[vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][mk_fancy_title size=”22″ font_family=”none”]Interview Checklist
Real Tips from a Recruiter[/mk_fancy_title][mk_fancy_title color=”#749b00″ size=”18″ font_family=”none”] Preparation leading up to the interview[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text]– ALWAYS research the company you are going to meet (industry and competition)! If possible, the person you will be meeting as well. *Any potential employer will enjoy you took the time to research and be knowledgeable about the company you potentially could work for.*
– Make a list for the position’s requirements and your qualifications. Review what makes you a strong candidate for the role. Think to yourself, “Why would this person hire me?”
– Prepare your 60-second personal statement. Be confident and honest!
– List five questions to ask the interviewer about the job, the company and the industry.
– Determine your salary needs based on your living expenses.
– Have permission from your references to use their names.
– Prepare an outfit. *Always professional business suit or dress/skirt attire. DO NOT wear jeans!*[/vc_column_text][mk_fancy_title color=”#749b00″ size=”18″ font_family=”none”]Prepare Your Interview Answers[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text]Be ready to answer common interview questions such as these: – Tell me about yourself. *Hint, Hint: personal statement :)*
– Why did you leave your last position, or why are you willing to leave your current position? Keep answers to the point. No long stories or being negative about prior/current employers.
– What do you know about this company?
– What are your goals?
– What are your strengths and weaknesses?
– Why do you want to work here?
– What has been your most significant achievement?
– How would your last boss and colleagues describe you?
– Why should we hire you?
– What are your salary expectations? *Have a realistic idea on what your minimum would be in order to accept a new position.*[/vc_column_text][mk_fancy_title color=”#749b00″ size=”18″ font_family=”none”]
Before You Go to the Interview[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text]*Do you look professional? Check yourself in the mirror; part of your confidence will come from looking good.*
Carry these items to the interview:
– Several copies of your resume on quality paper with your references listed (separate paper w/ references ideal).
– A pad of paper on which to take notes, though notes are optional.
– Directions to the interview site. *Always account for another 5 extra minutes for travel time. If possible, drive there the night before to make sure there is no construction or possible delays on your way.*[/vc_column_text][mk_fancy_title color=”#749b00″ size=”18″ font_family=”none”]
Upon Arrival[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text]- Arrive early – enter the building 5-10 minutes before your appointment. DO NOT arrive any earlier or later. *Scheduled appointments are made for a reason.*
– If you arrive late, please acknowledge. *They know and you know. Do not give a laundry list of excuses. No one wants to hire a negative Nancy*
– TURN OFF your cell phone or leave it in your car. *Even the vibrating tone you can hear, TURN IT OFF!*
– Review your prepared examples/stories and answers.
– Stand and greet your interviewer with a hearty – not bone-crushing – handshake.
– Smile, maintain eye contact and good posture.
– Remain positive at all times. They don’t need to know how awful traffic was, if you had a bad morning, your sob story of why you are looking for a new job, etc.[/vc_column_text][mk_fancy_title color=”#749b00″ size=”18″ font_family=”none”]
During the Interview[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text]- Try to focus on the points you have prepared without sounding rehearsed or stiff.
– Relax and enjoy the conversation.
– Learn what you can about the company.
– Ask questions and listen; read between the lines.
– At the conclusion, thank the interviewer, and determine the next steps.
– ALWAYS ask for the interviewer’s business card so you can send a Follow-up/Thank you letter.[/vc_column_text][mk_fancy_title color=”#749b00″ size=”18″ font_family=”none”]
After the Interview[/mk_fancy_title][vc_column_text]- As soon as possible, write down what you are thinking and feeling.
– Later in the day, review what you wrote and assess how you did. *Would you accept the offer, if one was made? If no, why not?*
– ALWAYS write an interview thank-you letter, reminding the interviewer of your qualities and your appreciation of their time. *We suggest to hand write a notecard for smaller businesses and put in the mail the same day. For larger companies, an email may be a better option based on a timely response.*
By: Katie Newton, Client Relations Manager[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_column_text]
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