Does the thought of interviewing for a job make you nervous? We all know the scenario: the sweaty palms, the quiver in your voice, the knot in your stomach; it’s not pleasant. Interviewing is an unavoidable and crucial aspect to your success. Make a great impression during your interview by showing how you can solve their problems. Show them that you are the person to meet their needs. By tying these back to your own accomplishments and credentials, you’ll make it easy for interviewers to see just how valuable you are.
Before the Interview
Before the interview, you’ll want to research the employer. Begin by visiting the website to learn more about what the organization says about itself. Click on the “About Us” section to briefly learn about their history and how they describe themselves.
If the employer is active on social media, visit their sites and follow them. Employers like to announce happenings in real-time; this will keep you up to date. Skim over the employer’s annual report. This will help you to determine how financially stable they are
During the Interview: Four Key Question Areas
An interview can seem like an inquisition. This is usually because you’re doing all of the answering and none of the asking. Below are four key question areas which will give you insight and find out more about the organization and the role.
Identify their pain
Find out what one of the biggest problems the organization faces and how someone with your experience or skill set could help to alleviate the problem.
Determine whether you’d fit in
Find out how the employer would describe the department’s culture and what attracted them to the organization.
Show you’re really interested
Find out what information you can provide them about your qualifications and what the next steps are in the selection process.
Ask Follow-ups
Ask questions like “Can you clarify what you said about…?” or “Can you give me some examples of…?” This might help to clarify, simplify or explain anything you may not fully understand.
After the Interview
The majority of job seekers put a great deal of effort into applying for a position and putting a lasting impression on their interview. However, there is another aspect to job hunting which a lot of people seem to neglect – the follow-up.
Take the time to write a short thank you note after your interview. Within two to three business days, send a short Thank You email or perhaps mail a card conveying your appreciation to your interviewer.
After another week or two passes and you haven’t heard from the employer you’ve interviewed with? Follow up with a courteous phone call or email asking when you should expect to hear from them next.
An employer may be faced with two or more “equal” candidates. A Thank You note could be the subtle detail that ensures you get the job. Paying attention to details and demonstrating your professionalism will pay off.
Resources: http://media.newjobs.com/na/cms/images/Monster-Interview-Toolkit.pdf