An interviewer has just one objective: to decide whether or not to extend you a job offer. The interviewer will examine your work history and educational background, your strengths and accomplishments. He or she will also evaluate your level of motivation, values, attitude and personality. Are you the right person for the job? What is your potential for promotion? Will you fit into the company environment?

For you, the interview is an important screening tool to gauge the potential employer, and it allows you to learn about the position and the company so that you can make an intelligent decision when you get the offer. Remember, if you don't get the job offer, you don't have a choice, so utilize these tips and techniques and focus on one objective: get the job offer!

Minimize content block

You don't have a choice until a job offer is made, so view the interview as a sales presentation with YOU as the product. Even if you are not particularly interested in the job, go through the interview anyway...it's good practice. Preparation and practice can, and will, increase your chances of being successful. If you prepare and you don't get the offer, the reason is more likely to be job related and less personal. When you make a good impression you may be considered for future openings.

Minimize content block

• Be honest. There are few things worse than being in a job for which you are not qualified. If you find that the job isn't what you want, don't take it. But be polite and courteous since there may be other positions for which you would be perfect.
• Complete the application fully and write legibly.
• Take a copy of your resume so you can accurately record your dates of employment on the application.
• Be polite at all times, even if you think the interviewer is an idiot (and you think you could do his/her job better).
• Dress appropriately in conservative, professional attire. (see Professional Attire )
• Don't say anything derogatory about ANYONE or ANYTHING!
• Be on time; if you think you may be even one minute late, call ahead.
• If you are kept waiting, be gracious.
• Don't chew gum.
• Make eye contact with the interviewer and avoid distractions in the room.
• Sit up straight. The "la-z-boy recliner" look will not make a good impression.
• Conduct yourself with confidence and determination to get the job. You have other options, of course, and your interviewer knows this, but wants to believe that you favor a job with his or her company.
• Be friendly and cordial, but remember...the interview is not a casual conversation, it's a serious matter.
• Take a pen (and a spare) and several copies of your resume.
• Be truthful! If you lie in an interview or on an application, you will be found out and lose all chances of getting or keeping the job.
• Listen to the interviewer's questions and answer them. Don't evade a question. If you don't know the answer, say so...then volunteer to call back with the information. Just remember...if you say you will call back, you MUST follow through!
• Remember to shake hands firmly and maintain eye contact with the interviewer.
• Sit up with your back straight. If a coffee or a soft drink is offered, decline graciously so you won't have to worry about spilling or choking... and no smoking!
• Present a positive attitude. DO NOT appear disinterested or that you are job shopping.
• Do not fake knowledge. Be yourself. Poise, confidence, and self-respect are of great importance.
• Be sincere.
• Be enthusiastic (but not overly…a tough balance to achieve).
• Don't play coy. Sell yourself! Are you going to sell them on the idea of hiring you, or will they sell you on the idea that his job is not for you?
• Ask questions of the interviewers. This shows your interest in the company and the position, and enables you to gather the right information to make an intelligent decision. The questions you have prepared can be asked to the different people with whom you meet.
• Thank the interviewer for his/her time.
• Ask when they hope to have a decision and when should you expect to hear from them.
• Send a Thank You note. (Most people don't do this so you will stand above the crowd if you follow-up in a timely manner.)
• Be yourself!

Minimize content block

PERSONAL INVENTORY

• Can you honestly visualize resigning from your current position?
• What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses?
• What are your short and long-term goals?
• Evaluate yourself in terms of the position you seek?
• Formulate responses by asking the question "Why should they hire me?"
• Remember...you're there to sell yourself and secure a job offer!

RESEARCH THE COMPANY

• Your local library will have trade magazines, newspaper articles and possibly annual reports you can review.
• The Internet offers a wealth of company information and industry statistics.
• Know the company's products and services.
• Be prepared to tell the interviewer why their company is attractive to you.

ITEMS TO TAKE TO THE INTERVIEW

• Directions on how to get to the interview location as well as the interviewer's phone number in case you're running late.
• Three to four professional references; people who know your work. Be sure to include their name, current employer, work and home phone numbers. Always get permission before listing someone as a reference.
• Several copies of your resume…make sure it's identical to the one the interview has. Review your resume thoroughly and be prepared to discuss all points.
• Samples of your work, if possible. But beware... NEVER discuss or show proprietary information.
• A binder (not the 3-ring kind), or leather-like folder, or a briefcase (but only if you have a lot to carry to the interview).
• A writing tablet and a pen (and a spare) to take notes.
• Your recruiter's phone number to give immediate feedback after the interview.

