Prepare for the Inquisition!
Through all of the interview processes I have experienced, one common factor remains: I did my homework. Now, don't get me wrong; there have been a few uneasy moments in which I was not completely prepared. But because I've come to each interview with some knowledge about the company and the position I applied for, as well as questions for the interviewer, I have never left thinking that I was not qualified or ready to take on the job.
That's why it is utterly vital to prepare for an interview using the tips that Seymour mentioned. There is nothing worse than leaving an interview with a knot in your stomach because you weren't ready for the tough questions, or didn't plan ahead for traffic to hold you up. YOU are the only one that is responsible for your end of the bargain, so be sure to study up and keep your eyes on the prize... you just may end up with a [job] offer you can't refuse!
Labels: interview preparation, Interview skills, interviewing process
Posted by Amanda on 12/31/2008 02:52:00 AM
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Interviewing for a Job is a Two-Way Street
After spending days, weeks or months job searching, you just landed an interview with that company you’ve been coveting. You have picked out your best “dress for success” interview attire, practiced interview questions and researched the company website. But did you remember to prepare your own questions? Remember, interviewing for a job is two-way street!
Asking the right questions of your interviewer will help you to determine if your new boss and/or employer are the best fit for you. Not to mention, you’ll impress your interviewer. For example, inquiring about a company’s long term objectives indicates you’re committed for the long-term. Questions posed about training tell your prospective employer that you want to grow and develop with them, and whether they plan to invest in you as an employee.
A few words to the wise, some of your questions may be answered in the course of the interview or on the company website so be careful not to ask something that’s already been addressed. Also, make sure to keep your questions relevant to the job and the company you are interviewing with. You probably want to know about salary and benefits, but you should let the employer raise this subject first or wait until a second interview.
Questions you should consider asking are:
- What is the company’s organizational structure and how does this department fit in?
- Can you describe your corporate culture?
- What type of training do you offer, and are there ongoing training or continuing education classes available?
- What kind of advancement opportunities exist within the company?
- What are the day-to-day responsibilities of the job?
- What is the management style and how do you approach problem solving?
- Can you describe your ideal employee?
- Is there any other information I can provide you?
- How many steps are there in the interview process?
- When do you expect to reach a decision?
By asking the right questions, you can be sure to leave the interview with a good sense of whether you’d fit in well, with both the job and the company overall. Good luck!
Labels: interview preparation, interview questions, interviewing process
Posted by Seymour Jobs on 12/15/2008 09:57:00 AM
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Keep it fresh.
I feel that I can't stress the competitiveness of the job market enough. There are less jobs for more people and it is becoming ever-more important to utilize all resources available to you in your search. There are a few important skills that need to be learned. A few of them have already been touched upon in this blog-- resume building skills and interview skills. Just as it is essential to have an amazing, show-stopping resume, it is also crucial to wow your potential employer during the interview/ interviewing process. I feel that a lot of the experiences I have had can translate into the work force. Many of the clubs that I have joined have taught me the conversation and interview skills necessary to attain the goals I strive to attain. It's nice to finally have a list of things you shouldn't do during an interview, rather than a list of all the great things. Sometimes learning things from a different angle, gives you more insight on the topic and enables you to think outside the box. Thinking outside the box and innovation are two very important skills that can keep you fresh and make you stand out above all the rest.
Labels: innovation, Interview skills, interviewing process
Posted by Jen on 11/14/2008 06:51:00 AM
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