Interview Tips

Interview Preparation

Preparation is the first crucial step toward a gainful interview. Interviewers are constantly amazed at how many people walk into their offices without noticeable preparation, any idea of what they are going to say during the discussion, or evidence of knowledge pertaining to the company in which they wish to work for.

Therefore, it is extremely important to:

Research to find out facts about the company; type of operation, what its products or services are, annual sales, food and beverage volume, number of employees (at this location, as well as company wide), what past growth has been, potential for future growth, etc. The following are inquisitive questions to ponder:

• What is the company's mission statement?
• What is the company's organizational structure?
• What problems currently exist within the company?
• Any other relevant questions regarding the position (who you report to, working hours, etc.)

Prepare questions to ask during the interview. Always remember that an interview works two ways. The employer will try to determine through questioning if the candidate has the vital credentials for the job. The interviewee must determine through inquiries and research if the company will provide the opportunity for the desired growth and development.

Know the exact place and time of the interview, the interviewer's full name(s), the correct pronunciation, as well as his or her title(s). Even if this means calling the company the day before for directions, or driving past the establishment prior to the scheduled interview; this will prevent you from wasting time circling around an unfamiliar area just before the interview.

Always dress in business attire; Men should generally a white or soft pastel shirt with a conservative tie, dark socks, shined shoes and well-groomed hair.

Women should wear a conservative dress, or a skirted suit and low heels.

What To Expect During The Interview:

Most interviewers generally cover these areas:

· An ice breaker, small talk that makes you feel more comfortable and allows the interviewer to get to know you.

· An opening question, commonly on how you found out about the position and/or the organization. Here the interviewer searches for appearance, responsiveness and manner.

· Work experience, the interviewer looks for the relevance of previous work experience, skill, adaptability, productivity, motivation, competence, interpersonal relations, leadership, growth and development. To determine those skills, (s)he may ask you to describe your accomplishments, how you've dealt with sticky situations and what you've learned from your work experience.

· Educational experience, including relevance of your schooling, level of accomplishment, span and depth of knowledge, versatility, leadership, teamwork and reaction to authority are all qualities the interviewer(s) evaluates during this phase of the interview process.

Currently, the trend is towards behavior-based interview questions. For example, "Tell me a time when you had to resolve a problem" or "Describe a situation that demonstrates your leadership skills."

Some other questions you should be prepared to answer include: What are your chief strengths? What can you bring to the job? What qualities do others see in you? Why should we hire you?

On the opposite end of the spectrum, what areas do you need improvement in? How can our company help you grow? How do you accept constructive criticism?

Do's and Don'ts Regarding the Interview:

1. Do plan to arrive five to ten minutes early. Arriving late for a job interview is never excusable, acceptable or professional.

2. If presented with an application prior to the start of the interview, do use pen and fill it out completely and legibly. Don't simply state, "see attached resume" on the application and leave it blank.

3. Don't chew gum, or eat candy.

4. Do greet the interviewer by his or her surname if you are sure of the pronunciation. If not, ask him to repeat their name.

5. Do shake hands firmly, while looking the interviewer directly in the eyes.

6. Do wait until you are offered a seat before sitting. Sit straight in your chair and look alert and interested at all times. Be a good listener as well as a good speaker and most importantly, smile.

7. Do maintain eye contact while speaking with a prospective employer.

8. Don't answer the questions with a simple "yes" or "no" response. Give explanations and details whenever possible.

9. Do make sure that your good points get across to the interviewer in an honest, genuine manner. Keep in mind that you alone can sell yourself to an interviewer(s). Make them realize they need you in their organization. Sell yourself to them.

10. Don't make negative comments about your present or former employers.

11. Don't inquire about salary, bonuses, retirement, vacation time and/or other benefits during the first interview. If asked what salary you are in search of, specify that you're more interested in the long-term growth opportunity than a specific salary, simply stating that salary is negotiable.

12. Do conduct yourself as if you are determined to get the position you are discussing. Frequently, you may find out information during the interview, which really gets your attention and desire for the position. If you get the impression that the interview is not going well and that you have been rejected, don't let your discouragement show. Don't assume that it is automatically you; the interviewer may be having a bad day.

Closing the Interview:

1. If you are interested in the position, ask for a second interview if the situation demands. If (s)he offers the position to you and you want it, accept it on the spot. If you wish some time to think it over, be considerate and careful in asking for that time. Set a definite date when you can provide a response.
2. Don't be discouraged if no offer is made or specific salary discussed. The interviewer will most likely want to consult with his/her office first, set up a second interview or interview more applicants, before making a final decision
3. Do thank the interviewer(s) for their time and their consideration of you.

After the Interview:

1. If you are working through a recruiter or job placement service, it is exceptionally important that you call your recruiter as soon as possible, to discuss how the interview went. Your recruiter will then know when to follow-up with the hiring company. Possibly, the recruiter will have worked with the company before and can give you some pertinent information and feedback. Your recruiter needs to know your impression of the interview in order to act in your best interest when dealing with the company.
2. Always take the time to write a thank you note to the interviewer(s), even if you have verbally thanked them already. This is an ideal time to confirm your interest in the position. It is also a matter of courtesy and demonstrates good manners. In a situation where you are seeking employment, you can never be over polite. If you are not interested in the position, that can be stated also. Keep in mind you may meet this person again in a similar situation and the manner in which you conduct yourself will be remembered.