Land the Job You Want: The Interview

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Land the Job You WantThe Interview
The Career Place Connecting Workers and Employers
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Todays Agenda

• Preparing for the interview
• During the interview
• Following up after an interview

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Preparing for the interview

• Conduct extensive research
• Practice, practice, practice

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Conducting research

• Learn as much as you can about the job
• Research the company and its competition
• The Internet is your best research tool

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Practice, practice, practice

• Role play
• Speak clearly and not too fast
• Remain attentive and eager to listen

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The interview

• Look good and dress for the culture
• Bring your career portfolio
• Arrive early
• Turn off your cell phone and pager
• Offer a firm handshake
• Use proper, comfortable posture
• Be aware of your body language

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Sell yourself

• Be enthusiastic
• Explain your qualifications
• Relate your experience
• Maintain a positive attitude
• Make good eye contact
• Ask questions

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Common interview ?s

• Tell me about yourself.
• What is your weakest point?
• What are your long-term goals?
• Why do you want to work for us?
• Why should I hire you?
• Do you have any questions?

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What employers look for

• Your dependability
• Your knowledge of the company and job
• How well you get along with others
• If you project a positive image
• How well you handle problems

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Interview tips

• Keep your answers brief, but thorough
• Use examples to illustrate your point
• Think before you speak
• Relate your answers to the job

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Interview tips

• Match your skills with the companys needs
• Dont volunteer information
• Dont bring up compensation

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The closing Ask questions

• When will you make a decision?
• Have I answered all your questions?
• May I call you in a few days?
• Stress that you want the job
• Thank the interviewer

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Evaluate your interview

• Did you dress appropriately?
• Were you warm and friendly?
• Were you confident?
• Were you able to handle tough questions?

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Evaluate your interview

• Did you project the right fit?
• Did you show you can do the work?
• Did you speak well, and to the point?
• Did you understand critical points?

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Evaluate your interview

• Did you project knowledge of the job?
• Did you present your qualifications?
• Were you enthusiastic?
• Did you show your determination?

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Following the interview

• Send a formal thank-you note
• Re-iterate your qualifications
• Stress your enthusiasm
• Add ideas you may have forgotten
• Call to see if youre still a candidate
• Take notes on what worked, what didnt