Interview Techniques - Experience Unlimited
Interviewing Techniques Workshop
Participant’s Guide
EU Training Department
Contra Costa Chapter
Interview Techniques
(Interview Types and Questions)
From
You will encounter a variety of techniques and mannerisms exhibited by different interviewers. Some have had extensive training, others have had none; most are somewhere in between.
In all interviews, you must make a good first impression. Many interviewers are most influenced in their decisions within the first few minutes of the interview. This means arriving on time, being properly dressed and groomed, exhibiting positive non-verbal behavior (firm handshake, good eye contact, smile and confident presence). Even the initial "small talk" conversation is very important. It's difficult to recover from a bad beginning.
Learn the different interviewing techniques used by potential employers. Some techniques require specific preparation on your part. Listed below are several common interview styles.
Interview Techniques
Behavioral Interview
Traditional Interview
Serial Interview
Group/Panel Interview
Stress Interview
Case Method Interview
Technical Interview
Behavioral Interview
Behavioral Interviewing
This is a technique that is used by more than half of on-campus recruiters. The behavioral interview is based on the premise that the best way to predict future behavior is to determine and evaluate past behavior. This type of interview is different, and takes special preparation and skill to perform well.
First, an employer determines a profile of desired behaviors, such as:
|customer service | |stress tolerance |
| | | |
|initiative | |planning |
| | | |
|organization | |problem-solving |
| | | |
|teamwork | |leadership |
| | | |
|flexibility | |motivation |
| | | |
Next, the interviewer asks a question designed to stimulate recollection of a situation that would lead to a desired behavior. For example:
• Balancing/prioritizing several tasks within a short period of time
• Dealing with an unproductive or uncooperative colleague
• Finding better ways to perform a task
The interviewer asks for an overview of the situation, the candidate's role, other players involved, key events and the outcome. The acronym "STAR" provides the formula for this questioning process.
S – Describe the situation in which you were involved.
T – Describe the task to be performed.
A – What was your approach to the problem?
R – What were the results of your actions?
The interviewer documents your responses and compares actual behaviors in a situation to the desired behaviors he is seeking.
In a behavioral interview, make sure the answers you give are honest, concise, and reflect positively on you (even if the event did not have a positive outcome). Remember that you are selling yourself, and the interview is the first place to prove your value to a company.
Differences Between Behavioral and Traditional Interviews
• The behavioral interviewer will ask you to provide details and will not allow you to theorize or generalize about events and actions.
• The behavioral interviewer is fact-finding and will focus on your actual past actions, not what you "should" or "would" have done. Some interviewers, however, will follow-up with questions such as, "Looking back on this experience, what would you have done differently?"
• The behavioral interviewer is more interactive with you and will continue probing with follow-up questions or refocusing in order to get the information needed.
• The behavioral interview may be longer and the interviewer will likely be taking notes.
Traditional Interview
This is the most common type of interview. The interview consists of a series of questions that may or may not be standardized. In addition to responding to questions, you would be expected to ask articulate, well-formed questions. The best preparation for this is to research the employer and the industry prior to the interview. The Career Center library can assist you in your research.
Serial Interview
This is a variation of the traditional interviewing technique that involves a series of sequential interviews with several interviewers. It often occurs in the selection interview at the employer's location. Usually, the interviewers have hiring authority, and may become your future manager(s). You should treat each person you meet as if he/she were a key player in the decision-making process. If you make a negative impression on anyone, it will probably be reported in the evaluation phase.
Group/Panel Interview
Panel interviews are becoming more common as organizations encourage more teamwork and group decision-making. This type of interview typically occurs at the employer's location. The panel may include three to ten people, possibly more. Each person may have been assigned a specific area of questioning. Your strategy should include equal eye contact with each person, with special attention to the individual who asked the question.
Stress Interview
This interviewing technique is less common. The technique tests a candidate's ability to be articulate and graceful under pressure. An example would have the interviewer speak quickly and aggressively, perhaps opening with "why should we hire you?" Should you encounter a stress interview, project self-assurance. It will be easier if you understand that it is a test.
Case Method Interview
A case interview or case method interview involves questions in which you will be asked to solve a hypothetical industry-related problem. These problems will be similar to ones the organization may encounter during their regular course of business. The interviewer is not necessarily seeking a "correct" answer to the problem, but wants to evaluate your problem solving and analytical reasoning skills. Be prepared to justify your answer and walk the interviewer through your solution on a step-by-step basis. You may have to ask questions of the interviewer if you feel you do not have adequate information to arrive at a valid solution.
What types of companies use case interviews?
According to The case interviewing style is particularly common among management consulting firms, law firms, counseling and social work organizations, police departments, and other organizations that place a premium on understanding your thought process. Most likely, the case will be the final part of a screening or hiring manager interview.
What are they typically like?
According to Bain & Company, a good case interview should be an enjoyable and thoughtful discussion of business issues and problem-solving techniques. The interviewer is not looking for a "right answer" or asking you to spit back memorized business terms, current events or well-known frameworks. Rather, the interviewer hopes to see a good dose of problem-solving skills, creativity and common sense. A good interview will be fun and full of energy!
Components of the case interview
The following components are typical of a case interview, per The University of California Berkeley Hass Business School:
1. Opening: The interviewer describes a business problem to you. Do not jump to a response. Instead, gather as much information as possible so you understand the true problem.
2. Your questions: You are expected to analyze the problem and ask questions in the areas that you think are important.
3. In-depth exploration of a branch: If you asked a question that is in an area the interviewer wants to explore, the interviewer may answer your question and then ask a follow-up question that will explore this area in more depth.
4. Analysis and conclusion. Usually, a specific area of the mock client's business is critical to the solution of the problem: The interviewer will either drive you to this area or let you know you've reached it by asking follow-up questions. Always state your assumptions when presenting an opinion.
5. Communication: You may be asked to summarize your conclusion as if you were recommending it to a client to test your communication skills.
A case interview process outlined above requires candidates to approach the problem as a "hypothesis driven" exercise. Such an exercise typically goes through the following process:
Collecting background information
Forming the rough cut hypothesis
Collecting further information to prove/disprove the hypotheses.
If necessary, collecting even more information.
Finalizing the insights, drawing the conclusions and formulating recommendations.
Case interviews rarely get to the last stages of this process. Instead they either tend to be general and focus on the early stages of collecting background information and forming rough cut hypotheses, or be specific and focus on collecting information to test and refine the hypotheses.
Case Commandments
According to Marc P. Cosentino, author of & the book Case In Point, the following commandments should be followed when answering a case interview question.
1. Listen to the Question
Listening is the most important skill a consultant has. The case isn't about you or the consultant; its about the client. What are they really asking for? Pay particular attention to the last sentence one word can change the entire case.
2. Take Notes
Taking notes during the case interview allows you to check back with the facts of the case. As someone once said, "The palest ink is stronger than the best memory." If you blank out, all the information is right in front of you.
3. Summarize the Question
After you are given the question, take a moment to summarize the highlights out loud:
It shows the interviewer that you listened
It allows you to hear the information again
It keeps you from answering the wrong question
It fills the otherwise awkward pause when you're trying to think of something intelligent to say
4. Verify the Objective(s)
Professional consultants always ask their clients to verify their objective(s). Even if the objectives seem obvious, there could be an additional underlying objective. When the objective seems apparent, phrase the questions differently: "One objective is to increase sales. Are there any other objectives I should know about?"
5. Ask Clarifying Questions
You ask questions for three main reasons:
To get additional information that will help you identify and label the question
To demonstrate to the interviewer that you are not shy about asking probing questions under difficult circumstances (something you'll be doing on a regular basis as a consultant)
To turn the question into a conversation. Nothing turns an interviewer off quicker than a five-minute monologue.
6. Organize Your Answer
Identify and label your case, then lay out your structure. This is the hardest part of a case and the most crucial. It drives your case and is often the major reason behind whether you get called back.
7. Hold that Thought for "One Alligator"
The interviewer wants you to think out loud, but think before you speak. If you make a statement that is way off-base in an interview, the interviewer will wonder if he can trust you in front of a client.
