The little details count in interviews

From Boston.com

Q. My job search is now
coming on five months, and I don't understand where the offers are. I
am doing what everyone says: I network, I use the job boards, I have a
good resume, I am told I interview well. The big bases are covered.
Everyone can improve something (I do know that), but am I doing
anything wrong, or is this just how it is?

A.
The job search in this market can be a frustrating, challenging
process. Everything you do in this public forum does matter. Each
interaction counts, and how you present to every person becomes part of
your story. People do talk about candidates within companies and
between companies, and you want to make sure your story represents you
as positive, professional, and an asset to any organization.

We
know of situations where people have lost offers for being rude to
receptionists, condescending to wait staff at lunch interviews, or
because their etiquette was lacking. We know people who ask for a
networking meeting and then don't offer to pay for coffee or lunch. We
can start a collection of worst behaviors exhibited by job seekers -
feel free to send me your examples and experiences.

There
are many stories about people who hurt their candidacy by ignoring what
they think are the little things, and when it is an employers' market,
the little things add up.

I'm
not saying this is the case for you. The job search does take months
and you need to use all methods, and probably with a lot more diligence
than most people expect. The challenge is each of these activities
needs to be completed effectively, leaving a positive impression with
each person you reach.

You have the big bases covered, so let's review the "little things.''

Elaine Varelas is managing partner at Keystone Partners, a career management firm in Boston.