Minimize content block

ARRIVING AT THE INTERVIEW

Arrive no earlier than fifteen minutes, and no later than five minutes, prior to the appointment. Ideally, have a dry run to the interview site the day before the interview, (don't forget to account for rush hour) or arrive an hour early to the interview, drive through the parking lot, and find a place to park while you wait 45 minutes. If you know where you're going, it reduces the stress...and we need all the help we can get!

Take something to read. (How about a copy of this?)

Review your notes and go in with quiet confidence!

If asked to complete an application, complete it in full and leave no blanks. Do not write "see resume" as a response to any application question. Respond to "expected salary" with "open," and be truthful with your current salary. List references if requested. Respond to "referred by" with your recruiter's name.

You're finally in the door!

A TYPICAL SEQUENCE OF EVENTS:

Interview with personnel/human resources/employee relations; general questions and a review of the company and their benefits package. Do not expect to have a complete understanding of the benefits package at this meeting. You will be able to thoroughly read all that they offer after you leave the interview. Questions concerning benefits should be asked after an offer is extended.

Interview with the prospective immediate supervisor and maybe a couple of prospective peers.

Interview with the hiring authority (manager, etc.).

Testing (physical drug test, written test, and proof of employment eligibility); most companies will wait until an offer is extended and accepted before getting to these tasks, but occasionally a company will request this on the first interview.

Offer; it's unusual to receive an offer while at the interview, but it does happen. If you're not sure if you want the job yet…ask for a couple of days to think it over.

AFTER IT'S ALL OVER

As soon as you can, write a couple of paragraphs summarizing the interview:

• who you met
• what happened
• what you like
• what you don't like
• additional questions
• your gut reaction to the meetings

Call your recruiter, if applicable.

Write your "thank you" letters within 24 hours. The company's formality determines the type of letter you send. A faxed letter will get to it's destination quicker. A mailed note (Hallmark has some tasteful "Thank You" cards) is usually put on the top of the mail stack and gets opened first. Whichever you choose, make it quick. Time is of the essence!

Minimize content block

Practice before the interview. You can refine and polish your answers and become much more focused and comfortable with the information you want to get across. You should give complete, but BRIEF and relaxed answers to questions. Think of some situations where you really excelled and then use the interviewer's questions as a springboard to include those success stories most applicable to the qualifications required for the position for which you are interviewing.

Answer a question to the best of your ability and then relax. If there is a period of silence before the interviewer asks the next question, stay calm. Interviewers often use silence to see if you can handle stress and maintain poise.

. . . . . .

Tell me about yourself (don't you hate this one?)
"Tell-me-about-yourself" means, "Tell me about your qualifications." Prepare a one to two minute discussion of your qualifications. Start with education and discuss your experiences. Describe your performance (in raises, promotions, innovations, increased profits, decreased costs, etc.).

What are your greatest strengths?
Interviewers like to hear abstract qualities (i.e. loyalty, willingness to work hard, eagerness, fast-learner, technical skills, politeness, promptness) expressed in terms of what you have accomplished.

What are your greatest weaknesses?
Don't worry…this just means, "what would you like to improve?" This is not the time to confess all of your imperfections (i.e. "I've got a hot temper and I hate deadlines and working on Mondays"). Present your weaknesses as professional strengths, (i.e. "I work very hard and have a tendency to place my standards of hard work on to others).

What do you do in your spare time?
Workaholics are not always the best employees. Present yourself as a well-rounded person. Your answer gives you dimension, so name some hobbies (ones you actually have, not just something made up… you don't want to find out the interviewer is an expert in your hobby).

How can you contribute to this company?
Be positive and sell! Bringing strong technical skills, enthusiasm and a desire to complete projects correctly and efficiently are good responses.

Why should I hire you for this position?
Explain your qualifications and how they fit the available position. Address your interest in the job and the field, and why it's work that you enjoy. Emphasize your ability to successfully perform the duties required.