8. Manage Your Time
Your answer should be as linear as possible. Don't get bogged down in the details. Answer from a macro level and move the answer forward. Stay focused on the original question.
9. By the Numbers
If possible, try to work numbers into your answer. Demonstrate that you think quantitatively and that you are comfortable with numbers.
10. Be Coachable
Listen to the interviewers feedback. Is she trying to guide you back on track? Pay attention to her body language. Are you boring her or is she enthralled?
11. Be Creative and Brainstorm
Consulting firms like liberal arts candidates with intellectual curiosity who can "think outside the box" and offer up a new and interesting perspective.
12. Exude Enthusiasm and a Positive Attitude
Recruiters want people who are excited by problem solving and can carry that enthusiasm throughout the entire interview.
13. Bring Closure and Summarize
Create a sense of closure by summarizing the case. Review your findings, restate your suggestions, and make recommendations.
Where Can I find Sample Case Interview Questions?
Mercer Management Consulting has several interactive case studies on their website.
McKinsey & Company Online Case Study.
h
Capital One Online Case Study with suggestions on the questions and factors to consider during a case interview.
Additional Information on Case Interviews
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Boston Consulting Group
University of California Berkeley- Hass School of Business
Technical Interviews
Technical interviews often consist of brainteasers, riddles, and practical questions designed to measure your logic, reasoning, creative thinking, and problem-solving skills. In these interviews, your analytical reasoning skills are being evaluated. You are being tested on how rapidly you can think through a problem. Be prepared to justify your answers and walk the interviewer through your solutions on a step-by-step basis.
Technical interviews may also contain elements of behavioral interview questions.
What types of companies use technical interviews?
Many information technology companies utilize the technical interview in their selection of new employees. These interviews are fashioned after the popular Microsoft interview technique. Now, many computer and information technology companies are using this technique at the company interview stage.
There are many examples of technical interview questions available on the web. Some examples are given in our sample question section.
Sample Technical Interview Questions
• A chain of grocery stores currently receives its stock on a decentralized basis. Each store deals independently with its suppliers. The president of the chain is wondering whether the firm can benefit from a centralized warehouse. What are the key considerations in making this decision?
• A magazine publisher is trying to decide how many magazines she should deliver to each individual distribution outlet in order to maximize profits. She has extensive historical sales volume data for each of the outlets. How should she determine delivery quantities?
Here is a typical set of Interview questions asked for an entry level Software Design Engineer(SDE) or Internship position.
• If you had an infinite supply of water and a 5 quart and 3 quart pail, how would you measure exactly 4 quarts?
• If you are on a boat and you throw out a suitcase, will the level of water increase?
• On an average, how many times would you have to open the Seattle phone book to find a specific name?
• There are 3 ants at 3 corners of a triangle, they randomly start moving towards another corner. What is the probability that they don't collide?
• If you look at a clock and the time is 3:15, what is the angle between the hour and the minute hands? (The answer to this is not zero!)
• What new feature would you add to MSWORD if you were hired?
• Why did you pick the school you graduated from?
• Why do you want to work for Microsoft?
• How many Gas stations are there in the US?
• How would you weigh a plane without using scales?
• How would you move Mt. Everest?
• Two MIT math graduates bump into each other at Fairway on the upper west side. They hadn't seen each other in over 20 years.
The first grad says to the second: "how have you been?"
Second: "Great! I got married and I have three daughters now"
First: "Really? how old are they?"
Second: "Well, the product of their ages is 72, and the sum of their ages is the same as the number on that building over there First: "Right, ok. oh wait.. hmmmm.., I still don't know"
Second: "Oh sorry, the oldest one just started to play the piano"
First: "Wonderful! my oldest is the same age!"
• Why are beer cans tapered at the top and bottom?
• Why is it that hot water in a hotel comes out instantly but at home it takes time?
• How many times a day a clock's hands overlap?
• Mike has $20 more than Todd. How much does each have given that combined they have $21 between them. You can't use fractions in the answer.(Hint: This is a trick question, pay close attention to the condition)
• There are four dogs, each at the counter of a large square. Each of the dogs begins chasing the dog clockwise from it. All of the dogs run at the same speed. All continuously adjust their direction so that they are always heading straight towards their clockwise neighbor. How long does it take for the dogs to catch each other? Where does this happen? (Hint: Dog's are moving in a symmetrical fashion, not along the edges of the square).
Source:
Interviewing
(Preparing for the Interview)
By Scott Muller
It’s important to be well prepared, in advance, for the interview. The better prepared you are, the less anxious you will be and the greater your chances for success.
Role Play: Find someone or several others to do a mock interview with you. The person or persons should know you very well, especially your strengths and weaknesses and should be someone you feel comfortable with. The person should be objective and knowledgeable about your field and the position and a business associate or college in the same situation as you are.
Your Image: Use a mirror or video camera to conduct the interview to see what kind of image you project and what body language you use.
Access your Interviewing skills:
1. What are your strengths and weaknesses? Work on correcting your weaknesses such speaking too rapidly, slurring your words, not talking loud enough or talking too loudly, nervous habits such as shaking hands, too many gesture, or inappropriate facial expressions.
2. Learn the questions that are commonly asked and memorize answers to them. Practice giving answers which are brief but thorough.
3. Memorize your STARS and PARS so that you can use them if you need them during the interview to prove a point or expand an answer to a difficult situation question.
4. Decide what questions you would like to ask during and after the interview and practice saying them in a polite way.
5. Evaluate your skills, abilities and education as they relate to the type of job you are seeking.
6. Practice tailoring your answers to show how you meet the company’s needs.
7. Evaluate your background, especially your strengths, as they compare with the services and products the company provides.
Access your overall appearance:
1. Find out what clothing is appropriate for the position and the industry. Some industries such as sales, marketing, fashion and advertising are more stylish, acceptable attire for most industries is conservative.
2. Have several sets of appropriate clothing available since you may have several interviews over several days.
3. Make sure your hair is neat, your nails clean, and you are generally well groomed.
Attire for different industries:
Technology: You don’t need a suit but a collared shirt and slacks or khakis is okay for men and a sweater, blouse, slacks or a skirt is okay for women. However, if you are applying for a higher level job upgrade your attire.
Finance: Full business attire is required and expected. Hair, nails and skin should be perfect.
Government: Don’t be flashy. This is the time to show you are responsible, trustworthy and honest. A bit of color is okay, don’t wear a white shirt with a black tie but be conservative with jewelry, makeup and hair styles.
Human Resources: Look professional and authoritative. You need the look that you could handle any crisis and be dependable.
Sales: A suit for men and a conservative blouse and skirt for women, however, bold colors and designs are acceptable. The type of product or services you are representing will determine how classic versus trendy/fashionable you should be.
Architect: Casual dress generally a sports shirt and slacks is okay but if you are applying for a senior level manager or senior level position a suite would be appropriate.
Hospitality: Image is critical. A suit is appropriate for some positions but not always a must. Wear whatever will make a great initial impression.
Research the company: The more you know about the company and the job you are applying for the better prepared you will be for the interview. Find out how big the company is and where their headquarters is located as well as the branch offices. Know what are the key product s and service the company offers and what it most noted for (e.g. architectural design of single family homes, interior design, environmental design, remediation of toxic waste sites, etc.)
Have extra copies of your resume available for the interview. In addition, you should have extra copies of your cover letter, application, and resume addendum available for distribution. The interviewer may ask you for extra copies. Make sure bring along the same version of your resume that you sent the company. If you haven’t already completed an application you can use the resume to complete the application after the interview.
Arrive early at the Interview: Plan to arrive at least 10-15 minutes early for the interview to check out the office, find a restroom and check out your appearance.
Difficult Interview Questions
The following questions are ones that are now asked in the beginning of the first interview to test your experience, qualifications and possibly used as a way to eliminate you. Unfortunately, today the employer is king since he has a wealth of applicants to choose from, possibly 100 applicant s for every position or at least 10 for every management position and he can find a candidate who meets all of his requirements. The explanations and typical answers are included to help you get through those tough questions and still shine.
