|
Interview
Tips
The
Steps of an Interview
Scheduling the appointment
Make
sure you write down the time, date and location of the interview,
as well as the name of the person you will meet. Ask for concise
directions and building numbers if applicable.
Bring with you
• Copies of your resumes
• References and letters of
recommendations
• Portfolio or sample of your
work, if appropriate
Traveling Locally
Leave
early because you never know what might happen. You may get stuck
in a traffic jam, get lost, or there may be an accident on the
freeway. It is always a good idea to give yourself extra time
to get there so you don't feel pressured.
Keep in
Mind What the Employer is Seeking
• Professional experience
• Training and education
• Willingness to learn and grow
• Good attitude
• Maturity
• Teamwork
• Flexibility
• Reliability
• Responsibility
• General qualities
First
Impressions
There
is a common saying that minds are made up within the first 5 minutes
of an interview. So keep in mind these important first impression
indicators. Walk in the door as if you already work there, carry
yourself as though you feel perfectly comfortable with the situation.
Arrive on time or a little early. In the waiting area, politely
tell the receptionist who you are meeting and in a friendly way,
ask where you should sit. Take slow, deep breaths to help you
remain calm and focused. When introduced to the interviewer, have
a firm, but not painful, handshake. Smile. Have good posture when
sitting or standing. Introduce yourself in a relaxed, confident
manner. Have a well-groomed, professional appearance. Project
a feeling of confidence. Bring extra copies of your resume, some
thing to write on and something to write with.
Interview
Etiquette
General
Etiquette counts when it comes to getting a job today. In an age
when employers must decide between candidates with equally impressive
credentials, the best way to distinguish yourself is through proper
attitude and appearance. Good manners and business etiquette empower
you to present yourself with confidence and authority to outshine
the competition.
Avoid acting
less than professional towards professionals: be punctual and
polite. Employers look at you as potential employees, not students.
The ability to display confidence through good manners can be
as valuable as job skills. Do not over look social graces like
handshakes and introductions. Stand until you are invited, by
word or gesture, to sit down.
Employers
with an eye on long-term employees - in other words all of them,
are also aware of how you present yourself as a leader. Leaders
are able to function well in formal settings, such as an interview.
Because they want employees who are able to command respect among
a variety of associates and situations, it is important to select
individuals who adapt their attitude, demeanor and behavior to
suit the situation.
Specific
Do's and Don'ts
Do
• BE ON TIME!!!
• Be polite to everyone you
are in contact with - you never know who they might be
• Have specific, relevant questions
about the company/position - it shows you are interested
• Exude confidence, poise and
a sense of energy
• Get a good night's sleep so
you'll be fresh and well rested
• Maintain good eye contact
with the recruiter
• A firm handshake for men AND
women communicates self-confidence
• Try to learn the interviewer's
name in advance so you can pronounce it correctly
• Sit up straight and lean slightly
forward, but be comfortable as well, this projects interest
• Follow up with a handwritten
Thank You note
Don't
• Be too nervous if you can
help it! Remember to take deep breaths, it will help
• Put on a false self - be your
best self, but be you
• Forget to turn off your pager
and cell phone - it's disruptive and inappropriate
• Say negative things about
former employers, even if they are true. It will make you sound
like you complain too much
• Leave early if you can possibly
avoid it. While it is like you will have several companies to
interview with, try and give yourself plenty of time between them
• Allow your nervousness to
show! Your preparation will go a long way to calming you
• Don't fidget or touch things
- breathe deeply to relax
•
Archives
• Top
|
