You have just been invited to an interview with your dream
company. It does not matter where you went to school, the number of degrees you
may hold, the experience you have or whom you know; if you are unable to do the
interview successfully, you will not get the job.
Try following the tips below and you will not only be well
prepared but also present yourself as a true professional.
(1) Research the Company.
Do your homework, e.g. go to the
company's website and read about
their vision, mission, strategy, products, finances, departments, competitive
advantages, and competitor’s etc.etc. If the company does not have a web
presence look them up at the library, call the Chambers of Commerce, and find
out everything you can about them.
(2)Prepare your Introduction & Key points.
The introductory speech is your two
minute opportunity to enlighten the interviewer about yourself and what you
have to offer.
- Be prepared to talk about any
career changes you may have had.
- Make a list of your main
strengths and the things you are currently.
-Working on towards your
professional growth, with examples of each.
- Be also prepared to talk about
your weaknesses and how you are.
-trying to overcome them.
Smile, be natural and speak with
confidence. Practice in front of the Mirror if necessary.
(3) Identify Achievements
Employers want to know how hiring
you will make their organization better and contribute to their overall
success. (Assuming you did your homework as suggested in point 1 you can offer
examples of innovations, process improvements or revenue saving ideas that may
be of interest).
(4) Dress for Success.
The way you dress makes a statement
about yourself. Avoid bright colors. Regardless of the job that you are
applying for, it is a good idea to wear a neat and clean suit, even in a casual
business environment.
(5)Good Timekeeping is Essential
Arrive at least 15 minutes early
for your appointment. Besides ensuring. You are not rushed; use this time to learn
more about the company. Ambiance Observe the company's employees as you sit in
the lobby. How do they look? Do they greet one another and say hello to you? Are
they smiling and happy or frazzled and frustrated?
(6)Engage in a Dialogue.
Remember, a conversation is a
two-way exchange.
Be curious and ask lots of
questions to get a good understanding of how the company, department and
management operate. Ask about the job responsibilities and company culture, e.g.
Employee Recognition Programs, opportunities for Personal and Professional
development, current and future challenges of the position, etc.
(7)Be Open and Honest.
When responding to the employer's
questions, tell the truth! If you made a mistake, say it in a positive way,
accept responsibility for it, and explain how you have benefited from the
experience & what you have learn t. Do not pretend to be something that you
are not, it will not work!
(8)Do not talk Salary or Benefits.
The goal is to get as many options
going as possible so do not talk about compensation at this stage, as it can be
a knockout factor. Sell to the employer all that you can do for them. If they
are interested they will make an offer and it is at that stage that you start
negotiating those issues.
