Lesson #5-Interviewing and Getting the Job

A Plan to Escape the Cubicle

Lesson #5- “Interviewing and Getting the Job.”

For many people, job interviews are the most stressful part of any employment search. However, they do not have to be.

Employment interviews are an opportunity to show you are an enthusiastic worker who would do a job well. You can make the most of that opportunity by being prepared, presenting a professional demeanor, and describing your qualifications well.

There are many types of employment interviews, and each may have a different purpose. Screening interviews, for example, are designed to whittle the applicant pool. Group or panel interviews yield multiple perspectives from a single meeting. Moreover, telephone and video conferencing interviews help employers find the best prospects before investing time and effort in a face-to-face interview.

Regardless of the purpose of your interview, you are more likely to do well if you first learn some basic interviewing skills. Read on for advice on what to do before, during, and after a job interview.

Preparation

Career counselors say a good job interview starts well before the job seeker and interviewer meet. Preparation can be as important as the interview itself. Researching, practicing, and dressing appropriately are the first steps to making the most of a job interview.

Research

Learning about the company and the position for which you are being interviewed is essential—and it will help you to show employers that you are interested.

Before arriving for an interview, you should know what the company does and any recent changes it has undergone. Learn about the company’s mission and goals. With these in mind, you can show during the interview how your qualifications match the company’s needs.

The company itself is often the easiest place to start your research. Many businesses have information on their websites that’s tailored to job seekers. However, don’t stop there: In-depth research is important. Read news publications, trade journals, and other sources of information to learn more about the company.

Employment and social media sites, especially those related to business networking, may have more specific information about the company’s culture. For example, current and former employees may post reviews of the employer or offer details about questions they were asked during a job interview.

Practice

Another important step in preparing for a job interview is to practice describing your professional characteristics. Think of examples from past jobs, schoolwork, and activities to illustrate important skills. Recalling accomplishments beforehand, when you are not being evaluated, helps you to give solid answers during the interview.

Every interview is different, and it is always possible there will be questions that surprise you. Nevertheless, interviewers suggest rehearsing with a career counselor or a friend to build confidence and poise. As a starting point, try answering these questions aloud:

  • What are your strengths and weaknesses?
  • Can you tell me about a time you dealt with conflict as part of a team?
  • Why did you leave, or are you leaving, your job?
  • What are your goals?
  • Why should we hire you?

Each question allows you to illustrate your favorable characteristics. When responding, focus on subjects related to the job. For example, if asked to describe yourself, talk about your professional characteristics and background, not your personal life.

Some questions, such as those about hobbies or interests, may seem irrelevant. Interviewers ask these types of questions to learn about your personality and test your interpersonal skills. These questions also let you highlight some of your other strengths. Participating in a sport might demonstrate teamwork, for example. Moreover, ability in a craft, such as jewelry making, might show your attention to detail.

Whatever the question, emphasize the positive. If there is a weakness evident on your résumé or transcript, such as being fired from a job or receiving poor grades, rehearse an explanation before the interview in case you are asked about them. Focus on what you learned from the experience, and be careful never to criticize a previous employer or co-worker.

Look professional

Dress for an interview as you would for an important day on the job, such as a meeting with a supervisor or a presentation to a client. Don’t let your appearance distract the interviewer from your qualifications.

Keep your hair neat, and cover any tattoos or piercings, if possible. Avoid cologne and perfume, large pieces of jewelry, and heavy or unnatural makeup. Clothes should be clean, ironed, and fit well. Moreover, shoes should be polished and closed-toe.

Many employers expect job seekers to wear a suit—preferably one in a conservative color such as navy blue, gray, or black—but not all do. A company with an informal dress code might be fine with your wearing a button-down shirt and dress slacks. If you are not sure about what to wear, dressing up is more prudent than dressing down.

Showtime

On the day of the interview, give yourself plenty of time to get ready for and travel to the interview. Plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. (Some career counselors suggest making a test run to the interview site in advance to familiarize yourself with the travel route.)