1. Why should we hire you?
First you need to know what the interviewer is looking for before you can best answer the question. Let him or they know you understand their needs are and that you have the qualifications to meet those needs. “(e.g. “ I understand you are looking for someone who…” You could try to relate your strengths for the position in a way that meets their services or products that they provide.
In the second part of your answer reinforce the match between your qualifications and the position: “From my experience as… I can..(do what the company is looking for) Remember to give examples from your work experience that show that you have indeed DONE things that meet their needs for the position.
2. What hourly wage or salary/year do you want?
It’s best to know the salary range for the position before the interview. The best way to handle this question is to try to postpone answering it. Ask what their salary range is for the position or go with a salary range that is within the logical progression of your salary history as well as the market value for the position. If that doesn’t work tell them you will not be able to answer that question until you fully understand what their needs are and how well you meet those needs. You could also say” I have studied the salary range for this position, or I have checked with other firms regarding the salary for this position and it is _____. Due to my experience I would consider myself to be paid at ____/hr or ____/yr.
HR Managers, VPs or other interviewers may try to trick you by saying ”I would bill you out at ____/hr. how much would your hourly rate be? In this case you need to know what formula would the President, VP etc. be billing you out at to answer intelligently. Normally they bill you out at 3 to 31/2 times your average hourly rate.
3. Why did you leave your last job?
The interviewer expects a sound reason. Their expecting you to be unprepared and say something that will tell them how well you will do on their job. If you left your job because you quit or left under strained conditions, don’t “bad mouth” your past employer or their business. Keep your answer simple and concise. Don’t justify your decision or leave them the option to ask you open ended questions. Your could say “ I was laid off from my previous position due to the economy and lack of work”. You could also say that you had a different work style than your precious employer or you didn’t like the way the office was being reorganized.
4. If I asked your last boss, what would he say about your greatest strengths and weaknesses? Try to be honest because they may call your employer to verify what you say. Talk about what you did well and what you know your boss thought you did well. If possible, try to make this a skill or ability meet their needs. Try to minimize what s/he may say negatively. Talk about performance issues, not personality issues such as “ I was always very well organized and very successful at doing reviews of other staff’s work.” Or .”I need to improve my skills in InDesign or Photoshop.”
5. What would be your limitations coming into this position?
If you have less experience than they are looking for in some areas, or need to learn specific programs, acknowledge it. Be honest and show that you can learn fast, and if hired, will immediately work on acquiring this skill or knowledge to meet their requirements and make you valuable to the company. Back up your potential with past examples or STARS.
6. How long have you been out of work and what have you been doing in the meantime? Again, it best to be honest. Don’t try to cover up unemployment with “doing consulting” or “helping out friends with garden work” etc. Simply state how long you have been out of work and cover time off with reasonable activity. You could cite work you have been doing for volunteer organizations or the Unemployment Department. “I taught classes on Resume Writing, Interviewing” etc. for EU.
7. Describe your Management Background!
Talk about past projects, supervisory positions in terms of the number of people supervised, the kinds of positions and your management style. Here’s where you can bring up some STARS or PARS and sparkle. If you were never officially a manager, talk about projects or situations where you were in charge or were the project leader or took over for a Project Manager.
8. What kinds of people do you work best with?
It’s best to keep your answer focused on the kind of “work styles” you interact with, and keep personalities out of it. A good answer would be: I like to work with positive, creative people who are team players, in an environment where people share information.
9. Are you willing to travel, relocate?
You’ll limit your marketability if you won’t or can’t do either of the above, but, if the job requires it, inform the interviewer that this might be a problem for you. Most jobs require some traveling and traveling 10-25% of the time might be a refreshing way of getting out of the office, therefore, traveling maybe ok. However, relocating is a totally different matter and is something you want to be prepared to answer. Most candidates don’t want to relocate yo another areas for many reasons; you like the climate you are in, you have paid off your house, you have close friends in the area, etc.
10. How do you perform under pressure?
Be prepared to respond with more than an affirmation that you perform well under pressure. Give at least one good situation where you performed well under pressure or were required to get the job with minimum help and little time, under pressure. This is a good opportunity to use one of your STARS or PARS to not only answer their question but prove that you would be a great asset to their company.
11. What do you hope to be doing five years from now?
This is usually a trick question to see if you are going to be around in the future and how faithful you are to the company. I t may also be an opportunity see if you are well motivated and want to improve yourself. A good answer would be; “I hope I will be working her and have increased my level of responsibility based upon my performance and abilities.
12. What do you know about company? Why do you want to work here?
This is where your research of the company will become very valuable. Show that you know how big the company is by the number of offices, number of employees, etc.. Identify the primary products and service they provide and possibly what their mission and objectives are. You could show how their products and services relate to your background. You might try to get the interviewer to give you more information about the company by saying that you are interested in learning more about the objectives of the company. This will help you to focus your response on key areas.
13. What adverse factors have kept you from progressing as fast as you could have progressed?
Here again, you should take care not to blame others for your shortcomings. Take the high road. “I decided to complete courses that would make me more marketable in my profession” “I decided to get my degree in_____ that meant returning to college for a brief period.” If you don’t think you have had progression problems you may want to say” I believe that my career is progressing on track, and I am always looking for ways to improve myself”.
14. What else do you think I should know about you?
This is a trick question or catch-all question that should not catch you by surprise. The interviewer is giving you a perfect opportunity to take control of the interview. Take it!. Although I have been a Controller for the last 10 years, I have done more than just accounting. I have served as a Property Manager and negotiated leases for building complexes.”
Situational and Technical Questions
Situational questions are usually ones that ask “what would you do if you were in this job and …? You will need to think on your feet and answer concisely and honestly. Even if you aren’t sure what you might do, describe how you would go about gathering information to make the right decision or take the right action. The interviewer will be more interested in how you analyze a problem, rather than if you have the “right answer.”
Technical questions about the job will usually come up. If you don’t know the answers, don’t worry; nobody knows everything! As with the question above if you don’t know the answer, say so, but describe how you would find out the answer if it came up on the job.
Behavioral Questions
1. Tell me about a time when you had to make a quick decision under difficult circumstances? The interviewer wants to know how you keep your cool and operate under stress. You might tell a story where everyone else around you panicked but you stayed calm and solved the problem in a creative or cost saving manner.
2. Tell me about a time where you were able to motivate your co-workers or subordinates. Employers are always looking for people who can work well with others and, more importantly, can lead other people to do positive things. Tell a story where you accomplished this. This could be a STAR or a PAR. The following is a good example: “ We were faced with having to redo a complex report, with limited time for the client. I organized a team of professionals who were skilled in competing different aspects of the document and set up a schedule and duties for each of them within a limited timeframe to insure we got the report done in a professional manner, on time.
3. Give me an example of a specific occasion in which you had to obey a policy which you didn’t agree with. Make sure that you don’t sound like “sour grapes” when you tell the story. In a calm voice, tell why you didn’t agree with the policy, and then tell what you did to obey your employer’s wishes anyway
4. What did you do in your last job to contribute toward a team environment?
Employers are always looking for people who can work easily with others, create a positive influence and get the job done. If you are not a team player you won’t get hired. The following is a good answer:
Our group was not working well together on putting together a PowerPoint presentation. Some of the staff were working overtime every night, while others, who had special skills, were not helping put together the presentation. I came up with a schedule and tasks for everyone to trade off responsibilities and get the staff, who weren’t working overtime, to help out the others and complete the tasks that they were best at in order to complete the presentation on time.
5. Describe a situation where you wish you had acted differently with someone at work. What happened? What did you do?
In this case , the interviewer is looking to see if you can admit that you made a mistake and signs that you are a mature individual. Don’t respond by saying that you can’t think of a situation. Nobody is perfect. We have all made mistakes.
I was working on a complex master plan for the Chief of Planning, and, had been working overtime for several nights. He demanded at 4:00pm that he had to have it done by 5:00pm and 20 copies made for a meeting the next morning. I got mad and told him I couldn’t meet the schedule because I was too tired and hadn’t been given enough notice. I know that my supervisor was under a lot of pressure and I should have been more tactful. He later cam by and gave me another hour to finish the plan.
