1. Interviewing for a Job Page 229

2. Job Interview 0 Is a formal meeting between a job seeker and a potential employer-the interviewer 0 What is the purpose of an interview? 0 The interviewer decides if the job seeker is the best person for the position 0 You decided if the position is the one you really want

3. How do you know if its successful? 0 If you convince the interviewer to offer you the job OR: 0 If you learn that the position would not be right for you

4. Preparing for a job Interview 0 1.Research the company or organization 0 Talk to someone who works there or visit the company’s website 0 2. Make a list of questions an interviewer may ask 0 Common questions included “tell me about yourself” “why do you want to work here?” “Why should I hire you?”

5. Preparing for a job interview 0 3. Prepare answers to the questions 0 Be specific, emphasize your strengths, skills, and abilities. 0 Explain how you solved a problem, made an important decision, or showed responsibility 0 Mention your goals, and briefly explain how you plan to achieve them

6. Preparing for a Job Interview 0 4. Make a list of 5-10 questions you can ask the interviewer 0 Ask about the company, the work environment, and the position. 0 Common questions include: 0 What kind of projects or tasks will I be responsible for? 0 Is there opportunity for advancement? 0 What are the hours? 0 What is the salary range? 0 When will you make a hiring decision?

7. What should you do when you practice? 0 Be truthful 0 Pronounce your words in a strong, clear voice 0 Keep your answers brief and to the point 0 Use positive nonverbal communication, such as eye contact 0 Dress as you would for an actual interview 0 Avoid fidgeting or playing with your hair 0 Ask someone to critique your interviewing skills and use his or her comments to improve your technique

8. What is the best way to practice? 0 Working with a partner is probably the best way to practice 0 You can take turns being the interviewer and the job seeker 0 If you are alone, practice in front of a mirror. 0 If possible, record your practice so you can watch yourself

9. Tips for making the most of the job interview 0 Ten minutes early 0 Introduce yourself to the receptionist and explain who you are there to meet 0 Be polite and respectful to everyone you meet 0 Shake hands with your interviewer when you arrive and before you leave 0 Listen carefully, using + body language

10. Tips for making the most of the job interview 0 Use proper English; no slang 0 Avoid chewing gum 0 Turn off your cell phone 0 End of interview, shake hands again, thank the interviewer. Ask for a business card

11. Telephone Interviews 0 Many companies use telephone interviews to screen- make a first decision about- potential employees 0 May be interested in you based on your cover letter and resume, but want to see how you present yourself during a conversation

12. Write a Thank-You Note 0 Your interview is over. Now what? 0 Write a thank-you note! 0 They remind the interviewer that you are serious about wanting the job 0 Use it to restate your interest in the job and qualifications & to thank them for spending time with you 0 Address the note to the person who interviewed you! 0 Send the note within 24 hours of the interview

13. Follow up 0 During the interview, you asked how long it would be before the interviewer made a decision. 0 If you o not hear from the interviewer within that timeframe, you can call or send an email. 0 Ask if they have made a decision, & say again that you are interested in the position 0 Being called back for a 2 nd interview is a good thing. It means you passed the first test!

14. Looking your best for an Interview! 0 Wash, dry and comb your hair 0 Trim and clean your fingernails 0 Use deodorant 0 Brush your teeth 0 Avoid products such as perfume or body spray that have a strong odor

15. Looking your best for an Interview! 0 Wear small, neat jewelry 0 Wear clean, neat clothes that are appropriate for the work environment 0 Avoid bright or contrasting colors that might distract the employer 0 Avoid revealing too much skin 0 Arrive early enough so you have time to visit the restroom to check your appearance and freshen up