Wanna rock out your interview? This economic climate actually lends itself will to boasting about your accomplishments and overlooking the fact that you, along with most New Yorker 405ers, were in the wrong place at the wrong time.

When I used to review candidate resumes and notice a few months of employment gaps, there used to be questions. Lots of questions. Why were you laid off? Why did it take so many months to get re-employed? Well, not *exactly* in those words but you get the idea…

As for the beauty of this economy? No questions asked! When recruiters look at resumes and see gaps, instantaneously they know the reason. The economy stinks, this is a given. The key is infusing the interview with energy and passion as you splash excitement into the job you’re pursuing.

So while rocking out to gym workouts during the day (btw, anyone notice how crowded the gyms are in daylight thanks to other pink slippers, too?) may be a treat, there are five key reminders to do to stand out as a stellar applicant in this job market so you don’t get too comfortable with sleeping late and mid-day workouts.

*Do your homework. Read, study, google the company you’re interviewing with, do research on the interviewers and be prepared to talk up your prep work in the convo.

*Ask questions! Now’s your chance so don’t be shy. My fave questions to ask include finding out why they like working there as well as observing the corporate culture.

*Dump the depression! Easier said than done for most people but seriously, distance yourself from any negative emotions or past experiences that would position you in less than a flattering light. You’re a hot prospect: bright and sharp so position yourself as such!

*Read not only about the company but current events in the industry. Infuse conversation with your knowledge and oh yeah, definitely come to the interview prepared with examples. Employers want hard core numbers (how much money did you save your last employer? How much money did you bring in per year in sales?) and illustrations. Instead of saying you successfully managed five tough employees, color it with anecdotes: what was the situation and how did you handle it?

*Follow up, follow up, follow up. Even if you don’t get this job, suffice it to say some of the people you interview with may not be there forever. Send a thank you note of course and connect with them on LinkedIn. Who knows, you may be the one hiring them in the near future!

- By Vicki Salemi, Guest Blogger & Recruiting Manager
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