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Interviewing Workshop

Interviewing Workshop. Purpose of an Interview. The interview is a mutual exchange of information. This can be done through a one-on-one or panel interview. Provides you with an opportunity to gain information about the department and position.

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Interviewing Workshop

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  1. Interviewing Workshop

  2. Purpose of an Interview • The interview is a mutual exchange of information. This can be done through a one-on-one or panel interview. • Provides you with an opportunity to gain information about the department and position. • Allows you to discuss your skills and career goals in relation to the job. • Helps managers determine 3 things before they make a hiring decision. 1. Can you do the job? 2. Will you do to do the job? 3. Can you get along with others in the organization?

  3. Tips for Preparing for an Interview • Review the job description or posting if available. • Learn more about the department, company or organization. This can be done by visiting the company website, general research at the local library or Michigan Works! Service Center. Why do you want to work for them? • Know yourself. Review your resume and be prepared to discuss your skills relating to the job. • Have available the names, addresses, and phone numbers of references. A typed out list can be very helpful. It is beneficial to have copies of letters of recommendation. • Bring information you may need to fill out an application. • Bring extra copies of your resume, a small note pad, and 2 pens. As applicable, bring certifications, work samples, or portfolio.

  4. Tips for Preparing for an Interview Continued • Find out where the interview will be, obtain clear directions and confirm the time. Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early. Be late and you already lost the job. Always go alone. • Set up transportation and child care. Have back ups scheduled. • Eat well before the interview. • Get a good nights sleep. • Don’t smoke before the interview. • Take money. • Say “no thank you” to coffee if offered. • No chewing gum. • Have a positive attitude.

  5. Dressing for an Interview • Dress “one step above” what you would be wearing on the job, but be conservative. • Never wear jeans, tennis shoes, sweats, or hats. • Try on the clothes you plan to wear a few days before the interview to make sure they fit and have no stains or tears. • Remove your coat before the interview. • 45% of the success of the interview depends on your appearance (dress, hygiene, actions toward others, and body language). You only get one shot to make a positive first impression!

  6. During the Interview • Relax! Think of the interview as a conversation, not an interrogation. • Know and remember the full name of the interviewer/s. Look them in the eyes, smile and shake hands. • Stand until invited to sit, follow the interviewer’s lead. • Be enthusiastic, confident, courteous, and honest. • Avoid negative body language and signs of nervousness.

  7. During the Interview Continued • Listen to the questions carefully and give clear, concise, and thoughtful answers. Be positive in all your answers. • Show interest in the company and knowledge of the position. • Ask relevant questions about the job or department. • Ask the interviewer when they will make their decision and if you may call the following day if you have not heard from them. • End the interview with a firm hand shake. Thank the interviewer/s for their time and consideration.

  8. After the Interview • Thank the receptionist/secretary on the way out. • Send a brief thank you letter as soon as possible after the interview (no later than the next day). • Conduct a self evaluation.

  9. Self Evaluation • Did I smile and use good eye contact? • Did I show enthusiasm? • Did I know my skills and express what I have to offer? • Did I appear relaxed and confident? • Did I practice before I went to the interview? • Did I ask them the questions I had prepared? • Did I answer their questions without talking too much? • Did I answer all questions in a positive manner? • Did I send them a thank you note directly after the interview?

  10. Thank You Letters • Many times an employer’s decision to hire has been based on the fact that the candidate took the time to write a thank you note. • Thank the employer for taking the time to interview you. • This is your opportunity to reemphasize how you are qualified for the job and that you would enjoy working for the company. • You can also bring up qualifications you may have forgotten during the interview.

  11. Tips for Answering Employer Questions • The interview is an exchange of information. Practice discussing your skills and qualifications from previous jobs. This can be done through role playing. • Employers questions are aimed at finding out what you’ve done and who you are. THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK! • Listen to the interviewers questions. If you do not understand a question, ask them to repeat it. • Maintain good eye contact. • Never criticize a former employer or co-worker. Be positive. • Answer questions honestly and be yourself.

  12. Potential Questions Asked by Employers • Tell me about yourself? • What are your strengths? Weaknesses? • What do you know about my company? • Why do you want to work as …? • Why should we hire you? • Why did you leave your last job? • What qualifications/skills do you have for this job? • What are you goals? • What did you like least/most about your last position/boss? • Do you have any questions for me?

  13. Potential Questions to Ask During the Interview • How would you describe a typical day and my job responsibilities? • How will I be trained? • Who are the people I’d be working with and what do they do? • How will my performance be evaluated? • Who would my supervisor be? • Can I get a brief tour of the work place? • When will you be making your decision?

  14. Topics to Avoid • Never ask questions about salary, vacations, paid holidays, or sick days. You are looking for a job not a vacation. Wait for interviewer to bring up the issue of wages/benefits. • However: • Learn the area salary range and the range of compensation for the position you seek. Be prepared to discuss if brought up by employer. • If asked the wage you expect, turn this question around and ask what the standard wage is for your qualifications. It is best to have the manager suggest the first figure. • You can research area salary ranges at the Michigan Labor Market Indicators www.michlmi.org.

  15. Interview Conclusion • You should thank the interviewer, state your interest in the position, and that you feel you can do a good job. • Example: “Thank you for the opportunity to interview with you today. I want you to know that I am very interested in this position and I feel I can do a very good job for you.”

  16. Follow Up • Do I really have to call and find out if they’ve made a decision? Absolutely. It tells the manager you want the job so bad that you’re willing to call. It shows persistence and that you’re not shy or lazy. You are the kind of person who gets things done even when it’s not pleasant. • If not selected for the job, politely ask which area you could improve on.

  17. Questions???

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