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Interview Tips

How Do I Get An Interview?
During the Interview, How Do I Make a Good Impression?

How Do I Get An Interview?

Let's suppose you have already sent out resumes and filled out applications, but you haven't heard from anyone and are ready to make some "cold calls." You will need an appointment with the hiring authority, so here goes:

Basic Rules Keep a calendar or appointment book in front of you and have a pen and paper to write down information. Don't forget, your objective is to get the interview! Do not ask questions that can be answered with "no." Be persistent. Agree with what you are told, but keep trying for your goal. Practice by role-playing with a friend or relative. Put A Smile In Your Voice! If you have Call Waiting, cancel it before you dial the number. (*70 then dial number.)

1. Call the place of business and get as much information as you can from the receptionist.

"I need some information, please. Who is in charge of the __________ department?" (Get correct spelling and pronunciation of the name.) "What is his(her) correct title?" "Does he have a secretary?" "What is her(his) name?" "Does she have a direct line?" "What is the number?" "Thank you." (Hang up.)

2. Call the secretary.

* "Hello ______ (name of secretary). This is _____ (your name). Is (Mr/Ms.) _____________ in?" TIP: Be friendly and courteous. Make a friend of the secretary.

3. Overcome the secretary's screening.

Examples:

* Question: What is the nature of your call? Answer: It's personal.

* Question: What company are you with? Answer: This is a personal call.

* Question: He/she is busy. May I take a message? Answer: I'll be away from the phone. When would be a good time to call back?

* Question: Is this regarding employment? Answer: Yes, it is. I understand that (Mr/Ms) __________ is knowledgeable in the __________ field and I was hoping (he/she) could spare me a few minutes to help in my job search. May I speak to (him/her), please?

4. Introducing Yourself to the Hiring Authority.

* Hello (Mr/Ms.) ____________, my name is _______. I'm a (job title and summary of experience). I need a few minutes of your time. Would ______________ (day, time) be OK or would ________________ (day, time) be better?

5. Overcoming Objections From the Hiring Authority:

* Objection: "We don't have any openings now."

Answer #1: "I wasn't sure if you did, but I want to be the first one you call when you do need someone. Could I come by __________ (day, time) or would ___________ (day, time) be better?
Optional Answer #2: "I'd like to hand you a copy of my resume in case you have an opening later or hear of one at another company. Would _________ (day, time) be all right for me to come by, or would ___________ (day, time) be better?

* Objection: "I'm busy."

Answer: "I'm sure you are. Would ___________ (day, time) be ok for me to come in to see you? Or would ___________ (day, time) be better?

* Objection: "Personnel handles all our hiring."

Answer: "I'll certainly contact them -- who should I talk to? I'd appreciate just a few minutes of your time if you would advise me on my job search. Would ___________ (day, time) be OK for me to come in and see you, or would ______________ (day, time) be better?

* Objection: "Send me your resume."

Answer: "Thanks, I'll be glad to. By the way, I'll be in your area (date)________. If you have about 30 seconds, I'd like to shake your hand and give you my resume in person so you can 'put a face' to it. Would morning or afternoon be better?"
TIP: When you go to the place of business, bring a cover letter (and business card if you have one) with you in case you don't get to see him/her. If you do see him, hand him the resume and ask if there is anything he sees on it that he would like to discuss with you.

* Objection: "Call me back later."

Answer: "I'll be happy to. Would __________ (day, time) be convenient?" [When you call back, tell the secretary that (name)is expecting your call.]

* Objection: "I'll call you."

Answer: "I won't be near a phone for a while. Would _________ (day, time) be a good time to call you back? Or would _________ (day, time) be better?" TIP: If all else fails, always ask "Do you know anyone else in your company (or in this industry) who may be hiring?

6. Closing the Call

* If you make the appointment: "(Mr./Ms.) _____________, I'm looking forward to meeting you on _____________ (day, time). My name is ________________, spelled _______________. Thanks for all your help. Goodbye."
TIP: Call the receptionist back to get the exact address and directions, if needed.

* If you are NOT able to make an appointment: "I appreciate your help. Thanks. Goodbye."

During The Interview, How Do I Make a Good Impression?

What do you think is the MOST important qualification to get hired for most jobs? Experience? Education? Surprisingly, the answer is Personality, with a capital "P"! Likability is often ignored or overlooked by job-seekers. Skills and accomplishments are necessary, of course, but there are many other job-seekers out there who have the same skills you do.

How do hiring authorities determine which person to hire out of dozens of equally qualified applicants? They base their choice primarily on how well they think you will fit in, how likable you are. No matter how impressive your work record is, if the interviewer dislikes you because of your mannerisms, attitude or attire, you will almost certainly not get the job. The candidates who are invited back for a second interview are the ones who are likable.

"But that's not fair!" you say. "I can do the job, and my resume proves it!" Fair or not, that's the real world. Follow some of these tips to give yourself a step up:

1. First impressions are important. Your clothing should be business-like apparel: no gaudy jewelry, frilly dresses, blue jeans or tee shirts.

2. Smile. Employers want to hire happy people, people who contribute positively toward employee morale.

3. Do your homework. Find out all you can about the company BEFORE you go in for the interview so you will appear interested in them, not just a salary.

4. Look for things you can agree on, points of commonality.

5. Be alert -- listen carefully. Ask questions if appropriate.

6. Answer questions in a natural, relaxed manner. (Don't get too relaxed!)

7. Keep strong opinions to yourself until after you are hired.

8. Avoid talking too much during the interview. Avoid boasting about yourself excessively.

9. Remember: The employer is always right. Do NOT argue with him or her.

10. Do NOT tell the employer how you think he should run his business. That will immediately remove you from consideration for the job.