Interviewing

Chapter #5

Identify methods of preparing for interviews. Recognize the factors that create an

employer’s first impression of a job candidate. Anticipate and answer typical and tough

interview questions. Apply procedures for following up on an

interview. Recognize proper methods of accepting and

rejecting employment.

Chapter Objectives

Before an Interview

Section #5.1

Prepare carefully for an interview.

Interview: A formal meeting between an employer and a job applicant to

discuss possible employment. Research the company and current events in the industry

by… Using the library to find books, magazines, and newspaper

articles about the company. Using financial magazines or newspapers to research current

industry events or market trends that affect the company. Researching competitors that affect the company’s sales. Asking the public relations department for the company’s

annual report or press kit to check out the company’s history. Visiting the company’s website for up-to-the-minute

information. Talking to people who work for the company.

Know Before You Go

Rehearse the following before an interview:

Practice your telephone skills. Interview with a friend. Use a mirror. Use a tape recorder. Prepare answers to typical questions.

Rehearsal Time

Plan what you will wear at an interview. Dress conservatively and avoid flashy items. Appear neat and well-groomed.

Dress for Success

Arrive on Time!!!

From Door to Door

During the Interview: It’s

Showtime

Section #5.2

Employers will evaluate your attitude and your

communication skills at interviews. Be positive and enthusiastic. Body Language:

The gestures, posture, and eye contact you use to send messages.

At the Top of the List: ATTITUDE

You will probably be asked some typical

questions at an interview. Typical Questions:

What goals have you set for yourself? What do you think are your greatest strengths? What do you think are your greatest weaknesses? Why did you apply for our company? Why would you be right for this job? Where do you see yourself in five years?

Be prepared to answer them.

Typical Questions

You may be asked some tough questions designed to rattle you.

Tough Questions: How can the company be assured that you’ll give us your best effort? What qualities do you have that offset your lack of experience? Are you going to move to a better job as soon as you gain experience

here? We’re a very competitive company. Why do you want to work here? Let’s pretend you made a major mistake on the job. What would you

do to fix it? I can only offer you a lower position, so you’ll have to work your way

up. Can you handle that? Why should I hire you? What makes you different from all of the other candidates I’ve

interviewed? Be prepared to respond to them with a calm and positive

attitude.

Tough Questions

Be prepare to ask your own questions. Asking questions can demonstrate genuine

interest. Example Questions:

What are the employee benefits? Does the company pay for training? What is the potential for growth in this

company?

You Can Ask Too

Some questions may involve role-playing or

problem solving to evaluate your ability to think on your feet. Role-Playing:

To play a role in an invented situation and are evaluated on the skills you display.

Problem Solving: Using thinking skills to suggest a solution.

Standing in the Spotlight

Some questions are illegal for an employer to

ask during an interview. You are not required to answer them. Stress:

Mental or physical tension that is the body’s natural response to conflict.

Can They Ask You That?

After an Interview: Following Up

Chapter #5.3

Evaluate your performance after an interview.

Jot down some notes. Send a follow-up letter. Don’t forget to call back.

Tying Up the Loose Ends

Follow standard procedures for accepting or

rejecting employment. Don’t say no during an interview. Always leave the door open for the future.

Accepting or Rejecting

Read Chapter #18: “Interviewing for Jobs”

(pgs. 329-339) in the “From School to Work” textbook.

Answer Questions #1-13 under the “Facts in Review” section in pt. #340.

Homework Assignment

Kimbrell, G., & Vineyard, B. (2006).

“Succeeding in the world of work.” Glencoe McGraw-Hill; New York.

Bibliography