The other day, I applied for a “little job”.

This was something I could do occasionally, not interfering with my main job at my university.

I forgot to attach something specifically requested in the posting.

I didn’t pay attention. Opportunity lost. I was mortified I missed this simple sentence.

So we learn lessons and we move on.

Do not dismiss these ten tips. They seem simple and you’ve heard them all before, but it’s easy to slide on one or more of these, and your opportunity will too be lost.

 Research.

A likely first question any interviewer will ask is, “what does our company do?” This seems like an obvious one, but you’d be surprised at the number of people who have no clue. If you’re not ready to discuss the company, they probably don’t want you.

Connect Before the Interview.

As you’re researching the company on their social media pages make sure to like some of their posts, leave a comment or two, and re-tweet what you find interesting. The reality is that you never know who might be watching. Many recruiters prefer finding talent via LinkedIn and not through a job site like Monster.

Build Your Social Presence.

I wrote about this the other day in this post.

Be Prepared.

Check out their Facebook page, look for photos in the news. People want to see how you assimilate into a culture. That said, always dress one step up from the code.

Think Career, Not a Job.

Make it clear you’re interested in a career, and not just a job. Ask what you can expect over the next ninety days, and communicate what exactly you’ll be bringing to the table. But don’t communicate that in blanket statements like, “I’m good at sales” or “I like to take initiative.”

Instead, if you’re good at sales say, “In one year I closed five new accounts and grew three existing ones, resulting in $300,000 in new business.” Or, if you’re a go-getter, describe a problem you helped solve and the result. Show your real impact and potential by talking about accomplishments in your career.

It’s all about your achievements.

David Clarke is CEO and co-founder of BGT Partners, a 2010, 2011 and 2012 Ad Age Top 15 Best Places to Work in the U.S. honoree.

Read his top ten tips with short explanations here.

Clarke nails it. Yes, they are simple, but worth revisiting and completely implementing as you make your play toward reinvention.

Don’t forget that attachment…