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· How can I be most effective on a telephone interview? |
It is becoming increasingly customary for companies to use phone interviews as an initial employment screening technique. These interviews can be lengthy so be prepared to be interviewed for 25 to 30 minutes. With most businesses having conference calling and speaker phone capabilities, be prepared for there to be multiple people on the phone during the interview.
Use a high quality phone. Cell phones that have the potential to cut in and out or an inexpensive home phone can make it hard for you and the interviewer to be able to listen clearly.
Be prepared. Have your resume, cover letter and a list of points you would like to convey to the interviewer with you. This will ensure you touch on important points you feel need to be emphasized.
Sit up straight at a table or stand during your phone interview. From a psychological aspect, you will feel more knowledgeable and self assured.
A successful phone interview will lead to a face-to-face interview.
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· Can you suggest some face-to-face interviewing tips? |
Arrive 5 minutes before the interview.
Eat a light snack or small meal before arriving at your interview.
Bring your resume and a positive attitude.
Remember that interviewers can be just as nervous as you so relax but be in control what you say.
Make sure you have the directions to the office and do a trial run before the interview day.
Be enthusiastic and have a positive attitude.
Casual conversation initated by the interviewer is used to get a feel for your personality and temperament.
Research the company on the internet before going to the interview.
Wait to be offered a chair before sitting.
Sit up straight and look attentive. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer.
Be a good listener and take interest in what the interviewer has to say.
Communicate your points in a straight forward and concise manner.
Come with a list of intelligent questions.
Dont ........
o Arrive late
o Smoke or wear perfume/cologne
o Chew gum or candy
o Speak negatively
o Reiterate your resume
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· What questions are typically asked in an interview? |
Why do you want to work here? This is the time to utilize the research you collected on the company prior to the interview. State what you learned about the position and list several qualities you uniquely possess which would make your skills and knowledge a perfect fit to the position. Never mention money as the reason you want the position.
Why did you leave your last job? Never say anything negative about your previous employer. Be as diplomatic as possible and if necessary, explain any problems you may have experienced. Try to describe the situation as a learning experience that will not affect your future work. Also find some positives to mention as well.
Tell me about yourself? This can be a difficult question to answer because of the broad nature of the question. Keep the answer on a professional level, by making a short organized statement of your professional achievements, education and goals. A solid response here can lead the conversation in the direction of your specific qualifications and how they will meet the companys needs.
What is you major weakness? Everyone has weaknesses and strengths so being honest with yourself is important. However, choosing a weakness that you can either turn into a strength or demonstrate the steps you have taken to overcome the weakness are important. This shows the interviewer you are capable of recognizing your areas that need improvement and your willingness to take the initiative for self improvement.
What are your salary expectations? Research the salary range in your field prior to the interview to see what comparable jobs in your area are currently paying. It is best not to discuss specifics before receiving the job offer. However, if pressed for an answer, offering a salary range instead of a specific number is preferred.
Where do you see yourself in five years? Interviewers want to see if your future is compatible with their plans. Dont be vague with this answer. Since you have researched the company prior to the interview, tailor your goals to each specific company. Also discuss the steps you will take to meet these goals. Let the interviewer know you are ambitious and organized and will meet your goals.
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· Would you give me some tips on the best way to prepare a resume? |
Taylor your resume for each position focusing on the job description and your ability to meet those needs.
Use action words at the beginning of the sentence such as developed, maintained, organized, presented, etc.
Select an easy to read font such as Arial or Times New Roman at 12 points.
Always have someone to proof read your resume prior to sending it outone error could cost you the job.
The top third of your page is the most viewed by a prospective employer so list your most valuable achievements here.
If you are sending your resume via email, send as an attachment and name it by your last name, first name, resume. This makes retrieval easier. Example: Smith, John Resume
Use good quality white or cream-colored paper.
Choose an email address that sounds professional.
Ask prior to listing a person as a reference on your resume.
Avoid italics, script and underlined words.
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