The Steps to Interviewing Success Before During & After

Know the employer and the position! Research before you interview Business goals, vision & values History, culture & people Products, customers & service Research employer’s location(s) & recent successes Know the job for which you are applying How does the job fit into the organization as a whole? What requirements of the job description fit you or NOT?

Who is the employer trying to eliminate? Anyone without… Positive attitude Verbal and written communication skills Honesty & integrity Interpersonal skills & teamwork Strong work ethic Motivation & self-initiative Flexibility & adaptability Computer skills Analytical/critical thinking and problem solving skills Organizational skills = SELF MANAGEMENT

Practice Practice answering questions looking in the mirror Practice strategies to relax Practice maintaining eye contact (assuming this culture!) Practice “being yourself” under stress Practice interviewing with friends and family Pursue networking situations for practice

Dress Investigate apparel worn by current employees Over-dressing is better than under-dressing Suit/tie or pressed shirt and slacks for men Pants suit or skirt and blouse, minimal jewelry, matching accessories for women Well groomed & polished shoes Avoid strong perfume or cologne

Arrival Know where you are going and how long it takes Arrive minutes before interview Bring a note pad and paper or career portfolio Bring copies of your cover letter, resume & references Bring five well thought out questions, i.e., What do you consider the most important aspects of this job? What are the next steps in the interview process? Enjoy the experience!

First Impressions Shake hands firmly Make eye contact Smile and introduce yourself Wait to be asked to sit Write down names as you meet people, unless they give you their business cards Sit up straight and lean slightly forward

Your Responses Listen closely and answer well by answering directly Know why you want to work for them Take time to gather your thoughts Don’t forget, you are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you Don’t tell, demonstrate: Share a concise story to evidence impact My internship supervisor would say that I’m… Clarify as necessary

Interview Questions Tell me a little about yourself? Why are you applying for this job? What do you know about us? What are your strengths? Weaknesses? Why do you want to work for us ? Why should I hire you rather than another applicant? If ___, how would you respond? (Behavioral Questions)

Your Questions How would you describe a successful employee in this company? What are the priorities for this position? What are the major challenges a new hire will face in this job? What attracted you to this company? How soon do you plan to fill this position?

The Closing Listen closely for next steps; you can ask “What is your expected timetable for filling this position?” Verbally thank them Offer a handshake, once again Request business cards unless they’ve already been handed out You might ask, “May I call to inquire about the status of my application in a few days?”

Follow Up Send a handwritten thank you note within 24 hours (here’s where business cards come in handy for addresses) Express your appreciation for the interview, their time and reconfirm your interest in the position Consider an “idea” note, if appropriate, or add something you forgot to mention during the interview If you didn’t get the job, stay in touch; perhaps they may connect you with another possibility

And most of all… Trust and pray: Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for welfare, not for evil, to give you a future and a hope….