Pictures: HR reps, hiring managers share secrets of scoring the job

Within the bounds of good taste and common sense, you may use personal information that’s widely known about the potential employer in order to stand out. “I had an applicant mention something about my greyhounds -- I love and talk about my greyhounds,” Maroon said. “It’s personal because I love my dog, but it’s personal also because it shows that they put forth the effort to learn something about me.”  (Kim Hairston / The Baltimore Sun)

Ari Magwood, general manager at The Brewer’s Art, has years of experience in the hospitality industry. Working in a field populated by career-minded professionals and by students trying to earn beer money, Magwood has seen a wide spectrum of applicants walk through his door.

“There is a perception sometimes in the hospitality industry that because we deal with booze, things can be slightly informal,” Magwood said. “I have had people show up for interviews with the smell of alcohol on their breath. Or, when asked if they would like something to drink ask for a Jack & Coke.”

Just because the workplace is informal, don’t take that to mean the interview is anything less than professional. When in doubt, err on the side of being too formal at first.  (Jed Kirschbaum / The Baltimore Sun)

Magwood primarily hires people in their 20s -- and nothing turns him off more than when MICA and Hopkins students show up in torn and ripped jeans. “Coming not dressed for an interview, whether you’re applying for a busboy position or management -- it tells me you really won’t take this job seriously,” Magwood said.   (Kim Hairston / The Baltimore Sun)

Lauren Asghari, director of recruiting at Vision Technology Services, works at connecting Baltimore companies with local IT talent. She points out that schooling is great, but it’s better to show what you know before showing off where you learned it.

“If you have minimal hands-on work experience, then schooling is important. A degree from a well-known school is impressive, but it is not always a key factor in determining the right hire.”

Maroon takes it a step further.

“Just because you and your folks set out the expense to further your education, doesn’t mean I’m responsible to finance it,” Maroon adds. “Don’t get me wrong. It’s not bad to further yourself. But don’t expect me to hand over anything.”  (Kim Hairston / The Baltimore Sun)

Maroon recalled an instance in which a young woman won over his firm and gained a highly coveted job offer but didn’t call or write back for two days.

Maroon rescinded the offer when his applicant not only stood him up, but actually came back asking for money.

If you want the job, it works out better when you actually act as if you want to work there.  (Kim Hairston / The Baltimore Sun)