Cover letters, resumes and telephone
calls have their purpose in the employment process, but there is nothing like
an interview to give an employer a chance to meet you and discover more about
your interests and goals. It also provides you with an opportunity to learn
about the company and the job, which is important in your decision process if
you are offered a position.
But the job market is highly competitive with lots of people
applying for each position. The job candidate who knows the most may not be
the one to get the offer. Often, the job goes to the candidate who interviews
the best. But people don't interview every day, so it is easy for the interviewing
skills to get a bit rusty.
An interview is not something you should dread and lose sleep
over. Look at it as a positive, mutual exchange of information. And the more
interviews you attend, the better you get at them. Try to prepare and practice
for each interview with enthusiasm and confidence. Here are a few suggestions
on how to approach the interview process:
Research the company. It is good to become
familiar with the organization, the position and the person who may be your
boss. Try to match your skills and experience to the position you are seeking.
Look good. First impressions are lasting, so make
it count. Projecting a confident and professional image is essential. Dress
professionally, but don't overdo it with jewelry or excessive perfume or cologne.
Know the location of the interview. Consider driving
to the location in advance. Rushing around trying to find the facility can
add to your nervousness.
Know your resume. Be prepared to discuss and defend
every aspect of your education and career experience.
Focus more on the interview, less on the job. There's
time to evaluate the job and whether you want it after the interviewer has
learned about you. For now, your goal is to get invited back for a second
interview or an offer. Then you can decide if the job is just what you want.
Talk about your previous contributions. Prospective
employers are interested in knowing how you made a difference in your previous
job. In a way, you need to convince the interviewer that you're the answer
to the company's needs.
Look for ways to sell yourself. Seize opportunities
to tell the prospective employer how good you are. Be careful not to brag,
but speak confidently about your skills.
Don't overdo it. Choose your words carefully and
don't talk too much. Most people only retain 20 percent of what they
hear. Select your words, speak clearly and get to the point.
Avoid fear by visualizing the interview. It's just
an interview, not the gallows, so imagine the experience in advance. Try to
visualize various things like your clothing, items to bring, physical presentation,
eye contact, body language, etc.
Listen carefully. Pause briefly after each question
before you respond to be sure the interviewer has finished speaking. Answer
questions directly and concisely. If you don't understand, ask for clarification.
Bring your questions. You also are interviewing
the company, too. Start with questions about the organization and move to
career growth, working conditions, etc. Save benefits and compensation for
last.
Write down important data. Get the names and titles
of the people with whom you interview. Be sure the spelling is correct, as
you may need the information later.
Don't run away. After the interview, don't just
hop up and head down the hall. Try to leave a good final impression by letting
the interviewer know you really want the job and that you're ready to move
to the next step in the employment process. If that doesn't feel right, simply
ask about the next step in the process.
Obtain resources. Grab an annual report, product
information or other data that will give you a better picture of the company
and the kind of work you might be doing.
Don't forget the follow-up. Send a letter or note
thanking the interviewer for the opportunity to discuss your skills and qualifications.
You might use the opportunity to recap a few points you discussed.
Don't become invisible. Following the interview,
be sure there is a way in which you can be contacted, even if you are out
of town. An answering machine is a must when job hunting.