Consider carrying a folder or briefcase to the interview, so you have access to things you will want while you are there. These include a pen and paper to record important information, such as the proper spelling of the interviewer’s name and the time and date of follow-up interviews; copies of your résumé or application and references; and examples of your work, such as writing samples.

Similarly, have these items within easy reach for interviews conducted over the phone or through video conference. For phone interviews, consider disabling call waiting on the day of the interview; you do not want to put the interviewer on hold, and persistent call-waiting beeps may distract you. For video conference interviews, make sure that the Web camera is angled correctly and that the surrounding area is neat.

Nervousness

It is natural to feel nervous when interviewing. However, remember: You have skills the employer needs. The interview is your chance to show how those skills would be a good fit for the job.

To reduce nervousness, interviewers recommend getting a good night’s sleep and maintaining your usual morning routine. If you never eat breakfast, for example, don’t eat a hearty morning meal on interview day. They also recommend putting yourself in a positive mindset before the interview by calling to mind some of your happiest memories or proudest moments.

Moreover, they remind job seekers that each opening you interview for is not the only one that exists. There are openings with other companies that might be a better fit. Every interview is an opportunity to practice getting more comfortable talking about yourself.

First impressions

An in-person interview begins the moment you arrive. Everyone you meet, from the receptionist to the hiring manager, will form an impression of you. To ensure the impression is positive, remember that your words and mannerisms affect how others perceive you.

  • When greeting people, smile and shake hands.
  • Make eye contact and maintain good posture.
  • Don’t use slang or give curt, one-word answers.
  • Don’t chew gum, bite your nails, or use your phone.

Making a positive impression is just as important when you interview remotely. Remember to speak clearly and listen attentively, just as you would if you were meeting with the interviewer in person. Even if no one can see you, your voice betrays attitudes and confidence; sometimes, sitting up straight helps to project enthusiasm.

Standard politeness is important in an interview because the interviewer knows little about you. For example, don’t presume that you should use your interviewer’s first name just because the company atmosphere is relaxed.

Responding to questions

After introductions, the interviewer may explain the job in more detail, discuss the company, or initiate a friendly conversation. The interviewer will then ask questions to gauge how well you would fill the position.

When responding to the interviewer, avoid vague answers, such as, “I want to work with people” (or animals, or cars, or whatever the job entails). Instead, describe the specific ways you want to work with them, perhaps by giving examples of how you have successfully done so in the past. Focus on your strengths, but be honest.

Let the interviewer direct the session. He or she may use your resume as a guide and ask for additional details. Listen attentively, and answer each question completely. Pay attention to the interviewer’s mannerisms for clues about whether to elaborate or to keep your responses short.

Some job seekers are so focused on specific answers that they forget to relax and connect with the interviewer. An interview should be conversational. However, that does not mean you are expected to speak without pause. Stop to consider an answer before responding to difficult or unexpected questions. Moreover, if a question is confusing, ask for clarification.

In a group or panel interview, try to engage the whole group. When interviewing with other candidates for a job, take the initiative in responding to questions—but be careful not to dominate the discussion.

Turning the tables

At some point, usually toward the end of the interview, you will have the opportunity to ask your questions. Use this time to learn more about the position—and, often, the person who would be your boss. After all, you are also deciding whether you want the job.

Questions you might want to ask include:

  • What do you expect me to accomplish in my first six months?
  • Can you describe a typical assignment for this position?
  • What kind of employee training do you provide?
  • Will this position lead to advancement opportunities?
  • What do you like most about working for this company?

An interview is not the time to inquire about salary or benefits; the best time to discuss those topics is after you have been offered the job. You do not want to seem more interested in financial rewards than in contributing to the company. If asked about salary requirements, try to convey flexibility.

Before leaving the interview, make sure you understand the next step in the hiring process. Find out whether there will be another round of interviews, whether you should provide additional information, and when a hiring decision will be made.

