By Alison Doyle
Tips and Strategies for
Successful Interviewing You have just landed an
interview for a seemingly wonderful job! Now
what? Successful interviewing will be essential
in order for you to lock in an offer. Here are
some tips and strategies for effective
interviewing from preparation through follow up.
Company Research
Research should always be your first step.
Gathering background information on employers is
a crucial element in successful interview
preparation. You will need to be prepared to
answer the questions "What do your know
about our company"? and "Why do you
want to work here?" Knowing as much as
possible about the company's past performance and
future plans can make your interview more
interactive and could be just the leg up you need
in a competitive job market. Before the interview
review the company's web site and don't be afraid
to contact your prospective employer to request
details on the position you are interviewing for
or to ask for company literature.
Practice Makes Perfect
Practice makes perfect (or at least leads to
improvement). Practice with a friend and record
or videotape your responses so you can replay the
interview and see how well you did. Prepare
answers to commonly asked interview questions.
Doing so will help you analyze your background
and qualifications for the position.
Behavioral Interviews
Behavior based interviewing is becoming more
common. It is based on the premise that a
candidates past performance is the best predictor
of future performance. Rather than the typical
interview questions on your background and
experience, you will you need to be prepared to
provide detailed responses including specific
examples of your work experiences.
The best way to prepare is to
think of examples where you have successfully
used the skills you've acquired. Take the time to
compile a list of responses to both types of
questions and to itemize your skills, values, and
interests as well as your strengths and
weaknesses. Emphasize what you can do to benefit
the company rather than just what you are
interested in. Also prepare a list of questions
you want to ask the interviewer. Remember, you
aren't simply trying to get the job - you are
also interviewing the employer to assess whether
this company and the position are a good fit for
you.
Prepare For the Interview
It is very important to be on time for the
interview. On time means ten to fifteen minutes
early. If need be, take some time to drive to the
office ahead of time so you know exactly where
you are going. Know the interviewer's name and
use it during the interview. If your not sure of
the name, call and ask prior to the interview.
Remember to bring an extra copy of your resume
and a list of references.
Stay Calm
During the interview try to remain as calm as
possible. Ask for clarification if you're not
sure what's been asked and remember that it is
perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to
frame your responses so you can be sure too fully
answer the question.
End the interview with a thank
you to the interviewer and reiterate your
interest in the position. Then follow-up with a
personal Thank You note restating your interest.
How To Dress For Success
Here's How:
1. Wear a solid color
conservative suit with a coordinated shirt or
blouse
2. Wear moderate shoes
3. Make sure your hair is well
groomed and neat
4. Don't overdo the perfume,
makeup, cologne or after shave
5. Limit your jewelry
6. Make sure to try on your
outfit BEFORE the day of the interview
Tips:
1. Your clothes are your image,
check the mirror and see what others see
2. It is better to be overdressed
than underdressed
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