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Congratulations,
your hard work has paid off. All the searching, networking and endless resume
versions have got you this far. Remember
while the interviewer is asking questions to fill a specific position, you
also have the opportunity assess how the company fits your expectations and
needs. With your limited time to make the best impression review the
interview material presented at the right. |
Where to Research About the Company All Too Common Interview Mistakes |
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Where to Research About the Company |
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Company Web Site On
notice that you have an interview, the first thing to do is refresh your
memory of the company. Look up the company web site and get to know more
about their purpose, customer and services provided. Libraries Many
libraries subscribe to a very powerful database called Reference USA Business
that can help you research individual companies or create a list of
businesses contacts in the area you would like to work. Additionally, you can
find the most current phone and address information for companies your have previously worked for. Researching
a company to prepare for an interview is an essential step in preparing for
success. With research you may find useful material for discussion relative
to the industry or identify the key competitors that would indicate you are
‘in tune’. Reference USA Reference USA is a detailed listing of
10.5 million businesses with the ability to search by company name, type of
business, geography, business size and other key criteria. Local libraries
subscribe to this service. You will need a library card to log in. Inquire
about using Reference USA at your local library, if you have a library card
you may also be able to use it from home. |
To
access this database, look for a link to Research or Databases on the library
website home page. From the “Research / Databases” screen, click on the link
to Research Databases.” From the screen, scroll down to the alphabetical list
of subscribed databases to find “Reference USA Business” or use a Search box
if available. If you are logged in outside the library, you may need to enter
your library card number at this point. On the “Reference USA Available
Databases” screen, click on “U.S. Businesses.” When you first enter the Reference USA
Business database, you will be in the Quick Search tab. This quick search
will allow you to search by a company name, or an executive’s first and last
name, and is helpful if you are researching a particular company in
preparation for an interview. For example, try searching for Procter and
Gamble in Ohio to see a large company with many locations. You can click on
the name of each individual location to see more information about it, such
as a management directory, a business profile, and statistics such as number
of employees and sales volume. You can also see the corporate tree for
company if the location you have selected is part of a larger corporation. |
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Your Questions |
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During the interview you may be given
the opportunity to ask questions. You should have done sufficient research
about the company to ask questions that demonstrate you are familiar with
their products or services. This is your chance to have some control
of the interview. It will let the interviewer respond rather than probe.
Conclude with ‘Thank you’ or with a personal observation or a query for
clarification on a point the interviewer raised. DO
NOT ask how much does the job pay! Suggestions: ·
What happened to the last person who
had this job? ·
What do you think will be your major
areas of growth in the next five years? ·
What has the role of marketing
(planning, personnel) been in this firm? ·
What would you like to do more of (less
of) next year (ask this one of the boss)? ·
What development task do you think I
could lead the department in that would provide training or education
beneficial to your objectives? ·
What does our company (your department)
pride itself in? What sets it off from other functions? |
·
How are promotions determined? What
makes people successful in the company? ·
How are decisions made here? ·
What do you think is the company’s most
immediate opportunity to gain in the market? ·
What do you think about immediate
actions as compared to long-term measures? ·
How would you summarize the publics view of your company? ·
Can you tell me some of the company’s short and long term objectives? ·
What are the characteristics that the
company considers attractive or unique about itself? ·
What industries or outside influences
affect the company’s growth? ·
In what areas does the company excel?
What limitations would you like to overcome? ·
What are the common denominators that
exist in successful employees of the company? |
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Come Ready |
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Posted By: Melissa Kennedy On: 5/24/2012 10:15 AM In: Job Seeker – Interview http://www.businessworkforce.com/articles/article.asp?id=1105 |
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One of the most sought after
qualities that hiring managers are looking for is attention to details.
Arriving at the interview with everything you might need is a great way to
show why you are a good fit for the job. Copies of your
resume Don't assume that the interviewer will have a copy of
your resume on hand. Instead, print out a few copies and bring them along
with you. If the interviewer wants to go over your resume with you, you'll
have your own copy on hand and will be able to answer any questions they
might have more easily. Another reason to bring extra copies is that you
never know how many people will be interviewing you. If you arrive and find
that there is a panel, you can quickly supply additional copies of your
resume rather than them having to share. A small notebook
with questions This is something
many applicants forget, but it's super important. Bring a nice notepad with
you to write down any important information the interviewer might give you.
Also, write out a few well thought out question for the interviewer. This
way, you'll be sure to ask all of the questions you have and it also shows
that you are prepared and interested in the job. |
A nice pen In the course of your interview, you may need to take
notes, fill out an application or other forms. In these moments, not having a
pen will make you look unprepared. To prevent this, make sure you bring a
nice, professional looking pen with you to the interview. These small details
show that you are a professional who pays attention to the little things.
