Interview Tips!
Do not take your interview as an interrogation process- understanding 4 interview tips will help you land a career. It is simply a conversation structured in questioning format so the interviewer can get a better grasp of whom you are. Remember, they don’t know you at all. The interview provides an opportunity for Human Resource Representatives to visualize how you perform and if you fit into the company culture. Count on discussing your skills, experience, training and how they all relate to the duties and qualifications of the job. Some organizations ask you: “tell me what you know about this company”? So prepare for that too (research company website and social media channels).
You must sell: skills, interest, enthusiasm, and understanding of the job.
Federal and Civilian agencies usually have a panel interview type setting were three or more are on the board asking you questions. When you see more than one individual, you know the “Big Boss” has placed pressure or the interviewers are inexperienced. Human Resource Representatives are pressured in some cases because the big boss has told them to find someone ASAP and they better fit. You better believe it, think about it, why would it take more than one individual to make a decision on if you fit the organizational culture and job position? Be sure to make eye contact with everyone on the panel; especially the one who is asking you the question.
Know The Interview Cycle:
- Introductory Stage- This is the time you lead the interviewer into acceptance or rejection mode. The decision to hire is not made here but it begins here! Remember, you only get one introductory period so make it sound.
- Employer questions- Here, the interviewer tries to determine how well your attitude and skills fit with the company image and work culture. The interviewer is trying to match your specific skills and abilities to the job, so be precise and direct your answers back to what they are looking for. NEVER let the interviewer know that you have a lot going on in your life; keep it short and job specific. For example, if you’re asked to describe a situation where you handled stress well…. do not use an example where you took your son to a doctor’s appointment and did your daughter’s hair in the lobby, while talking to your husband on the phone. Keep it professional; in short, keep your personal life out of the response.
- Applicant questions- The interviewer is trying to determine your level of interest in the job and your degree of knowledge about the company. This is time to clear up uncertainties and good candidates ALWAYS ask questions. “Is there any reason why I won’t get this position”, “is there anything I was unclear about in my prior responses and how my experience relates to the position”, “what does a typical day look like with ABC Company as an ABC Specialist”.
- Closing stage- The interviewer will draw the session to a close. If you are sure you want the job, make it clear (I am the candidate you are looking for) and ALWAYS thank the interviewers for their time and the opportunity they provided for you. Do not be aggressive…. be assertive. Browse our blog section for more valuable resources.
