During an Interview

During the Interview

Nervousness on the part of the interviewee is normal and expected. To relieve some of the anxiety, take a few deep breaths and relax before meeting the interviewer. Listen to the interviewer's introduction, then greet the interviewer by name. When the interviewer moves to shake your hand, give him/her a firm handshake. You should take your cues from the interviewer; wait for him/her to offer you a chair.

Also, be aware of your attitude during the interview. You will want to be polite, friendly, confident, and ready to project your enthusiasm for the position.

Verbal and non verbal communications are very important. You will need to be sure that you maintain good eye contact with the interviewer, sit upright in the chair, use a moderate tone of voice and eliminate or minimize any nervous habits. It is also a good idea to watch the interviewer's nonverbal cues. If s/he looks fidgety or restless while you are speaking, you may want to quickly conclude what you are saying and get ready for the next question.

The first 5-10 minutes of the interview are very important. Within that time the interviewer will form his/her opinion about you from your appearance, actions, and comments. It is up to you to make the best impression possible and start the interview on a positive note.

A. The Interview Structure

Typically the interview is divided into three segments:

1)     the introduction
2)     the body
3)     the close

THE INTRODUCTION - This is the ice breaking or rapport building portion of the interview. The interviewer is setting the tone in an attempt to establish rapport and put you at ease. For example, the interviewer may begin by chatting about the weather or the traffic. Even though only casual conversation is taking place at this point, the interviewer is still evaluating your ability to converse and express yourself.

THE BODY - This part of the interview begins when the tone shifts from a casual exchange to more in-depth questions. It is impossible to know everything that will be asked and expected of you during the interview, but there are some basic rules that are common to most interviews.

Be prepared to answer questions. Most of the questions asked during the initial interview can be categorized by:

• Why are you interested (in the organization, department, position)?
• Which position are you applying for?
• What are your qualifications? 
• What makes you the best candidate?

Your preparation regarding yourself and the organization will help you here. Be ready to discuss your experiences, course work and personality as they relate to the job for which you are applying. Review the list of typical questions asked by employers outlined in this booklet. Practice answering the questions.

Organize your thoughts. In a concise manner, support what you are saying by giving examples. For example, saying. "I have paid 75% of my own college expenses" is better than saying, "I am a hard worker and I want to get ahead".

• Answer the questions with more than a simple yes or no.
• Elaborate upon your strong points.
• If you do not understand the question, ask the interviewer to restate the question.
• Be prepared to discuss short-term and long-term career objectives.
• Demonstrate your interest in the organization.

THE CLOSE - This final part of the interview begins when the interviewer feels s/he has gathered enough information to determine whether or not you are a good match for his organization. If a good match seems possible, s/he will discuss the organization and the available openings.

During this part of the interview you should:

• Be prepared to discuss the specifics about working for the organization, such as opportunities within the organization, where you might fit in, and geographic preferences.
• Ask thought provoking questions.

Do not bring up salary during the initial interview. Let the interviewer initiate this conversation. If you are asked about salary, ask for the salary range and the requirements for the position you are applying for. Give an appropriate range. Research the salary ranges before the interview.

Summarize your interest in the position.

• Ask the interviewer what further steps you should take. You can also ask when you can expect to hear from him/her.
• Thank the interviewer for his/her time and consideration. Shake the interviewer's hand.

THE FOLLOW UP - Make sure that you record the name, title, address, and telephone number of the interviewer or obtain a business card. It is also a good idea to jot down notes about what happened during the interview and note any further steps you need to take.

You will need to send the interviewer a thank you letter, as soon as possible but within one week of the interview.
 
REASONS WHY CANDIDATES ARE NOT OFFERED A SECOND INTERVIEW

These are some of the reasons that have been given by recruiters:

• Lack of career goals.
• Candidate knew little or nothing about the company, industry, or occupation.
• Poor communications or language skills.
• Poor questions: superficial or overly basic questions.
• Lack of enthusiasm.
• Excessive nervousness.
• Poor eye contact.
• Improper dress.
• Poor attitude.
• Inability to identify skills developed through work experience and extra-curricular activities.

Top 10 Personal Qualities employers seek in job candidates:

1)     Communication Skills
2)     Motivation/ initiative
3)     Teamwork skills
4)     Leadership skills
5)     Academic achievement/GPA
6)     Interpersonal skills
7)     Flexibility/adaptability
8)     Technical skills
9)     Honest/integrity
10) Work Ethic and Analytical/problem-solving skills (tied)