Interview Tips
Interview tips are generally based in common sense. That being said,
it would surprise you to learn some of the more basic elements that are
being overlooked. After over a couple hundred interviews this year, here
are some of the more common mistakes that candidates make or points they
leave out. We have compiled this information because many candidates did
not receive an offer, or received a reduced offer, due to these key
elements.
We also have
strategies for a successful interview that will help you prepare.
Be on time. Chances are the interviewers have a full day scheduled so please be
on time. It doesn't hurt to be fifteen to thirty minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork.
This way you are prepared when they are ready for you.
Please show up with a
resume'. Don't assume that just because
you applied for the job on line and attached your resume that "the
panel" will all have a copy. Bring at least three or four copies of
your resume' to be
safe. Also, the way you have your resume' organized, on what kind of
paper, and they overall condition shows a lot towards organization and
neatness skills.
Be positive during the
greeting. The interview should be you at
your best. Do not discuss anything negative or personal, keep it
business. If you do not have a positive attitude at the beginning of the
interview it is doubtful you'll develop one if you are hired.
Look the interviewer in the eye and
greet them with a firm hand shake. That
will show you mean business. Right or wrong, first impressions usually dictate the tone of the interview. If
they are not
impressed with your greeting it will be very difficult to change that
perception during the remainder of the interview. You want to come a
crossed as confident, articulate, and driven.
Know something about the
company and business. Chances are you won't
know everything, but look up a couple key facts to show you want to
work for them and are a quick study.
Take notes. If they ask a two part question, please remember the second part or
write it down so you don't have to ask to repeat it. The best way to
respond is to write down the first part and answer the second part
first, if applicable. This way you will only have to write down one part
of the question with the second part still fresh in your mind.
Write down everyone's name
and position, particularly if it a panel
interview. This way you can address answers to different function leads.
Use the persons name in your response. This will make everyone more receptive
to your answers.
A General Manager is typically
looking for different qualities in a candidate
than a person from Human Resources. The most successful candidates
address responses to both groups. If you do this you will separate
yourself from other candidates.
Be prepared to ask one
or two follow up questions at the end of the
interview. It shows that you are interested in advancing your career and
care about where you work. This also shows that you have a standard that
the company needs to live up to. You might also be able to gauge their interest
in you by their response.
Tell yourself that you are
the best at what you do prior to entering
the interview. It will build confidence and put you at ease.
Smile and be yourself. It shows confidence!
And most important........have
fun!
Most of these interview tips are basic elements that are over
looked. Incorporate these tips and you will knock
it out of the PARK!