Why do you want to work for our firm?
Your research on the company will pay dividends here! Make a compliment about what the company does, it's location, or it's people. Other positive remarks might be about the company's product or service, content of the position, or possibilities for growth or advancement.

Where do you hope to be in five years?
Use conservative growth positions that clearly show you plan to be there in five years, and that the company's investment in you will be worth while. Be sure that you understand what can and cannot be achieved by the ideal candidate in the position. Never tell the interviewer that you feel you'll be more successful than they are or that you could do their job better. Do show a strong desire to work hard and earn additional responsibilities. Telling an interviewer you want to earn additional responsibilities instead of "getting promoted," will allow you to come across much more positively.

What interests you most about this position?
Don't tease the interviewer with a one or two-word answer such as "the challenge" or "the opportunity" because it will force them to ask you to explain. Instead, use the opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge of the company and answer the question in terms of what you could bring to the organization.

What are your career goals?
You should have answers for both short and long term goals:

• Short term: "I want to be the best in my current position, while earning additional responsibilities," or " I see myself wanting to stay technical while learning the necessary skills to lead people and projects."
• Long term: "After proving my abilities, I see myself in a firm with the possibility of moving into a level of management that allows me to keep my skills sharp while contributing to the 'big picture.'"

What are you doing to achieve your goals?
Many people have a wish-list of goals but don't do anything to get closer to those goals. Don't fall into this category!

• "I look at continued learning as the key to success! I continue my education, by taking company educational courses. I also read trade publications and magazines to keep me informed about the current and future directions in my field. When possible, I participate in professional organizations in my field"

Why did you leave your previous employer?
Never speak poorly about an employer, current or former. Be pleasant, be positive or neutral, but be honest…your answer will probably be verified. Mention your desire to work for a more progressive company that offers more growth opportunities.

What did you like most about your previous job? What did you like least about your previous job?
An employer can predict the type of worker you will be by the items you choose here! Cite specifics. You are providing clues about the environment you seek. What you like most can include a strong teamwork atmosphere, high-level of creativity, attainable deadlines, and challenging projects. What you liked least could include any situations that you are unlikely to encounter in your new position: A company merger/buyout/outsourcing; or list items that everybody dislikes... a micro-managing boss, an un-cohesive team, severe lack of resources.

Why are you looking for another job?
Again, be positive. "I have to say that I have really enjoyed my years at ______Corporation. There are a lot of good people over there, but I am looking for a more progressive organization with greater opportunities for growth and recognition. I am looking for a team to join where I can make a real contribution and advance my career."

What do you think your employer's obligations are to you?
Interviewers listen for employees who want a positive, enthusiastic, company atmosphere, with the opportunity to advance. Such a person, they surmise, has motivation and staying power.

Are you applying for any other jobs?
In your answer, show that your search is geared for similar positions. This demonstrates a well-defined, focused objective. Make it known that your talents are applicable to other businesses and that you have explored ways to maximize your potential and are serious about finding the opportunity that best fits you. Don't give an indication that you are "just shopping or tire-kicking" with this job search.

What kinds of decisions are most difficult for you?
Be truthful and admit you're not right 100% of the time, but that when you are wrong, you do learn from your mistakes. Explain that you research a problem and try to gather as much information as possible in order to make the best decision.

What causes you to lose your temper?
Everybody has a boiling point, so don't say you never lose your temper…you won't be believed. Pick something safe and reasonable; people who are consistently late to meetings and hold up other team members with their carelessness, blame shifting, and office 'back-stabbing' or gossiping are suitable responses.

What are your greatest accomplishments?
Be ready to recite one or two stories that demonstrate strong capabilities or achievements that will make you attractive to your new employer; a special project that you pioneered, cutting department expenses, increasing productivity or receiving frequent promotions are a few examples.

How do you feel about a younger male/female boss?
You can bet that if this question comes your way, it usually means that your boss will either be younger, or of the opposite sex (or both). Be certain that if you register any concern, you will probably not be hired. Explain that a prospective supervisor's age or sex is of no importance to you, it's skills and professionalism that counts, and you are only interested in their capability and what you can learn from them.

What kind of worker are you?
Again, no one is perfect. Showing that you tackle every assignment with all of your energy and talents is admirable, but mention that you also learn from your mistakes.

