Personal Advancement
Heed these top 10 interview tipsPreparing for the interview is, in some ways, even more important than the interview itself! KIMBERLEY CHESNEY |
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 [ 2002-06-05 ] |
Here are the top ten tips for a successful interview:
1. Your appearance will be assessed even before the first question is asked. If you are not sure about what attire is appropriate, ask your staffing agency consultant. Avoid the use of perfumes or colognes just in case the interviewer has allergies.
2. Make sure you have clear directions to get to the interview location. If you are unsure, you may want to make a trip the day before just to be sure.
3. Bring several copies of your resume and references, as well as a pen and note pad. Be prepared by making a list of questions that you want addressed. Do not ask about salary or compensation at the first interview.
4. Find out from your staffing agency consultant how long the interview should last. Be sure to allow sufficient time. Arrive at your interview five to ten minutes early. This will allow you to relax a little and catch your breath so you are not running into the interview.
5. Research the organization. If you haven't received information from your staffing agency consultant, then do a little digging on your own. Look at the organization's Web site -- as it will provide you with the background information you need. Learn about the organization, so you can speak with informed interest during the interview.
6. Remember, with each contact you make, you are being assessed. No matter if it's the CEO or the receptionist, their impressions of you are important. Be on your best behavior at all times. Whether you are on the telephone booking the appointment or sitting in the reception area, be careful. Every move counts!
7. Be prepared to take a tour of the organization and meet extra people. Allow for extra time -- just in case.
8. The goal of the interview is to assess. You are assessing the organization, and they are assessing you. Think about your body language, your tone of voice -- not just the words you speak and show enthusiasm.
9. Always be truthful. Put yourself in the shoes of the interviewer. If you were them -- what would you want to know? Be prepared to give examples of previous experiences on or off the job.
Be ready to discuss your career aspirations and some of your long term goals. Take time, before the interview, to do a self-assessment. Know your strengths and be prepared to discuss your weaknesses. Be ready for difficult questions and be honest.
10. Make sure you thank the interviewer for the time they have spent with you. Ask what the next steps will be. Be positive, smile, then go home and prepare for your next interview!
(Kimberley Chesney, CPC, is President of Prime Management Group Inc. in London, & Cambridge Ontario, one of the Association of Canadian Search, Employment & Staffing Services' more than 800 member companies.)
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