Everyone could use a few pointers
Being properly prepared and informed about the interviewing process can help you positively focus your energies on what needs to be done and help you with interviewing successfully to find the right job.
Interviewing Tips
Prep time!
Do a little homework! Research the company as well as the people you will meet with at the interview. Review the website in detail including reading “news and press”. Be prepared to answer “What do you know about our company and why are you interested in working here?”
Eyeball 2 Eyeball
Maintain eye contact with your interviewer. Show that you want the job. Show that you’re listening and understanding what’s being asked so you can give a thoughtful response.
Positivity not negativity
Think before you speak…never speak negatively about a former employer. Always reflect on what you learned from a negative experience and be ready to describe the positive takeaway.
Self-awareness
Telling someone that you work too hard is NOT a weakness. We all have weaknesses so don’t assume you’re supposed to be perfect. Share what you’re doing to help overcome your weakness. That speaks volumes about who you are!
Why me? 3 to 3
Why should we hire you? The question that sends rookies and veterans alike into a frenzy. Review that job spec and make a list of your skills & experiences a.k.a. technical tools. Do the same for your emotional attributes “human tools”. Discuss the top 3 “technical” tools and top 3 “human tools” when asked, “why you?”
Now it’s your turn
Prepare questions in advance. Have no more than 5 questions prepared to ask of the interviewer, in order of importance. Hint: asking about compensation and benefits shouldn’t be on the top 5. That’s up to the interviewer to share with you.
Etiquette in the form of follow-up
Always send a follow-up email so be sure to get contact info. Rule of thumb: send a well-written email using proper grammar and syntax by the end of the day or within 24 hours.
