Just As the Potential Employer Has Prepared for the Interview, So Should You As the Job

The interview process begins the moment you start seeking employment. Employers often begin researching candidates before there is even an appointment for an interview scheduled. Employers may research your resume, your online presence, and your background before you shake the first hand of the interviewer.

Just as the potential employer has prepared for the interview, so should you as the job seeker prepare for the interview. Your preparation should consist of 3 vital components: research, practice, and planning.

RESEARCH

Being able to answer questions about the company you are applying to can be as important as answering questions about yourself. An interviewer is looking for the right person and the right fit for his or her organization. Having a basic knowledge of the company will let the interviewer know you are interested, not only in the position, but you are also interested in the company.

A great resource is browsing the company’s website under the “About Us” tab. This will give you an overview of what the company does, and it will often have the company’s mission or vision statement. Not only will this give you insight into the organization, it will also give you insight into the qualities the organization is looking for in its’ employees (i.e. customer service drive, goal oriented, etc.).

Know the job description. Be well versed on the particulars of the position. This will demonstrate to the interviewer you are truly interested in the position, and you can tailor your answers to fit details of the job description such as being detail oriented or a strong communicator.

PRACTICE

There is the old joke: “How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice.” The same is true for landing acing an interview and landing a job. The interview is one of the last stages an employer has to select the best candidates for his or her opening. Being composed and on-point during an interview can put you ahead of all the other candidates.

Through this Job Club and your career adviser, you have a distinct advantage over other job seekers – certified professionals who can conduct mock interviews with you to give you experience and advice.

Another great tool is reviewing the list of The 20 Most Frequently Asked Interview Questions sheet. Review these questions thoroughly. Write down your answers, and read your answers out loud. By being able to answer questions clearly and concisely, you are establishing confidence with the interviewer that you are qualified and capable of being an asset to the organization.

PLANNING

On the day of the interview, you are nervous enough. Thinking ahead will help reduce the amount of stress you feel and will keep your demeanor and non-verbal cues positive.

There are 3 key areas to have pre-planned for your interview day:

o Attire: planning the appropriate outfit ahead of time is crucial. You do not want to be scrambling for appropriate clothes on interview day.

o Directions: plan your route to get to your interview so that you are not rushing to make it on time. Consider where you are going to park and if you need change or money for parking. Take a practice ride the day before so you can adjust for road construction or other barriers that would make you late.

o Interview Survival Kit: have essential items gathered and prepared from one source for the day of the interview. Keep items you take into an interview to a minimum – have one briefcase or bag or portfolio. Your kit should include:

§ Extra hard copies of your resume

§ Printed references

§ Notepad

§ Pen or pencil

§ Name and title of the person to ask for at the interview

§ Any written questions you have for interviewer

§ Job description (if available)

§ Identification (state issued id, social security card)

§ Other items you may want to have nearby, but not necessarily in the interview room:

· Mints

· Grooming tools (comb, lint roller, stain stick)

· Water

The most important things you should plan on brining to your interview are self-confidence and belief in yourself.

ü INVITE A FORMER JOB CLUB MEMBER TO DISCUSS HOW JOB CLUBS HELPED THEM GAIN EMPLOYMENT AND WHAT THEIR INTERVIEW EXPERIENCE WAS LIKE

ü WATCH DBCAA INTERVIEW VIDEO AS AN EXAMPLE OF WHAT “TO DO/NOT TO DO” DURING AN INTERVIEW

ü DISCUSS THE STAR METHOD OF INTERVIEWING

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20 Most Frequently Asked Interview Questions

The Interview – It’s Showtime! Page | 8 EKCEP Job Club Topics