What type of salary do you have in mind?
Try to avoid this question if you can, but if it comes up have an answer ready. DO NOT state a starting figure. A suitable reply is, "I am looking for the right opportunity and I am confident that if you find me the best candidate for this position, you will extend me your best and most fair offer." If you are being represented by a recruiter, let the recruiter handle this for you; "I've spoken with ____, and I'll defer to him/her on that question if it's alright with you." (My candidates almost always use this response and it works extremely well.)

What is your current salary?
Answer truthfully, it will be verified. Remember that "salary" includes base, bonuses, commissions, plus raises due in the next three months so state the approximate percentage you expect.

Are you willing to relocate?
You should have already thought this through before applying with the company. If the position requires you to pick up sticks and move, don't go on the interview unless you're willing to follow through on relocation.

May we check your references?
You should have a list of three to five people (a mixture of co-workers and supervisors…past and/or present) that can be called to verify your work. If your current work environment is unstable and getting a reference would jeopardize your job, then you should tell the interviewer. It's reasonable to expect that your previous employment can be verified instead of your current employment.

May we verify your income?
This is the reason you MUST be truthful when asked how much you make.

What areas are you interested in and why?
The interviewer wants to find out if you've taken inventory of your strengths and weaknesses and have matched them up, even tentatively, with a career path.

Describe your past work experiences...what were the high points? What were the problems?
No one has a perfect career…there are always obstacles, hiccups and challenges along the way. The interviewer wants to know what problems you have encountered and, more importantly, how you handled those problems and how you learned from them.

What lessons did you learn from your past work experiences?
Again, no one escapes challenges. The interviewer wants to hear about the "educational opportunities" you've had along the way. If you haven't had any challenges and difficulties in your career…you weren't working hard enough!

Why did you choose you particular field of work?
Most people have no clue what they want to be when they "grow up" and the usual way of finding a career is to accidentally fall into it. The interviewer wants to know how you ended up in your chosen field. He/she probably has a story of their own!

What personal characteristics are necessary for success in your chosen field?
The interviewer wants to know that you understand what it takes to succeed. Have you taken inventory of your own strengths and weaknesses? How do you compensate in those areas that need improvement, and how do you act/react when the going gets tough?

Can you get recommendations from previous employers?
You should have a list of three to five people you can list as references. Also, most companies have a "neutral reference" policy, which means any reference requests are directed to the Human Resources department where they only supply your dates of employment and sometimes title. If a prospective employer can't verify your previous employment, you probably won't get the job.

What jobs have you enjoyed the most? The least? Why?
Your answer will give the interviewer a good indication of whether you will be a good fit the position. Make sure you answer in terms of the position for which you are being interviewed.

What are your own special abilities?
Just another of those "personality and skills inventory" questions. Answer in terms of the position for which you are applying.

What are the disadvantages of your chosen field? How will you handle them?
Most interviewers don't really want to know the problems you've had, but they are intensely interested in how you handled those problems. Stress (and taxes) are the only things in life that are guaranteed and your answer should show that you can not only handle pressure, but that you can rise above it.

What have you done that shows initiative and willingness to work?
The interviewer wants to make sure you don't need to be micro-managed. Most managers don't have the luxury of free time to check continuously on their employees, so relate one or two examples where you worked well independently.

Describe your present job responsibilities. Which are the most difficult and why? Which do you like the most?
Be careful with this one! Keep your job description brief (one or two sentences) and be neutral on items you think are difficult. You must not come across as a complainer!

What accomplishment in your present job are you most proud of? What was your best idea?
Give one or two examples of how you have been an effective contributor. This answer will also include how you showed initiative.

What would you like to have accomplished in your present job but haven't? What has prevented you from doing so?
Be positive about what you have accomplished and be neutral on what you would like to accomplish. If you have been held up by a lack of resources, it's okay to say so; but do not say anything derogatory about the management of your current employer.

What do you know about our company and this position?
Do you homework on the company and you will soar through this question. It's okay to jot down some particulars to jog your memory, just don't read it verbatim in the interview.

What elements are important to your job satisfaction?
This has to do with what motivates you. If you're interviewing for a sales position, then "money" should be in your top three, but if the position is technical, then "challenge", "project completion" or "making a contribution" could be part of your answer.

