How to Nail a Job Interview
You’ve sent out your resume, attached samples of your work,
and now they want you to come in for an interview. Naturally
you're a little nervous. In many ways a job interview is a lot
like a first date and you want to make a good first impression.
An interview is an opportunity to showcase not only your
professional abilities but your personality as well. A good
interview is more than providing the right answers to questions
that you’re asked. The best interview is a two-way conversation;
one that will determine whether you are the right person for the
job and, more importantly, whether the job is right for you.
First impressions are important whether it’s meeting a
prospective employer, a computer date or your child’s new
teacher. How you look, act and what you say during the first few
minutes of an initial meeting are crucial. Job interviews only
allow you to make a first impression. If it’s not a good one you
won’t be called for a second interview or offered the position.
Whether it’s fair or not, first impressions are lasting
impressions. Here are a few ways to make sure that the
impression that you make is one of professionalism and
competence.
Dress appropriately. What is an acceptable work
wardrobe for an art gallery curator probably won't fly at a
brokerage house. For an interview dress like you already have
the job - but look just a little better. Avoid distracting
colors and patterns as well as dangling earrings and clanking
bracelets.
Pay attention to details. Clean nails with neutral
polish, understated makeup, neatly styled hair and hose with no
snags or runs send a message of competent professionalism.
Do your homework. Know something about the available
position. Familiarize yourself with the company's history and
their clients. Visit their website and read what's been written
about them in trade publications.
Listen to the interviewer. Don't be so eager to talk
about yourself that you constantly interrupt or don't hear the
question. Read the cues of the interviewer and respond
accordingly. Is she formal or casual? Would he appreciate a joke
or would that be inappropriate?
Carry a briefcase, folder or tote for your resume and work
samples.
Be prepared. Bring a pencil and small pad to take
notes, PDA or calendar Make sure that your cell phone is turned
off.
Smile.
Present your skills in a way
that will let them know that you can add value to their
company.
What Employers Want
Sure, it helps if you can create a Power Point presentation
and it's great if you have an advanced degree. But most
employers are looking for these qualities in an applicant:
·
A positive attitude
·
A team player
·
Excellent communication skills
·
Interpersonal skills
·
Confidence
·
Technical expertise for the job
·
Ability to solve problems and make decisions
·
Flexibility
·
Self-motivation
Ten Questions to Ask in Your Interview
Don't end an interview without asking a few questions. It's
in your best interest to find out as much as possible about the
position before you shake hands and move into your corner
office. If these questions haven't been answered during your
interview, meet with someone in the HR office and ask:
1.
Is there a written job description for this position?
2.
What else can you tell me about the department?
3.
Who is the manager and what is their management style?
4.
How would you describe the work culture in this company?
5.
Is this a new position or a result of a replacement? Why
did the previous employee leave?
6.
What are the benefits (tuition plans, employee stock
options, health care)
7.
Are there advancement opportunities in this position?
8.
How will my performance be evaluated?
9.
How diverse is your top management?
10.
Have there been any layoffs in the past two years? Do you
anticipate any future layoffs?
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