by Julie Desmond

Does anyone whistle while they work anymore? Probably not, but tuning into who you are at work and in your career can help you prepare more effectively for interviews and maybe get you performing (or, hired) sooner. What’s your interview tune?

Different Drummer: Are you someone who proudly stands apart from the crowd? Marching to your own tune can be impressive… or intimidating. Real leaders avoid making other people feel uncomfortable. Try to establish connections with your interviewer. By asking thoughtful questions and appreciating the answers, you should be able to find ways you and your next employer see eye-to-eye. Use what you learn to frame your uniqueness as “added value,” rather than, “not one of us.”

Hooked on Classics: Are your skills slightly stuffy or way outdated? Businesses that want to make money will constantly upgrade their tools and procedures, and expect their employees to keep up, too. Brush up on new technology by taking a class and practicing at home so potential employers will see that you can adapt. Check your big words and your pride at the interview door and aim to connect with your interviewer. People want to work with people who are smarter than them, but not people who show it off.

If your style is informal, you might be A Little Bit Country. Before the interview horse leaves your ranch, pack up as much corporate knowledge as you can take in. Know everything about the place you’re interviewing, and study the job description carefully. Practice talking through your resume chronologically so that you can speak to how each previous job relates to the position you are currently applying for. To spiff up your look for more professional companies, just add one more accessory. A watch is a good one, or a quality belt. You might be a casual person, but you don’t want to come across as careless.

People who move frequently from job to job are Rock ‘n Rollers. These are tough times and people move around more than ever. You are not the only Rock Star who has gaps and transitions in their work history. Just be able to explain each move with honesty and an upbeat sentence or two. Never lie and never berate your last employer. Look for the up side of your situation: have you learned to use a wide range of computer systems? Have you made great contacts who can help you find your next position? Did you leave to follow a good manager to his next gig? Your moving and shaking can be an asset if you look at it that way.

Beware if you fall into the All That Jazz category: having too many talents can hold you back. Streamline your job search by focusing on one or two areas that really matter to you. You might choose the industry that is most likely to hire right away, or the company that offers the best benefits, or the position that offers challenges you are ready for. Line up ten people on a stage and I will show you their ten thousand talents. Use your resume and your interview to focus on what you want most and know there will be time in your lifetime to play other tunes.

Julie Desmond has fifteen years recruiting and career counseling experience. She currently leads job search and career planning workshops in Minneapolis, St Paul and Edina, MN. Write to julie@helpwantedworkshop.com.