Moreover, remember to thank the interviewer at the end of the interview.

Following up

Even after the interview is over, an important task remains: Secure a good impression by sending a thank-you letter to the interviewer, preferably within 2 days.

Thank you letters should be brief—a few paragraphs if emailed, less than one page if typed or handwritten. Thank the interviewer for the opportunity, briefly reiterate your skills, and confirm your enthusiasm for the job.

Address the letter to the person who interviewed you, and make sure to spell his or her name correctly. If a group interviewed you, write either to each person you spoke with or to the person who led and coordinated the interview, mentioning the other people you met. Be sure to proofread the letter, and ask someone else to proofread it, too.

If you do not hear back within the time frame the interviewer specified, call or email to check on your status. Making that extra effort could mean the difference in getting the job—or not.

Speak to the hiring manager

The two parties who stand to gain most from filling a position are the hiring manager and the job applicant. The hiring manager, or the person in charge of selecting candidates to fill job openings, needs a reliable worker who can help the team meet its goals. The applicant needs employment, preferably in a position he or she finds rewarding. Therefore, job applicants should try to speak directly to the hiring manager whenever possible.

Applicants who can tap into their network might be able to meet directly with the hiring manager and avoid delays. “Managers are more apt to set aside the ‘filtering criteria’ if the applicant presents compelling evidence that he or she can do the job,” Corcodilos says.

If possible, applicants should ask contacts inside an organization to arrange an informational interview with the hiring manager. The informational interview allows the applicant to learn more about the job and the organization, while also providing an opportunity to impress the hiring manager—and, hopefully, make the shortlist of applicants.

During an informational interview, applicants should show initiative but remain polite and not attempt to bypass usual hiring channels. “You should not circumvent the human resources department,” says Garrett-Ragland, “but talking to the hiring manager directly can help if you make a good impression because he or she can then put pressure on human resources to act more quickly.”

The job interview

The interview is a candidate’s best chance to impress a hiring manager and secure the job. Some career experts say that job candidates should treat the interview as if it were the first day of work. “Those who are not ready to do the job at the interview will not return for a second day of work,” says Corcodilos.

The job-ready candidate is not only qualified but also has studied the company and knows its business, culture, product or service, and mission. However, studying the organization is not the only way that candidates prepare for a job interview. Candidates should think of the interview as a conversation, not a defense of their resume. To ready themselves for this conversation, candidates must plan their answers to questions a hiring manager might ask—and prepare their questions for the hiring manager. They should also know what the hiring manager expects of them before, during, and after an interview.

Interviews as conversations

The best interviews flow smoothly, like good conversation. Because the interview helps to determine how a candidate might perform and fit in at an organization, hiring managers’ questions test the candidate’s knowledge, skills, and interests. Common interview questions include the following:

  • Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
  • What is your biggest weakness? Strength?
  • Why do you want to work here?
  • How do you handle a disagreement with another member of your team?
  • What was your biggest accomplishment at your previous position?
  • Why did you leave your last job?

To prepare for these questions, candidates should recall past challenges and experiences that demonstrate specific qualities, such as teamwork, leadership, and adaptability. “Most interviews are behavioral, such as ‘Talk about a time when…,’” Garrett-Ragland says. “Your answers must be specific and detailed. You must give the problem’s outcome, explain its challenges and how you met them, and describe what you learned from the experience.”

Candidates should use the interview as an opportunity to show how their skills match the organization’s needs. Those who have researched the job and organization thoroughly will be able to answer questions by describing how they will use their skills to get the work done.

A candidate’s knowledge and initiative help hiring managers to answer their most important interview question: Is this the right person to get this job done well?

An additional benefit for candidates who have researched the company well is that they will show they want the job and will be excited to do the work. “If you have researched the company and determined you want to work there, you will show genuine enthusiasm in your application and interviews,” says Francis. Candidates who show enthusiasm for the position and the work culture are less likely to be unhappy and leave. Because hiring managers want employees who will stay for a considerable amount of time, they notice enthusiastic candidates.

