SAS 026 – Resumes and Interviews

SysAdmin Show

This episode is all about the resume writing and interviewing process. You may not need this information now, but when you do following these guidelines will help you get the job you want with competitive compensation.

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• Resume
  • Having a quality resume will help you stand out in the pile of other equally qualified candidates
  • A cover letter takes some extra effort, but can show that you are a serious candidate and are being proactive
  • Research
    • Your resume should be specific for the position you want and the hiring company
    • Visit their website and social media accounts
    • Look at job postings for similar roles with other companies
    • Look at the experience people in that role have in Linked-In
    • What should resumes look like
    • What information should be included or avoided?
  • Have someone proofread it
  • Example job posting
  • Resume example
  • Cover Letter example
  • Don’t mention salary
• Interviewing
  • Dress as best you are able. Suit and tie preferably. Even if the dress code is relaxed for the position, looking professional for the interview is important
  • Be ready to explain or expand on every aspect of your resume
  • Practice answering common interview questions
  • Have questions ready to ask them
    • This show genuine interest and preparation
    • 360 interview
  • Bring a notepad and pen to take notes
  • Never refer to notes during an interview
  • Make eye contact but occasionally look away too
  • It’s ok to be nervous, it’s expected and not usually held against you unless it’s extreme
    • If so then practice with a friend
  • Don’t bring up salary or compensation
    • If questioned on it say that you are open to any reasonable offers
    • You want them to give a number first
    • You can decline to disclose current or past compensation levels
  • Negotiation begins after you’ve been offered the job
    • Salary
    • Bonus
    • PTO
    • 401k
    • Health Insurance
    • Retirement
    • Perks
  • Research compensation for similar roles in your region
    • Be prepared to backup what you’re asking for with market data
    • Glass door
  • Unless specifically outlined in the offer don’t expect large performance based increases after you “prove” yourself