Career Lander

Archive for the ‘Interviews’ Category

Often, a job interview has several stages. Most likely, it will include a phone interview. Here’s how to succeed at one.

1. Be in a quiet place. A noisy setting can be distracting and unprofessional.

2. Use a land line phone. Cell phones can break up and lose their signal at the most inappropriate times.

3. Use the speaker instead of holding the phone up to your ear. This will keep your hands free to take notes. Also, it will feel more like a real interview if you don’t have to keep a device attached to your ear the entire time.

4. Place a mirror in front of you. You can monitor your facial expressions and feel like there is someone in front of you.

5. Dress as if you were going to an interview. This can put you in the right state of mind.

6. Smile when you speak. This may sound irrelevant, but that smile will change the way you sound. You will sound positive and upbeat.

7. Stand up. This will give you more confidence.

The purpose of an interview is to allow the employer to see and talk with the prospective employee. Oftentimes people do not get the jobs they want because they make mistakes during their interview.

In this article you will find out what steps are needed in order to succeed at your interview.

1. Prior to the interview take the time to learn as much as you can about your potential employer such as product(s), how long as the company existed, number of employees, subsidiaries (if any), competitors.

2. Know the location of your interview, before the day of the interview. Drive to this location the day before.

Arrive 15-20 minutes before the interview. By allowing yourself extra time reduces the stress of interviewing.

3. Know the position: Most companies have the job posted on their website for review. Remember, you cannot ask smart questions without knowing what you need to ask

4. Dress appropriately. The first impression may be the last. Dark colors such as navy blue, black or gray should be worn for men and women. Women should never wear pants, and should always wear hosiery. Suits are preferred for most corporations.

5. When you arrive at the interview site, turn off your cell phone/pager before entering the building. Greet the the person at the front desk with a smile. State you name and purpose for your visit. Speak clearly.

Example: Hello my name is (your name) and I have a 9:00 appointment with Mrs. Williams.

6. If you are offered beverages do not accept as it is difficult to handle a drink and interview at the same time.

Do not chew gum and eat candy while waiting or during the interview.

When the interviewer arrives, stand and introduce yourself, and do not sit until he or she motions for you to sit. Posture is very important so sit up high, with feet on the floor. Read the rest of this entry »