Job candidates also have an obligation to hold up their end of the conversation. They should always ask questions that they could not answer through their research or that arose during the interview. Through their questions, candidates show how well they know the organization, what their priorities are, and how much interest and enthusiasm they have. Important questions to ask include the following:

  • What are your team’s goals?
  • What are this position’s most difficult challenges?
  • What do you expect of me in the first 90 days? 6 months? A year?
  • How soon do you expect to fill this position?

A key function of interviews is to help candidates decide whether a job and an organization are a good fit for them. For example, although the hiring manager might worry about how long a candidate will stay with the organization, the candidate may be equally worried about the organization’s future. The candidate can research an organization’s stability and confirm it during the interview through questions about profits and employee turnover.

Conduct before, during, and after

Although any interview is good practice, career experts warn candidates not to arrive at an interview without being adequately prepared. Corcodilos even suggests that candidates who are unable to answer the hiring manager’s questions excuse themselves from an interview, apologize, and request more time to prepare. That particular hiring manager might not offer another interview, says Corcodilos, but the candidate displays professionalism and integrity by admitting fault, taking responsibility, and respecting the manager’s time.

Candidates should exercise common sense and professionalism in all their interactions with potential employers. At a minimum, candidates should be punctual, clean, professionally dressed, and courteous to all staff, regardless of the staff member’s position. Moreover, they should be honest and positive about everything they say, especially about past employers and coworkers.

In answering questions, candidates should be respectful and assertive without being presumptuous or aggressive. This includes responding to questions about negative information from a candidate’s resume: Experts say that when asked about potentially damaging information, such as gaps in work history or a prior violation of the law, candidates should briefly acknowledge the circumstances and then redirect the conversation toward the positive—perhaps to discuss lessons learned or constructive steps taken to qualify for the position. When in doubt about any interview question, candidates should politely ask for guidance from the hiring manager.

After an interview, job candidates should thank the interviewer twice: in person, before leaving; and in writing, with a thank-you note. The thank-you note is most effective when hand-written, but an email thank-you note is also acceptable. The thank-you note should briefly reassert the candidate’s interest in the position and summarize relevant skills and qualifications.

Career experts say that the hiring process should take about two weeks for an entry-level position, and up to 2 months for mid- to senior-level ones. Sometimes, however, the process can take even longer. As a result, candidates must be persistent and follow up by phone or email to confirm their interest in the job. “You should follow up every two weeks,” Renick advises. “Those who do not are currently unemployed.”

Finally, say experts, candidates should focus on their long-term goals and not give up. “Stay positive and don’t just take the first job you are offered out of desperation because, in the long run, you will not be happy,” says Francis. “It is tough, but there’s a job for you out there.”

Job Fairs: So many companies, so little time

Job fairs offer an opportunity for face-to-face meetings between job seekers and employers. Visiting these fairs is often an easy way to find good job leads. Many employers attending are there to hire workers, after all. Moreover, you can talk to recruiters, browse brochures, and distribute your résumé.

Making a good impression at a job fair may give your résumé or application added weight. The following tips can help you make the most of any fair.

Find the fair. Career centers, associations, state and local governments, and private companies organize job fairs. Find fairs in your area by searching online, asking a career counselor, reviewing business postings at your school or local library, or checking the newspaper employment section.

Ready your résumé. Before attending a fair, you should prepare a résumé. Bring several copies to the fair. Leave at least one with every company that seems promising. A résumé lists your name, contact information, education, and experience, both paid and unpaid. It emphasizes accomplishments and skills. Most résumés for entry-level jobs are one page.

Look the part. A job fair is like a series of mini-interviews, with recruiters forming impressions of the people they meet. You might not need to wear a suit, but too-casual clothes could be a strike against you. Clothes that are too short, too tight, too worn, or too playful are particularly risky. Similarly, be aware of your body language. Standing up straight and looking recruiters in the eye when talking to them, for example, projects confidence and may help to create a more positive rapport.