Questions to Ask the Interviewer
An interview is designed to be a mutually beneficial two-way conversation. To manage your interview process, you must ask key things that YOU need to know about the job and the company
Pre-Qualifying Questions
1. What is most important to you about the person you intend to hire, and then secondly, what are some of your major concerns?
2. Thank you … that was very helpful. Is there anything else?(Keep repeating the question until the interviewer can’t think of anything else.)
Questions to Ask during the Interview or at the End of the Interview
Whenever it is appropriate or when the interviewer says,. “Do you have any questions,” ask the following questions:
1. May I see an organizational chart? If you don’t have one could you describe your organizational structure?
2. What are the first year’s objectives for this position?
3. What are the greatest challenges in this position?
4. Why is the position open?
5. Can you describe the company’s management development program?
6. If hired for this position who would I report to and what is his or her management style.?
7. What are the company’s most important need or needs at this time?
8. How much traveling is required for the job and would I be allowed to visit project sites?
(Don’t ask about pay ranges, benefits or vacation time unless the interviewer brings it up or in the second interview if you are invited back for a second interview.)
Closing Questions
1. How do you think I might meet your needs and/ or fit into organization?
2. How many people are you interviewing for this position and how do I compare with others you have interviewed?
3. Can I clarify anything or clear up any thing for you ?
4. How will you know when you have fund the right person?
5. When can I expect to hear back from regarding this position?
* * * *
References
1. Powerful Job Interviewing, Power Marketing, 1993 155 Sansome St. 7th Fl, SF, CA 94104
2. Job Search Guide, Strategies for Professionals, Employment Development Dept., 1993
3. Sample Questions to Ask the Interviewer, Employment Development Dept., 1998
4. Dressing for the Interview, By Industry, Monster Career Service, , 9-5-08
PAR STATEMENTS
Lou Pilastro
The art of writing an effective resume is often likened to storytelling with a purpose.
This is accomplished by incorporating P.A.R. statements into the resume. P.A.R. stands for Problem, Action, Result (they are sometimes also referred to as S.A.R. or Situation,
Action, Result and S.T.A.R. or Situation, Tactic, Action, Result statements). P.A.R. statements are developed by selecting and presenting examples that give a snapshot overview of the influence you've wielded, the quantified results you've produced, and the know-how behind your most significant initiatives. P.A.R. statements can also be expanded with more detailed information to become a P.A.R. story, which then becomes an addendum document to the resume.
Thought process is the first step in developing P.A.R. statements. First, think of a problem you had at work, an area where you knew things could be done better. Write it down. Then wnte down the results of your action.
EXAMPLE:
The problem was that the files were disorganized and unworkable.
The action I took was to rearrange the files using the numeric filing system. The result was I could find files much faster, saving time, and thus saving money for the company.
The second process is the written process that enables you to develop accomplishment statements that will be used in the resume. Write down the results flrst, then the action. The result is actually your “success on the job” which an employer sees as a benefit to him or her. In describing results, think in measurable terms: money saved, profits increased, numerical effects, and the impact your action had on people, places and things in the workplace. Never write down the problem on the resume Instead, write down the result or outcome of your action. Thus, the P.A.R. statement on the resume will read:
Reduced time searching for files by implementing a numeric filing system.
SOURCES:
Kursmark, Louise and Melnick, Jan. Executive’s Pocket Guide to POI Resumes And Job Search. Jist Works, 2007
Mass. gov/dcs
APRIL 08
Paying Attention to Your Speech Can Make or Break a Job Interview
You may have the skills, experience, and education a company is asking for, and you may even look the part of the type of person they want to hire. But if you can’t express yourself correctly in the interview, you might as well not even open your mouth.
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No matter how polished your resume is, no matter how sharply you dress, no matter how well you rehearse the answers to questions you know you’ll be asked, there is one detail of an interview that can totally kill your chances even if you’re the best candidate for the job. What is it that might keep you from nailing your big interview? Well, um, it’s sort of, you know, obvious, if you get my drift, to a lotta people.
Many job seekers spend a great deal of time and money getting their resumes polished to perfection and scouring the ads for plum jobs to apply for. Once they get called for that big interview, they spend even more time and money picking out the right thing to wear. But to win over a potential employer, the most important thing to spend time on is concentrating on the best way to present yourself verbally. Careless speech habits can easily kill your chances, particularly if your sloppy speech makes you come off as being too casual, too immature, or just plain ignorant.
For some jobs it may not matter, but for most professional jobs, crystal clear communication abilities are important. There are a few cardinal rules to follow when speaking with an interviewer.
Slow down. Although you may be anxious and nervous in an interview, you don’t want the interviewer to know that. Speaking slowly and deliberately shows that you are confident and calm, and gives the person on the other side of the desk the chance to absorb what you’re saying. Keep the conversation warm and open, with a friendly feeling. When asked a question, wait a moment before answering. After you’ve completely answered a question, stop talking. Pausing is an effective technique for communicating clearly, and it gives your interviewer a few seconds to process the answer you’ve just given.
Speak with conviction. To portray yourself as the ideal candidate for any job, be sure to use language that shows you are confident and capable. Don’t fill your answers with phrases such as "maybe," "perhaps," "sort of," or "hopefully." Avoid like the plague saying anything about things you "could have" or "should have" done. Use strong, powerful words such as "I’m confident that," "my goal is," or "you can see from my track record," or "even "I recommend." Don’t use a tentative, questioning tone; speak as though you are the star attraction, and sell yourself convincingly.
Make every word count. Don’t pepper your conversation with meaningless filler words such as "uh," "you know," "ah," "okay," or—especially important—"like." Using casual non-words such as these tell the interviewer that you are not mature and professional enough for the job. Especially in positions that will involve talking to people, be sure that you don’t sound like a teeny bopper. Think before you speak. It may be impossible to keep from uttering the occasional "um," as you gather your thoughts, but don’t start every sentence that way, and keep the non-words to an absolute minimum.
Don’t be a speech slob. The most important thing to remember in an interview is that there is no excuse for using sloppy speech. Again, speak slowly and don’t slur words together, and don’t drop the endings of sentences or let words fade off as you finish speaking. Using incorrect grammar or slang will make an interviewer question your education or, worse, your intelligence. Expressions such as "ain’t" or "me an him" are never appropriate. Be sure to use correct tenses and avoid regional expressions or informal language.
You may look good on paper and you may look fantastic in person, but nailing an interview depends almost exclusively on how you portray yourself the moment you open your mouth. Employers want to hire people who are well-spoken and articulate, and careless speech habits can kill an interview in just a sentence or two. So don’t sabotage yourself by using sloppy speech; instead, take care to use polished, accurate speech habits that will get you the job you want and deserve.
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|By Buzzle Staff and Agencies |
|Published: 4/6/2006 |
|Source: |
Dealing with phone interviews
From ()
With more and more candidates applying for the same position, many employers now look to phone interviews as a quick and easy method of screening applicants or as a precursor to one-on-one interviews. This form of interviewing also has numerous practical advantages, particularly for candidates applying from abroad or from other parts of the country.
Phone interviews, however, are not as straightforward as they seem. Researchers believe that 80% of jobs are won or lost during the first five minutes of the conversation. Given these circumstances, it is essential to prepare thoroughly for the interview and to master the relevant techniques.
Ensure that your contact information is accurate
When filling in your application form, it is essential that you provide prospective employers with accurate contact information. No employer wants to waste time trying to contact you if you have changed your phone number or have moved to a new address. Most employers will reject those candidates who provide inaccurate contact information.
Keep things professional
If you aren’t available when the employer calls, he or she is likely to leave a message for you on your answering machine. Make sure that your answer phone greeting is professional – an overly long or silly message is never endearing.
Practice!
Phone interviews can often be quite intimidating. Practice with a friend – have them ring you up and ask you interview-style questions. This will also provide you with the opportunity to assess your style. Because you are being interviewed over the phone, you might feel tempted to adopt a more colloquial tone when answering questions. However, doing so could damage your chances of obtaining the job. Instead, try to sound confident and professional.
