PREPARATION
INTERVIEW STYLES
APPROPRIATE INTERVIEW
CONDUCT
INTERVIEW
FOLLOW-UP
TOUGH
QUESTIONS/ANSWERS
QUESTIONS TO ASK
Forward
Volumes of excellent materials have been
written about the interview process. However, most job seekers
don't have time to read volumes of material, and if they do, it's
difficult for them to have prepared the following brief overview,
which presents the most important information you need to know
regarding your interview.
If you want to "wield your power" and win
the job, you must know and apply the following essential
information regarding:
PREPARATION
Identify Your Job
Target
Know Yourself / Know your job
direction
You will need to do some preliminary work
before the interview period if you are not certain about your job
direction.
Identify your own skills, capabilities, and
characteristics. Consider how these may add value to the position
or company for which you intend to interview.
Consider your shortcomings and improvement
goals and how these may be overcome at the prospective new
position.
Know your career goals and personal
motivators!
Research the
Company
Before you interview, try to learn as much
as possible about the company. Look for information regarding the
firm's products, markets, employees, growth patterns, and current
and projected sales. Internet, library or direct sales
literature/annual report research is appropriate.
Your level of research beforehand will not
only help you respond appropriately and easily to interview
questions, but also will be a direct demonstration of your
research skills and interest in the position.
For most positions, employers today seek
commitment and longevity. It is important to reinforce interest in
the company and position at all stages of the screening process.
Your first impression is critical!
Anticipate Tough
Questions
Practice Answers to Tough
Questions
There are a number of tough questions that
you should anticipate being asked. Before the interview, it is
essential that you practice answering these questions aloud either
to yourself or in role play with another person. It is one thing
to know the answers and another to
effectively verbalize them. Listen to how you sound and practice
aloud until you're comfortable with what you hear.
Consider the level of communication skills
required for the position. And, consider that tone and delivery
are as important to your message as the content. At a minimum, you
need to at least answer questions with confidence and
credibility.
Examples of tough questions for you to
practice answering are listed later. Add to this list any other
questions that may directly relate to anything negative in your
academic or employment background, i.e. poor grades or termination
from a job. Answer all questions honestly and as positively as
possible. We'll give example answers
later.
Determine
Questions
Make a List of Questions To Ask
the Interviewer
The interviewer will expect you to ask
questions and will probably be disappointed if you don't. Have
with you a prepared list of questions based on your goals,
expectations and abilities. (Refer to the examples of typical
questions, which are listed later.) During the first interview, do
not ask questions regarding salary or benefits unless the
interviewer introduces the subject.
What to
Bring
- Resume
An effective and professionally presented
resume is recommended. Any position requiring written
communication skills typically dictates the need to present an
error-free, clean, effective and accurate resume as a
demonstration of those skills. If you absolutely do not have a
resume, it is recommended to at least bring with you or have
memorized dates of employment, position titles, education, and any
details necessary to complete an accurate application prior to the
interview.
A resume is typically the tool designed to
secure the interview for you. If you have already submitted a
resume, it is wise to bring another clean and well-presented
resume for the interviewer. In today's world of electronic filing, please
inquire as to the interviewer's preference between electronic and hard
copies, or both. Multiple resume originals or clean
copies are recommended to have with you if you are expecting to interview with more
than one individual.
- List of References
A list of employer and personal references
is optional. The most important point we can make here is
this: be careful not to offer your references unless
requested. Many employers today will contact anyone and everyone
except those references you direct them to call, understanding
that you may have "set up" your references or at least provided
only the names of those trusted to provide positive feedback on
your ethic, performance and character. In fact, to provide a
reference name may be the same as disqualifying that
reference!
A preprinted list of references should only
be provided to the prospective hiring authority at his or her
request.
Think before the interview regarding your
former supervisors and what they might say about you if asked.
This line of questioning by an interviewer is growing in
popularity. Additionally, if you are provided indication that a
former supervisor may be contacted and you suspect potentially
negative feedback from that supervisor, it will help your chances
to "come clean" and present your side of the story at what might
be your only opportunity.
- Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation are treated
similar to references. Most employers today are questioning the
legitimacy of these letters and will contact the alleged letter
author for verification. Mixed feelings exist regarding these
letters. If you have letters, however, be certain to have them
with you at the interview stage, and provide them upon
request.
- Sample Work/Portfolio
Clearly certain professions and position
types do dictate a need for portfolio at interview, e.g.
advertising, modeling, photography, artist. Any sample work which
provides favorable demonstration of your competence and talent can
accompany you to the interview, provided it is your work. Be
careful not to bring work you have done at a former employer which
remains the property of that employer. Every employer is concerned
with confidentiality, trade secrets, employee discretion,
copyrights and overall intellectual property
infringements.
