FEW INTERVIEW TIPS TO LAND YOU IN A GREAT ORGANIZATION
1.
Relax. The employment interview is just a meeting. In
addition, although you should not treat this meeting lightly, do not forget
that the organization interviewing you is in need of your services as much as,
or perhaps more than, you are of theirs.
2.
The key to successful interviewing is rapport building.
Most people spend their time preparing for interviews by memorizing canned
responses to anticipated questions. Successful interviewers spend most of their
time practicing the art of rapport building with powerfully effective
communicating techniques.
3.
Prepare a manila folder that you will bring to the
interview. Include in the folder:
*
Company Information (annual reports, sales material, etc.)
*
Extra resumes (6–12) and your letters of reference
*
15 questions you have prepared based on your research and analysis of the
company
* A blank legal pad, pen, and
anything else you consider helpful (e.g., college transcripts)
4.
Dress appropriately. Determine the dress code and meet
it. If their dress is business casual, you still need to be dressed in business
professional. Practice proper grooming and hygiene.
5.
Shoes, of course, must be polished.
6.
Wear limited jewelry.
7.
Call the day before and confirm the appointment—it will
set you apart.
8.
Be certain that you know exactly where you’re going.
Arrive in plenty of time. You should be at the receptionist’s desk 10–12
minutes before the scheduled interview.
9.
Prior to meeting the receptionist, check your
appearance. Check your hair, clothing, and general image. Test your smile.
10.
Secretaries, administrative assistants, and
receptionists often have a say in the hiring process. Make a strong first
impression with them.
11.
Look around the office and search for artifacts that
disclose the personality and culture of the company—and possibly the
interviewer. This information will be helpful in initially breaking the ice,
when you first begin discussions.
12.
Be aware of your body language. Sit erect, with
confidence. When standing and walking, move with confidence!
13.
Your handshake should be firm, made with a wide-open
hand, fingers stretched wide apart. Women should feel comfortable offering
their hands and firm and friendly handshakes. A power handshake and great smile
will get you off to a great start.
14.
Eye contact is one of the most powerful forms of
communicating. It demonstrates confidence, trust, and power.
15.
During the interview, lean forward toward the
interviewer. Show enthusiasm and sincere interest.
16.
Take notes during the interview. You may want to refer
to them later in the interview. If you are uncomfortable with this, ask
permission first.
17.
Be prepared for all questions, especially uncomfortable
ones. Before the interview, script out a one-page response for each question
that poses a problem for you, and practice repeating it until you’re
comfortable with it.
18.
Communicate your skills, qualifications, and
credentials to the hiring manager. Describe your market value and the benefits
you offer. Demonstrate how you will
contribute to the bottom
line. Show how you can (a) Improve sales,
(b) Reduce costs,
(c) Improve productivity,
(d) Solve organizational problems.
19.
Key in on specific accomplishments.
Accomplishments determine hireability. They separate the winners from the
runners-up.
20.
Listening skills are priceless! Job offers are made to
those who listen well, find hidden meanings, and answer questions in a brief
but effective manner.
21.
Let the interviewer bring up salary first. The purpose
of an interview is to determine whether there is a match. Once that is
determined, salary should then be negotiated.
22.
There is no substitute for planning and preparation,
practice and rehearsing—absolutely none.
23.
Practice interviewing techniques using video
technology. A minimum of five hours of video practice, preferably more,
guarantees a stellar performance.
24.
Close the sale. If you find that you want the position,
ask for it. Ask directly, “Is there anything that would prevent you from
offering me this position now?” or “Do you have any reservations or concerns?”
(if you sense that). At the very least, this should flush out any objections
and give you the opportunity to turn them into positives.
25. Always
send a thank-you note within 24 hours of every employment meeting.
26.
If the employer gives you an opportunity to ask
questions, ensure that you show genuine interest in asking your questions which
will land you with an offer letter.
27.
Do not be pretentious in your approach.
28.
Make a point to thank the personnel including the
receptionist for assisting you, so that they convey the message of your
presence, which should be soothing to the employer.
