2. In-Person Interview Skills Congratulations! You secured an in-person interview, you are one step closer to achieving your goals! BurzynskiEmployment Solutions, LLC myHRhelper.com 2
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4. The interview is an important screening tool for companies, but it also allows you to learn those things you need to know about the position and the company so that you can make an intelligent decision about the job. Always approach an interview focused on your goal: getting a job offer.BurzynskiEmployment Solutions, LLC myHRhelper.com 3
5. Before the Interview Self awareness What are your strengths and your weaknesses? What are your short and long-term goals? Evaluate yourself in terms of the position you seek. Formulate responses by asking the question: "Why should they hire me?" Remember that you're there to sell yourself and secure a job offer. Review your resume and be prepared to discuss all points. BurzynskiEmployment Solutions, LLC myHRhelper.com 4
6. Before the Interview Practice the basic way to answer job related questions: First answer yes or no, if it is a yes or no question. State an example of your experience as it relates to the question, no less than 30 seconds, no more than 2 minutes Wrap it up by asking them “does that answer your question”, “or is that what your looking for”. BurzynskiEmployment Solutions, LLC myHRhelper.com 5
7. Before the Interview Research the Company and Position It is very important that you have interest in the job and company -that you actually want to work there! Have a copy of the job description on hand, and highlight important aspects. Use the internet Use the library Talk to friends BurzynskiEmployment Solutions, LLC myHRhelper.com 6
8. Before the Interview What to Bring Always bring a resume copy identical to the one supplied to the interviewer. Have a copy of the job description on hand, and highlight important aspects. If appropriate, bring along samples of your work or letters of recommendation. Bring directions to the interview location as well as the interviewer's phone number in case you're running late. Bring a note pad and pen to the interview. Your interview questions. BurzynskiEmployment Solutions, LLC myHRhelper.com 7
9. Before the Interview Arrival at the Interview Arrive no earlier than fifteen minutes before the interview (but no later than five minutes prior to the interview). Review your notes and go in with confidence Be ready to complete an application. Complete the application in full and leave no blanks. Do not write "see resume" as a response. Respond truthfully to "expected salary" questions as "open" and "current salary". List references if requested. BurzynskiEmployment Solutions, LLC myHRhelper.com 8
10. Before the Interview Appearance It is important to look and feel your best, you only get one chance….. Make sure you are well groomed, showered, hair washed, etc. Dress appropriately (and as best as possible) for the position. If you are applying for an office job wear office type apparel, if you are applying for retail dress the way the most impressive people dress at that business. You need to look like you fit in with the best. Make sure your clothes are neat and clean, including shoes. BurzynskiEmployment Solutions, LLC myHRhelper.com 9
11. Before the Interview Appearance continued: Do not dress in any “stylized” way unless you are applying for a fashion design position. Some jewelry is ok but do not wear excessive jewelry! Avoid perfume or cologne, in general. In general, it is better to dress up a little extra than to appear too casual. BurzynskiEmployment Solutions, LLC myHRhelper.com 10
12. During the Interview Remember, the objective of the interview is to obtain an offer. During the interview, you must gather enough information concerning the position to make a decision. BurzynskiEmployment Solutions, LLC myHRhelper.com 11
13. During the Interview The employers goal is to find out: Can you do the job? Will you fit in the workplace? Do you want the job? BurzynskiEmployment Solutions, LLC myHRhelper.com 12
14. During the Interview Turn off your cell phone Smile Have a good firm handshake! Maintain eye contact. Ask for a business card. Maintain energy Be yourself. Poise, confidence, and self-respect are of great importance. Be aware of your body language. BurzynskiEmployment Solutions, LLC myHRhelper.com 13
15. During the Interview You should give complete but brief and relaxed answers to questions. No more than two or three minutes, and avoid being derogatory or negative about previous jobs and bosses. Answer a question to the best of your ability and then relax. Interviewers often use silence to see if you can handle stress and maintain poise. “Tell me about yourself” really means “tell me how your experience, education or training relate to this job and this company”. BurzynskiEmployment Solutions, LLC myHRhelper.com 14
16. During the Interview Questions for You to Ask: Ask job-relevant questions. Focus on the job – the company, products, services, people Ask open ended questions or questions requiring an explanation. Questions, which can be answered with a “yes” or “no”, are conversation stoppers. Don't interrupt when the employer is answering your question. Ask about your potential peers, subordinates, and superiors. Take notes. Ask the employer how he/she got where they are today. BurzynskiEmployment Solutions, LLC myHRhelper.com 15
17. During the Interview Conclusion If you are sincerely interested in the position you should ask the interviewer if he/she feels that you are qualified for the position. Ask what the next step will be, if they already told you repeat it for clarification. Don’t be afraid to tell them you want the job. The farewell should also include a smile, direct eye contact, a firm but gentle handshake. BurzynskiEmployment Solutions, LLC myHRhelper.com 16
18. After the Interview Take a deep breath and realize things are never as bad or as good as they seem. You did your best! Review your notes and decide what your next step may be … should I wait to see what happens, should I call back, when? Send a thank you letter via email as soon as possible, or mail hard copy. BurzynskiEmployment Solutions, LLC myHRhelper.com 17