Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Don’t torpedo your job search with a stupid phone message!

Get your ducks in a row before you set off on your new job journey. Make every impression count. You’ve managed to capture the attention of some hiring person and now they are trying to reach you. Make sure your voice mail shows you are intelligent and professional. Don’t use musical phone tones. “Light My Fire” or “When You Wish Upon a Star” might give your friends a giggle, but won’t go over well with potential employers. Use a standard ring tone, and a professional recording. Go the safe route. Keep it simple. “You’ve reached Joe Blow. I’m sorry I’m not available. Please leave a message and I will return your call as soon as possible.”

Alternatively, “You’ve reached Kermit. It’s great being green. I’m in the pond with a few friends. Leave a message.” Funny, but not smart.

The same goes for your e-mail address. Do you think a hiring manager is going to think twice about contacting you if your e-mail address is: goforit@happiness.com or 6beersatatime@underthetable.com? Keep it simple. Keep it professional. Unless you’re a juggler or a clown don’t go the jigglesjuggles@clowntown.com route.

Know any outrageous phone messages or e-mail addresses? Share em. (Keep it legal tho.)