Describe what qualities you like in a supervisor.
Keep it positive…facilitates teamwork, let's his/her employees take the initiative, encourages his/her employees to take on additional responsibility, encourages his/her employees to continue their education, discourages gossiping and office "back-stabbing."

What are the biggest frustrations in your career?
Keep it neutral! Keep it simple! Two options are 1). lack of resources, 2). little or no opportunity to advance or grow your career. Most interviewers will be able to relate to both, and you'll look good by not complaining about something more specific.

What might your present company and department do to become more successful?
A trick question! Keep it neutral or you may come across as a "know-it-all". Select something simple and don't elaborate too much.

How would you describe your personality? How would your associates describe you?
One of my favorite questions, and it catches people off guard. This question is the same as, "what are your strengths and weaknesses," but it's in disguise. Your answer could include: loyal, hard working, a go-getter, shows initiative, good at problem resolution, researches problems to get a better understanding, great with customers, easy to manage, a resource for co-workers, helpful, cooperative, punctual, does what it takes to get the job done.

Minimize content block

Your interview should be a two-way conversation. You must ask questions and take an active role in the interview. This demonstrates the importance you place on your work and your career. Asking questions gives you a chance to demonstrate your depth of knowledge in the field and establish an easy flow of conversation and relaxed atmosphere between you and the interviewer. Building this kind of rapport is always a plus in an interview.

Remember, you are not just there for the interviewer to determine if you are right for the position, your questions can help you determine if this job is right for you. The following are some guidelines to frame your questions, as well as some examples. Don't forget to write these questions down before the interview and take them with you. Take notes as they are answered.

• Don't cross examine the employer.
• Ask questions requiring an explanation. Questions that can be answered with a "yes" or "no" are conversation stoppers.
• Don't interrupt when the employer is answering YOUR question.
• Ask job-relevant questions. Focus on the job-the company, products, services, people.
• Ask about potential peers, subordinates and superiors.
• Ask questions that relate to the responsibilities, importance and authority of the position, as well as those investigating the rewards for a job well done and the opportunities for earning additional responsibility.
• Ask the employer how he/she got where they are today.

Why do you want someone for this job?
Get the interviewer to explain why this job can't be done by one of his current employees. The answer may give you a valuable job description.

Why isn't this position being filled from within the company?
You may discover that nobody in this organization would accept it, or that your prospective co-workers are a weak lot and don't want the responsibility!

How many people have held this job in the last five years? What happened to the last person in this position?
Were they promoted or did they leave the company? If turnover is high, it's safe to assume there's a problem and that the job may leave something to be desired. Or if previous employees have been promoted, maybe the position is a good springboard to something better.

What are the responsibilities of this position, and which are the most important?
This will give you a good idea of what will be expected of you in the first year.

If I am hired for this position, what project can I take on that would lighten your workload immediately?
An excellent question that will get the interviewer thinking about an easier workday if you are hired!

What results are expected and how are they measured?
Get the goods on how your performance would be gauged.

What would be the limits of my responsibility and authority?
Know, up front, the parameters of the job. Beware…is there responsibility without the authority?

What problems and opportunities are associated with this position?
You need to know what challenges and obstacles are associated with the job and current or future projects. If there are a lot of problems with achieving the goals, will the opportunities outweigh the difficulties?

In your opinion, what specific aspects of my background make me right or wrong for this position?
Put the thumb screw on... get the interviewer to give you some instant feedback. If you ask this question, you won't be guessing for days after the interview.

What support is available to help me fulfill my duties?
Some jobs hold great opportunities, but they're unattainable due to a lack of resources or support. Know what you're getting into!

Would I have subordinates? What are their strengths and what needs improvement?
A great question for a management candidate. The make-up of your potential employees can directly affect your success in the position.

Who would be my superior and what are his or her strengths and what needs improvement?
If you've ever been in a job where your boss was a real idiot, you should REALLY be asking this question so you know what you're up against.

Are there any projects in motion for which I would inherit responsibility? What is the project's history and current status?
Just as important as the future project and opportunities, you must know what the current job status is. Maybe the position is open because the duties are unattainable, or maybe there's so much opportunity with the company that people keep being promoted.

What are the goals of this company and the department for which I am interviewing? And how can I help?
Let the interviewer tell you where you would fit in. It will reduce your guess work after the day is over.