Alternatively, use a cassette recorder to record yourself giving answers to mock questions. Are you prone to stuttering? Are your answers interrupted by multiple ‘ums’ and ‘ahs’? Taping yourself speaking can help highlight these problem areas. Employers generally want to hire someone who can communicate confidently and comfortably.
Get comfortable
Some people prefer to stand when being interviewed over the phone. Researchers have found that people tend to sound more professional when standing upright compared to when they are lying curled up in an armchair. However, other interviewees claim to find the experience less stressful when sitting. Either way, make sure this isn't an issue before the interview itself.Obviously there’s no reason to wear a business suit for an interview that’s being conducted over the phone. Remember, however, that it is always harder to sound professional if you are answering interview questions dressed in an old bathrobe and slippers.
Don’t forget memory aids
Use flash cards to provide you with an outline of the things you want to mention during the course of the interview. However, it is essential that your responses don’t sound memorised. Keep a copy of your CV at hand if you are liable to forget details of past employment, training or work experience.
There’s no need to fill the all the silences
If you have finished answering a question, but the interviewer has failed to ask you another one, don’t try to fill the gap with garbled chatter. Wait patiently for the interviewer – he or she might want to discuss something with his colleagues or co-interviewers. Alternatively, you could always ask the interviewer a related question about the job.
Other practicalities
At the start of the phone interview, confirm the caller’s name and organisation and take down their telephone number. You could always create a phone interview log. This is a useful way of recording calls from potential employees. A sample log may be found at
Try not to cough or sneeze during the interview. If it’s unavoidable, say ‘excuse me’ after the interruption. Needless to say, don’t chew or munch during the interview. Noiselessly sip water if you need it. If you are being interviewed over your landline, switch off your mobile phone. Also, disable the call-waiting feature on your telephone and never place the interviewer on speaker-phone.
If you have a cordless phone, move to an area free of distractions and ensure that its batteries are fully charged. If you choose to take the phone interview over a mobile phone, make certain that the reception from your present location is good. Never take the phone interview when outside, particularly if it is windy. Wind noise can make it harder for the interviewer to hear your answers and for you to answer his or her questions.
If you are hearing impaired…
If you find phone interview situations difficult to handle on account of a hearing impairment, email the employer beforehand. It is likely that the interviewers will be more than willing to make alternate arrangements to accommodate your condition.
Finally...
Don’t forget to thank the interviewer once the interview is complete. It’s always a good idea to follow up with a thank you note to the employer, as this helps to emphasise your interest in the job.
Conclusion
By following these simple instructions, you will be able to master the techniques necessary to successfully complete a phone interview. Remember to stay calm during the actual interview – your hard work and preparation are sure to pay off in the end.
The Top Three Ways to Eliminate Interview Jitters
One of the most stressful experiences is going on a job interview. The key to reducing the stress - and therefore the jitters - is preparation. Here's how to prepare for that job interview in a way that will help you relax and perform better.
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Everyone is nervous about going on a job interview, that's a given. After all, your future economic well being may depend on getting that job! To that, add the pressure of not knowing what to expect in the interview or what questions may be asked and you have all the ingredients for a world-class case of the jitters.
Here are three things you can do to prepare yourself, regardless of the job or company with which you are interviewing. As a hiring manager, time and time again I've seen candidates that come unprepared in these three areas and their interview failure rate is high. Concentrate on these three things and you will greatly increase your chance of a successful interview… and a job offer.
One: Know Yourself
Make sure you have thoroughly memorized everything in your resume, especially specific examples of your accomplishments.
I'm always amazed when I interview a candidate, ask them a specific question about their experience that could be answered right off their resume, and watch them fumble for an answer. Yes, I've read your resume, but I want you to pick out the parts of your resume that are applicable to the question and answer it in an articulate manner. You can't do this unless you are thoroughly familiar with the information in your resume.
The key here is practice. Look at the job posting for the job you will be interviewing for and note the specific requirements that are listed. Then, practice stating your experience and accomplishments in terms of how they relate to those requirements. Do this until you can comfortably and succinctly recap your experience and accomplishments, using each job requirement as a question.
For example, if one of the job requirements is "five years of sales experience", then your answer could be: "I have seven years of sales experience with XYZ company, during which sales increased 40% in my territory." Be prepared to give an answer like to for every requirement listed for that job and you will be ahead of 95% of the other applicants.
Two: Produce Your Commercial
You should prepare in advance a 30 – 60 second recap of your job experience and some key accomplishments from that experience.
Why? Because frequently an interview will begin with a question such as: "Tell us something about yourself", or some variation of that question. This is your chance to present your "commercial" about yourself. It should be a very condensed recap of your employment history and some of your major skills and accomplishments. NOTE: it should be all about your job experience and NOT about your personal life or hobbies. The hiring manager is only interested in one thing: do you have the experience and competency to be the best candidate for the job.
Here too, I've had many job applicants stumble with trying to give an overview of themselves and come across as awkward and inarticulate. You should write out your commercial in advance, make sure it includes your most significant experience and accomplishments, and then time yourself by reading it out loud. It should more than 30 seconds but no more than 60 seconds. This doesn't sound like much, but 60 seconds can be an eternity in a job interview!
You don't have to memorize your commercial, but you should be able to make your way through it comfortably, without hesitating, and cover all the important parts. When you can do this smoothly and confidently, you're ready for any interview.
Three: Know Your Target
The absolute best thing you can do to prepare for an interview is to know the company.
With the massive amount of data that is now available on the Internet, there is simply no excuse for not researching the company when you get an interview. This shows you are serious about the job and are professional enough to educate yourself about the company.
This will also enable you to frame some of your answers in terms of facts specific to that company. For example, let's look at the sales position used in example above. If you've done your homework and found out that sales are down in the territory covered by the position you are interviewing for, you can talk about how you know that's been a problem for them in that territory and explain how you increased sales in your last job. This is an extremely powerful way to answer an interview question, yet I almost never hear it in interviews. I would send taxis for applicants like this.
Also, knowing the company will enable you to ask some specific questions about it, when you get to the part of the interview where you are asked if you have any questions. This is a golden opportunity that most applicants miss. Usually, when I ask if the applicant has any questions, I get one or two general questions about the job, or no questions at all. On the other hand, when I get an intelligent question or two about some specific aspect of my company and it's challenges, this is an applicant I remember.
You're going to be working (hopefully) for a long time for that company if you get the job, so doesn't it make sense to get to know it in advance?
If you make an honest effort to master the above three areas before every interview, you will not only be much less nervous, but you will greatly increase your chances of getting the job.
Good luck in all your job search efforts.
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|By Tom McBroom |
|Published: 7/16/2008 |
|Source: |
The Job Interview Pep Talk: How to Psych Yourself Up Before the Big Day
Taking the plunge into the job market? Congratulations! Heed the advice of a certified career coach on why you shouldn't be nervous on Interview Day.
So you’ve decided to take the plunge and start hunting for a new job. This takes courage, so congratulations on being willing to step out there! One of the next hurdles in navigating your personal career path is the job interview. Maybe interviews are old hat for you; maybe you're fresh out of school and are just learning the protocol. Either way, consider this article a mini refresher course and pep talk to get you going! Below are a few thoughts to file under "Why I Don't Need to be Nervous on Interview Day."
Reason 1: I am not desperate for this job.
Many people approach the job interview with the mindset of "I MUST land this job or else." This is a nice way to push the Instant Panic button and set yourself up to fail. The fact is, you have no idea what the job entails, what your future boss will be like or whether this company has anything to offer you. It may be the career opportunity of a lifetime, but it may not be, and you won't know for sure until you get there. So ditch the desperation, take a deep breath, and just feel honored that someone liked your career profile enough to pick you over the next candidate. It's looking good for you so far.
Reason 2: I have other options.
Sometimes we have a tendency to jump at the first hint of a new job on the horizon. "Someone wants to hire me... I'd better take it before my options dry up!" Remember that if you don't get chosen (or decide to accept) this job, chances are slim to none that you'll end up destitute. There are tons of jobs available on the major job sites like . Keep your eyes pealed for new job postings in the local and nearby metropolitan newspapers. You can also find part-time income or freelance work by combing the internet classifieds - try . And if you're in a layoff situation, you likely have some severance or unemployment to tide you over in the job search interim. So relax. Everything is going to be okay. Know you can and will find something that works for you.
