Jobs are out there: the president of Maxxam Analytics shares his successful job application formula.

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Over the past 34 years working in the "lab" industry, I have interviewed and hired many job applicants. I thought I might share some of my thoughts and experiences on the hiring process and how to get the job you want.

Is there a secret method to getting a good job? Yes. Based on my experience, I would say that there are three key variables to the successful job application formula--the interview, the interview, and the interview. And the two primary skills to acquire in order to master the interview process are: (1) how to get an interview; and (2) how to conduct yourself during the interview. More often than not, it's these fundamental skills that successfully transform the job applicant into the valued employee.

Getting the interview

The most fundamental and critical part of the equation in the interview process is: No Interview = No Job. It's as simple as that. Without an interview you're simply not going to get the job. Therefore, the number one priority has to be to get the interview. Otherwise, it will make no difference how smart you are or what qualifications you have. So, what's the standard operating procedure that you should be following to get your foot in the door? The primary tool at your disposal is the resume--where it all begins.

Resumes and cover letters

Your resume needs to be well written, focused, and interesting to read. For each job that I've posted over the last quarter century, there have usually been over 100 applicants. If the resume doesn't immediately attract and hold my attention, then I will return to working on the many samples on the Bunsen burner. Inevitably, I'm going to move on to the next resume in the pile.

The resume needs to be concise while conveying as much information as possible without any spelling mistakes. It always amazes me how many applicants don't take the time to run their resumes through the Spell Checker. Inevitably, there are errors. Spend time on your resume or don't expect anyone to spend time reading and considering it.

In assessing a resume, I definitely consider the experience and length of employment with previous employers. When I see that someone bas switched jobs every year like a bouncing ball, a red flag goes up and I set the resume aside. The cost of training is an issue for most companies these days and we're all seeking individuals who are interested in becoming long-term employees. Companies are looking for people we can invest in with the confidence that we're not just being used as another short-term rung in their career ladder.

While as much as 20 percent of the applications I receive do not include a cover letter, it should be considered as a key component to the overall resume package. Your covering letter should be tailored to the specific job as much as possible. Nearly 80 percent of the covering letters that I receive come across as form letters. Without the personal touch, it will neither attract nor hold my attention, and I'm back to that Bunsen burner.

While a covering letter also needs to be concise by definition, it should contain more information than "please final my resume attached." The letter should be personable, polite, positive, and grammatically correct. As I am a scientist, I tend to walk on the wild side, so I'll dare to emphasize again that it cannot contain spelling mistakes. None whatsoever! Enthusiasm is a key element that should be evident in the covering letter. In fact, that single attribute that will usually prompt me to consider a resume further. On rare occasions, it may be enough for me to forgive a dreaded spelling mistake!

Be sure to include any volunteer work on your resume. Those who contribute to society will always receive additional attention during an interview.

At the interview

Once you're at the interview, your priority shifts to selling yourself. I'm the buyer and it's your task to fulfill the dual role of service provider and sales person. It's all about how you present yourself to the interviewer. Ensure that you answer the questions about what you have and haven't done honestly.

The ubiquitous HR-type question that we've all learned to ask is, "What are your strengths and weaknesses?" I usually hear a barrage of strengths, but very few weaknesses. That is clearly an indication that the interviewees are either being dishonest with me or with themselves. As a professional, you should know what areas need further development and growth. I want to hear what you are doing to improve in those areas. What is your plan? How open are you to grow as an individual and as a professional in my organization?

Most HR professionals look for positive attitude emanating from the covering letter/ resume, however, this is especially critical during the interview. If the key three variables to getting a job are the interview, the interview, and the interview, then the three key variables to being successful in the interview are attitude, attitude, and attitude. With the right attitude, you are capable of tackling problems and adapting to the ever-changing work environment. With the right attitude, the weaknesses that you so honestly conveyed will come across as opportunities to grow, an eagerness to learn, and a willingness to adapt. Stay positive throughout the interview. And no matter what, never say anything negative about your previous employer. Bad mouthing your previous employer is to the interview what spelling mistakes are to the resume.

Don't be afraid to ask questions during the interview. The questions asked of the interviewer initiate a two-way dialogue that will demonstrate your communication skills, intelligence, and that you've done your homework relating to the company. A lack of questions conveys an interest in getting a job, not particularly this job, but any job. That said, avoid questions about overtime policies, start/stop times, break durations, vacations, and employee benefits. If the answers to these questions are critical to you, wait until you've been offered the job before asking them.

Multi-tasking is a critical part of life these days and the typical lab is certainly no exception. You'll have an advantage over your competition if you can demonstrate an ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously while prioritizing your workload. Demonstrating a methodical approach to ensuring tasks are completed to schedule and that risks are avoided will set you apart. The value of your scientific knowledge and experience increases tenfold when combined with good, sound project management skills. If you have any experience or formal training in this area, be sure it is clearly stated on your resume and that you communicate this strength during the interview. It is one thing to have leadership skills, but an entirely different thing to manage projects well.

The working environment in most industries today is team oriented and employers are looking for smart individuals who can function well in a team environment. I need to know that you will not be disruptive but will add to the "chemistry" of the team.

I am always interested in individuals who are passionate about their profession. I am less inclined to pursue those who view their profession as "just a job!" Remember, passion is what drives change in our world. Passionate leaders motivate and inspire their followers.

To be an effective leader, you need to be passionate about your profession, your work, and your company. Too often, we scientists mask our passion, as we tend to be more reserved by nature. Take pride in your profession!

Practice makes perfect

Along with the ever-changing industrial base in Canada come opportunities that should be considered by the job hunter. Think beyond the lab. There are positions in quality departments that did not exist 30 years ago. There are positions in process improvement programs like Six Sigma in which corporations are investing. I suggest that you look further into topics such as ISO accreditation and Six Sigma processes. If you have a creative nature and a science background, there are also marketing or sales positions that should be explored.

One of the most troubling things I see in today's job market is the PhD looking for a job. Opportunities to pursue "pure" research in the Canadian marketplace (outside of academia) are few and far between. How many times have I heard from individuals who were turned down because they were over qualified for the job? From my perspective, the letters "PhD" after a candidate's name indicates someone who is passionate about chemistry, has tenacity, and potentially, has solid leadership and communication skills. These are the attributes they should portray in their resume and covering letter. The PhDs reading this article might scream, "What about my thesis that has been my life for the past few years?" Your thesis topic may or may not be of interest to the potential employer. Let the interviewer bring it up if he/she is interested.

Be selective about your references, and make sure your references are reliable. I am often asked the question, "Would you hire the individual back?" If your references are previous employers, be sure they have prepared an answer for this question.

The interview is a learning experience and should be seen as such. You have the opportunity to improve every time you go through the process. If you are relaxed and enjoying the process, you will come across as being confident and pleasant to work with.

Finding a job is made easier by remembering the fundamentals. The candidates with the strong interpersonal skills, integrity, and persistence will succeed.