What criteria would be used to evaluate my performance? When are evaluations scheduled?
A good way to find out how far behind the company is with employee performance reviews.

Why did you come to work here, and why do you stay?
Find out what motivates the interviewer. It can give you some valuable insight into the company, it's work environment and career growth potential.

What additional responsibilities could I earn? If I had worked here for 10 years, what might my career path look like?
Go ahead and find out now what you can expect, long term, from the company as an employer. Would you grow old at the same desk or are there opportunities to grow, learn and contribute.

What are examples of the best results produced by people in this job?
Find out if you are over-qualified, under-qualified, or maybe in a position to ask for considerably more money.

Additional Questions (if you're not bored yet!)

• What would my responsibilities and duties be?
• What are the most difficult aspects of the position?
• Describe a typical day on the job.
• Describe the department's/company's growth in the next 2 years.
• What is the philosophy on training and development here?
• Has there been downsizing within the company? How is it handled?
• How do you think I'd fit into the job and into your organization?
• What projects would I be involved in now? In the future?
• What is the person doing now who used to hold this position?
• When would you need me to start?
• May I see my work area?
• May I meet some of my future co-workers?

Minimize content block

1. Listen to the question
2. Repeat the question to ensure understanding
3. Answer the question
4. Shut up! (Even if there is a long pause between your answer and the interviewer's next question.)

Minimize content block

LADIES

• Fingernails should be clean. Choose subtle low-key colors over bright fashion colors for nail polishes.
• Wear a suit or tailored dress in a conservative color. Blouses/shirts should also be tailored and color coordinated. Don't wear big bows or ties.
• Hair should be neat, clean and brushed. Avoid exotic hairstyles and excessive makeup..
• Makeup should be light and natural looking.
• Use deodorant, but avoid colognes or fragrances.
• Jewelry should be limited and subtle. Don't wear jewelry or pins that indicate membership in religious or service organization.
• For the feet, a closed toe pump that is color coordinated with your outfit is appropriate. Avoid open-toed shoes or sling-backs. And make sure the heel tap is in good shape…you don't want to announce your entrance with the metal clicking of a worn down tap.
• Pantyhose should be flesh-colored only! No runway fashion colors, please. And take an extra pair or two for emergencies.
• Do not take portable phones or beepers. You need to be focused!

GENTLEMEN

• Fingernails should be short and clean.
• Hair should be clean, well groomed and freshly trimmed. Don't forget to take your jacket off to brush your hair…you don't want to look like the "before" picture in the Head n' Shoulder's commercial.
• A navy blue or dark gray suit, white shirt and conservative tie are appropriate for most interviews (don't just iron the front of the shirt, do the whole thing!).
• All clothing should be neatly pressed and check for necessary repairs (loose buttons, unraveled seams, hems hanging down). Take a clothes brush for emergencies.
• A quiet tie with a subtle design and a hint of red is suitable for the first interview. Avoid loud colors and busy designs.
• Jewelry should be kept to a minimum. Watch and wedding or class rings are acceptable. Don't wear jewelry or pins that indicate membership in religious or service organizations.
• Use deodorant and avoid colognes or fragrances completely.
• Shoes that are black and freshly polished are a safe choice for an interview. Socks should be black or blue and worn over the calf.
• Do not take portable phones or beepers into an interview.

Minimize content block

There are many factors that can prevent you from getting a job offer. Many of these factors you have control over, while others you don't. By controlling those you can, and thinking reasonably about those you can't, you increase your chances of taking a healthy perspective towards the job search. Rejections are part of the process, but by keeping your self-esteem and not rejecting yourself, your opportunity for success in the next interview is even greater.

Why do applicants sometimes receive only a thundering silence from prospective employers (or a "Don't call us, we'll call you" response) after the interview is complete? Following are some reasons:

SOME FACTORS YOU CAN'T CONTROL

• The interview went perfectly, but you're so overqualified that the position wasn't remotely a fit.
• The employer's salary range is unrealistic; quite likely in today's market!
• The employer suddenly eliminates the position due to budgetary constraints or they find an internal candidate they decide to promote/transfer.

