How to Write the Perfect Thank You Note

The job interview isn't over once you leave the meeting room. There is still one more step to the process, the thank you note.

#1: Salute with your interviewer's name.

Start off the note with "Dear Mr./Mrs." and include your interviewer's name. When you greet with their name, it shows that it is more personalized and you put thought into writing, rather than reusing a generic template. Also, indicate the date you met and position you applied for, to help refresh their memory. Your hiring manager might be conducting multiple interviews.

#2: Express your gratitude.

A thank you note/email would not be one if you do not include "Thank you". Write that you appreciated the time they took out to meet, speak and consider you for the position.

#3: Confirm that you are interested.

Let the hiring manager know that you are still interested in the position. State how you are excited to work for the company, and how you look forward to learning and growing with them. HR professionals like to hear enthusiasm from potential candidates when applying to jobs.

#4: Promote yourself.

Write a little promotional blurb about yourself. Briefly discuss your strengths and skills, and how they would be valuable to the team. You may also want to talk about your previous experience in the hospitality industry. Basically, provide further support on why you are qualified and the best candidate for the position. 

#5: Remember to follow up.

Sum up by writing thank you once more, and suggesting to keep in contact. Mention how you can be reached again via email or phone, if your hiring manager has any further questions. If you do not hear back from him/her in about a week or so, send a friendly a reminder email.

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How to Ace Your Video Job Interview

Many companies, like ones on Harri, are embracing modern hiring methods. Video interviews are quickly becoming common practice.

Here are some tips on how to ace your next video interview:

#1: Do a technology test run.

You do not want to miss out on the job interview due to technical difficulties. Double check to see that all your technology, including your video/webcam software, microphone and speakers, are running properly. 

#2: Practice in front of your screen.

In addition to making sure your equipment is working, conduct a trial video job interview. Ask a friend to pretend and play the role of the hiring manager. Rehearsing, even for a little bit, can help calm your nerves. Maybe consider practicing and answering the most common restaurant job interview questions during the mock interview.

#3: Be distraction free.

It is essential that you select a place where you will not be disturbed.

• Interview in a quiet, well-lit space, so that your interviewer can hear and see you clearly.
• Good lighting is also appreciated. Sit in front of a light source, rather than behind it, because it will create shadows.
• Turn off of silence your phone during the interview.

#4: Dress as if you would in a face-to-face interview.

Even though you are not sitting in on an in-person interview, you still have to be in presentable attire. Wear a button-down or blouse, and pants. It is important to dress in a complete outfit because it will help you feel and project professionalism when you speak with your potential employer.

#5: Send a thank-you note and follow up.

As you would in any other interview, remember to thank the person you interviewed with for their time. After, send them an email, so that you can easily contact them in a week or two about updates in your job status.

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3 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Lie in a Job Interview

George Washington never told a lie, and it's a good practice to keep in mind during a job interview. Honesty is a key trait that employers look for in employees. Here are reasons why you should only speak the truth when meeting with a hiring manager:

#1: Background checks may come back to hurt to you.

Employers will check up on you after the initial interview. They may possibly contact your previous employers and references. You definitely do not want to be caught lying about your professional history. Instead be honest, and explain any past situations if asked.

#2: You won't do well on the job.

Let's say you do get the job. If you were hired based on the skills you don't actually have, it's only a matter of time before your employer will know the truth. You won't be able to accomplish anything at work, and it can lead to termination. Be as truthful as possible when discussing your abilities. If you believe you are weak in one area, talk about how you would like additional training in order to strengthen your weaknesses.

#3: Dishonesty ruins your reputation.

Dishonesty not only hurts your current situation, it won't be good for you in the future either. Word travels fast in the restaurant and hospitality circle; the industry is small and hiring managers are very well connected. It's not a good idea to leave him/her with a bad experience.

Remember, honesty is the best policy! Mark Twain even once said, "If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything."

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How to Ask Someone for a Job Reference

Professional job references are essential when looking for a new job. Not only are they great additions to your Harri profile, they will boost your job search efforts by having trusted recommendations. There is a proper etiquette for asking and receiving references.

#1: Ask beforehand.

Be mindful that the person you are asking to vouch for you as a professional may be busy, so ask beforehand. That doesn't mean just the day prior. You should find possible references way in advance, even before your actual job hunt.

#2: Be sure to have options.

There is no guarantee that your first choice can provide you a reference, so gather at least three other names. Remember to get permission from all of them first before you put them down on your profile/job application. In addition, don't forget to choose wisely of who you want as your reference. It is common for previous employers, former colleagues, etc. to be your references. Try your best to select those you know will most likely give you a positive recommendation.

#3: Record information and details accurately.

Make sure you take down your references' full names, contact information, as well as titles, without mistakes. Do stay in contact with your reference via email, phone or through a professional network, especially during the job hunt.

#4: Thank and follow up with your references.

After your reference agrees to help you, send them a thank you note. The best way to do so is with a handwritten card, but a sincere email is also acceptable. Update them on the outcome, as they would be interested on the status too. Following up is a way you can maintain a long-term relationship with your reference.

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Tips for Job Searching During the Holidays

 

Based on past trends, December is historically a slow hiring month. You can still find a short-term gig, holding a position that is limited to just the winter and year-end holidays. However, if you're not interested in such jobs, use your time productively when demand is not so high, and prepare for the upcoming job hiring season ahead.

Here are some tips to help you with job hunting for 2016:

Refresh your profile, experiences and skills.

You may have been busy the few months prior, so this is a great time for you to update your Harri profile. Add any new work experience and include any extra skills you have learned. Did you take any photos or videos of your work? If yes, showcase it on your Harri gallery.

Reconnect with contacts and references.

Reach out to the people you have met and connected with throughout the year. Whether you are contacting them because you want to say a simple hello or thank you, aim to email them a few days to a week after the new year. For one, they will most likely be occupied with urgent priorities during the holidays. You certainly do not want your message to be lost in a sea of other emails. If you want a reference, have a draft email prepared and ready to send out.

Clean up your social media.

Like how you do research on companies, employers may do a background check on you. They could possibly see your social activity on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Make sure to clear off anything that could hurt your chances of earning a job. To be safe, make changes to your privacy settings.

Look through job boards and career pages.

Even though you don't see the job you want listed just yet, you can get a head start by skimming through the job boards. Go through the jobs and read the descriptions that seem similar to your dream job; keep note of such job titles. This will be really helpful when you do another job search in the future. Also, you should sign up for notifications for the types of jobs you want to apply for. On Harri, we make it easy for you, since you receive automatic alerts on certain jobs, including front-of-house or back-of-house specific positions, and more.

Best of luck to you and your job search in the new year!

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