How to Ace an Interview

Transcription

1 How to Ace an Interview Back on Track Network Author: Cindy M. Oliver, SPHR

2 Secrets of Successful Job Hunting Think outside the window Stand out, attend meetings Be nice and friendly no matter where you are Professional association or grocery store Edit and re-edit your application materials Customize for each position Set yourself apart Be friendly, genuine, do your homework Look sharp

3 What Employers are Looking for Neat appearance Prepared candidate Resume of one or two pages Enthusiastic, energetic candidate Culture fit Can do attitude Critical thinking Problem solver How you fit in to solve employer problems Interest in company and/or position ask for it

4 How to Ace an Interview Prepare, prepare, prepare Keep your answers short When in doubt, overdress Be positive Say to the interviewer I really want this job Follow up promptly Luck is where hard work and opportunity cross paths

5 Prior to Interview Get the specifics of the position and company Do your homework Check the company web site Get confirmation of your appointment Get directions Take a dry run if necessary Ask about dress code Bring any paperwork requested already

6 Interview Day Be at least 15 minutes early Be prepared to complete an application if necessary Call if you are running late Have any paperwork filled out as requested Bring extra copies of your resume No strong perfume or cologne Remain calm

7 Interviewing Tips Dress to impress for position Know who you are meeting HR, Manager Interview starts at reception or security Handshake firm but not bone crushing Scope of responsibilities, duties Reporting structure Do your homework Check company web site Have a reference sheet ready to provide Have questions, know how to end the interview Be ready to answer the question about salary range

8 Communication Skills - Interviewing Conciseness of answers Strike right balance Structure of answers Organized response, anticipate & practice Logical flow of information Connect ideas, persuasion Eye contact Clarity of speech

9 During the Interview Be prepared to talk about your work experience If no work, talk about school or volunteer projects Show how you have integrity and are trustworthy Show your business knowledge Demonstrate your job knowledge Demonstrate your flexibility

10 Interview Questions In what ways will this role help you stretch your professional capabilities? What have been your greatest areas of improvement in your career? What s the toughest feedback you ever got and how did you learn from it? What are people most likely to misunderstand about you? If you gave your new staff a user manual about getting to know you, what would you include in it? What are 3 strengths and 3 areas of improvement? Why should I hire you?

11 Concluding the Interview Ask if the interviewer needs anything else from you Ask whether you answered all of their questions or do they still have concerns Ask whether they think you are a good match Ask what to expect next Do not talk about pay or benefits unless interviewer brings it up first Ask for the job

12 After the Interview Send a thank you note by regular mail or Express your interest in the position again Ask when you can expect to hear anything Follow up when they say it is appropriate Be persistent but not a pest

13 Resources Company web site South Florida Workforce resources Career Services resources

14 Adapted from a presentation for Back on Track Network by: Cindy M. Oliver, SPHR Director of Human Resources Terremark Worldwide, Inc.

15 Elevator Speech Tenure Function Industry Accomplishments Core Competencies Practice it seconds

16 Optional Elevator Speech Your past 3 key strengths What you are looking for Practice it seconds