Reason 3: I want to make sure the company is good enough for ME!
How many people do you think approach their interviews with an attitude of, "Is this company worthy of my caliber of work?" and "Is this position a fit for me?" These are legitimate questions and things to consider. However, watch out that the scales don't dip too far to this side. You may honestly be wondering if this company deserves your talent and dedication. But don't let arrogance rear its ugly head during your interview. Stay down to earth, be gracious, answer questions as honestly and objectively as you can. Speak highly of your achievements but without being condescending! Be grateful for the chance to sell yourself and balance that with the intent to determine if this company and position is a fit for you.
Reason 4: I have something to offer.
If you're in a cutting edge field (like technology) or at a highly advanced skill level, realize what a hot commodity you are right now. To help you validate this point, do a little research of the job market. Try some creative career mind benders where you take stock of all your skills and then write down areas where they can be put to productive use. Then, instead of being nervous about the possibility of rejection, approach with an attitude of, "How can I present myself in the best possible light? What strategy can I take to ensure I get the salary I desire?"
Once you realize that a job interview is nothing to get worked up over, cement your self-confidence and develop a "go get 'em!" approach. Do a personal assessment of everything you've accomplished over the course of your career to date. Even if you're new to the workforce and have only an internship to work with, make the most of what you do have. Go over those letters of recommendation to see what you can include in your resume and mention in the interview. Count any and all awards you have received. Dredge up old thank-you notes that clients may have sent.
Bonus prep tip: Pull out those old files and take a look at your work performance reviews from the past. Where do you excel? Which areas are your strongest? Make a mental note of these, then practice how you will work this information into whatever questions you are asked in the interview. Remember, it is okay to answer an interview question in a way that reflects your best qualities, as long as you are still being honest.
Now - are you ready to knock their socks off with your tireless work ethic, great attitude, talent, skills and perseverance? I know you can do this. It's an interview - it's no big deal. Now go out there and take the professional world by storm!
Copyright 2007 Hallie Crawford and Authentically Speaking. All rights reserved.
Want free tips, tools and expert advice on finding a career you're passionate about? Visit Certified Career Coach Hallie Crawford, and sign up for Hallie's monthly career newsletter (), Creating Your Own Path, right now. Bookmark her career blog () for recommendations on resume writers, online career tests and more career resources.
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|By Hallie Crawford |
|Published: 5/16/2007 |
|Source: |
Wearing Cologne To A Job Interview
Learn how wearing cologne to a job interview may limit your opportunity for a second interview.
You’ve found what you think might be the perfect job. You’ve hired a professional resume writer to make sure your resume is exactly right. You’ve scheduled the interview. And you’ve spent an hour choosing just the right outfit to wear to the interview.
The big day comes. You get up early. You rehearse the questions and answers you’ve gone over 100 times during the week. You go over all of your notes on the company. You know this company inside and out. Your gas tank is full. You leave in plenty of time to allow for traffic or no parking.
Finally, the opportunity you’ve been waiting for all week is now here. You are shaking hands with the person that will decide whether or not a job with this company is a possibility for you.
After what seems like only 10 minutes, the interview is over. They say they’ll call you if they desire a second interview. You have no idea what went wrong. You practiced for a week. You spent hours on your research. Several friends agreed on the best outfit to wear.
What no one thought about was the cologne you’d put on that morning. You chose it because it’s a scent you always get complimented on. You so wanted to make a good impression that you knew this cologne would do the trick. What you hadn’t planned on was that the interviewer found almost every scent of cologne offensive. As soon as you sat down and the interviewer caught a whiff of the cologne you were wearing, the interviewer began their own plan of just how quickly they could get through this interview to get that scent out of their office.
The interviewer asked the questions routinely, never really hearing your answers. All the interviewer could do was keep saying to themselves "that scent is so bothersome, how do I get it out of here". The interviewer did not want to ask any more questions, they wanted the conversation over so that the scent would be gone.
I can not stress enough that no matter how much you believe you are wearing a scent that others will like, wearing cologne to a job interview could very well be the deciding factor in your not receiving that second interview.
When going on a job interview, leave the cologne at home.
About the author:
Audrey Okaneko has worked at home since 1983. She can be reached at audreyoka@ or visited at
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|By Audrey Okaneko |
|Published: 11/17/2006 |
|Source: |
What to Bring to a Job Interview - Interview Basics
What should you bring to an interview? Should you come with little more than your carefully groomed and polished self? When deciding what to bring to a job interview, many people fail to prepare. They think that bringing things to an interview makes them appear over the top, but the opposite is actually true. If you don't bring anything, an employer may feel like you have come unprepared.
You should never attend an interview empty handed. At the very least, you should bring a copy of your resume. If you are being interviewed by a team, bring a resume for everybody that will be attending the interview. References are also required. Do not wait for the interviewer to ask for these. Offer them. Avoid carrying a handful of loose leaf papers. Carry your documents in a professional file and briefcase.
If you hold a professional license, you should bring evidence of your license to your interview. Bring anything that proves that you are legally able to perform the job that you are applying for. Positions that may require a professional license includes nursing positions, cosmetology positions and teaching positions.
When deciding what to bring to a job interview, many people decide to put together a portfolio that highlights their qualifications. It is a proven fact that visual aids are effective, so why not use these to your advantage during a job interview? Before you throw together a portfolio, gather examples of your best work only. Remember; a portfolio is an aid and should not take up the bulk of the interview. If your portfolio contains digital information, bring a laptop or some other medium with you. Do not expect your interviewer to supply the equipment. Avoid carrying bulky objects as well. Do not overwhelm the interview room with all of your gear. Keep it simple and professional.
Never forget essentials when deciding what to bring to a job interview. Be prepared for anything. Extra copies of your resume, breath fresheners, an extra pair of panty hose, deodorant, safety pins and a change of clothes are all good ideas. Be prepared for anything. This will help you stay calm and in control no matter what happens the day of your interview. Being prepared will help you concentrate on what really matters, like all of those questions you will need to answer.
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|By CK Tan |
|Published: 5/26/2008 |
|Source: |
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Body Language for Job Interviews
Body language is very important while giving a job interview. Though you may be nervous and your heart has sunk into your shoes but what you can’t risk is showing it by your body movements. Also you might be smartly dressed and looking confident but your body could still let you down.
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So carefully follow the body languages listed below and we guarantee you, as then you’re sure to give out the right signals to the interviewer.
The Typical Body Language
1. An equal handshake. Your handshake should be strong and confident. If you can match the interviewer's grip it avoids any dominant/submissive vibes.
2. Relax and be at ease. The way you sit conveys a lot of subtle information to the people on the other side of the desk. So sit straight and take a moment to be comfortable. If you look relaxed, it'll encourage your interviewer/s to feel at ease in your company.
3. Maintain eye contact. Keep it true and steady, but remember to blink. Make sure that your gaze doesn't drop below eye level. Don't keep turning your attention to the floor or the ceiling. It might be a blank canvas for your thoughts, but it appears as if you're evading a question.
4. Steer your body. If you are wearing a short skirt then crossing your legs is fine, but the best position is to 'point' at the interviewer with your knees or your feet. This shows that you're focused right in on them.
5. Use your hands. Be physically expressive when you speak and use your hands to roll out your answers or give shape to your ideas. This is also a good way to control nervousness.
6. Be open. Folding your arms across your chest conveys a nervous, negative and even aggressive attitude. Therefore be open in both body and mind.
Your actions speak volumes as to what is going on in your mind. The way you sit, stand, move around all show as to whether you are nervous, confused, scared or confident. Look at the following chart below and find out more about your body language.