INTERVIEW
STYLES
Recognizing different interview styles and
understanding their processed will allow you to remain calm and
confident during the interview. Particular attention should be
given to the first four of the following six listed interviews.
You will most likely encounter either one or a combination of
these styles.
Pre-Qualification (Structured)
Interview
Generally conducted to "screen" applicants
by someone other than the person responsible for the actual
hiring. It is a highly structured and impersonal process used to
determine skill levels and qualification requirements.
Informational (Non-Structured)
Interview
More conversational in nature. The
interviewee has probably already been assessed for skill levels
and now the interviewer will try to determine level of job
interest and probability of desirable personality traits. As an
interviewee, the goal is to listen for critical position
information and be yourself to determine if the
personality/cultural match exists. Two-way conversation is
important here.
Stress Interview
Specifically designed to make interviewees
uncomfortable so they can be observed in stressful situations.
This interview style is seldom used for entry level positions.
Dealing with this style is much easier if you understand that this
is a planned strategy and not a personal attack. The important
thing to remember is to keep your composure. Smile, listen
carefully, and answer questions honestly and concisely.
Selection
Interview
The final interview. Generally a
combination of the non-structured interview plus some very direct
questioning regarding your ability to handle the job.
Board Interview
You may be interviewed by two or more
persons at the same time. Generally the interviewers are looking
for definite abilities and characteristics, and their questions
are very structured and direct.
Group Interview
You may be one of several persons being
interviewed at the same time by one or more interviewers.
Employers may use this technique when looking for multiple persons
to fill the same type of positions. Most often a structured
interview format will be used.
Behavioral or Behavior-Based
Interview
Questions starting with "Tell me about a
time" and similar formats are used by an interviewer to assess
job-specific personal traits. Such questions are designed to
predict how a candidate might behave in a workplace situation.
These questions are used to identify (among others) critical
thinking, diplomacy, interaction skills, team skills,
self-motivation, champion change, manageability, customer service,
loyalty to policy, etc.
Other Interviewing
Styles:
Goal-Based, Competency-Based, Interest
Based, Skill-Based
Each exists just as it sounds and refers to
a line of questioning designed to best "live up to" its name. As
this phraseology increases in popularity with today's employers,
it is important to know that you may need to interview with
several people, each with their own agenda. Please remember that
interviews are your opportunity also to screen the position and
company.
APPROPRIATE INTERVIEW
CONDUCT
Appearance &
Wardrobe
You must convey as much positive information
as possible to the interviewer in a very limited amount of time.
The initial impression will have the single greatest effect on
your interview results. Be sure this first impression is a
positive one. Proper attire, hygiene and a well-groomed
appearance are critical to the success of the
interview.
You may wear make-up, cologne or
after-shave: however, apply it sparingly. If, however, you are
applying for a position within the cosmetics or beauty industry,
you may want to create a "demo" of your appearance.
Dress for success, but dress
appropriately to the position for which you are interviewing.
Attire yourself the same (or slightly
better) than you would attire yourself for a workday at that
position. Look the part. For example, if you are applying to a
conservative legal or CPA firm, a blue suit with white shirt may
be most appropriate. If, however, you are applying to a blue
collar position, a suit would be entirely inappropriate. A
creative marketing or design position would necessitate a bit of
fashion sense and imagination in the wardrobe…but be careful not
to dive too far over the creative edge! You never know whom you
might meet. Acceptance by others will increase your chances of
an offer, and sometimes during the interview process, to keep
your application moving, you must be accepted by individuals you
would never even interact with on the job!
Jewelry is another topic of mixed
appropriateness. Less is always safest. Men are advised not
to wear earrings or non-conservative jewelry. Everyone is advised
to refrain from controversial body piercing jewelry. Tattoos have
also been known to provoke interviewer biases.
Have breath mints handy.
Upon Arrival
Plan to arrive five minutes early. Only true
emergencies will be sufficient reason to be late or absent from
the scheduled interview. If you are detained by an emergency, then
call the interviewer either before the interview or as close to
the designated time as possible to explain the problem.
Politely and respectfully announce your
arrival to the firm's receptionist or greeter. Wait patiently and
quietly for your interviewer. "Raters" can pop up anywhere,
casually paying attention to your conduct as they walk by or sit
at a nearby work station. A friendly smile and demonstrated
interest in your surroundings is most appropriate. Without staring
or disrupting others, notice them as well. However, if you are
going to judge the culture and morale, please remember that the
short time of observation may not be typical of the overall
environment.