This goes a long way toward demonstrating that you have what it takes to do
the job. Good to have References – more than one copy Evaluation Received – any written recommendation or
award Verified address of the interview location, time and
name of the individual you will meet with. associated driving instructions or
map. For follow up Paper,
envelope and stamp for a hand written thank you note. |
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A Smooth Operator |
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Allow plenty of
time to get to the job interview. Plan to arrive early just in case an accident or
something unforeseen might slow you down. This pre-planning will also allow
you to arrive at the interview relaxed and prepared. If you’re very early,
you can use the time to review the interview tips and rehearse your answers
to common questions. Punctuality at your first meeting with a potential
employer is crucial! Make a great first
impression. It’s that initial impression that stands out in the
interviewer’s mind when they are evaluating you vs. another candidate. This
is why dress, grooming, a clear speaking voice and a winning smile are
important. Listen, respond
and relax during the job interview. It’s only natural
to be a little nervous, especially during your first job interview. So don’t worry if you stumble on your first sentence or
don’t immediately get your full point across. Look for the opportunity to
provide more details and demonstrate your strong points. |
Relax Take
a couple of deep breaths and maintain a calm, even conversational tone.
Listen carefully to each question and respond to what is being asked, not to
what you anticipate will be asked. Ask for clarification if needed and be
careful not to rush through your answers. Make eye contact Smile
warmly and shake the interviewer’s hand. This “connection” can help set the
tone and get the interview started on an upbeat note. Maintain frequent eye
contact throughout the interview to show your continued interest. Discuss Bring up your professional association
memberships and any committee positions which you’ve held. Mention research
you’ve helped with, volunteer projects, published articles and continuing
education. |
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The Art of the Q & A Deal |
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You
need to be responsive in the interview. At the same time don’t fire off what
comes into your head. A slight pause is acceptable and will make the response
less ‘boiler plate’ and genuine. But be ready to make the most of the ‘pause
time’ Here
are some questions you might be asked. Tell me something about yourself?
This
is your opportunity to set the tone for the interview and to share with the
employer how you fit into his company and the strengths that make you a
valuable asset. Good place to use your 30 second summary Why did you leave your last position? Always
have a positive answer. Keep it short. Don’t change your answer in the middle
of the interview. Examples: “The company downsized” or “I enjoyed my company,
but I’d like to increase my experience and skills.” Who will give you a good reference? Prepare
in advance a list of three personal and three business/professional
references. Check with all references to be sure that they will give you a
good reference. Suggest to your references some strengths or experiences you
would like them to emphasize if they are called. |
What do you know about this company or
job? You
must do your homework. Research the company prior to the interview, using the
Internet, the public library, or people who have worked for the company. You
should know as a minimum the company’s products and stated objectives. How would you evaluate your last
supervisor? Always
give a positive answer. Tell what you have learned from working there. Never
“bad mouth” the company. What do you hope to be doing in 5
years? Keep
your stated expectations reasonable. Examples: “I’d like to be working for
you in a position of responsibility.” “What would be the normal career
progression for this position?” If we called your last employer what
would they say about you? This
is a great opportunity to list all of your achievements, even if your boss
hates you. Example:
“Well, I hope he would tell you about the time I did....” Most
companies have a strict policy not to comment on negative performance by a
present or past employee. |
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Make Your Best Case |
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Carole Martin https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/boost-your-interview-iq |
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Make your case to an interviewer. The
smartest and most qualified job seekers need to prepare for interviews.
