Interview Preparation Tips

We all know that today's job market is tough. We are all blessed if we can even get an interview with all the countless resumes and applications we submit. But when we do get offered an interview, how do we land the job? It's hard to understand exactly what the employer is looking for. Most of the time we feel we are put on the spot when the employer starts asking questions, kind of like saying, "The interrogation begins". There are a few things to remember to prepare yourself for the interview.

Always research the company. Do this no later than the night before. Try to find out it's background (ie: the year it was established, what kind of service they perform, if it has any mottoes or sayings). Most companies will ask you if you are familiar with their company or what they do there.

You need to make sure you are clean and dressed properly for the interview (ie: blouse and slacks for an office position or a nice shirt and jeans for a manufacturing or production job). Appearance is the first thing the employer will be observing. This also means, for the ladies, keep makeup down to the basics. Do not use to much perfume or cologne. If you are a smoker, do not smoke before your interview. This is another thing that the interviewer will be observing. As of today, most businesses have a smoke free environment. They do not want their employees to smell like smoke. Also, I have to add, do not smoke before the interview and think you can cover it up with cologne or perfume before you go in. The interviewer with either smell the combination of perfume and tobacco or be over-powered with the amount of perfume you use. Do not wear clothing (for example a jacket) that you have worn while smoking. If you must wear it, make sure it has been washed first or you will smell like stale tobacco. Save smoking for after the interview.

Usually, during the interview you will be asked a series of questions that almost seem like trick questions. The main things to remember are to keep your answers short (under two minutes), don't fidget, and maintain good eye contact. Maintaining eye contact shows that you are interested and confident. Though I can't give you specific answers to these questions, I can help you figure out a good way of answering them.

Some questions you may be asked:

1) What are you looking for in an opportunity with this or any other company?

You might say something along the lines of: I am seeking a solid, stable, dependable company that sets clear expectations because I can and will deliver more than is expected. I am extremely impressed with your company and the opportunities it may provide me.

2) Do you work well with other people or by yourself?

You could say: I have had the opportunities of being able to work in many different environments. I have worked well alone and with others, both in a relaxed and tension filled environment, as well as in big or small groups. I find that I am adaptable and work well in just about any environment.

3) What do people like least about you?

I am the type of person who wants to get things done and I will assume control when no one steps forward. (This would be a good answer so that you don't sound like you are putting yourself down.)

4) What are your greatest weaknesses?

I often expect the same commitment and passion from others that I tend to have. I follow guidelines, policies, and procedures because I feel like they have been placed for a reason. (In this, your negatives can easily be seen as positives.)

5) How do you handle criticism?

You could say: I appreciate constructive criticism, it helps me learn and perform my job better.

Another question that may be asked is, "what skills would you bring to this company?" In other words, they are asking why they should hire you over any one else. A few things to think of...Are you a diligent worker? Do you not call in unless it's a true emergency? Are you good with computers or customer service? These would be fairly good answers for this type of question.

It's time for you to ask questions at the end of the interview. What type of things should you enquire about? If not already discussed, you could try a few of these:

What shift will the position be for?

How many hours would I expect from an average work week?

Do you offer insurance or other benefits?

How much does the position pay? (Save any questions about how much the position pays for last.)

More answers to questions similar to the ones stated above as well as other useful information may be found in the book "The Job Search Solution" or "What Color is Your Parachute".