When approached by and introduced to your
interviewer, a firm (but not overpowering) handshake will
give you a good start.
Do not smoke or chew gum during the
interview. Beverages are not recommended, nor is food.
Listen to the
Interviewer
Allow the interviewer to lead the interview
and be careful not to interrupt. Careful listening will be your
best aid in answering questions effectively. Be sure you
understand the questions and ask for clarification if something is
not clear.
If you must bring a cell phone or pager into
the interviewer, be certain these are turned off and concealed if
possible.
Asking/Answering
Questions
Do not assume a submissive role. Treat the
interviewer with respect but as an equal. Remember, while you are
being screened for the job, you are expected to be screening the
job for you. The company wants to be sure that you will be making
the right choice, too. Ask questions, be articulate, courteous and
assertive. Remember, you will have made a list of your questions.
Now is the time to ask them.
When answering questions be brief and to the
point. If an uncomfortable subject is brought up, answer as
honestly and as simply as possible. (We'll deal with answers to
tough questions later.) Be sure you do not ramble on or monopolize
the conversation. Emphasize accomplishments without bragging. Be
careful to state them simply and factually. Never criticize
anyone, especially past employers.
Body Language
Use body language to reinforce your
interest. Sitting erect and leaning slightly forward, good eye
contact and attention show careful listening and convey interest
and enthusiasm.
Observe the interviewer. Looking away while
you're talking, fidgeting, and sitting straight or with crossed
arms are all negative signs and ones to which you should
respond. Most
often, negative interviewer reactions are caused by continuously
lengthy and/or irrelevant answers. If you know you've been
"rambling on," stop and make an effort to answer carefully and
concisely.
Interview
Conclusion
The interviewer will begin to conclude the
interview after he or she has enough information to make a
decision. At this time you may be asked if you have anything to
add or further questions to ask. This is your last opportunity! Be
sure to bring up any relevant strengths that haven't been
discussed or questions you might still want to ask. If the job
sounds great, say so! Be enthusiastic! Tell the interviewer that
you are definitely interested in an excited about the position.
Ask what the next step is and then be sure to thank the
interviewer for his or her time.
INTERVIEW
FOLLOW-UP
Immediately after the interview, and while
everything is still fresh in your mind, write an objective
synopsis of the interview. List all the good (and not-so-good)
points about the interview. If you forgot to mention something,
write it down. Be sure you have the correct spelling and titles of
all the people with whom you've met or interviewed. Document job
specifics and those aspects that were most exciting to you.
Lastly, record what the interviewer said to you during the last
few minutes of the interview including the next planned action
regarding the position. All of this information is necessary for
your follow-up efforts.
No later than 24 hours after the interview,
write a thank you note. This is not only a courteous gesture, but
an excellent strategy as well. It's an opportunity to get your
name before the interviewer one more time also to enhance your
candidacy. It could be your last chance to restate major positive
points, as well as, rebut those negatives that could adversely
affect the hiring decision. If you forgot to mention something of
importance during the interview, the thank you note can also be
used to introduce new information. And, if appropriate, mention
the names of other people with whom you've met. Convey your
message with enthusiasm and stress your interest in the position,
confidence in yourself, and appreciation for the opportunity to
interview.
If you have not heard anything after five
days, call the interviewer. Restate the major points of your note.
Tell him or her that you really want the job, and ask what you
have to do to get it. Then wait for the answer.
TOUGH QUESTIONS/ SAMPLE
ANSWERS
Q.
Why do you want to work here?
A. Here's where your research comes in
handy. Say something positive about the company that
you can relate to your own goals, philosophy or work
style.
Example: My long-term career interest is to
work in printed circuit board technology. I have researched
your company and recognize that you are an industry leader with
and outstanding reputation for quality and service. I think it
would be extremely motivating to be a part of this team and be
able to learn and grow with the company.
Q.
Why should I hire
you?
A. Answer briefly and to the point, listing
the skills and personality traits that qualify you for the
position.
Example: Because, this position
requires someone with an electronics background and ability
to perform well under pressure. I can offer education,
experience and excellent record of performance. I'm
accustomed to working under pressure, and I actually prefer
a fast work pace. I am an enthusiastic worker with a desire
to do an excellent job for you.
Q. What would you like to be doing five
years from now?
A. The safest answer is to portray yourself
as a contributor and team player.
Example: Well, I would hope to
learn and grow over the coming years so that if my
supervisor would get promoted, he or she would believe that
I've contributed sufficiently to be recommended for the job.
I realize I have a lot to learn and I hope I'm lucky enough
to work for someone who will help me develop
professionally.
Q. What is your opinion of your last
employer?
A. Whether you believe it or not, you must
say something positive. Never say anything negative about a former
employer, associates, or the job.