Walking tall, erect and briskly = Confidence
Standing with hands on hips = Readiness, aggression
Walking with hands in pockets, shoulders hunched = Dejection
Hands clasped behind back = Anger, frustration, apprehension
Sitting with legs crossed, foot kicking slightly = Boredom
Sitting with arms crossed on chest = Defensiveness
Sitting with hands clasped behind head, legs crossed = Confidence, superiority
Biting nails = Nervousness
Touching, slightly rubbing nose = Rejection, doubt, lying
Stroking chin = Trying to make a decision
Pulling or tugging at ear = Indecision
Patting/fondling hair = Lack of self confidence, insecurity
Rubbing hands = Anticipation
Pinching bridge of nose, eyes closed = Negative evaluation
Tilted head = Interest
Open palm = Sincerity, openness, innocence
Tapping or drumming fingers = Impatience
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|By Prerna Salla |
|Published: 1/27/2005 |
|Source: |
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How To Ace An Interview With A Bad Interviewer
What do you do when an interviewer doesn’t shut up? Or doesn’t ask you about your qualifications? Or is a rude, intimidating jerk? What if the interview is filled with awkward silences? We’ve all been taught not to take control of the interview. Here’s how to handle the situation professionally and still avoid being at the mercy of a Bad Interviewer.
The only thing that might be more difficult to deal with than an interviewer who asks tough, probing questions is an interviewer who hasn’t a clue how to interview. You can leave feeling as if you ignited no interest, bombed the interview, and surely won’t be asked back. Where was the scintillating conversation? The professional give and take about the industry and your skills?
But if you’ve just met the person, how are you to know if they’re a lousy interviewer – or you’re a lousy interview? If you prepared for the interview, then you’ve an indication where the problem lies, because your preparation enables you to jump in and take control of those awkward moments.
I speak often about the importance of an interview being a two-way street. This not only means that you need to be interviewing the company as they are you, but that the company needs to sell themselves to you, as you are selling yourself to them. If the interviewer doesn’t have those sales skills, you need to elicit the information.
Interviewers who ramble on and on ad nauseum about the company need to be re-directed before you begin snoring. Interviewers who don’t have the ability to speak about the company or the position should be prompted with your questions. Interviewers who are unprepared, or perhaps even forgot about their appointment with you, must be briefed –by you -- on your background, because they probably don’t remember your resume.
Lots of holes and awkward pauses in the conversation? If the interviewer doesn’t have the sense (or ability) to ask you what your skills are or why you’d be a great choice for the company, speak up and tell him. Toot your own horn. "I’d like to tell you about the time I put a winning proposal together under a stiff deadline, since the job we’re speaking of is also very deadline oriented." That doesn’t mean talk non-stop, but it does mean don’t sit there and be uncomfortably silent for long periods of time. Jump right in with the questions you came prepared to ask. What are the priorities that need to be addressed immediately? What’s a typical day like? How long has the interviewer been with the company? Why does he stay?
Other interviewers may ask questions, but stupid and unimaginative ones. "I see you worked at The Snappy Scissors Company. How did you like working there?" ("Um, I hated it. That’s why I left. Duh.") Answer with what you learned while you were there, and remember not to disparage any previous employers. Resist rolling your eyes if they go through your entire resume this way or if you’re asked a Barbara Walters question: "If you were a tree, what type of tree would you be?"
Sometimes getting a bit of movement in helps. Ask for a tour of the building or offices. A tour provides focal points for questions and an opportunity for words related to why you’re there. Ask about the decision making time frame and if there are any other steps involved. See if you can set up an interview with any others in the department or your interviewer’s boss or other decision makers in the company (and hope they’ll be a better interviewer!)
Be patient with these inept people. Whatever their interviewing skills – or lack thereof, it’s possible they’ve had very limited interviewing experience. Speaking up and taking control of the interview may be the only thing that not only gives you the information you need, but saves the interview from being a total bomb. They may be a bad interviewer, but they aren’t the one being interviewed. No matter how bored you are, no matter what you’re thinking, smile and be enthusiastic. At the very least, you can chalk it up to interviewing practice.
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|By Judi Perkins |
|Published: 5/19/2007 |
|Source: |
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The 5-Hour Corporate Interview: Survival Tips
Do not allow the thoughts of a marathon corporate interview get the best of you! Instead, get ready for your big day by eating well, preparing and taking the advice of a certified career coach.
Imagine your surprise when a prospective employer asks you to come in and interview for not one, not two, but FIVE hours of interviewing. Five hours... can they really do that? Yes, and some companies who want to be particularly selective will have you in for as long as TEN hours in a single day.
Interviews which last for several hours are typically conducted by Fortune 500 and other progressive companies. For busy executives with packed schedules, it often makes the best sense to select a single day of interviewing and involve all parties. The company schedules blocks of time where each interviewer can ask the job candidate a series of questions pertaining to their particular role at the company. If this happens to you, know that the amount of time that your interview will be conducted for of course depends on the company.
Here are some career tips for surviving the 5-hour interview, and landing that job:
Be on the lookout for email updates leading up to the interview.
These days, email plays a huge part in most everything we do. That includes keeping in touch with the hiring manager who will be your temporary contact during the prospecting phase. First, be sure that this person's email address has been saved to your address book (and doesn’t go into your spam folder) so you won't miss a correspondence. Second, make a mental note of their email address (it may come from a hiring company outside of the one you're applying with). Third, keep a watchful eye on your email inbox in case you are sent instructions, dates and times, schedules, driving directions, and other important information that may need your immediate attention. When the interview day finally comes, you want to make sure that nothing was overlooked in error.
Get your paperwork in order.
The same corporations which conduct such "marathon" interviews are also the ones which do meticulous background checks on their potential employees. Not only will you be asked for a resume, but you will likely be given a short stack of papers to fill out. You will be expected to reveal proof of identity and educational degrees/certification, background information, complete work history, and other pertinent details. Some companies prefer to assign you this task prior to the actual day of the interview, so you will have ample time to gather any necessary identification or documentation. While you're at it, double-check your resume for typos, and print several copies to hand out on the day of your interview. Bring along more than you think you need, just in case.
Do your career homework.
Extended job interviews with multiple people can be rigorous. On the plus side, if you feel nervous during the first interview, you've still got lots more people to speak to. That means several more chances to pull it together and make a great impression. For this reason, you should be asking yourself the "big picture" questions. Consider where you're headed in your career. What's important to you? How does your past experience fit with the current position you're applying for? What career path do you want to be on?
If it's the type of job where you'll be sharing portfolio samples, take some time to polish your presentation and update your files to reflect your best work. Do you have letters of recommendation or testimonials to share? If so, print them out on good quality paper and place those in your briefcase or portfolio as well. If you're certified in some areas of specialization, carry the proof along with you even if you were asked to fax or mail documentation ahead of time.
Brush up on your skills.
Many companies will ask you to take a test or work on a "sample" job as a means of gauging your abilities. Some even give you homework assignments to work out on your own time and mail back to them. It's a good idea to go back to the source and double-check your proficiencies. If you are certified in a certain skill, search online for a few proficiency tests you can take in advance. If you have reference books handy that are related to your trade or field of expertise, you may want to catch up on old material just to be on the safe side. Sometimes we get so "comfortable" in our jobs that we forget some of the less-used skills that we used to know!
Do a dress rehearsal.
When the day arrives, you'll want to look and come across as your most polished and most professional. You're going to be doing a lot of talking on the big day, so give the interview a test-run. Go online and research typical questions that employers in your field frequently ask. Print them out and have a friend or family member grill you on the material. Or, take turns playing Interviewer and Job Candidate. You can even take notes during your rehearsal interview, so that you can go back over the material later and know exactly what you plan to say. Remember - interview questions are often vague. If you're on your game, you'll find a way to work your best responses right into the framework of whatever they ask you. So do plan ahead!
Eat well on the big day.
When the morning of your long-awaited five-hour interview arrives, you'll probably be a bit frantic. However, don't forget to eat a hearty breakfast that includes a balance of protein and carbohydrates, to make sure your brain is functioning at peak performance. If you're the type who needs a little snack to keep going, bring along something nutritious, like trail mix, in your purse or briefcase with you. This way, you can refuel during breaks and be mentally prepared for whatever unexpected questions the interviewers may toss your way.
Plan for a little socializing!
