Ten Steps to a Successful Job Interview
Just like dressing to get hired, the interview itself it fraught
with opportunities to fail. But there
are “rules”. While following these rules
will not insure that you get the job, they will enable hiring manager to see
you as more than just another candidate for their vacancy whether just out of
school or a veteran to the working world.
- Bring
several copies of your resume in a leather follow with note paper in it to
take notes if necessary. Do not
forget to bring a pen. As long as
it’s not chewed or juvenile, any kind of pen is fine. If you use a luxury pen to an interview
you may be suspect.
- No
matter what the person hosting you says or asks, do not eat or drink
anything offered. Just politely say
“no thank you”. Remain standing
until your interview joins you.
- When
the interviewer joins you, make eye contact and shake hands firmly. Great the interviewer by name. Sit only after they sit down.
- Offer
a copy of your resume. Do not
assume they remembered to bring it with them.
- Answer
questions precisely. Do not ramble
on. Make eye contact. If you need clarification, ask for
it. It there are multiple
interviewers at one time, make eye contact with the one who asked the
question.
- Be
prepared to ask several questions.
These should be based on research you have done about the company,
business or organization. They
should be specific and not “fluff ball” questions.
- Do ask
for the selection process time line.
This is the key for following up your thank you note (see below)
with a phone call.
- Stand
when the interviewer stands at the end.
Make eye contact, shake hands and thank them by name. Ask for their business card. If they do not have a business card ask
for their business phone number and business e-mail address.
- Do not
loiter. Leave immediately after the
interview is completed. Thank the
receptionist or administrative assistant for their help before you leave.
- Write an e-mail note to each of the interviewers within twenty-four hours of the interview to thank them. Some people recommended a snail mail note. I believe this can be a nice touch but is optional.
Amazingly, many job candidates do not follow these key
“rules”. By following them, plus a
stellar resume and by making your appearance neat and professional, you will be
seriously considered for that ideal job.
George F. Franks, III
is the President and Principal Consultant of Franks Consulting Group, a career,
leadership, business and nonprofit consulting practice. You can contact George at franksconsultinggroup@gmail.com. Franks Consulting Group can be found on the
web at:
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