INTERVIEWING
Before the Interview During the Interview
After the Interview
BEFORE THE INTERVIEW
Research -- Be able to ask ???
Research -- Be able to ask intelligent ??
Library books Newspaper articles Talk to people who work for the company Visit their internet site Check Human Resource Department for press kit about company history
The more information you know, the better you can showcase yourself!!!
Rehearsal Time
Interview with a friend Practice typical questions using a mirror and tape recorder Create a 30-second “commercial” that highlights your unique talents and skills
Telephone Skills
Speak clearly Say it with a SMILE Repeat time and location of the interview Remember -- You make your first impression on the telephone!!!!!
Dress For Success
Be conservative in dress Dress one step above what employees are wearing Shower and shave Use cologne and perfume sparingly Avoid extra jewelry
Do’s
Do arrive on time -- Make a trial run before Do act enthusiastic Do have a positive attitude Do be aware of current events
Don’ts
• Don’t be late
• Don’t chew gum • Don’t give one-word, yes or no, answers • Don’t appear desperate • Don’t make yourself comfortable in their office until you have been invited to do so
AT THE INTERVIEW
It’s Showtime
Body Language
Good Posture
Sit up straight, Sit on the edge of chair, Avoid crossing legs and arms
Inviting Gestures
Firm handshake Nod your head -- indicates you are listening
Indicates confidence Standard English, not slang Not only what you say, but how you say it
Eye Contact
Speak Clearly
Typical Questions
Tell me about yourself. What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses? What are some of your goals? Do you like working with others or on your own?
???Honesty is the best policy???
Typical Tough Questions???
What qualities do you have that offset your lack of experience? Are you going to move to a better job as soon as you gain experience here? If you are faced with a deadline you can’t meet, what will you do?
Stay Calm, Don’t be Defensive, Focus on your Skills
Employee Questions
Whom would I be working with most closely? How many people have held this job in the last 10 years? Where did they go? What advancement do you see for me in five years if I have proven myself?
Questions to Avoid
Salary
Research other companies, give a range
Vacations Benefits Sick leave
Final Comments
Thank the interviewer for the interview Decide a convenient time you can call on the hiring status
After an Interview
Following Up
Evaluate the Interview
Did you speak clearly? Did you forget important information? Will you accept of reject the job offer?
Thank You Letter
Reinforce your skills and abilities Insert added information you may have forgotten Restate your continued interest in the company Remember to call back at appointed time!!!!!
Accepting the Job Offer
Ask for a day to think about the job offer List pro and cons before you accept the job Ask for a formal offer letter for your files Send and keep a copy of your acceptance letter
Rejecting the Job Offer
You are offered the job, but the salary is too low. Negotiate your salary The job isn’t what you expected. Be tactful in your response…
Rejection of a Job
Consider it a learning experience Ask why you weren’t hired
Do you need more training? How can you improve in your interview?
Feedback will help you in future interviews
HAPPY HUNTING