Q&A: When I asked about salary on my Interview, things changed...

Q: Everything seemed to be going great as we wrapped up my interview when I was asked if I had any additional questions. I was excited and having learned so many details about the company, the job, their expectations and goals, I asked about the annual salary and benefits plan. As the words came out of my mouth, the recruiter’s expression completely change…it was as if I said their family pet died.
Needless to say, I never got a call back for a second interview.

Was I so wrong asking this one question that it negated all of my years of relevant abilities and actually disqualified me from being considered for the job?

A: Frustrating as it may be to hear yes, you may as well have erased your years of related experience and applicable skills when you asked about the compensation package during your first meeting.

Even during these more than trying economical times, first interviews are always all about the potential employer and that company’s needs to hire a qualified professional…after all, that’s why you were invited into their office, right?
Going forward remember, first interviews mean NO “me-questions.” If you are successful at sharing your strengths and accomplishments as they relate to the job description, you will likely be asked back for a second interview where you may ask general “me-questions” towards the end of your meeting.


Don’t forget, until the company formerly extends you a written job offer, the salary, benefits and parking spots technically don’t matter!

Q & A: What's wrong with my resume?!

Q: I've posted my resume on all the major job boards, I've sent it to dozens of job openings, and am not getting any calls. I've never experienced this before and feel lost! What's wrong with my resume?!

A: Every resume is different, but here are the top 5 questions to ask yourself if your current resume isn't getting the attention it deserves.

1- Is your resume updated and current?

No one wants to read an inaccurate or outdated resume. If you're not working, no where on your resume should read "to Present." And if you are working, is it up to date with today's information?

2- Is your resume consistent?

Review your formatting! Do your margins match? Are your dates aligned and written in the same way? Is your email address hyperlinked and contact information correct? Do you have periods at the end of EVERY bullet? These examples are just as critical as spelling mistakes and typos.

3- Has it been proofread by someone other than you?

Every editor needs an editor! The more you work with your resume, the more likely you are to miss a typo or an incorrect verb tense. Always have someone you trust review your resume before you send it or post it online.

4- How long is your resume?

How much time do you think prospective employers actually spend reading a resume? The rule of thumb these days with resumes is a two page maximum (with few exceptions). If you have less than 10 years of professional experience, one page is more than enough. Remember, a resume highlights your talents and should strongly introduce Your Message, allowing you to elaborate on the details during the interview.

5- NO TEMPLATES!!

This is your only chance to effectively communicate Your Message, so make a lasting impression on the hiring manager. Don't allow your resume blend into the masses with a generic MS Resume Wizard template. Be unique, just like you!

A resume is your introduction, describing who you are as a professional and makes the very first impression on hiring managers. The best resumes are updated, easy to read and should communicate a clear message. When done well, this leaves the prospective employer wanting to know more about you and your experience.

Take a moment to send us a copy of your resume for a complimentary Resume Review and see how your resume stands-up in today's market through the eyes of a trained HR professional.