Interviewing Tips for Candidates

GENERAL TIPS

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Answers To Some Difficult Questions:

How much money do you want?
· Only indicate what you are presently earning and that salary is one of several factors you are considering. Emphasize that the opportunity is the most important consideration.

Tell me about yourself.
· Emphasis on your recent experience is most important; however, brief coverage of previous experiences and education can also be useful.

What are some situations in which your work was criticized?
· Give only one or two examples and emphasize how you addressed the criticism and how it is now not a problem. Ensure that you show you are open to constructive criticism.

What do you think of your boss?
· Create a positive image, even if this is not the case.

How long would it take you to make a meaningful contribution to our company?
· Realistically speaking, experience and requirements of the job will influence your making a meaningful contribution.

Why haven't you found a new position before now?
· Explain that finding the right job is more important than just finding a job. This can be a difficult task as the current economy may be a factor.

Why were you laid off?
· Be as positive as possible. Do not discuss interpersonal conflicts, regardless of how sympathetic the interviewer may seem. Discuss economic conditions. Do not go into much detail unless asked.

Why should we hire you? or Are you interested in this job?
· Explain why this is a logical position for you, sum up your work history and re-emphasize your strongest qualities and achievements. Above all, let the interviewer know that you will be an asset to the company.

V) DO YOUR HOMEWORK!

You should find out as much information on the Company and the interviewers as you can. The best sources are the public library, the Internet (you should check if the company has a home page) and your recruiter. If you get to your interview early, you should read any brochures they may have in the reception area. Another thing you may do is review any articles or books on interviewing.

VI) NEGATIVE FACTORS EVALUATED BY AN INTERVIEWER

1. Poor presentation.
2. Lack of a firm handshake.
3. Being unprepared for the interview, i.e. little or no knowledge of the company.
4. Poor expression of thoughts, including incorrect grammar.
5. Not asking questions about the job.
6. "Superiority complexes" and "know it all" attitudes.
7. Indifference or lack of enthusiasm.
8. Being evasive, nervous and lacking in confidence.
9. Lack of career direction - undefined goals or purposes.
10. Candidate is too interested in compensation factors.
11. Overaggressive, overbearing or conceited behavior.
12. Speaking unfavorably of previous employers.
13. Lack of courtesy and maturity.
14. No appreciation for the value of experience.
15. Not looking the interviewer in the eye.

VII) CLOSING THE INTERVIEW

If you are interested in the position, ask for it or ask for the next interview if the situation demands. You might say something like: "Mr./Ms. Employer, I am very impressed with what I've seen and heard here today and am confident that I could do an excellent job in the position you've described to me. When might you be in a position to make an offer?" Your enthusiasm should make a favorable impression.

If you are made an offer, accept it only if you are ready. You don't have to accept the offer on the spot.

Don't be discouraged if no definite offer is made or specific salary discussed. The interviewer will probably want to communicate with your recruiter first or interview more applicants before making a decision.

Thank the interviewer for his or her time and consideration of you. If you have answered the two major questions in his mind: a) Why are you interested in the company?; and b) What can you offer?, you have done all you can.

VIII) AFTER THE INTERVIEW

The first thing you should do after the interview is call your recruiter to let them know how the interview went and whether you are still interested in the position. At the same time, your recruiter will be determining the client feedback. The next thing you should do is send a thank you letter to your interviewer(s).

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