Many corporations which arrange long interviews will invite you to have lunch with members of the team, compliments of the company. If your interviews are all scheduled for the morning, you may be feeling a bit spent by the time noon rolls around. But save up some energy to chat with people who already work there. This is a great opportunity to get the inside perspective (and while you're there, sample the cafeteria food). Don't forget to brush up on your current events so you'll have something to talk about with your lunch mates.
The best part about the five-hour corporate interview... the moment that Human Resources tells you it's over. Whew! You're in the clear. Don't forget to get the names of each person whom you spoke to during your interviews, so you can follow up with a personal, hand-written thank-you note. You'll be glad you made the extra effort... and it can't hurt your chances for landing the job, either. Good luck!
Copyright 2007 Hallie Crawford and Authentically Speaking. All rights reserved.
Want free tips, tools and expert advice on finding a career you're passionate about? Visit Certified Career Coach Hallie Crawford, and sign up for Hallie's monthly career newsletter (), Creating Your Own Path, right now. Bookmark her career blog () for recommendations on resume writers, online career tests and more career resources.
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|By Hallie Crawford |
|Published: 5/16/2007 |
|Source: |
Informational Interviews
From
The following is an exercise in informational interviewing. It involves interviewing someone who is currently working in an occupation or field of interest to you, for the purpose of making more informed and effective career planning decisions.
1. Select an occupation of interest (i.e. social worker, accountant, graphic designer,etc.). Research information about the field to decide on appropriate questions to ask a professional working in that occupation or industry. (See Occupational Info on the Net at )
2. Identify professionals to contact for an informational interview in an occupation of interest. (See Suggested Strategies for Identifying Contacts at ).
3. Contact and schedule an appointment for an informational interview with a professional who is currently employed in a field of interest.
o Call the person and request a meeting (See Sample Phone Script at script#phone script).
o Or you can write or e-mail the person, and follow up with a phone call.
4. Upon meeting the individual, ask him/her the questions you have prepared ahead. (See Sample Interview Questions at )
5. Write a recount of the questions asked and responses given during the informational interview meeting.
6. Send a thank you note to the person interviewed. (See Sample Thank-You Letter at ).
7. File away information on this interview for possible use as a contact in a future job search.
SUGGESTED STRATEGIES FOR IDENTIFYING CONTACTS
• Personal Acquaintances - Utilize family, friends, neighbors, professors, alumni, fellow students, former or present employers, co-workers, supervisors, etc., as contacts or as referrals for contacts.
• Business and Employer Directories - Research company information to obtain names of contacts through business directories, such as Standards and Poors, Moody's Manual, Dun and Bradstreet Indexes, etc. , which are available at local libraries. Check the Rivier College Career Development Center for additional employer print and online resources at .
• Alumni Directories - Obtain names of alumni working in fields of interest by contacting the Rivier College Alumni office.
• Public Speakers, Professional Organizations at , Yellow Pages of Phone Book, Authors of Professional Articles, Chamber of Commerce, Newspapers (classified ads or business news).
[pic]PHONE SCRIPT FOR REQUESTING AN INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW
([pic] = Insert your personal information.)
Hello, my name is [pic] and I am a senior [pic] major at Rivier College. As part of my career planning efforts, I have been researching occupations of interest and I am most interested in exploring work as a [pic]. I got your name from [pic]. I would be most grateful if you would be willing to meet with me to tell me all about the work that you do. What would be a good day and time for you to meet with me?
(Assure the person that you won't take up more than 20 to 30 minutes of his/her time. Stress that you are not inquiring about a job, but rather are researching a position or industry. After the meeting, don't forget to send the individual a brief thank you note. See sample thank-you letter).
[pic]SAMPLE QUESTIONS TO ASK DURING AN INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEW
• How did you come to work in this field/industry/position?
• What career path did you take to get to where you are?
• What are your duties and responsibilities?
• What is a typical day like for you?
• What do you see as the pros and cons of this type of work?
• What are the qualifications, education requirements, etc. for this type of work?
• Where would you see someone with my kind of background fitting in to this type of environment?
• What factors would make one fail or succeed in this type of work?
• What is your superior's job title?
• Can you provide me with an idea on the organizational chart for your area? How many people work in your department? What do each of them do? What opportunities are there for advancement?
• How will your current position lead to future advancement? What are some things you would need to do to continue to grow in your field?
• What is an entry level salary range for this field? What is a typical industry salary range for someone on your level?
• What challenge(s) are currently faced by you/your department/the organization/the industry?
• What do you see as the nature of the job market in this field? Supply/demand?
• What advice would you give to someone wanting to break into this field?
• What potential is there within this field for self-employment, a home-based business, owning my own business, part-time work?
• What kinds of experience, paid or unpaid, would you suggest that someone pursue to make them more marketable in this field?
• Do you ever utilize interns in this office? If so, how many and what is the nature of the responsibility for your intern(s)? If not, are you open to working with interns in the future?
• Can you recommend any web sites related to your field or industry?
• Can you recommend any area employment agencies, newspaper want ads, etc., that post job openings for your career field/industry?
• Can you recommend any professional journals, conferences/workshops, or professional association memberships that relate to your line of work? Where can I get more information about these resources?
• Are there specific employer directories, industry leaders, or employer research guides I could further explore for targeting potential networking contacts in your career field/industry?
• Can you refer me to anyone else whom I might speak with so as to continue my research?
[pic]SEND A THANK YOU LETTER
[pic]
Your Interview Thank You Letter - Avoid The Biggest Job Interview Thank You Mistake
Turn your interview thank you letter from good to great. Avoid the mistake that most everyone makes.
An interview thank you letter is now a standard part of job interview etiquette. The novelty of sending a thank you note is no longer enough to make you stand out from the crowd.
Why is this letter good, but not great?
Dear Joe Employer:
I enjoyed meeting with you this afternoon in regards to the managerial position. I was pleased to discover that my advanced degree is certainly an asset. I was also impressed by the team spirit among the employees I met. Thanks so much for your time and the genial interview.
Sincerely,
Jane Interviewee
First, we’ll talk about what’s good about this job interview thank you letter.
• It is written (and we can assume mailed) on the same day of the interview.
• It mentions something specific that happened in the interview-meeting some of the employees.
What’s not so great about this job interview thank you letter?
• It does not mention the specific job title. There may be more than one managerial position to fill. Plus, remembering the exact title of the position shows an attention to detail.
• It does not use the most powerful gratitude phrase in the English language even once, "thank you."
• The Biggest ERROR is that this job interview thank you note uses the word "I" more than "You."
Language studies at Duke, Yale and University of California have all confirmed that "you" is one of the twelve most persuasive words in the English language. "You" is in the ranks with words like "money" "easy," "love" and "Guarantee" for persuasive effect. Most people, including the author of the above letter, do not make use of this valuable idea.
The body of the above interview thank you letter is roughly fifty words. The word "I" is used four times. The word you (and it's derivative "your") is used only twice. The writer never even used one of the most powerful phrases in the world, "Thank You."
Visit to see a sample job interview thank you note that uses "you" more than "I."
Your interview and resume contains all the "I" you need. Using the word "you" more than the word "I" puts the focus on the receiver of your thank you note and increase your notes emotional impact and reflect a deeper sense of appreciation than other letters your future employer receives.
Also, remember that every move you make during the interview process is not only about getting hired. It also aids in your salary negotiation. People enjoy being appreciated and would rather hire somebody that costs more money who they will enjoy working with over somebody cheap who is not going to make them feel as appreciated.
Every position has a salary range; a well-written thank you note can tip the scales to the higher side of the range. Make more money show your gratitude and use one of the most powerful words to do it - "you."
Get your free, ready-to-copy interview thank you letters () plus more helpful tips to presenting the most grateful you in the workplace. Christy Murphy is the creator of My-Thank-You- which provides free, ready-to-copy sample thank you notes () for all occasions and every day life. She is a writer, public speaker, and comedian, who has been featured on numerous television shows including CNN’s Showbiz Today, Australia’s Seven News, and CBS News in the U.S. Thank you for reading her bio.
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|By Christy Murphy |
|Published: 6/7/2008 |
|Source: |
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