Candidate Resources
Tips & FAQs
Find Insider Resume & Interview Tips, Labor Law Information, & Additional Resources
Westphal Staffing
A Free ResourceTo Candidates of All Levels
We offer full-time, part-time, temporary, temp-to-hire and professional recruitment for office and professional individuals.
Our positions range from a very basic clerical level to highly specialized in almost every business category. Our staffing experts are sensitive to your needs and are relentless in achieving your employment objectives. They will work diligently to match you with the best position possible; keeping in mind culture fit and expertise.
Westphal Staffing takes pride in knowing we are more than your typical staffing service. We are your trusted employment advisor; guiding you every step of the way.
Westphal Staffing Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Resumes have come a long way in 20 years. Here are some best practices.
- An objective is not necessary. If you are switching your career, it may be necessary as a brief introduction to what you’re looking for.
- Use plain English.
- Use searchable words for your skill or industry. Be sure the AI bots can find you!
- Always include dates of employment on your resume.
- It’s perfectly acceptable to go back 10-15 years max.
- It is not necessary to include any personal information such as, marital status, religion or age.
- Two page resumes are the norm.
- If you have a CV, applying in academia, or medicine, 3 pages is common.
- Listing classes taken in high school or college is not necessary especially if you’re a few years out.
- Be specific. Work experience in the form of a few accomplishments reads nicely. Education, specific skills, and any current volunteer participation you’d like to highlight is a good idea.
- Resumes should be error free. Proofread even the resumes you have professionally done.
- Include a cover letter with your resume.
- Avoid using I statements. Start with words like, accomplished, facilitated, completed.
- Use action verbs to describe your previous responsibilities.
- Less is more! Intrigue your reader without giving them the whole picture. You have an interview to share experiences.
Best practices to prepare for your interview.
- Research your company and position.
- Know the industry. What do they do/manufacture?
- Know their competitors. It’s good intel.
- Arrive 10 minutes early so you can park and find the entrance while still having time to take in the environment in the reception or waiting area.
- While waiting, what do you notice? How do you feel (think environment)?
- Ask yourself if the environment and first impressions fit with what you’re looking for?
- Be positive.
- Don’t forget to turn your cell phone off!
- Eye contact is critical.
- Talk specifically about past work experiences and accomplishments.
- Do not go off on tangents.
- Be honest.
- Try not to let personal feelings get in the way of answering the questions.
- Don’t be late or too early.
- Don’t smoke before the interview. If your interviewer is allergic, you’re in trouble.
- Don’t chew gum.
- Be courteous to your greeter. They will share their impressions with the hiring manager.
- Be yourself!
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Curious about what to expect when you work with us? From how we match you with the right opportunities to what happens after you apply, our Candidate FAQs cover everything you need to know.