Finally, it has finally happened! Your stellar
resume and cover letter has landed you an interview. Now what? This is the
moment you have been waiting for, the moment when you can sell yourself and get
that dream job.
A successful interview is divided into two parts:
the preparation and the actual interview. Each part requires time and effort.
Remember an interview is a two-way street. Not only
are you being interviewed by the company but you are also making a decision if
you want to work for them.
Prior to the interview, research the company and
learn as much as you can about the following.
- Its history.
- Its Mission Statement and goals.
- Its philosophy about its people, the community and the environment.
- Its products, services and markets.
- Its locations.
This information will help you shape your answers to
the interviewer’s questions. It will make you appear really interested in the
company and the position.
You also need to research how to be interviewed and
what are typical questions asked by potential employers. The internet provides
many examples of interview techniques and sample questions. Practice your
answers to the basics questions and always mold your answers to fit the
employers’ philosophy wherever possible. You will find it easier to answer the
hard questions when asked.
Review your resume and be prepared to expound upon
each of your bullet points. Most
interviewers will ask you to elaborate on your accomplishments and successes.
This is a time for you to brag.
Another key element to the interview is your
appearance. Remember the old rule of “Dress for Success.” It is true that most
interviewers form a lasting opinion of you in the first few seconds of meeting
you based on your appearance. Here are a few tips.
- You need an interview outfit.
- It should be conservative, tasteful and not a fashion statement.
- It should be appropriate to the job level to which you are applying.
* I recommend dressing one level above.
* Business casual will be appropriate for most non-executive job interviews.
- Wear appropriate shoes.
* Polished and clean.
* No tennis shoes, flops, or casual sandals.
* Depending on the nature of the job, ladies may want to avoid wearing
high heels. This is for safety reasons if there is a facility tour.
- Limit jewelry and especially limit cologne.
Arrive on time. Being late is the kiss of death for an interview. If you
are running late call and let them know.
Now all you have to do is WOW them with your brilliance.
Order your copy of How to Find a Job by Larry B. Gray today:
What a great post and what good suggestions--especially the ones about researching the company and knowing its history, its mission statement, its products, etc.
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