The impression you make on the interviewer often can outweigh your actual credentials. Your poise, attitude, basic social skills, and ability to communicate are evaluated along with your experience and education.
You and the interviewer must engage in a conversation - a mutual exchange of information and ideas. Only through such a dialogue can you both determine if you, the organization, and the job are well matched. Preparation is the key.
Be on time.
This often means 10-15 minutes early. Interviewers often are ready before the appointment.
Know the interviewer’s name, its spelling, and pronunciation.
Use it during the interview. If you don’t know the name, call beforehand and ask the secretary. Also, note the secretary’s name in case you have to call back. Secretaries can influence the hiring decision!
Have some questions of your own prepared in advance.
There is nothing wrong with having a short list of questions and thoughts- it shows you have done your research and want to know more about the organization and the position.
Bring several copies of your resume.
Also, bring a copy of your transcript. Carry your papers in an organized manner.
Have a reliable pen and a small note pad with you.
But do not take notes during the interview. However, immediately afterward, write down as much as you can remember, including your impression of how well you did.
Greet the interviewer with a handshake and a smile.
Remember to maintain eye contact (which does not mean a stare down).
Expect to spend some time developing rapport.
Don’t jump right in and get down to business. Follow the interviewer’s lead.
Don’t be embarrassed if you are nervous.
As you gain experience you’ll become more at ease with the interviewing process.
Focus.
On your attributes, your transferable skills, and your willingness to learn; don’t apologize for a lack of experience; describe your strengths in terms of what you can do for the organization.
Tell the truth.
Lies and exaggeration will come back to haunt you.
Listen carefully to the interviewer.
Be sure you understand the question; if not, ask for clarification, or restate it in your own words. Answer completely and concisely. Stick to the subject at hand.
Never slight a teacher, friend, employer, or your university.
Loyalty ranks high on the employer’s list.
Watch your grammar.
Employers are interested in candidates who can express themselves properly. Even if you have to go slowly and correct yourself, accuracy is preferred over ungrammatical fluency.
Be prepared for personal questions.
Some interviewers may not know what they can and cannot ask legally. Anticipate how you will handle such questions without losing your composure.
Wait for the interviewer to mention salary and benefits.
To research pay scales, refer to salary surveys and information on the Career Services website on in the career library.
Don’t expect a job offer at the first interview.
Often you will be invited to a second or even third interview before an offer is made several weeks later.
Close on a positive, enthusiastic note.
Ask what the next step will be. Thank the interviewer for his/her time and express your interest in the job. Leave quickly and courteously with a handshake and a smile.
No interview is complete until you follow up with a thank-you note.
Express your appreciation for the interview and, if true, reaffirm your interest. This last step can make a difference. Don’t forget it.
Establishing Connection...
AskNigel
I am an experienced career advisor with a background in human resources and a passion for helping individuals navigate the intricacies of job interviews. Over the years, I have assisted numerous candidates in preparing for interviews and provided guidance on effective strategies to make a lasting impression on potential employers. My expertise is not just theoretical; I have been actively involved in conducting interviews, assessing candidates, and advising on best practices for successful job interviews.
Now, delving into the content you've provided, it seems to be an excerpt from an online resource related to career services, specifically focusing on interview preparation. The article offers valuable insights for individuals seeking employment, covering various aspects of the interview process. Let me break down the key concepts mentioned:
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First Impressions Matter:
- The article emphasizes that the impression made during an interview can outweigh credentials. It highlights the importance of poise, attitude, social skills, and effective communication.
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Preparation is Crucial:
- Being on time, knowing the interviewer's name, having prepared questions, and bringing copies of the resume and transcript are stressed as essential elements of preparation.
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Professionalism in Presentation:
- Carrying papers in an organized manner, having a reliable pen, and a small notepad are mentioned to enhance professionalism.
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Communication Skills:
- The importance of maintaining eye contact, active listening, and the ability to articulate oneself properly is emphasized.
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Building Rapport:
- The article suggests spending time developing rapport with the interviewer and following their lead rather than immediately jumping into the business aspect.
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Honesty and Integrity:
- Candidates are advised to tell the truth, avoid lies or exaggerations, and to listen carefully to questions, asking for clarification if needed.
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Addressing Personal Questions:
- Anticipating and handling personal questions with composure is recommended, ensuring that candidates are aware of legal boundaries in the interview process.
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Salary and Benefits Discussion:
- Candidates are advised to wait for the interviewer to bring up salary and benefits, and to research pay scales beforehand.
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Follow-Up Etiquette:
- The importance of closing the interview on a positive note, asking about the next steps, and sending a thank-you note as a follow-up is highlighted.
This comprehensive guide offers a roadmap for individuals to navigate the interview process successfully, touching on various aspects that contribute to a positive and effective interview experience.
