Know Where to Search for Quality Control Jobs
One of the biggest mistakes job seekers make is that they don't know how to find out about available jobs in the industry they are pursuing. In today's modern technological age, there are so many options available that learning about job availability should be one of the easiest parts of the process.
You could limit yourself to old-fashioned avenues such as local newspaper job listings but these are becoming fewer and fewer. More and more employers are turning to the Internet for their postings. The cost is lower and the audience is larger so this approach only makes sense. Plus, if you are open to the idea of relocating, limiting yourself to only local sources of job openings just doesn't make any sense.
Instead, you should start searching for job sites that are geared towards the quality control field or towards a specific industry in which you would be interested in working. At these sites you'll find searchable and relevant job listings that will help you move one step closer to getting the job you want.
Have a Professional Resume
Finding the jobs for quality control is, of course, only part of the battle. The next step is applying for the position. While many of these jobs do ask that you apply online, almost all also ask for you to submit your resume. That resume is going to be crucial in whether or not you get to move onto the next stage of the process so you have to be confident in what you are sending.
Before you even think about content, you have to consider presentation. Always purchase a high quality heavy stock paper for your resume. Many stores sell paper specifically for this purpose and this can be a good idea. You don't want to use standard printer paper. You should invest in matching envelopes as well. When selecting a color, stick to neutral colors like ivory or cream and avoid the packages of neon paper.
When you do start thinking about content, put yourself in the shoes of the hirer. What types of skills and experiences would impress you if you were in his/her position? What would stand out? What would be a must-interview type of fact? As you think about these things, also think about your own experiences and education. You should emphasize any part of your experience that would make a big impact on the person doing the hiring.
Prepare for the Interview
If your resume was strong enough to get you to the next level, you'll want to carefully prepare for the interview. Even though many quality control jobs take place in manufacturing facilities or labs, you should dress professionally for the interview. Don't wear what you would wear to the office. You don't have to go in a tuxedo but do wear a tie, a button-up shirt, and slacks if you are a man and a blouse with slacks or a skirt if you are a woman. Remember that how you look when you enter that office could make or break your future with the company.
You should be prepared to answer general employment questions (i.e. ''Where do you see yourself in five years?'') and more specific quality control related questions (i.e. ''Why do you think quality control is important in this field?'' ''What types of quality control measures were in place at your previous place of employment?'').
Don't be surprised if you are also asked to complete some type of screening test. As someone who will be working in quality control, you will need to pay excellent attention to detail. In some fields, that might mean you have to pass a test to make sure you can accurately recognize colors. In other fields, you might be asked to take logic or IQ type examinations. Take these screenings seriously because their outcome will influence the company's hiring decision.
Post Interview
After the interview ends, you want to stay fresh in the mind of the interviewer. That's why you should send them a thank you card. In fact, it's a good idea to bring the card with you to the interview so you can add your personal message, as well as the interviewer's name to the card while it's all still fresh in your mind. Drop it in the nearest mailbox immediately on your way home or back to your office. That way the person will receive it before a decision is made.
With quality control positions, it's not uncommon for you to be called back for multiple interviews before a decision is made. Make sure to repeat the thank you card process each time and continue making the best impression possible.
