EFFECTIVE INTERVIEWING

Preparing for the Interview

The 3 R's: Three steps to prepare yourself for an upcoming interview.

• Research: Gather information about the position, organization and the field through print and on-line resources and informational interviews. Read information from web sites, job descriptions, annual reports, trade journals, newspapers, magazines, etc.
• Review & Relate: Review your experiences and skills, and draw connections between your background and the position's responsibilities and qualifications. Identify specific examples that highlight your relevant skills.
• Rehearse: Anticipate the kinds of questions you may be asked and try your responses out with a friend. Craft your own list of questions about the position and organization to ask the interviewer. The goal is not to memorize answers (which would sound rehearsed), but to gain confidence in discussing your strengths and experience in an interview situation.

Know What to Expect

An employer will be using the interview to ascertain three things:

1. Do you have the academic background, technical qualifications and skills to do the job?
2. Do you have the personal characteristics and competencies necessary for effective performance?
3. Are you a good fit within the organization?

In most cases, an interviewer has already decided from your resume that you meet the first criteria, though she may have additional questions about your background, on which you'll be asked to expand. The answers to questions two and three can usually be gained only through an interview. Be prepared with examples of personal characteristics to illustrate your leadership, dedication, teamwork, communication and interpersonal skills.

Be prepared to present your credentials:

• Key responses are crisp and concise.
• Ask for clarification if you do not understand a question. Do not guess.
• Build on areas of interest as indicated by the interviewer's reactions.
• Be prepared to illustrate your answers with examples.
• Avoid being negative. Show the positive side of all situations.

Know your accomplishments and what you have to offer!

• Tailor your presentation to your audience. Know what specific points will sell for the position, and have specific points to reinforce that you are right for the position.
• Link your accomplishments to the job at hand.
• When answering a question or giving information, always back up a statement with a concrete example.

Interview Protocol

Some of the following seem to be common sense but often, in times of nervousness or stress, are easily forgotten:

Appear alert, show enthusiasm and energy.
• Smile, maintain eye contact and give a firm handshake.
• Take time answering. Momentary pauses to collect your thoughts are O.K.
• If at all possible, do not write anything down until after the interview is over.
• Be prepared to ask pertinent questions to the interviewer.
• Do not ask about salary.
• At the conclusion of the interview, ask for a business card and what the next steps and time frame are.
• Write a thank you note within 24 - 48 hours.

What Will I Be Asked?

The Three Basic Questions

In one way or another, you will be asked three basic questions in any interview:

• Why are you interested in this field?
• Why are you interested in this position and organization?
• What relevant skills and experience do you have that will make you successful?

Personal Questions

• Tell me about yourself.
• What are your greatest strengths? Weaknesses?
• What do you do in your spare time?
• Why should we hire you?