| TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL JOB INTERVIEW |
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| 1. Do research on the company. Having some background information would give you an idea of the standards of the company. 2. Prepare and over-prepare. There's an important principle that will enable you to be much more confident: "over-preparing". Plan your answers to all the possible questions and challenges that may be thrown at you. Rehearse and repeat your best responses until they are natural and spontaneous. 3. Be very clear on what you know and what you want to achieve. Have the facts of your relevant experience and education thoroughly memorized. Be clear on what you want to gain from this job, as well as what you don't want. The applicant who's willing to take anything will usually get nothing! 4. Know your strengths. You're sure to be asked questions about your strengths and weaknesses. Know your strengths and emphasize those that relate specifically to the position for which you're being considered. Likewise, know your weaknesses and represent them as strengths i.e. assertiveness, perfectionism 5. If you've been fired, be forthright about it. Answer directly, but without a "charge" in your voice. Expressing your bitterness tells the interviewer that you can't accept the realities of modern free enterprise -- that downsizing is acceptable and often necessary. 6. Be clear where you want to go. A famous question is: "Where do you want to be five years from today?" Don't aim sky-high: "I plan to be a manager in this company". Instead, say "I plan to become qualified in every aspect of this industry." Be specific while allowing yourself the flexibility that shows you understand the complexities of the field you're applying for. 7. Have clear personal standards. Today, many organizations are looking for people who live by standards regarding their personal and professional lives, and can express them clearly and directly: "I don't take on projects unless I can give them 100% dedication." "I am committed to life-long learning and growth." 8. Ask questions. Inquiring about the job, such as its daily routine, shows the interviewer that you have interest. Get to know the company's expectations. |
| ON THE DAY OF THE INTERVIEW Be prepared. Bring extra copies of relevant materials (including resumes), a notepad, pens, passport-sized photos, paper clips. Arrive on time (10-15 minutes earlier than scheduled). Showing up late for an interview can eliminate you entirely from contention for a position. Always leave yourself ample time for unforeseen circumstances that might cause delays. Likewise, avoid arriving too early. Use the restroom. Funny? Not really. When you arrive, ask to use the restroom. This gives you a chance to check your grooming and attire. Be polite and wise to the people you see. Wear a smile. From the receptionist at the front desk to administrative assistants and other personnel, treat the individuals you meet with politeness and respect. Some applicants make the mistake of treating these people as inferior or of no importance. Recruiters usually ask their secretaries how the applicant behaves. If an applicant was rude or impolite to their secretaries and receptionists, chances are, he has no chance of making it into the company. Show confidence. Upon meeting the person interviewing you, shake hands firmly, smile and make eye contact. Just sit there and RELAX. Talk naturally, behave normally. REMEMBER... Stay focused on the big picture. The interviewer's goal is to determine whether you meet the requirements of the position. By preparing thoroughly and keeping your answers focused on the interviewer's needs, you will create a favourable first impression and improve your chances of receiving a job offer. |
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