Interview Tips
Successful interviews are critical in landing the job you want. Alliance Enterprises specialists can provide you with in-depth information on what to expect and how to conduct yourself during these meetings.
Preparation for the Interview
Preparation is essential to remaining calm under pressure and is the first step toward a successful interview.
Here are some tips:
Organize the night before. Your interview clothing, briefcase and portfolio should all be prepared. Make time for a good night's rest.
Know the exact place and time of the meeting, the interviewer's full name (including correct pronunciation) and his or her title.
Research the company through the Internet or library to learn pertinent facts such as annual sales revenue, principal lines of business and locations.
Be prepared to ask questions of the hiring manager during the interview. Base these questions on your research to show that you've done your homework.
Look your professional best. Wear business attire in neutral colors and be conservative in your use of fragrance, cosmetics and jewelry.
Interviewing Do's
Arrive on time or a few minutes early.
Greet the interviewer by name. If you are not sure of the pronunciation, ask.
Wait until you are offered a chair before sitting. Sit upright at all times.
Early in the meeting, ask the interviewer to describe the job and duties to you so you can focus your responses on your skills, background and accomplishments that relate to the position.
If you are asked what salary you want, reply with a range based on your research of the job market, but indicate that you are more interested in the opportunity than a specific salary.
Interviewing Don'ts
Don't take your cell phone with you.
Don't Be late.
Don't pretend to know something you don't. If you don't understand a question, or need a moment to think about it, say so.
Don't make negative remarks about present or former employers.
Don't inquire about salary, vacations, benefits, bonuses, or retirement during the initial interview.
Be Prepared to Answer Questions
There are some typical questions hiring managers frequently ask. Below are effective ways to answer them. These are not one-size-fits-all: Because each interview is different, you'll want to tailor your responses to the situation.
"Tell me a little about yourself?" Most interviewers are looking for a direct link between your responsibilities in your most recent position and this job. This is your chance to highlight your transferable skills and talk about specifics, including who you reported to, the number of people you supervised and the contributions you made. Tell the interviewer what your job entailed day-to-day and how those responsibilities have prepared you for the current position.
"What are your strengths?" The challenge in answering this question is tailoring your most valuable assets to the job description. For example, if the potential job is extremely fast-paced and hectic, you'd want to point out that you excel when working under pressure and give examples. There's nothing wrong with talking about your strengths as long as you have the experience to back them up.
"What are your weaknesses?" While it's difficult to admit your shortcomings, everyone has some skill they could enhance. The key is to discuss the steps you've taken to improve. For example, maybe planning wasn't your strong suit in the past, but you've found an organization system that keeps you better on track. Be candid, but brief.
"Why should I hire you?" Hone in on specific qualities that make you a good fit for this position. Talk about what you know about the job from the description and how you can make a significant contribution. Then relate examples of relevant skills you possess. If you are a master of PowerPoint and this position requires you to assemble presentations, let the interviewer know that this is one of your areas of expertise.
"What's the biggest problem you faced in your last job, and how did you solve it?" An interviewer who asks this question is looking for insight into what you consider a challenge and how you would handle a difficult situation. Come prepared with several examples of difficulties you overcame on the job that are relevant to the position for which you are interviewing.
"What kind of salary do you require?" It's better to postpone discussions about salary until you have a thorough understanding of the job responsibilities and what the employer is willing to pay. But in case it does come up early in the interview process, be sure you have a range in mind based on your research of salaries for similar positions.
Interview Tips - Asking Questions
Be prepared to ask questions of the hiring manager during the interview that are based on your research of the company and industry. Insightful and pertinent questions will demonstrate that you've done your homework and that you're serious about the position.
And your questions will help both of you determine if you are the right match for the job.
Know what questions NOT to ask. Don't inquire about vacation time, benefits or your office space at the first interview. These questions are appropriate only after the hiring manager has expressed serious interest in offering you the position.
Closing the Interview
Be proactive. Reiterate your interest in the job and the company by asking about the next step in the process.
If you get the impression the interview is not going well, don't let your discouragement show. Remain poised, upbeat and professional. There could be other opportunities in the company that would be a better fit.
Be enthusiastic about the job and the company. The people you meet during your job search and at your interviews can become valuable networking sources, even if you don't get the job.
