The Steps to Interviewing Success

Before During &

After

Know the employer and the position!

Research before you interviewBusiness goals, vision & values

History, culture & people

Products, customers & service

Research employer’s location(s) & recent successes

Know the job for which you are applyingHow does the job fit into the organization as a whole?

What requirements of the job description fit you or NOT?

Who is the employer trying to eliminate? Anyone without…

• Positive attitude• Verbal and written communication skills• Honesty & integrity• Interpersonal skills & teamwork• Strong work ethic• Motivation & self-initiative• Flexibility & adaptability• Computer skills• Analytical/critical thinking and problem

solving skills• Organizational skills = SELF MANAGEMENT

Practice

Practice answering questions looking in the mirror

Practice strategies to relax

Practice maintaining eye contact (assuming this culture!)

Practice “being yourself” under stress

Practice interviewing with friends and family

Pursue networking situations for practice

Dress

Investigate apparel worn by current employees

Over-dressing is better than under-dressing

Suit/tie or pressed shirt and slacks for men

Pants suit or skirt and blouse, minimal jewelry, matching accessories for women

Well groomed & polished shoes

Avoid strong perfume or cologne

Arrival

Know where you are going and how long it takes

Arrive 10-15 minutes before interview

Bring a note pad and paper or career portfolio

Bring copies of your cover letter, resume & references

Bring five well thought out questions, i.e., What do you consider the most important aspects of this job? What are the next steps in the interview process?

Enjoy the experience!

First Impressions

Shake hands firmly

Make eye contact

Smile and introduce yourself

Wait to be asked to sit

Write down names as you meet people, unless they give you their business cards

Sit up straight and lean slightly forward

Your Responses

Listen closely and answer well by answering directly

Know why you want to work for them

Take time to gather your thoughts

Don’t forget, you are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you

Don’t tell, demonstrate: Share a concise story to evidence impact

My internship supervisor would say that I’m…

Clarify as necessary

Interview

Questions

Tell me a little about yourself?

Why are you applying for this job?

What do you know about us?

What are your strengths? Weaknesses?

Why do you want to work for us?

Why should I hire you rather than another applicant?

If ___, how would you respond? (Behavioral Questions)

Your Questions

How would you describe a successful employee in this company?

What are the priorities for this position?

What are the major challenges a new hire will face in this job?

What attracted you to this company?

How soon do you plan to fill this position?

The Closing

Listen closely for next steps; you can ask “What is your expected timetable for filling this position?”

Verbally thank them

Offer a handshake, once again

Request business cards unless they’ve already been handed out

You might ask, “May I call to inquire about the status of my application in a few days?”

Follow Up

Send a handwritten thank you note within 24 hours (here’s where business cards come in handy for addresses)

Express your appreciation for the interview, their time and reconfirm your interest in the position

Consider an “idea” note, if appropriate, or add something you forgot to mention during the interview

If you didn’t get the job, stay in touch; perhaps they may connect you with another possibility

And most of all…

Trust and pray:

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for welfare, not for evil, to give you a future and a hope….