Interviewing Tips

You Don't Have a Second Chance To Make a Memorable First Impression!

An employer's interest in a candidate is generally decided within the first twenty minutes.Can you do something to ensure that you aren't ruled out before the interview even starts? 

The foundation for a successful interview is preparation

Whether interviewing for a senior exectuive or patternmaking, there are certain consistent, predictable parts of every interview. Spend some time and be prepared:

• Perform the necessary research to learn as much as possible about the company with whom you'll be interviewing. Explore the business section of your local library and gather information about the company and its management. Review the company's recent annual and quarterly reports. Read financial and other pertinent publications for up-to-date information. Follow the company's stock price if it's publicly traded. Search the Internet.

• If your prospective employer has retail outlets in the area, visit them to get a front-line feel for the organization . For certain manufacturers, look for their products at retail stores and ask sales representatives about quality and sales volume.

• Prepare questions about the company - its products, services, people and work environment- to ask during the interview. This allows you an opportunity to continue selling yourself. Have a list, don't cross-examine, make them job related, and ask questions that require an explanation.

• Practice does make perfect! Honestly assess your employment background and develop explanations for any weak points.

• Be friendly, yet businesslike. Listen closely to questions and make sure your responses are relevant and focused. Use examples from your past accomplishments or problem solving to make your point.

• Show interest in the company and the interviewer by asking questions yourself, but don't dominate the interview.

• Be ready for compensation conversation: Statistics show that money is often the fifth most important reason why people make career moves. All too often, individuals stumble on the questions of compensation. Some inflate current compensation, others  nervously choose to avoid the subject altogether.
  
  When confronted with the question of compensation, always answer truthfully. Be prepared to detail direct and indirect compensation (base salary, bonus and profit-sharing if applicable). Don't underestimate your true gross income. Know how to respond to the question, "I need to know if we can afford you. What are you looking for?"

• Ending the interview Does this sound like you? "Thanks for taking the time from your schedule to speak with me today. I've enjoyed meeting you and think the company is doing some exciting things...hope to hear from you soon." As the interview moves to a close, express your appreciation and your interest in the position and company.
  
  Always end the interview assertively. If you want something, ask for it. Remember, you are competing against not only the other applicants for a position but against every answer given by every candidate that person has ever interviewed. Make yourself memorable with the your presentation, your interest in the company, and your close. Remember, the last thing you say is the first thing they'll remember.

Learn the interview secrets your competition knows!
Contact Marty and be prepared...