NOTE: Keep in mind that we live in an imperfect world and communication isn't always forthcoming, so it's a good idea to follow up with the interviewer a couple of days following your meeting. You can use the following as an excuse to call..."Mr. X, I enjoyed meeting you last week. I'm particularly interested in the position you talked about and I wanted to find out if there is any additional information I can provide."

SOME FACTORS YOU CAN CONTROL

• Lack of poise, poor presentation of self, lack of self-confidence, timidity, hesitant approach, arrogance, conceit…no employer wants these characteristics on the team.
• Lack of goals and ambition, does not show interest, uncertainty and indecision about the job in question.
• Lack of enthusiasm and interest, no evidence of initiative.
• Poor personal appearance and careless dress.
• Unrealistic salary demands, more interest in salary than opportunity, unrealistic about promotion to top jobs.
• Poor scholastic record without reasonable explanation for low grades.
• Inability to express ideas or poor speech habits.
• Lack of maturity, no leadership potential.
• Lack of preparation for the interview, failure to get information about the employer and therefore unable to ask intelligent questions.
• Lack of interest in the employer and the type of job available.
• Attitude of "What can you do for me?"

Minimize content block

WHERE TO LOOK FOR POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS.

• Temporary services.
• Yellow Pages.
• Chamber of Commerce business listings.
• Newspaper advertisements.
• School guidance and placement.
• School job fairs.
• Current employers.

PHONE ETIQUETTE

• Don't chew gum.
• Be polite AT ALL TIMES, even if the information you're receiving isn't what you want to hear.
• Ask for correct spelling and pronunciation of names.
• If you're put on hold, don't get impatient.
• Thank people for their time and information.
• Never insult the alligator as you are crossing the bridge... build boats instead!
• The telephone is going to be your best friend...it can make you or break you in this process, so BE AWARE!

HOW TO FLY IN FOR THE INTERVIEW

• Don't check you luggage... carry it with you.
• Wear professional attire on the plane, especially if a company employee is meeting you at the airport.
• Be polite to everyone... you never know who you're sitting next to.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Take with you some spare cash and a credit card (not one that has maxed out).
• If you're driving to the interview, make sure your car is clean (INSIDE and OUTSIDE...this includes the trunk).

DURING THE INTERVIEW

• Collect the interviewers' business cards. (Write Thank You notes to everyone with whom you interviewed.)
• Thank the interviewer for his/her time.
• Firm, confident handshake (and eye-contact).
• Ask when you might hear from them regarding a decision.
• Ask if you should call in a week if you haven't heard anything.

HOW TO HANDLE THE $ QUESTION

• Never, Never, Never ask, "how much does the job pay" in any way, shape or form!!!!!!
• When the interviewer asks you what your salary requirement is, respond with "I'm currently making $XX and I'll consider any fair offer."

DINING ETIQUETTE

• Don't order the most expensive or the cheapest item on the menu.
• Avoid alcohol and carbonated drinks.
• Whatever beverage you select, don't drink too much of it (a long afternoon of interviews can be a nightmare if you have to keep taking restroom breaks!).
• Don't be too picky with how you want your food prepared.
• Order an item that can be eaten with a knife and fork. (It's tough to make a good impression while trying to handle a greasy cheeseburger.)
• Don't overeat (interviewing is stressful enough without having to fight off an afternoon slump).
• Thank your hosts for the meal.
• Don't offer to leave the tip.
• Be polite to the waiter/waitress.

HOW TO ASK YOUR QUESTIONS

• Hold your questions until the interviewer invites you ask.
• Before the interview, write down all the questions you want to ask then refer to them when it's your turn.

• mallTake notes during the interview so you'll be able to refer back after the interview.

HOW TO FOLLOW UP AFTER THE INTERVIEW

• Mail a typed business letter.
• Fax a typed business letter.
• Mail a handwritten Thank You note. What you send is determined by the formality of the company. Whatever you choose... make sure it's timely!

HOW TO ACCEPT AN OFFER

• Thank the interviewer for the offer.
• Accept graciously.
• Reiterate that you are excited about the opportunity of working for the company.
• Ask when your start date should be.
• Try to give your current employer at least 2 weeks notice. DO NOT suggest you quit immediately. Employers will predict how you will treat them based on the level of courtesy you extend to your current employer.

