Tips For Dealing With Human Resources

When you apply for a job, you will more often than not be dealing with the organization's Human Resources (HR) department. Whether you have been called in for a job interview or are just contacting them for more information about the position, it's important to know the correct etiquette when dealing with these employees. Below are some tips to help you make a great impression:

• Emphasize any teamwork you have done in past jobs. Many recruiters look for candidates who have the ability to work well with others, even if it's more of an individual position.
• Following the dress code is important. If you don't feel comfortable asking HR what the organization's policy is, ask the receptionist instead. If you are told it's business casual, it's OK to step it up a little bit.
• Address past firings rather than avoiding them. HR would much rather you tell the truth than hear you blame someone else, even if you think that it wasn't your fault. It's very possible that this individual knows the person you are bashing, and it just doesn't come across well.
• Provide specific examples to substantiate your accomplishments. If the interviewer has to constantly pester you for more details, it will send a signal that you have a hard time communicating details. You should also make sure to avoid any hypothetical statements. HR wants to know what you have done, not what you would have done with more time.
• Never bring up salary requirements in your first conversation with HR. This should be saved for later in the interview process.
• It's acceptable to call HR if you have received a competing job offer and want to know where you stand. Just don't think you can make this call if you don't actually have the offer in hand.
• Finally, make sure that you send a thank-you email after your interview. Not doing this could send the impression that you are not interested in the job. Besides, it's just the polite thing to do.