1. Choctaw Nation Career Development
“Ready, Set…WORK”
Interview Skills
Choctaw Nation Career Development

2. Basic Tips for Interviewing
Be on time.
Dress professionally.
Make eye contact.
Use a firm handshake.
Be positive and enthusiastic.
Listen attentively.
Sit still in your seat and avoid slouching.

3. Basic Tips for Interviewing
Treat everyone you encounter with courtesy and respect.
The interview starts the moment you arrive.
Offer a firm handshake, make eye contact, and have a friendly expression when you are greeted.
Listen for the interviewer’s name.
-arrive in the parking lot, they could be watching from a window to see how you are from the moment your pull in; one had his interviewees wait for 5 minutes to see how much they text or what they do during that time.

4. Tips for Successful Interviewing
Research the company.
Make the connection; apply your work and school experiences to the position.
Use your research to ask pertinent questions.
Bring a portfolio.
Bring copies of your resume and a list of references.

5. Tips for Successful Interviewing
Ask for clarification if you do not understand the question.
Be prepared for all types of questions.
Use good grammar and good diction.
Speak clearly in concise sentences.
Give specific examples to questions and statements.
BE HONEST.
Be prepared-do not let random questions throw you off; allow yourself a chance to compose an answer—do not be afraid to take a few seconds rather than blurt out an answer because you feel that you need to talk right away

6. Sample Interview Questions You May Be Asked
Tell me about yourself.
Why did you apply for this job?
What skills will you bring to this position?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Why should we hire you over another applicant?
What do you see you doing in five years?
Do you have any questions you would like to ask?

7. Sample Interview Questions You May Want to Ask
What would you consider ideal experience for this job?
If you had an ideal candidate, what skills and personal qualities would that person have?
What are the primary results you want to see from this position in the next year?
What is the next step in the hiring process?

8. Following-Up An Interview
Make sure you know the employer’s next step.
Thank the interviewer for his or her time.
Send a thank-you letter after the interview (see sample).
Be prepared for a second interview.

9. Following-Up An Interview
January 12, 2010 Mr. Archie Weatherby California Investments, Inc. 25 Sacramento Street San Francisco, CA Dear Mr. Weatherby, Thank you for taking the time to discuss the insurance broker position at California Investments, Inc., with me. After meeting with you and observing the company's operations, I am further convinced that my background and skills coincide well with your needs. I really appreciate that you took so much time to acquaint me with the company. It is no wonder that California Investments retains its employees for so long. I feel I could learn a great deal from you and would certainly enjoy working with you. In addition to my qualifications and experience, I will bring excellent work habits and judgment to this position. With the countless demands on your time, I am sure that you require people who can be trusted to carry out their responsibilities with minimal supervision. I look forward, Mr. Weatherby, to hearing from you concerning your hiring decision. Again, thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, John Oakley

10. Top 10 Interview Mistakes
Arriving Late
Dress Wrong
Bad Mouth Other Employers
Appear Disinterested or Arrogant
Lack of Research
Insufficient Answers/Not Prepared

11. Top 10 Interview Mistakes
Failure to Ask Questions
Talking Too Much
Discuss Salary Too Soon
Forget to Follow Up

12. Videos: Top 10 Interview Mistakes The Interview

13. Thank you for attending today!
Questions or Comments?
For more information, contact:
Choctaw Nation Career Development
Academic & Employment Services Team
Thank you for attending today!
This webinar will be posted on our website for future viewing. Please feel free to contact Career Development’s Academic & Employment Services team for help with Interview Skills, Resumes, and Job Search. Call One of our members will be happy to assist you. Thank you for attending today.

14. Resources
U.S. Depart of State Bureau of Human Resources & Office of Civil Service Personnel Management Career Development Resource Center
CareerSpots.com