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Interview Tips
The person that will get the position is the person who interviews
the best. Follow these simple rules to improve your candidacy. For more
in-depth interview preparation we recommend you read the most recent
edition of "Knock 'Em Dead" by Martin Yate.
- Preparation. Do your homework on the company. Find out about their
products, customers, competition, financial highlights, etc. Be prepared
to explain why these things are what you're looking for.
- Bring clean copies of your resume to the interview along with any
documentation you have to support your performance. (Awards, performance
appraisals, rankings, letters of recommendation, etc.)
- Arrive early, dressed in a suit (pressed with shoes
shined).
- Get the interviewer's business card at the beginning of the meeting.
This way you will not forget it on your way out and you will have
someplace to send your follow-up / thank you letter.
Build rapport from the start. Managers hire people like themselves.
They must like you personally, before they will hire you. Genuine
enthusiasm and positive attitude are things that cannot be
taught.
Uncover the needs of the manager. Ask questions that will help you
understand what the manager is looking to hire. Example: "What are the
three most important skills necessary for success in this position?"
Present your experience and achievements as they relate to what you
now know the manager needs for the position. Be specific about what
you've done and how you got there. Explain your thought process with
respect to the career decisions you've made in the past and why you're
looking for something new.
Be honest and be yourself. It's all about finding the "best fit" for
you and the company.
If you like what you hear, tell the manager why. Summarize why you
think the position is right for you and why you should be the person
they hire. Ask for their commitment to take you to the next step in the
process, and if it is a final interview...ASK FOR THE JOB!!
Be sure to send a follow-up / thank you letter or e-mail within 24
hours. |
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