You're a call away from your dream job

You found the job that you want to do. It didn't take you an hour to compose your resume. And you're a click away. Don't do it. Yet.

Look at the ad again. Search for the contact details. Why not call your prospective employer? It can be a game decider for several reasons. You'll get information, which the ad won't reveal (or suggest). The additional details will prompt you to modify your resume. And this updated version would give you a favorable impression to your prospective employer. It may seem silly to think that the job interview is a mere formality, but it can happen. After all, truth can be stranger than fiction. But let's not argue about it.

If you want to be the top candidate for the post, then an impressive resume won't be enough. There will be no harm done if you make a phone call. It turns out that you miss something. You may also have tried too hard to impress your prospective employer. Here are five tips for a better outcome:

Be prepared for the phone conversation. You're looking for a job, so it will be ridiculous not to call without knowing what to say. It doesn't help if you try to project a sweet voice, hoping that the person on the other line will be enchanted by the sound of your (sweet) voice. No one will fall for it. State your reason for calling. You're uncertain of the skills (that your prospective company is looking for), so you want clarification. If you can do it for 5-10 minutes, then good. Keep in mind that time counts.

Smile (and keep on smiling). What can be a valid reason behind it, you wonder. It will put you in a relaxed stance. And this is very important. You don't want to sound nervous, which will make the individual (on the other end of the line) treat you less seriously. A change in the tone of voice can be a worse scenario. (You don't want that person to be upset about your call.) While you're at it, try to be friendly. Nothing wrong if you ask his (or her) first name. Who knows.

Don't be afraid to make a call.The ad emphasized "NO CALL", which dampened your enthusiasm. You can't be discouraged by it. What do you have to lose? Make a call. Don't be frightened if you hear a cold voice. Speak slowly and firmly. You don't have to promise the person (on the other end of the line) that this will be a short call, but you want to assure him (or her) that you have a reason for making a call. There shouldn't be any hesitation on your part.

Practice makes perfect. Unless you're an expert in telephone calls, then better practice first. Ask a member of your family to act as your prospective employer. If you want feedback, let your friend play the part. You might get unnecessary remarks, but be grateful about it. It can help you do better.

Silence is golden. You're not being rude to your family (or friends), but you need to focus on it. There should be no one else in the room. You know what you're about to say, and you're not too eager to talk about it at the drop of the pen. And you'll sound friendly to the individual who answers your call.

Do you have any questions? Good luck.