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Resume Tips |
Interview
Tips |
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Interview Tips
The object of any interview, simply stated, is to get the potential employer
interested
in you.
An interview is not just a casual meeting between two
parties. It represents an opportunity for you to sell yourself! It also provides
an opportunity for you to evaluate the company, and for the employer to evaluate
your: qualifications, attitude, intelligence, communication skills, enthusiasm,
professionalism, confidence and stability.
Interviewing Etiquette (Dress, Grooming and Manners)
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The best rule of thumb: Always wear what you would wear
if your biggest customer were coming to visit! A suit is appropriate for men
and women seeking professional positions. "Casual Friday" clothing may be
acceptable for other positions, but jeans and T-shirts should stay at home.
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If you are detained for whatever reason, stop and call.
The old saying applies – “If you call, you’re never late”. Plan to be at the
location 10-15 minutes early to allow enough time to find the interviewer’s
office.
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Drug tests are a way of life in American industry
today. Be prepared to take one at anytime during the hiring process.
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Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages or smoking, even if
the opportunity is offered. The odor your clothes will carry for the rest of
the interview is too high of a price to pay.
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Women and men should limit themselves to one hand-held
item (briefcase, purse, portfolio, or folder) containing the following: A
note pad and 2 pens (black or blue ink), At least 3 copies of your resume.
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Remember to send or e-mail a “thank you” note within 24
hours. This gives you an opportunity to keep your name and face fresh in
their mind.
Body Language & Attitude
Your visual impression or body language, as well as your
attitude, are just as important as what you actually say. Enthusiasm,
interest level, sincerity, openness and warmth go into the “chemistry” that
often makes or breaks a hiring decision.
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Nodding agreement encourages others to talk as well as
to let them know that you understand what is being said.
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Eye Contact is one of the best aspects of body
language. Do not stare at the floor.
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Have a firm (but not crushing) handshake.
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Never sit until asked to do so by an interviewer.
Interview Preparation
Know yourself
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What are your career goals – both in the next job and 5
years down the road?
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What do you like (or dislike) about your current job?
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What are your key strengths and weaknesses?
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Think of specific situational examples you can give to
assist you with your responses.
Learn about the opportunity
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Name of company and if they are a division of another
firm.
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Number of employees, location, website address
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Position for which you are being considered and its
main responsibility.
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Who you will interview with and their title
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Directions to (and time for) the interview – plus a
phone number in case you are detained.
Prepare a list of questions (be
sure to listen carefully to the answers)
Telephone Interview Tips
The objective of a phone interview is to gain an invitation
for a personal interview
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Do not bring up money, benefits or vacation on your own
at this stage.
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Have a pad, pen and copy of your resume near the phone.
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Smile and be enthusiastic – it comes through the phone!
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Speak loudly enough to be heard.
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Let the interviewer do most of the talking, but when he
/ she asks you a question, don’t just answer “yes” or “no” – expound on the
question and use the opportunity to “sell” your skills and experience.
Handling Interview Questions
It is important to practice your responses to normal interview questions. We’ve
listed some sample questions that you should become proficient in handling
before your face-to-face interview:
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What particular strengths and weaknesses do you have?
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What are your short and long term career goals?
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Why should we hire you?
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Why are you leaving your current company?
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What do you expect to earn?
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What are you looking for in the next job?
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How many hours per week do you currently work?
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What things are important to your job satisfaction?
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Tell me about a time when (fill in the blank)?
Be ready to have situation specific answers to provide.
(i.e. when you had to deal with a difficult person, when you made a mistake,
when you were up against a deadline, when you motivated others, etc.)
If asked directly about your salary requirements, simply
reiterate your current salary and your desired salary. It is best to ask for 24
hours to get back to the employer on expected salary level.
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