Go alone. You will get the most out of a job fair—and make a better impression—if you attend solo. If you plan to go with a friend, don’t appear to be inseparable when visiting booths. A professional image is easier to maintain if you speak to employers alone.

Plot a strategy. A few days before the fair, ask for a list of participating companies. Then, rank companies you would like to visit so you can make the best use of your time. When you arrive on the day of the fair, take a quick walk through the venue. Locate the company representatives you want to meet, and plan your route for the event. Time is limited, and booths are crowded. Save visits with the best prospects until after you have warmed up with a few other prospective employers.

Complete applications flawlessly. If a company distributes application forms, take two; one will be a rough draft. Moreover, if you complete an application online or bring one home to send later, consider noting that you met the recruiter at the fair.

Master the mini-interview. Every time you speak with an employer, no matter how briefly or how boisterous the atmosphere, consider it an interview. Recruiters will expect you to introduce yourself, shake hands confidently, answer questions about your coursework or experience, and have an idea of the type of job you want. Finding out about the company is equally important. You might ask what the hiring process is like or what jobs are available for people with your education. Before you leave the booth, be sure to ask for the recruiter’s business card—and thank him or her for taking the time to talk with you.

Take notes. After visiting several booths, it is easy for conversations to run together. After each visit, take a few notes to read at home.

Stay organized. Fairgoers are deluged with information—company literature, recruiters’ business cards, and their notes. Bring a folder or backpack to keep materials organized. Counselors suggest going through this information while your memory is still fresh.

Apply in absentia. If you cannot attend the job fair, contact the sponsoring organization. You may be able to submit your résumés to participating employers before or after the fair.



















Additional Resources

Interviewing Tips and Skills

The New York Department of Labor has the following information on their website: https://labor.ny.gov/careerservices/findajob/interview.shtm

Do

  • Give a firm handshake
  • Be polite
  • Ask relevant questions
  • Answer questions concisely
  • Use specific examples to illustrate points
  • Send a "Thank you" letter or email to the interviewer after your interview.

Don't

  • Try to control the interview
  • Bring up salary or benefits
  • Be too serious or nervous
  • Let your discouragement show
  • Look at your watch or the clock repeatedly

Below are some frequently asked questions and tips on answering them:

"Tell me about yourself."

Briefly, describe your professional experience and background. The interviewer is looking to learn about who you are in the context of work. Answering this gives the interviewer insight into how you may fit into the organization. Don't talk about personal information, such as marriage status, children, etc. If you are unsure what information the interviewer is interested in, you could ask, "Are there any areas, in particular, you would like to know about?"

"What is your biggest weakness?"

Choose something that is not a major flaw or negative characteristic - you do not want to shock the interviewer or make them think you are not a good candidate for the job. Most importantly, don't just say something negative about yourself and leave it at that - turn it into a positive! Describe how you were able to overcome this weakness and a positive way the situation turned out. Show that you have grown as a person, and how that slightly negative characteristic is now a positive attribute that you can bring to this new position. Whenever possible, use specific situations from your previous job to illustrate your point.

"What is your biggest strength?"

This is not an opportunity to brag. Instead, you need to describe why you are the best person for the job. Give a specific example of your strength, what it has helped you accomplish in past work roles, and how it will be beneficial to your performance if you get this job.

"Where do you hope to be five years from now?"

Bottom line, the interviewer wants to know that you want to work for them. They do not want to hear that you plan on going to another company or field of work. Even if you do plan on keeping your options open, this may turn the interviewer off. Instead, focus your answer on new skills you hope to learn and master, and how you plan to use them to benefit the business' goals.

"What is your greatest accomplishment?"

