recruiting tomorrows TALENT today...

BE PREPARED   

Interviewing Basics 

1. Arrive early. Fifteen to 20 minutes is sufficient.

As you wait, you can observe employees coming and going, which can give you some insight into the work environment.

2. Dress and act professionally. Even if you know that the dress code is business casual, kick it up a notch up; crisp pressed clothing.

During the interview, speak positively and make eye contact.

3. Bring multiple copies of your resume. You might end up in a group interview situation, so bring at least six.

4. Remember paper and pen. Take a few notes during the interview. This will demonstrate that you’re engaged and interested.

Write down the names of everyone who interviews you. (You can verify correct spellings later.)

5. Practice answering questions. Certain questions are inevitable. “What is your greatest strength/weakness?” “What motivates you?” “Why do you want this job?” Be ready to talk about two achievements you’re proud of, a time when you took a risk, and what makes you a good team member. And remember, when they say, “Tell us about yourself,” what they really want to know is skills and experience you bring to the position.

6.  Prepare questions. When asked, “Do you have any questions for us?” it’s the kiss of death to say, “No, I think you’ve covered everything.” Have at least three questions ready. Ask about the corporate structure and culture. What specific challenges you might face in this position. What a typical day will be like. And, of course, at the end of the interview remember, “What is the next step in the interview process?”

7. Say thank you. Send thank you notes. Nothing fancy or lengthy. Just a few sentences of appreciation.

Send an individual note to each person you met with, making sure names are spelled correctly by calling HR or checking the website.

8. Follow-up. If you haven’t heard back within the timeframe discussed during the interview, call.

If a decision is yet to be made, ask when you could call back.

Finally, smile!  Smiling not only relieves stress, but makes you appear more confident.
After all, you landed an interview. That’s definitely something to smile about!

INTERVIEW SKILLS

The biggest mistake an interviewee can make is not being fully prepared. It behooves job-seekers to use every conceivable means possible to prepare for the interview,

and to allow ample time to fully prepare.

Understand that interviewing is a skill; as with all skills, preparation and practice enhance the quality of that skill. Preparation can make the difference between getting an offer and getting rejected.

First of all, thank you for taking the time to assist me with my resume. I really cut off a lot of meaty information in the resume that I condensed to one page and sent you today.  I reviewed the resume that you were able to minimize and I appreciate how you were able to make the best use of space and maintain the important context of my resume. 

You continue to impress me in the manner in which you and your company excel in taking care of your potential candidates. 

JEREMY WHITESIDE

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS 

Field Training Officer

Be able to answer the Basic 3:
Why are you interested in this field?
Why are you interested in this company?
Why are you interested in this position?

Your smile is your logo, your personality is your business card,

how you leave others feeling after having an experience with you becomes your trademark.

Jay Danzie