INTERVIEW DOS AND DON'TS

 

 

They have seen your resume and want to talk! Can you get the job and close the deal? We will help you with interview and salary negotiations, below. Just click and go to the section of your choice.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

  • KNOW as much about your future industry, company, and future positions as much as possible.

  • KNOW about yourself, your present and past work as well as accomplishments. Prepare and take any supporting documents of your achievements to the interview.

  • KNOW how to pass any interviews with flying colors.

  • KNOW how to pass "Screening Interviews" that are usually conducted over the phone. Talk clearly and confidently.

DRESS YOUR BEST:

  • Women should wear suits or dresses. For employers who allow business casual, you can wear a pants suit and blouse with pumps. 

  • Men should preferably wear dark suits with white or medium blue shirts, and ties.  For employers who allow business casual, wear slacks, shirts and sports jackets.

THE INTERVIEW DAY:

  • Be on time. If circumstances prevent you from arriving on time, call your interviewer on a cell phone.

  • Greet everyone in the company with respect. From the receptionist to the secretary, smile warmly and give a firm handshake to them.

  • Greet the interviewer with a smile and firm handshake. Begin trying to establish rapport with him/her.

  • Talk about yourself and work history. Emphasize your accomplishments. Let the employer know that you can do for them what was done for past employers.

  • Show a knowledge about the company. What is the company's mission, products  or services, profits or losses, new direction, etc.? 

  • When in doubt, stress and reiterate your accomplishments or achievements.

  • Make the interview a two-way street! Today, an interview is a conversation. Don't passively sit by and let the interviewer do all the talking.

  • Focus on the job and not the money or benefits. 

AFTER THE INTERVIEW:

  • Send a "thank you note" to the interviewer. Outline what you discussed and further emphasize your possible contributions to the company.   

  • When you get an offer, skillfully negotiate your salary. Go up on the Internet and see what people in your field are earning in certain positions. 

 

 

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