Example: He/she is a dedicated business person. I
respect his/her knowledge and appreciate his/her
guidance.
Q. Tell me about yourself.
A. Ask the interviewer if he/she would like
to hear about your professional or personal background. Whatever
the answer, your response should relate to key personality traits
that would most likely be important to this position: e.g.
teamwork, honesty, ability to perform well under pressure, and
enjoyment of challenges.
Example: I throw myself into everything I do.
I gain tremendous satisfaction from a job well done whether it
is a sport activity, my job or a volunteer commitment. I
enjoy working with others. I like challenges and I like to
achieve.
Q. What is your greatest
weakness?
A. Be careful to turn this question into a
positive answer.
Example: I'm a hard worker and a team player.
I
believe each employee has a responsibility to consistently
do his or her best in all situations. This includes
recognizing emergency situations and helping co-workers meet
their deadlines. I really get frustrated when I see my
associates just sitting around gabbing while the next person
is going crazy trying to get everything done. I've learned
to handle my frustration by realizing that sometimes others
really aren't aware there is a problem, and if asked
politely, many people are more than willing to pitch in and
help.
Q. What is your salary
requirement?
A. Unfortunately, you must answer this
question.
Example: Naturally, I'd like to earn as much as
my background and experience permit. I am currently earning
$X at my present job and I'd like to receive and increase
over this amount. If a step backward in compensation is
necessary, I'd certainly consider that provided the long
term potential exists. (You can certainly ask at this
point if the position bears a specific pay scale or defined
wage.)
Q. Why have you changed jobs so
frequently?
A. Tell the truth.
If you cannot come up
with acceptable reasons, then admit your mistakes and promise to
be better.
Example: I realize I was wrong to move around
so much, but I was immature and not prepared for
responsibility or commitment. I believe I'm now ready to
accept the responsibilities of a job and I'd like the chance
to prove myself. (Be ready to convince the interviewer as to why
and how you have changed.)
Q. Why were you fired from your last
job?
A. Tell the truth. If you cannot come up
with acceptable reasons, then admit your mistakes and promise to
be better.
Example: Before now I didn't really know how to
choose the right job for me. I realize now that I didn't
really like the work I was doing and I lost interest. I know
I didn't perform as well as I could have, and I don't feel
very good about that. But there were some good results, too.
I learned more about myself and the kind of work I do and do
not want to do.
APPROPRIATE QUESTIONS TO
ASK
DURING THE
INTERVIEW
- Why is this job open?
- What is the length of time the previous
person held this position?
- What typical training is provided for
this position?
- What do you consider to be the most
challenging facets of the position?
- What is the overall structure of the
department in question? (size, chain of command and
distribution of responsibilities)
- What long range career opportunities are
available for someone with my education and skills?
- How is an employee evaluated and
promoted?
- Is it company policy to promote from
within?
- Does the company have plans for
future/continued growth?
QUESTIONS TO ANTICIPATE
BEING ASKED
- Why do you want to work
here?
- What interests you most about
this?
- What training/qualifications do you have
for this job?
- Why should we hire you?
- How long would it take for you to make a
contribution to this firm?
- In what ways do you think you can make a
contribution to this firm?
- Can you work under pressure and with
deadlines?
- What are your greatest accomplishments-
professional and personal?
- What are your career goals? When and why
did you establish these goals? How are you preparing yourself
to achieve these goals?
- Tell me about a time when you disagreed
with your supervisor. What did you do?
- How do you feel about your progress to
date?
- What are the most important rewards you
expect in your career?
- What kind of decisions are most
difficult for you?
- What do you expect to be doing five
years from now?
- If you could create your own "dream
job," what would it be and why?
- What qualifications do you have that
make you think you will be successful?
- What two or three things are most
important to you in a job?
- What led you to choose the occupational
field you're in?
- If you could start again, what would you
do differently?
- What criteria are you using to evaluate
a prospective employer?
- Describe a major problem you have
encountered and how you dealt with it.
- What are your greatest
strengths/weaknesses?
- What do your
co-workers/subordinates/superiors think of you?
- Do you believe you have management/top
management potential?
- What causes you to lose your
temper?
- What have you learned from your
mistakes?
- Who has the greatest influence on you?
Why?
- Do you have plans for continued study?
An advanced degree?
- Why are you leaving your present
position? What is wrong with your present firm?
- How would you describe your own
personality?
- Tell me about yourself.
Revised and Updated by
Jessica Ollenburg,
HRS CEO
An adaptation of earlier version by
Phyllis
Pinter, 1989
Copyright
©
1989 -2006 by HRS/Human Resource
Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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