An interview is like a final exam. Your success depends on how thoroughly you have prepared for this test of your ability to handle the subject. And the subject is you. How well you can relate your skills, interests, and potential to the needs of the employer will dictate your success. Although interviewing is usually stressful, it should not be approached with such fear that you are nearly immobilized by anxiety. Many factors are at play on the hiring scene, and you should expect to encounter many ―no‘s‖ before the right ―yes‖ comes along.
To supply the employer with information about you that is not contained in your resume, application or cover letter. It is not an interrogation, but instead should be a conversation. To enable the employer to evaluate your personality, communication skills, attitudes, values, vitality, motivation, and interest, based on the requirements of the position and the organization. To enable you to gain further information about the employer and position.
What you have done and what you can do for the employer. How you can help the employer accomplish the objectives of the organization. How the employer can help you achieve your objectives either directly or indirectly.
Also known as a - screening interview. This is to narrow down the applicant pool so as to only invite the top candidates on site for an on-site interview.
- Human Resources Interview:
Another kind of pre-screening type of interview that can be held at the company or conducted on the phone. An HR representative will make sure you have the appropriate experience, educational background and skills for the position.
The focus is on initial impressions and reactions of the applicant. You may or may not meet with a department head or supervisor. If favorable, an invitation will follow for an in-depth interview at the company.
This is done by the hiring authority such as department head, manager, or supervisor. It can last from 30 minutes to a full day including lunch and dinner. You may meet with a variety of people and may have a group interview.
Usually used to measure reaction to a variety of individuals and situations or to have a certain group of involved representatives from the employer make a collective decision. In education, this would be a search committee or board of education. This is usually part of the in-depth interview, especially if you have a day of interviewing and are meeting with a variety of people from the organization.
- How do I prepare for an interview?
- Thorough self-examination is necessary.
The interviewer will focus on getting to know your personal characteristics and will be looking for a pattern of behavior. Therefore you must have a good idea of . . . What skills you have to offer. What you have accomplished. What you do with your time. Who you are, your personality, values, and attitudes. Where you want to go with this job; what are your goals.
2. Thorough research of the company.
You must know enough about the company to justify why you are seeking employment, and to formulate intelligent questions about the organization. What are the products, services, size and clientele? What is the relative size of the firm in the industry? What functions are involved in the position for which you are applying? What is the organization/industry‘s potential for growth? How is the organization structured? Who is their competition? Sources of information: Employer brochures, annual reports, directories, newspapers, business and trade journals, professional associations, employees in the organization, etc. No excuse will be acceptable to an employer for not knowing this information.
3. Plan your presentation.
Be prepared to talk about your background, accomplishments, skills, abilities, and goals. Make a list of your best “selling points” and bring it to the interview. Make sure that you make these points known. Do not wait for the employer to ask questions which lead to this information; be prepared to sell yourself. Cite SPECIFIC EXAMPLES that demonstrate your skills and strengths.
4. Prepare questions for the employer.
Remember that you are also looking for the right organization, people, and working environment. Asking intelligent questions is just as important as how you answer their questions. Do not wait until the end of the interview when you are asked if you have any questions. Promote a two-way conversation throughout the interview by interjecting (not interrupting) questions and responses. Lead the interviewer to your area of knowledge by asking related questions.
5. Be prepared with references.
Three references are typically requested by employers. Have the correct name, title, work address, telephone number, fax number, and email address of those people whom you have asked to serve as a reference for you. Make sure you ask permission and give your reference a heads-up that you are interviewing for jobs. Give each person who will act as your reference a copy of your résumé so that he/she is aware of the type of position for which you are interviewing. You might want to ask your references for letters of recommendation to keep on file. Excellent references are hard to come by; so do not risk losing one due to retirement, relocation, or illness.
6. What to bring?
Bring copies of your resume, reference list, and an unofficial transcript with you to the interview. You should also have a pad of paper and pens/pencils. Carry contact phone numbers in case you are detained along the way and need to call the interviewer to inform him/her of your delay. Do not forget a list of job-related questions. Before the interview, make sure that you verify the date, time, and place, have directions and decided on a route of travel
7. Portfolios.
These are typically used by writers, artists, designers, advertisers, etc. However, students in any major can use portfolios to demonstrate skills, abilities, and accomplishments. They can include writing samples, artwork, project summaries, and materials from an event that you organized, and a letter of recommendation.
8a. What to wear (suggestions for men)
A conservative, dark, two-piece, single-breasted suit is appropriate. Any pattern in the fabric should be subtle. White, long-sleeved dress shirt and a conservative tie will look professional. Black dress shoes that are polished and black dress socks are recommended. Conservative jewelry should be worn – one ring and watch only (consider removing earrings & body piercings, if distracting or inappropriate). Hair should be neat; keep sprays and gels to an absolute minimum – no ―wet‖ looks. Use very little cologne or none at all.
8b. What to wear (suggestions for women)
A conservative, dark-colored suit or dress with a jacket is best with a business blouse or tailored shirt. Knee-length or an inch above is the highest your hem should be. Shoes should be comfortable and simple with low heels and in a dark color that matches or complements your clothes. Hosiery should be a natural color or the color of your shoes. Jewelry should be kept to a minimum; simple gold or silver accessories – no flashy fashion jewelry (consider removing body piercings, if distracting or inappropriate) Handbags should be conservative and match your shoes; not too large/overstuffed. If you are carrying an attaché case, carry a very simple and small handbag or none at all. Use very little cologne/perfume, or none at all.
- Keep responses related to position you are interviewing for
Personal information can be interesting but not necessarily appropriate in an interview. Stick to responses that show how you are most qualified for the position you are seeking.
Giving concrete examples helps you present yourself in a specific and unique way to the employer
Often employers can ask questions about your weaknesses or why you left your last job. It may be tempting to dwell on the negative, but always put a ―positive spin‖ in your answers.
When in doubt, follow the rules of S.T.A.R.
(Explain a related Situation, the Task at hand, your Action taken, and the positive Result!)
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