Have you ever googled interviewing images? They're a riot. So P.C. and cheesy.
I'm headed to my first interview for a position as a professor at a major state college in a few days. The job description is everything I was hoping for and I'm really hoping to make a fantastic impression during my visit. I consulted my twitter friends about any interviewing tips they had and I received the following email from
@RhondaDdesigns. She used to work as a recruitment analyst before starting her super adorable etsy shop,
Rhonda D. Designs. I hope you find these tips as helpful as I did while preparing for my interview! Wish me luck in the next couple of days! I sure hope my interview goes well and I get a call with an offer! :)
{Interviewing Tips:}
There is so much more competition in the job market today. If you are lucky enough to earn an interview, you must do everything you can to stand out. First and foremost, you MUST DO YOUR RESEARCH. I was always amazed at how many people would come to an interview and have no idea what the job duties were. Most companies, especially larger corporations, will have a "Job Description" of each position within their company. Some of these are available on-line, and those that aren't, can typically be obtained by calling the Human Resources Department. These "Job Descriptions" will usually list the job duties, as well as the chain of command, and the skill level that is expected. It is important to consider each of the job duties, and ask yourself, "What have I done that would demonstrate my ability to successfully perform that task." Majority of the interview questions will have roots in the Job Description. Being able to give specific examples of how your experience and education has prepared you for those job duties will help you stand out amongst the crowd, and will give you more confidence in the interview process.
You also should do some research on the company. What is their philosophy? What are some of their policies? Who is the head honcho?
Ok, now that you have done your research, you must practice "selling" yourself. Most of us are not used to tooting our own horns. We were taught that it is not polite to brag, but in the interview process you MUST sell yourself. Sit down and make a list of your attributes that could be an asset on the job. Now, having said this, there is such a thing as being over confident to the point of cockiness. Most of us won't have that problem, but just remember to keep yourself in check.
On to appearance. Dress appropriately for the interview. If you are going for an office job, dress in business appropriate attire. For ladies, a skirt or pants suit is the best. Without sacrificing too much of your own "flair", keep accessories to a tasteful minimum. You do now want the interviewer to be distracted by your appearance. For men, dress slacks and a button down is a must. Depending on the position, you may want to add a tie and/or jacket.
Practice answering questions, or just talking about yourself in front of a mirror. Yep, I'm serious!!! By doing this you will be able to answer questions on interview day with minimal hesitation, minimal "umms", and minimal fidgeting.
Some interviewers will ask what your weakness is as related to work habits. Think about this before hand. Give an honest answer that can be viewed as a positive. Here are some examples: "I tend to be a perfectionist. I can be hard on myself.". Or "I am ultra organized. Everything has it's place. It drives my husband crazy."
If these don't apply to you, think about your own weakness and how it can worded so that the interviewer may view it as a positive.
You may be asked if there is anything you would like to add, at the end of the interview. Do not say "no". Always have something to say to to this quetions. Even if it is just reinforcing your desire to work for the company and why.
Put time and effort into preparing for this interview!!!! It is a dog eat dog job market out there. Do not take it lightly.
If you have any additional questions, please feel free to email Rhonda at rkduerksen@sbcglobal
.net.
