So, Tell Me About Yourself…

Insider Tips for Acing Your Interview

Interviewing Can Be Stressful… Even for the most seasoned professional. These tips and tricks will help you feel prepared for your interview before, during, & after the meeting.

Do Your Homework Now is the time to really dig deep…

• Research the organization: check out the Devex company directory • Learn the job description and match your skills to it’s requirements • Know your resume: refresh your memory of past experiences

Know Cultural Norms If you’re from a different culture than the one you’re interviewing in, be aware of cultural subtleties ahead of time. Some to consider: dress code, handshakes, business cards, eye contact, questions about marital status, age, etc.

The Practice Round How would you respond to the following? • Why are you interested in international development? • Why do you want to work for this organization? • Describe a project where you did not succeed. What did you learn? • What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Get Off on the Right Foot

• Map out the meeting location the night

before

• Arrive with time to spare… 10 minutes

early is the general rule

• Bring the interviewer’s name and phone

number with you just in case

• Be prepared to provide extra copies of

your CV

Be Positive & Professional Do: • Focus on why you want to work for the organization • Articulate your points clearly • Describe why you find the position interesting

Don’t: • Speak negatively about past experiences or employers • Seem distracted… keep your cell phone switched off and put away

Relax Usually there aren’t right or wrong answers to interview questions. More often than not recruiters are just trying to gauge how you approach challenges… “It’s okay to ask for clarity and take a moment to gather your thoughts together.” -Valarie Barksdale, Recruitment Specialist, Catholic Relief Services

Use Specific Examples And give thorough responses. The interview is the time to play all your cards and really show the interviewers what you will bring to the position…

Interview the Interviewer Always ask questions… Having thoughtful ones prepared can set you apart from your competition. Avoid These Topics Though: • Salary • Benefits • Overtime • Topics that are too personal

Let’s Discuss Next Steps? This question is a great way to close your interview. It reiterates your interest in the position and gives the recruiter motivation to follow-up.

After the Interview Make notes about your meeting. This will help keep you organized, especially if you’re interviewing with many organizations at once. And, send the interviewer a thank you note. Use this as a way to expand on how you will add value to the organization.

Looking for More Career Advice? Find more insider tips here…