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STEPS TO SOAR THROUGH THE INTERVIEW

This is your opportunity to match your individual talents and interests to the needs of the employer. Throughout the interview, the employer is looking for an answer to “Why should I hire you?” However, don’t focus too much on “selling yourself” and forget that you are dealing with a real person. It is important to stand out, not as just a good potential employee, but as a team player. Here are ten steps for a successful interview:

STEP 1: Research the organization. Forty-four percent of hiring executives cite “lack of company knowledge” as the most-common interview pitfall. How do you research an organization? Most organizations have Web pages. Sites such as Fortune.com link to homepages. Local libraries have directories such as Dun and Bradstreet that give information on disciplines hired, a company overview, career opportunities, training and career development and benefits. Career Services has several directories available to students. Check with your alumni office to find out if former alumni are working at this company, also friends and relatives may know someone who works at a particular organization who could give you some inside information.

STEP 2: Learn about yourself. Think about a time when you felt successful and some challenges you may have overcome. You can use this information to answer any of the situational questions you may be asked. Since you have prepared your response, you will appear successful and confident. Know the kind of position you want. Your research should help you determine your salary expectations, the environment you would most enjoy working in and the opportunities you are looking for.

STEP 3: Learn what to ask. Develop a list of probing questions to ask the interviewer. The level of questions will reflect your own depth and what is important to you. You may want to ask what the organization‘s strategic plan is? What is the best reason to work here? What are the major challenges and priorities in the position? Why is the position open? What challenges does the company face? What characteristics would a successful person in this position have? How frequently is the position evaluated? When will a decision be made?

STEP 4: Prepare answers to common questions. Interviewers typically ask questions about your educational background, character traits, management ability, suitability for the job, salary history and requirements, experience and hobbies. Use your answers to these questions to enhance your positives. If you believe your experience is weak, then emphasize your work related experiences that match the employer’s needs. Use the STAR approach to respond to questions. The Situation you were in. The Task you faced. The Action you took and the positive Results. Read more about behavioral interviewing.

STEP 5: Rehearse your delivery. Practice interviewing with a friend or mentor. If possible, videotape your responses and review the result. Then, work to improve your performance. Rehearse before a mirror and check facial expressions, nervous gestures and body language. Smile confidently, hold your chin up, sit upright with your arms open and relaxed.

STEP 6: Make a good impression during the interview. People want to hire people they like. Be friendly, outgoing, maintain good eye contact. Be on time and dress professionally. People remember stories better than specific details so tell a story about your successes. Focus on how you develop positive working relationships and the action steps you take to build them. Don’t chew gum. If you are a smoker, don’t smoke on the way to the interview. Cigarette smoke can linger on your clothing. Avoid heavy colognes or after shave lotions. Make sure your clothing is clean and neatly pressed. Shine your shoes. Don’t overdo the jewelry.

STEP 7: Stick to your message. Choose major points (three good reasons why you are an outstanding candidate) that you want to communicate and stay on target. Be flexible to adapt to normal conversation. Jump in when appropriate and address the last speaker by name. Instead of “I guess I have a question,” use direct “who, what, when, where, why questions.” Use powerful succinct questions that demonstrate how you coach, analyze, solve, lead and listen.

STEP 8: Know your weaknesses. Almost every interviewer will ask in which areas are you weakest? Everyone has weaknesses, but it’s important to answer this question. Mention your weaknesses, don’t dwell on them or apologize for them and move to the strength that you use to compensate for the weakness.

STEP 9: Plan to excel and avoid common mistakes. If you expect to do well during the interview, you will. Always speak to the future. You didn’t leave a job because it offered little growth; rather, you’re moving on in search of new opportunities. Don’t blame others or criticize past supervisors or companies. Ask what happens next. Send a thank you note immediately after the interview.

STEP 10: Don’t lack imagination. It is evident if you are “me focused,” don’t fail to ask about the other person. If offered the opportunity for small talk, don’t merely answer with a yes or no waiting for the “real” question. They are all real questions and you should answer accordingly.

See more information on interviewing, including sample questions, salary negotiations, and common types of interviews.