How to surviveThe Job Interview

Occupational Prep II2012

Research the company

• Know the job duties

• Know the company• Ask questions

Write down your strengths

• Identify your strengths• Relate them to the job • Give examples of where you have

demonstrated these

Appearance matters…a lot!

• If you don’t dress seriously, they can’t take you seriously

• Make a good first impression• Dress conservatively• Be well groomed and clean• Show your creativity in your work, not your

appearance

Details matter• Nicely styled hair• Natural clean looking makeup• Clean your fingernails• Skip the clunky jewelry• Avoid strong perfumes

Greeting & Introduction

Be on time! Use Mr. or Ms. Unless they ask you

to use first names. Give a firm handshake. Don’t sit until you are invited to Always make eye contact Smile!! Remember “please” and “Thank

you” Small talk is good!

Only 1 chance to make a

good impression!

What to bring to the interview

• Several copies of your resume• Your portfolio, if applicable• Notebook & pen• Names, addresses and phone

numbers for references

Body Language: What signals are you sending?

Positive signals:Leaning forward =

InterestedSmiling = friendlyNodding = attentive &

alertEye contact = curious &

focused

Body Language

Negative signals: Crossed arms = defensive Fidgeting hands or tapping feet =

nervous or bored Lack of eye contact = untrustworthy Leaning back = discomfort

Types of Interview Questions

Be prepared to talk about yourself and your experiences.

Provide specific examples of your experiences or accomplishments.

Remain positive, enthusiastic and confident throughout the interview.

Frequently asked questions• Tell me about yourself• How has your education prepared you for this

position?• Who or what has had the greatest influence on the

development of your career interests?• Why are you interested in this company?• Tell me about your strengths.• What are your weaknesses?• Why should I hire you?

Frequently asked questions

• What has been your greatest challenge?• What work experience has been the

most valuable to you and why.• How do you solve conflicts?• Give me an example of a problem you

solved.• How do you motivate people?• Do you consider yourself a “team

player”?• What frustrates you the most?• What can you contribute to our

company?

General Interview Strategies

Avoid filler words such as “um”, “ah” and “you know”.

Avoid indecisive phrases such as: “I think”, “I guess”, “probably”, “pretty good”.

Think before speakingAvoid long answers If you did not hear or

understand the question, ask them to repeat it for you.

Remain calm, relaxed and be yourself!

Make a solid Impression

• Ask good questions• Thank the interviewer• Extend a handshake• Request a business

card• Inquire about next

steps in the process• Let them know that

you want the job

Interview don’ts Don’t make negative comments about

previous employers or supervisors Don’t treat the interview too casually Don’t give the impression you are

only interested about money Don’t chew gum or smell like smoke Don’t take cell phone calls during the

interview Don’t act desperate to take anything Don’t make excuses – take

responsibility for your actions Don’t lie

Follow up

• Send a thank you note within 24 hours

• Letter may be handwritten or typed; email is also acceptable

• Tailor each one to the individual

Evaluate

After the interview, take some time to reflect.

How did you do overall? What were your strengths? What needs improvement? What steps can I take next

time to improve?

THANK YOU!