Interviewing is a learned skill, there are no second chances to make the
first impression. These strategies will improve your interview skills. Practice good nonverbal communication Demonstrate confidence: stand straight,
make eye contact and connect with a firm handshake. That first nonverbal
impression can be a great beginning. Dress for the job or company Today’s casual dress codes do not give
you permission to dress as “they” do. It is important to know what to wear
and to be well-groomed. Whether you wear a suit or something less formal
depends on the company culture and the position you are seeking. If possible,
call to find out the company dress code before the interview. Listen At the beginning of the interview, your
interviewer is giving you information, either directly or indirectly. If you
don’t hear it, you are missing a major opportunity. Good communication skills
include listening and letting the person know what you heard. Don’t talk too much When you have not prepared ahead of
time, you may ramble when answering questions. Prepare for the interview by
reading through the job posting, matching your skills with the position’s
requirements and relating only that information. Don’t be too familiar The interview is a professional meeting
to talk business. This is not about making a |
new friend. Your level of familiarity
should mimic the interviewer’s demeanor. It is important to bring energy and
enthusiasm to the interview and to ask questions. Use appropriate language Use professional language during the
interview. Be aware of inappropriate slang or references to age, race,
religion, politics or sexual orientation. Don’t be cocky Attitude plays a key role in your
interview success. There is a fine balance between confidence,
professionalism and modesty. If you’re putting on a performance to
demonstrate your ability, overconfidence is as bad, as being too reserved. Take care to answer the questions When interviewers ask for an example of
a time when you did something, they are asking behavioral questions, designed
to elicit a sample of your past behavior. If you fail to relate a specific
example, you not only don’t answer the question, but you also miss an
opportunity to prove your ability and talk about your skills. Ask questions Part of knowing how to interview is
asking questions that demonstrate an interest in the company. Asking
questions also gives you the opportunity to find out if this is a good fit
for you. The best questions come from listening to what you’re asked during
the interview and asking for additional information. Don’t appear desperate Reflect the three Cs during the
interview: cool, calm and confidence. You know you can do the job; make sure
the interviewer believes you can, too. |
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Nicole Fallon http://www.businessnewsdaily.com/5836-top-interviewing-skills.html |
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Brushing up on basic interview skills
is always a good idea. Job interviews are arguably some of the
most important meetings you will ever have in your life. The outcome of an
interview can greatly affect your career trajectory, whether it means you
continue along your planned path or start a new one to find a more fulfilling
occupation. Regardless of the position you're
trying to get, it's important to thoroughly prepare for the interview. In
addition to knowing why you're a good fit for the job, brushing up on basic
interview skills is always a good idea. Hiring experts shared five of the
most important skills to focus on if you want to get hired. Clarifying
interview questions Most people are afraid to ask an
interviewer to clarify his or her question. You might worry that the
interviewer will think you weren't paying attention, but ensuring that you
thoroughly understand the question can really help you give a thoughtful,
relevant response. Paraphrase the question and say, 'Is this what you're
asking?'". Thinking
out loud One mistake that many interviewees make
is stalling when they don't have an answer ready, or responding with "I
don't know." Thinking aloud is a good tactic to combat this problem the
best approach is to have humble confidence. Repeat the interviewer's
question, and work through your thought process out loud. The interviewer may
give you a hint if you're actively thinking instead of stalling." Communicating
nonverbally When you go to an interview, do you
find yourself fidgeting and staring at the floor or |
table when you answer questions? If so,
you might be blowing your chances of getting the job, even if you're
perfectly qualified. Good nonverbal communication speaks
volumes about a candidate. It's something most people don't practice, but it
makes it very evident when you're nervous. Conduct mock interviews with a
friend or in front of a mirror to practice your eye contact, posture and
other body-language indicators that convey confidence. A firm handshake and
eye contact go a long way during an interview. Knowing
your own resume This may seem obvious, but knowing your
own resume inside and out is crucial to interview success. If, like many job
seekers today, you've tailored your resume to suit this specific company or
position, make sure you take the time to memorize that specific version so
you're prepared to answer any and all questions the employer may have about
it. Leveraging
knowledge of the company and interviewer Every job seeker has been told to
thoroughly research the company and position he or she is interviewing for,
but it's just as important to know how to use that information to your
advantage. Research not only the job description and organization, but the
community in which it's located. "It's very impressive when a
candidate can talk about why he or she is a good fit for the position, as
well as things that are going on in the company's community. Use LinkedIn to research the hiring
manager and anyone else you might be speaking to before the interview can
give you an understanding of each person's background and potentially some
common ground to spark a discussion. |
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National Institutes of Health Intrtviewing Skills |
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The key to successful interviewing is
effective preparation. It is critical for you to be prepared to talk about
yourself and your interest in the job to convince a hiring committee of your
ability to do the job. The two major areas you need to prepare
for are: YOURSELF
·
Skills ·
Interests ·
Experience ·
Accomplishments PROSPECTIVE
EMPLOYER ·
History of the institution ·
Structure of the department ·
Knowledge of products, services or
research areas ·
Understanding of the position |
INTERVIEW
DO'S ·
Research the department before the
interview ·
Review sample questions and practice
your answers ·
Schedule a mock interview with OITE ·
Bring extra CVs/resumes to the
interview ·
Dress professionally ·
Bring a list of questions you have for
the interviewers ·
Send follow-up thank-you letter ·
When discussing salary, talk in terms
of a range, not a single figure INTERVIEW
DON'TS ·
Arrive late! ·
Accept a formal interview to
"practice" your interviewing skills ·
Ask about salary during the initial
interview ·
Ask about a position for your partner ·
Argue with the interviewer ·
Volunteer negative information ·
Continue to interview after you
accepted a position |
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All Too Common Interview Mistakes |
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Susan Ricker Adapted from: www.careerbuilder.com/advice/top-10-things-not-to-do-in-an-interview |
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It is an expected
challenge you might not feel as confident as you'd like in your next job
interview. Small but significant acts could stand between you and your next
job. In addition to proper preparation to give substantive responses, be sure
to pay attention to simple details and don't sabotage yourself with common
mistakes. 1.
Appear
disinterested Hiring managers say
this is the No. 1 thing you should avoid. If bored in an interview, how will
you act on the job? Employers want energy and focus to their team. 2.
