Preparation is critical when you want to convey a positive and polished image in order to have a productive and successful interview. Before your first interview, there are some important steps to take to prepare yourself. Understand yourself and the positive traits that you have to offer.
- Write down about your skills, interests, and values.
- Know your strengths and weaknesses, and be able to give examples to demonstrate your strengths.
- Think about decisions you have made, the thought process behind each one, and the outcome.
- Identify the accomplishments that you are proud of and how you achieved them.
- Provide examples of how you have developed your skills.
- Explain why you are interested in a specific industry and position.
- Define your short- and long-term goals.
Prepare your documents.
- Make several copies of your resume and cover sheet.
- Bring your portfolio and letters of recommendation.
- Bring copies of your university diplomas if they are not in your portfolio.
- Be sure you have your identification and social security card with you.
Research the employer, the position, and the industry or field.
- Know what salary range is usual for this type of position.
- Read current periodicals and trade journals to learn about the latest trends in the industry.
- Review mission statements, annual reports, and company literature.
- Find out the names of the firm’s competitors.
- Where does the firm stand in the industry?
- Who are their clients or customers?
- Familiarize yourself with the employer’s organizational structure.
Practice, practice, and practice some more for the interview
- Hire a Career Coach to review your interview strategy and help you with difficult questions.
- Practice answering interview questions with a friend, and/or use a tape recorder to record your answers. You can critique your answers, or ask a friend to do so.
Additional Information
- Look at the interview from the employer’s perspective. Know what they want and give examples to prove you can deliver.
- Prepare a strategy for each interview; and share the information you feel is appropriate and relevant.
- Stay focused; keep the conversation on the topic. Be as concise as possible.
- Don’t dominate the interview; allow the interviewer to lead the meeting and guide the questions.
- Ask appropriate and well-prepared questions.
- Don’t expect an offer on the spot.
- Be assertive, not aggressive, and be confident, not cocky.
- Practice your firm, confident handshake.
A powerful resume = job interviews = job offers!
“If You Are Not Happy With the Results Your Resume is Generating Then Act Now to Change Your Future”
We look forward to partnering with you in the future, Candace Davies ACCC, CRW, CIC, CPRW, CEIP, CECC Review Candace’s credentials here.