Interviewing

Interviewing

Before an interview, learn as much about the employer, position, and hiring authority as possible. If you found the position through us, we will provide you with web addresses for the company and job description as well as LinkedIn addresses for the hiring authority. In any event, it is up to the candidate to do as much research as possible on the company, job and hiring authority and often times a great deal of that data is easily found on the Internet and through industry contacts.

 

Questions To Ask

After you have studied the company, the job and the hiring authority, make a list of questions to ask. That list may include, but is not limited to the following:

  • Why is this position available?
  • What training programs are available to the person in this position?
  • What are your goals for this position?
  • What obstacles must be overcome for the person in this position to succeed?
  • How will my performance be evaluated?
  • What opportunities are there for growth in the next 12 months? Two years? Five years?
  • What growth do you anticipate for your firm in the next 12 months?

Questions You May Be Asked

Your recruiter should be able to give you a good idea of the hiring authority's personality, his or her typical interview demeanor, and a few important questions that the employer is likely to ask:

  • Tell me about yourself.

    Your recruiter should be able to give you a good idea of the hiring authority's personality, his or her typical interview demeanor, and a few important questions that the employer is likely to ask:.

  • Why are you interested in this position?

    Relate how you feel your qualifications match the job requirements. Also, express your desire to work for the employer.

  • What are the most significant accomplishments in your career?

    Identify recent accomplishments that relate to the position and its requirements.

  • Describe a situation in which your work was criticized.

    Focus on how you resolved the situation and became a better person because of the experience.

  • What have you learned about their organization?

    • This is where your extensive Internet research will pay off!

  • How would you describe your personality?
  • How do you perform under pressure?
  • What have you done to improve yourself over the past year?
  • What did you like least about your last position?
  • Are you leaving (did you leave) your present (last) company?
  • What is your ideal working environment?
  • How would your co-workers describe you?
  • How would your current supervisor describe you?
  • Have you ever fired anyone?

    • What was the situation and how did you handle it?

  • What are your career goals?
  • Where do you see yourself in two years? Five years?
  • Why should I hire you?
  • What kind of salary are you looking for?
  • What other types of jobs/companies are you considering?

Closing the Interview

Job candidates often second-guess themselves after interviews. By asking good questions and closing strongly, you can reduce post-interview doubts. If you feel that the interview went well and you want to take the next step, express your interest to the interviewer.

Try an approach like the following: "After learning more about your company, the position and responsibilities, I believe that I have the qualities you are looking for. Are there any issues or concerns that would lead you to believe otherwise?"

This is an effective closing question because it opens the door for the hiring authority to be honest with you about his or her feelings. If concerns do exist, you may be able to create an opportunity to overcome them, and have one final chance to dispel the concerns, sell your strengths and end the interview on a positive note.

A few things to remember during the closing process:

  • Don't be discouraged if an offer is not made or a specific salary is not discussed. The interviewer may want to communicate with colleagues or conduct other scheduled interviews before making a decision.
  • Make sure that you have thoroughly answered these questions during the interview: "Why are you interested in our company?" and "What can you offer?" Express appreciation for the interviewer's time and consideration.
  • Ask for the interviewer's business card so you can write a thank you letter/email as soon as possible.

Follow-up

After your interview, follow-up is critical. When you get in your car, immediately write down key issues uncovered in the interview. Think of the qualifications the employer is looking for and match your strengths to them. A "thank you" letter should be written no later than 24 hours after the interview. Be sure to call your recruiter to discuss your interview and your next steps, as well.