Interview Preparation

JOB INTERVIEW PREPARATION

Preparing for Your Interview

Review all of the information you have about the position.

If you are working with a headhunter or recruiter, ask all the questions you want before you arrive.

Learn all you can about potential employer.

 Get a copy of the company's annual report and read it.

 Visit the company's web-site on your PC or at your public library. This will be your most up to date view of the company.

 Be prepared to discuss the company's competitive environment; if possible get copies of the competition's company materials as well.

 Assess what the company's major challenges are and how you can help them

 Contact anyone that may have an "insider's" view of the company to glean more about the company's personality

 Read as much about the company's products as possible

Identify the qualifications that the company is seeking with this job hire

 Understand the functions of the specific job.

 Attempt to speak with someone who might have a similar position

 Be prepared to show how your background has prepared you for these specific requirements

 Prepare Illustrative stories to highlight your strengths

 Tie these anecdotal stories to what is on your resume and how they apply to the job responsibility.

 Be prepared to discuss your management style and personal style

Other Other

Other Other

 Anticipate the questions you are likely to be asked (review the most common question checklist)

 Wear clothing in which you feel comfortable and confident.

 Ensure that you leave plenty of time to get to your appointment.

 Check your appearance

 Bring additional copies of resume

 Pen & notepad (for post interview review)

During

 Many questions seem like they might require simple yes or no answers. Avoid using a yes or no response. Explain your response.

 Emphasize the positive side of a potential weakness

 Concentrate on the complementary skills that you have that match the job requirements

Detail how you contributed to increased efficiency/profits.

Use terms that show you know the field.

Ask questions that reveal you studied up on the company.

Demonstrate your interest by making practical suggestions.

 Speak ill of no one in an interview; especially your current or former employers.

 Avoid a discussion of salary until you have established a solid base for