Strengthening your Interview Skills

Congratulations! You got the interview! Three key steps: Pre-Interview Research Matchmaking First Impressions Pre-Interview Research Matchmaking First Impressions

Pre-Interview Research Research the company and industry Ask for a detailed job description Research the salary for this type of position

Pre-Interview Research Really know your strengths, attributes and assets – be honest with yourself Anticipate what questions might be asked, i.e. Behavioural-based questions Make sure that you have questions to ask at the end of your interview – Examples? Take notes to reflect on this interview to prepare for a possible second interview

What should you bring… Portfolio Extra resume The job description/advertisement A list of questions to ask employer Pad of paper and pen

In 7 seconds…an interviewer can form impressions about you! Be on time…arrive 10 minutes early Professional appearance Be positive and try to make others feel comfortable Treat everyone with courtesy Show openness

Getting Started – First Impressions Greet the interviewer Smile Introduce yourself Shake hands firmly Use eye contact Relax !!!

First Impressions…..cont Dont forget; Employers make a judgment of you within the first few seconds Project qualities such as posture, enthusiasm, interest, motivation, flexibility and willingness to work Speak slow and clearly Make frequent eye contact with interviewer

Structured Interview Welcome from Human Resources Overview of the interview – timing & format Review of resume Behavioural and Work experience questions Closing questions from employer Candidates questions and wrap up

Laissez-faire Interview Welcome and small talk Random questions Uses resume to stimulate questions Questions not clearly related to position requirements Feels very unsure!!

During the Interview Dont worry about being nervous – this is expected Interview begins with small talk to help you relax You have to prove that you have the skills and attitude required for the position

Types of Questions Informational…knowledge of terms, previous duties, facts, what you have learned in your program Introspective…what do you like/dislike, what environment works best for you, what are your strengths & weaknesses

Types of Questions… cont Hypothetical or Situational…what would you do if, what would happen if Behavioural…ask you to give examples of situations you have faced and how your responded

What do they want to know? You and your experience Your previous achievements Your interest in the job and knowledge of the company Your motivation and commitment Your ability to fulfill specific job requirements

Behavioural Based Questions Focus on real life situations rather than hypothetical ones Best predictor of future behaviour is past behaviour Focus in on soft skills or emotional competencies Prepare by developing brief stories from your past

Possible Interview Questions Tell me about when you had to go the Extra Mile to make a client/supervisor happy. Why do you want to work here? What can you do for us that another candidate may not? (unique skill) What is the most difficult situation you ever faced? Can we check your references?

Questions NOT to ask What does this company do exactly? How much sick time do I get? How long do I have to work before I get a raise? As Well: Dont criticize past employers

Analyze the questions during the interview What emphasis does the interviewer seem to be placing on skills, knowledge or personality traits and attitudes? Analyzing the questions can help you focus your answers more.

Tips… Send a thank you letter promptly after the interview. If you dont get the job, ask for feedback. Participate in a mock interviews with another person to get practice and get comfortable.

Interview Points HandshakeSit up straightSmileSpecific answers Words well paced No contradictions Understand questions Listening skills Pause before answering No ramblingMaintain eye contact No negative attributes Have questions Confident in knowledge Dress appropriately Communicate energy

Questions???