How to Interview for a Job

HOW TO INTERVIEW FOR A JOB

You’ve made it to the interviewing stage of job hunting. This means that in all likelihood you have already done a lot of things right. You have done your research, written your resumes and cover letters, contacted employers, etc. Usually there are many more applicants than there are jobs, so you have probably already outdistanced most of your competition.

How to prepare for the Interview!

Self Analysis:   

By this time, most job seekers have already done an analysis of what they have to offer. Review the following information:  

Who am I? 

Where do I want to go? 

How do I intend to go about getting there? 

Why do I want this job? 

Why do I think I’m qualified? 

What are my interests? Abilities? Skills? Goals? 

What are my strengths? Weaknesses? 

Have knowledge of the organization: 

 Employers will expect that you have knowledge of their organization. The employer will sometimes supply his/her own literature for the purpose of giving you an overview of the organization. Be sure you read this literature. If they don’t provide it, research the organization on your own. More and more company literature is available on the internet

Be prepared: T

his is your chance to sell yourself to the potential employer. They will be asking you questions. Think about potential questions ahead of time. Be prepared to give intelligent, organized responses. You should also be prepared to ask questions. Normally, near the end of the interview you will be given your chance. Don’t ask questions just for the sake of asking. Always have several questions prepared in case some are answered in the normal course of the interview. Stay away from questions that relate to salary and benefits
The Interview!  

1. Introduction: 

When you first meet the employer, remember that the first impression is very important. Smile, make eye contact, give a firm handshake, and greet the interviewer by using his/her name. Remember, the recruiter is evaluating you from the moment you are greeted. Follow the lead of the interviewer. Do not have a seat until he/she tells you where to sit down. You will most likely be nervous. A certain degree of nervousness is normal. The first few minutes will probably be used to help you relax. Many interviewers ask you to tell them about yourself. Give a brief personal background without giving too much detail. Don’t forget the first five minutes, where first impressions are established, are very important.  

2. Eye Contact: 

It is very important to have eye contact throughout the whole interview. That does not mean to stare at the employer the entire time, but keep normal eye contact. Don’t look down at your hands or at the floor.   

3. Questions: 

The interviewer will normally spend much of the interview asking you questions. Be a good listener. Speak slowly and confidently. Your answers should not be too short and not so long that you are rambling. When possible, provide specific examples when answering questions. Make sure the answers are well thought out and formulated before you speak. Have confidence in your abilities without being arrogant. This is your chance to sell yourself to the employer.  

4. Closing: 

After the questioning is over, you will have your turn to ask questions. They can display your interest in the interviewer. Your questions should be upbeat and positive. Also, questions should convey your interest in and your knowledge of the organization. In closing the interview, remember to sum up your qualifications and interest in the position for which you are applying. Also, determine how the interviewer will follow-up. What is the next step – will the interviewer contact you or should you contact him/her? Keep in mind that the interview is not over until you walk out the door. Stay enthusiastic and courteous the entire time. The last five minutes is where your overall performance is being assessed. Usually the interviewer will stand up to indicate the end of the interview. Shake the interviewer’s hand and thank him/her for considering you.   

5. Thank-You Letter: 

Once you leave the interview room, the process is not over. Within a day or two, type a short, business-like letter thanking the interviewer for his/her time. If you have decided not to pursue the position, be tactful and courteous in saying so. If you still want the position, reaffirm your interest. Mention a few points you covered in your conversation which demonstrate how you would be good in this position. This may also be an opportunity to provide information that may have been overlooked during the interview.

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