• Never provide references without checking with them first! Make sure they will give accurate feedback and that the information is current.
• Never leave your phone turned on. Give the employer your sole focus!
• Never forget to check out the address of your destination before you go. If possible, drive by and plan where you will park. Keep in mind things like quarters for parking meters or cash for parking garages. The least distractions before your interview, the better!
• Never take your kids to pick up an application or to interview for a job.
• Never interview without practicing responses to common questions beforehand. There are example interview questions online, or you can practice with Optimal Resume, available through the Missouri Career Center.

Come dressed for an interview when you visit the Missouri Career Center. If you get information about a hot job you want to be able to follow up quickly! 

Bonus tip: Dress one step above what you would need to wear for the position you are applying for, but stay professional. You don’t want to distract your interviewer by your cutting-edge fashion sense or your beautiful bling. You want them to concentrate on you and your qualifications!

Have you considered taking the National Career Readiness Certificate? A workplace skills certificate is a great use of your time and can sweeten any application or resume. Yes, we offer it at your Missouri Career Center. .

Did you know we have free interest profilers? Come on in and take one. It will encourage your job path into a field of work that you will be happy in. The more satisfied you are with your work, the better an employee you will be. It’s a win for you and your future employer!

Use this 'down time' to attend free career workshops--like the ones offered by the Missouri Career Center. An employer will want to know what you were doing during any employment gaps and this way you can show skills improvement, making effective use of your time. Plus, learning new skills can only increase your talent bank.

Keep a “cheat sheet” with you for filling out applications. A pocket résumé, available at the Missouri Career Center, is a great resource. Fill out your info on the card—names, addresses and dates of your work experience, your references, and their contact information—and keep it with you during your job hunt. That way you are prepared to fill out an application, plus you look very organized!

Many employers are corresponding over email these days, so if you don't have an email address you may be missing out on terrific job leads. Did you know your Missouri Career Center can help you set up your own email account today?

Bonus tip: If you have one already, is it appropriate for professional use? If in doubt, do not use it! Get a free account just for your job search and keep your other one for your friends--it’s worth the extra effort.