your chances of landing a job. Remember to always stay positive. If you don’t get hired, keep trying. The right job for you could be the next one you apply for.