Employment Tips

WHAT IT TAKES FOR A SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEW

FOR CANDIDATES

The usual interviewing process requires employers and candidates to decide whether or not they should enter into a long-term, working relationship with each other after one or two relatively short meetings. Each interview becomes a highly intense, emotionally charged conversation because of the impact this decision is going to have on the careers of both parties. The interview should be met with the knowledge that the employer will make his or her decision based on impressions as well as facts. The following information is provided so that both parties can make an intelligent business decision.

Preparation for the Interview

*DO prepare the questions you will ask during the interview.
The best way to become known as a good conversationalist is to ask a leading question and let the other person speak. Probing questions you could ask...

1. Reason the position needs to be filled?
2. Ask for a detailed description of the position?
3. What type of projects would I work on?
4. Company training program?
5. Advanced training programs for those who demonstrate outstanding ability?
6. How does this department help run the firm?
7. Describe the individuals I will be working with?
8. What authority will I be given?
9. What will be my first assignment?
10. What will be expected of me?
11. Company growth plans?
12. The next step?

* DO dress in professional business attire.

* DO arrange to be on time or a few minutes early.

* DO be prepared for tough questions such as...

1. Tell me about yourself.
2. How would you describe your self?
3. What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses?
4. Have you ever failed?
5. Why have you left your previous positions?
6. What did you think of your last boss?
7. Where do you see yourself five years from today?
8. What is the hardest thing you havecever done?
9. What do you feel makes you better qualified for this job than anyone else?
10. You have already done this work. What makes you feel you would be interested in staying with us?
11. What are your long-term goals?
12. How much money do you want? I need an exact dollar amount.
13. Are there any other questions you might have before I let you go?

* DO fill out all application forms neatly and completely.

* DO greet the interviewer by surname if you are sure of the pronunciation. If you are not, ask for it to be repeated.

* DO shake hands firmly.

* DO NOT smoke even if the interviewer smokes and offers you a cigarette. Do not chew gum.

* DO wait until you are offered a chair before sitting. Sit upright in your chair, look alert and interested at all times. Be a good listener and a good talker. Remember to SMILE.

* DO hold good eye contact with the interviewer.

* DO NOT answer questions with a simple “yes” or “no”. Whenever possible explain your answers. Tell those things about yourself that relate to the situation.

* DO follow the interviewer's leads, but do try to get the interviewer to describe the position and the position's duties early in the interview so that you can tie in your skills and background to the position.

* DO make certain that your good points get across to the interviewer in a factual and genuine manner. You are the best sales person when it comes to yourself. Make the interviewer see the need for you in the company.

* DO answer typical questions truthfully and as concisely as possible.

* DO NOT “over answer” questions. It is possible the interviewer will steer the conversation into politics or economics. These can be sensitive areas, so answer the questions honestly, but try not to say any more than is necessary.

* DO NOT make any derogatory remarks about your present or former employers or companies.

* DO NOT ask about salary, vacation, bonuses, retirement, etc. This will be gone over with you by the recruiter before acceptance of any offer. If the interviewer asks what salary you want, let the interviewer know that you are more interested in the opportunity than in a specific salary.

* DO always conduct yourself as though you are determined to get the job you are discussing.
Never shut the door on the opportunity.

Closing the Interview

* DO always ask for the position. If you have any doubts or hesitations, discuss them later with the recruiter. Keep the door open! Ask for the next interview if that is what the situation demands. If the employer offers you the job and you want it, accept it on the spot. If you would like time to consider the offer, be polite and tactful in asking for that time. Set a definite date that you will provide an answer.

* DO NOT be too disappointed if no definite offer is made or specific salary discussed. The interviewer will probably want to talk with the office first.

* If you feel the interview is not going well and that you have already been rejected, do not let your disappointment show. It is common for an interviewer who is genuinely interested in your possibilities to discourage you in order to test your reaction.

* Express gratitude to the interview's time and consideration of you. If you have answered these two questions:

1. What can you offer?
2. Why are you interested in the company?

You have done all that you can do.