Be sure to give specific examples from previous jobs, such saving the company money, helping increase profits, completing an important project, etc. Try to use numbers to quantify your answer whenever possible. This gives the interviewer a better understanding of this accomplishment. If you just graduated from college, describe an accomplishment from your school work, part-time job, internship or extracurricular activities.

"Why do you want to work for this company?"

This is where your research on the company will be helpful. Perhaps they are innovative in a specific field, and that is what makes you want to join the team? What are their goals, and how can your skills and past experiences help achieve them? Give specific reasons, don't speak in generalities.

Behavioral Interviews

What is behavioral interviewing? In behavioral interviewing, you are asked how you behaved or responded in past work situations. You must reply by giving examples.

Why do interviewers use behavioral interviewing? Past behavior often predicts future performance. By explaining how you behaved in past work situations, you will give the interviewer an understanding of how you may perform and behave in the future.

Preparation:

  • Review the job description. Think about the skills you may need for that position and any problems that could be common in that role. Have an idea of how you would handle such problems.
  • Prepare some answers for the Sample Questions below. There is no need to memorize your answers, but be familiar with examples from your work history and points you want to highlight to the interviewer.
  • Think of situations that you had to respond to in previous roles. Prepare some examples of how your problem solved, dealt with a difficult task, and any memorable accomplishments you have had in previous work situations.

Sample questions:

  • Tell me about a time when you had to go above and beyond the call of duty to get a job done.
  • Tell me about a time when you had to work under pressure.
  • Give me an example of when you had to resolve conflict in the workplace.
  • Have you ever had to make a decision that was unpopular? Please describe how you implemented it.
  • What do you do when your schedule is interrupted? Give an example of how you handle it.
  • Give me an example of a time when you set a goal and were able to meet or achieve it.
  • Tell me about a time when you had to use your communication skills to influence someone's opinion.
  • Can you provide me with an example of a time when you had to conform to a policy with which you did not agree?
  • Tell me about a time when you had too many things to do, and you were required to prioritize your tasks?

During the interview

When answering behavioral interview questions, be sure your answer includes:

  • The situation
  • Steps you took to address or respond to the situation
  • The tasks that needed to be completed
  • The results of the situation

If you do not understand the question, ask for clarification.

Types of Interviews

Telephone Interview

This interview saves the employer time by finding out certain information up front. They may ask about employment objective, education or required skills. It usually takes place in your home, so keep your resume handy and refer to it as needed.

In-Person Interview

This is used to verify the jobseeker's qualifications for the position and to get an impression of the jobseeker's attitude, interest and professional style.

Selection Interview

This is usually conducted by the decision maker. You may be invited back to speak with the same person and with other managers or work group members. Your ability to establish rapport and present yourself as the right person for the position is critical.

Work Sample Interview

This gives you an opportunity to "show your talents." It could be the chance for an artist to display his/her portfolio, or a sales representative may be asked to make a presentation.

Peer Group Interview

This is an opportunity for you to meet and talk with your prospective coworkers. Just as in other interviews, the peer group will be evaluating you and determining how you would fit in.

Group/Panel Interview

This usually consists of three or more people, all asking questions. Direct your answer to the individual asking the question, but try to maintain some eye contact with the other members of the group.

Luncheon Interview

This may be used to see how well you would handle yourself in a social situation. This may include the hiring manager, a human resources member, and one or more peer employees. You may want to choose something off the menu that is easy to eat so you can answer questions and pay attention to the conversation.

Video Conference Interview

Employers today use video conferences to conduct meetings or carry out other aspects of their business. Conducting an interview using a video conference enables an employer to save travel costs and still have a "person-to-person" interview. If the thought of facing a camera during an interview makes you uneasy, practice before a video camera or a mirror.




Other Helpful Sources

Visit your local library or career center for books and other resources on employment interviewing. You can also find lots of information online, including these sites:

US Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics https://www.bls.gov/careeroutlook

Spring 2011 • Occupational Outlook Quarterly, Olivia Crosby, Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections, BLS. Update by Elka Torpey, BLS. Ms.

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