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In a job market where there are so many qualified candidates competing
for the same position, how you do on the interview can often determine
whether you get the job. The job interview is a strategic conversation.
Your goal is to demonstrate to employers that you have the necessary skills,
background, ability and motivation to do the job and that you can comfortably
fit into their organization. On the other hand, during the same interview,
you have the opportunity to collect information about the job, future
career opportunities and the organization to determine if the position
and work environment are right for you.
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 Prepare
Yourself
In order to obtain almost any job, you will have an employment interview. That
interview is probably the single most important step toward getting a job. To
help you along the way, here are some suggestions - ways you can prepare yourself
beforehand for that decisive step into your future.
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Know
Yourself
What are your interests and qualifications? Your prospective employer will
want to know, so be prepared to talk about them briefly, intelligently and clearly
during the interview.
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Know
Something About the Business
Before you make an appointment for a job interview, find out whatever you can
about the firm. Becoming familiar with the company means you can suggest ways
you can be of service to your prospective employer during your interview.
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Check
Your Personal Appearance
Before you leave for the interview, check your appearance. You should look
neat and businesslike. Dress for the job as though you are ready to go to work.
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Go to
the Interview Alone
Employers are interested in you, and how you present yourself. They don't want
to hear what your relatives or friends think of your qualifications. They will
judge for themselves. So go to the interview alone.
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Arrive
Early
Get to the interview a few minutes ahead of time. Present yourself in a straightforward
manner. Give the receptionist your name and the name of the person you wish
to see.
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Be Alert
During the interview sit up straight and look alert. Try to be at ease and
to answer your prospective employer's questions in a businesslike manner.
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Think
Before Answering
Think before answering questions. Be polite, accurate, and honest. The employer
is especially interested in experience and training that show you are suited
for the job. Be prepared to answer questions such as these:
- What work have you done?
- How did you do it?
- Did you use any special tools or equipment?
- How much did you earn?
- Have you done any volunteer work-work without pay-for community organizations,
at school or at home?
- Do you have hobbies that might help you perform a job?
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Bring
The Facts
Bring with you an up-to-date, accurate resume plus a fact sheet. Here are some
of the things you should include:
- Names and addresses of your past employers
- Dates you worked
- Names and addresses of at least three other persons who know of your abilities
and background
- Names and addresses of all schools you attended and the type of diploma
or certificate, if any, that you received.
- Extracurricular activities at school
- Honors and awards
- Skills
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Be Nice
Your behavior should be diplomatic, polite and tactful. Listen to everything
your prospective employer has to say. Don't argue. Try to answer all questions
accurately and completely.
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Leave
Your Troubles at Home
Don't tell employers your troubles. They are not interested in your personal
or family problems. They want to know how you can help them as a prospective
employee.
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End of
Interview
As the interview ends, even if you feel you may not get the job, be polite
and friendly. Shake the hand of the interviewer and thank them for their time.
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After
Interview
It is very important to call your account executive immediately after the interview
concludes to get your feedback on how the interview went. Please remember to
follow up within 24 hours with a thank you note to the interviewer.
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