HOW TO ASK FOR RELOCATION ASSISTANCE

• "If I were hired, what is the process for relocation?"
• "Does ABC Company provide assistance, and is it coordinated through Human Resources?"
• "Do I pay my own expenses, then turn in receipts for reimbursement?"

HOW TO MOVE HERE TO THERE AFTER THE OFFER IS MADE AND ACCEPTED

• Ask for a copy of the relocation policy.
• Keep all receipts.
• Don't spend the company's money just for the sake of it (be sensible with expenses).
• If all it takes to move you is a U-haul truck, then just use the U-haul.

HOW TO REGECT AN OFFER

• Be gracious.
• Thank the interviewer for the offer.
• Explain why you can't accept.

HOW TO RESIGN FROM A JOB

• Be gracious.
• Be professional.
• Don't insult your boss (you may need to re-apply one day PLUS he/she will be providing references for you.

ALWAYS RESIGN IN WRITING

Minimize content block

IF YOU ARE BORED READING INTERVIEW STUFF...

• If you could kick the person responsible for most of your problems... you wouldn't sit down for a week.
• Unfortunately, most of us look at failure as a negative, but negative results are the best type of feedback... the way to success is to double your failure rate.
• Technical training accounts for less then 20% of one's success. More important is development of one's initiative, thoroughness, concentration, decision, adaptability, organizing ability, observation, industry and leadership.
• Criteria to pick good people:
  • CHARACTER
  • INTELLIGENCE
  • EXPERIENCE
• Your body talks:
  • "eye talk" = direct eye contact
  • "face talk" = smile!
  • posture = upright!
• To not know is no sin...to not ask IS!!
• Success is more attitude than aptitude.
• Triumph: just adding "umph" to "try".
• Courage is being scared to death... then saddling up anyway.
• JUST DO IT!!!
• Real difficulties can be overcome, it's only the imaginary ones that are unconquerable.
• Learn from the mistakes of others...you'll never live long enough to make them all yourself.
• Think in terms of possibilities rather than limits.
• Success is getting up one more time than you fall down.
• If you think education is expensive...try ignorance.
• You miss 100% of the shots you never take.
• WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS... MAKE LEMONADE!

Minimize content block

Preparation will increase both your confidence level and your ability to focus on the conversation during the interview.

The need to make a good impression on the phone cannot be overemphasized!! The telephone screening interview is a make-or-break situation….your one chance to convince the interviewer that you are worth serious consideration. The interviewer will be listening carefully to determine five factors:

• Your sincere interest in making a change
• Your sincere interest in the job
• How qualified you are for the position
• Have you represented yourself accurately in your resume
• Your communications skills

Telephone screening interviews are becoming more commonplace as companies seek to cut hiring costs and streamline the selection process. A hiring manager can spend a couple of hours screening several candidates over the phone, then invite the top candidates in for a lengthier on-site interview. Because of this, your job search may involve more telephone interviews, with interviewers determining further interest from just that one conversation.

Telephone interviewing is unique. You can't count on good looks, power suits, eye contact or body language to aid your presentation. Neither can you rely on visual signals to interpret the interviewer's response. In this context, faceless conversation takes on an added dimension of importance. Both strengths and weaknesses, as conveyed by voice, are magnified through the phone. Your voice personifies everything about you.

Recruiters, in particular, listen for a relaxed style that communicates confidence, enthusiasm and intelligence. This is reflected in a smooth conversation flow with few cliches or verbal fillers to stall for time.

Preparation is the Key!

The success of a telephone interview begins with mental preparation. The first order of business is to establish a clear time frame for the conversation. By mutual agreement, this should be at least thirty minutes when both parties can be free of interruptions and distraction.

If you're currently employed, arrange for a telephone interview either in the evening away from the office, or during the day but at a private phone. Most people work in a cubicle environment; confidentiality and discretion may be at risk if you interview at your desk! You never know who might barge into your office or conference room unannounced, or overhear your conversation.

You need to sound like a winner quickly to sustain the listener's interest!

What you will need when you sit down to take the call:

• A copy of your resume (the same version you sent to the interviewer)
• A note pad and pen (and a spare…just in case)
• Five or six carefully worded questions you want to ask
• A calendar so you can easily schedule a follow-up interview
• A watch or clock (you can sometimes judge how well a phone interview is going by the length of time you're on the phone)

Minimize content block