HRD - workplace skills
Interviewing
Before the interview:
It helps to practice answering your interview questions. You should also get a good night's sleep and know how to get to your destination. Wear something that is one step above what you would wear on the job. Also research the company's website to familiarize yourself with their product.
At the Interview:
You should also go a few minutes early. Take extra resumes, references, and a list of the questions you want to ask. You should go to the interview alone, to eliminate perceptions of insecurity. The interview begins when you walk in the door. During the interview you should not smoke. You should speak clearly so the person that is doing the interviewing can understand what you are saying. You should stand up when some one comes to get you and shake their hand. You should be confident and relaxed when you introduce yourself. Give the interviewer a firm "one, two" handshake. You should avoid placing personal items on the interviewer's desk. Let the interviewer lead the interview. You should make eye contact, have good posture and have shoulders facing the interviewer. Your hands should be on a table if there is one, and both feet should be on the floor. You should pay close attention to the interviewer and be still during the interview. Questions should be answered in a positive and brief manner. Don't criticize past employers or coworkers. Show interest in the company by asking questions not pertaining to benefits, wages, or general rules. Be aware when the interview is over; ask when a decision may be available: thank the person: shake hands, and leave promptly. It is also good to ask for a business card, so you have their name and information for later follow-up.
After the interview:
Follow up with a thank you letter, and evaluate your performance and learn from your mistakes.
Written by 21st Century Students: April Burgess & Brenda Lewis
Interview Questions You Might Be Asked
1. Tell me about yourself.
2. Why would you like to work for this company?
3. What do you want to be doing in 5 years?
4. What job position would you like the most?
5. What qualifications do you have for this job?
6. Do you prefer to work alone or with others?
7. How do you spend your spare time?
8. What courses or subjects did you like in school?
9. What kinds of grades did you make in school?
10. What are your strengths?
11. What are your weaknesses?
12. What previous positions have you held in your in your work experience?
13. Why did you leave or are leaving your present position?
14. What are the salary expectations?
15. How do you feel about overtime?
16. How do you feel about your work attendance? Are you often tardy?
17. How did you become interested in this company?
18. What do you know about this company?
19. Are you willing to relocate if necessary?
20. Do you get along well with other people?
21. What type of work environment do you most enjoy?
22. Why should I hire you?
23. Do you have any questions for me?
Questions To Ask the Interviewer
1. Why is this job open or available?
2. How would you describe a typical day on the job?
3. Why did the last person leave?
4. What are your expectations for this job?
5. To whom would I be reporting?
6. What are the promotional and career opportunities here?
7. Does the company promote or sponsor educational opportunities for its employees?
8. With what kind of team will I work?
9. Is my background and experience a good match?
10. When do you expect to make a decision on this position?
11. When can I expect to hear from you?
12. Can I please see where my work area will be?
13. May I have a tour of the workplace?
Additional Interview Tips: http://www.ncesc.com/individual/careerInfo/InterviewTips.pdf
http://jobsearch.about.com/od/interviewsnetworking/a/illegalinterv.htm
Read the Illegal Questions and work through all the Interview Resources.