Dress
inappropriately Wearing clothes that
are too dressy or too casual, or wearing brands and logos in professional
settings is a bad sign. In interviewing about skills, remember why they care
about your appearance: You there to bring professionalism to the
organization. 3.
Appear
arrogant Managers want to
hear about your accomplishments in the context of how you helped the
organization, not a list of bragging rights. Frame your impressive sales
numbers attributed to the company's biggest year in earnings, for example. 4.
Talk
negatively about employers This is a red flag. Why
would they want to be your employer when your old employer is taking the
blame for your career's negatives? If there's bad blood between you and an
old employer, state that there was a difference in personalities or work
culture. 5.
Answer
a cell phone during the interview This is equally as
rude as speaking negatively about employers. A simple fix: Do |
NOT use your phone
at all. Turn it off or on silent before you enter the building. 6.
Appear
uninformed about the company or position If you appear
uninformed about the company or the role you're interviewing for you will
lose. Before your interview, research every aspect: who you'll be
interviewing with, the role's responsibilities and a background knowledge of
the industry. 7.
Avoid
providing specific examples Interviewers want to
hear exactly how you demonstrate your qualities of being a
"hard-working, energetic, driven team-player." Get specific when
you're explaining your strengths and achievements with quantified
performance. 8.
Ask
generic questions (or none at all) Asking generic
questions signals to the interviewer you probably don't understand the job.
Demonstrate your knowledge by asking specific questions about on-the-job
duties, and any questions you have about the organization or style of
management. 9.
Provide
too much personal information Avoid oversharing.
Avoid details about personal hobbies or family anecdotes. Simply be yourself
and let your personality and confidence speak for themselves. 10.
Ask
the interviewer personal questions About as bad as
oversharing is over-asking. Asking the hiring manager personal questions
doesn't establish a connection between you two—it just makes your interviewer
uncomfortable and show you don't have a good sense of business manners. When
in doubt, err on the side of caution and professionalism. |
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Important Company Culture Considerations |
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https://www.inc.com/jeff-haden/the-8-things-your-employees-need-most.html |
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The original focus of
this material was on cultural attributes valued by companies. The following
focuses on an employee’s awareness of cultural attributes valuable in
interviewing or in company research. Here are eight factors to consider. Each
has a sample question to set the tone for getting insight into
the company culture Freedom Will
employees have the freedom to work the way they work best? Best practices can
create excellence, but every task doesn't deserve a micro-managed approach. Autonomy
and latitude breed engagement and satisfaction, latitude breeds innovation.
Heavily process-oriented positions have room for different approaches. Will
employees have the freedom to work the way they work best? Targets Are there targeted goals that add value and incentive? Goals
are fun. Everyone is at least a little competitive, if only with themselves.
Targets create a sense of purpose and add a little meaning to even the most
repetitive tasks. Without a goal to shoot for, work is just work. And work
sucks. Mission Do managers offer a
sense of inclusion and purpose? We
all like to feel a part of something bigger. Striving to be worthy of words
like "best" or "largest" or "fastest" provides
a sense of purpose. Employees need to know what they are to achieve, for
business, for customers, and community. Employees might create a few missions
of their own. Caring starts with knowing what to care about. Expectations Is there clear and
timely communication of standards and changes? While
every job should include some degree of latitude, every job needs basic
expectations regarding the way specific situations should be handled.
Criticize an employee for expediting shipping today, even though last week
that was the standard procedure for on-time delivery, and you lose that
employee. You need to know what |
your
boss expects. When standards change, the company needs to clearly communicate
those changes first, including the likely exceptions. Input Are suggestions
encouraged and given consideration Everyone
wants to offer suggestions and ideas. Employees denied the opportunity to
make suggestions, or have their ideas shot down without consideration, and
you create robots. Robots don't care. Employees need the opportunity to offer
suggestions. When an idea doesn't have merit, take the time to explain why.
You can't implement every idea, but you can always make employees feel valued
for their ideas. Connection Do I matter as a
person? Employees
don’t want to work for a paycheck; they want to work with and for people. A
kind word, a short discussion about family, a brief check-in to see if they
need anything, those individual moments are much more important than meetings
or formal evaluations. Consistency How is fairness understood
and applied? Most
people can deal with a boss who is demanding and quick to criticize... as
long as he or she treats every employee the same. While you should treat
individual employees uniquely, they must treat each employee fairly. (There's
a big difference.) The key to maintaining consistency is to communicate. The
more employees understand why a decision was made the less likely they are to
assume favoritism or unfair treatment. Future Is career
development and training offered? Every
job should have the potential to lead to something more, either within or
outside the company. Look forward to learning new skills and managing new situations.The company should
take the time to develop employees for jobs they someday hope to fill -even
if those positions are outside your company. |
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