Preparation for Successful Job Interviews
Prepare Yourself
* Obtain a copy of the job description.
* Use the employer information and the employers websites to gather information (annual reports, employee handbooks, policy statements, employee newsletters) on the organization.
* Conduct informational interviews with persons in similar positions to learn about the career field and how your skills may apply.
* Develop a list of appropriate questions that reflect your research.
* Be sure to know the culture of the country where you are interviewing. U.S. employers are expecting you to articulate your future career goals and past accomplishments. They are assessing you according to American values such as self-confidence, initiative, directness, and individualism.
Know Yourself
* What are my skills and abilities?
* What are my strengths?
* How do my skills and experiences relate to the position and employers needs?
* What contributions will I bring to the employer?
* Am I willing to relocate?
* How do my values compare to the philosophy of the organization?
* If interviewing in a country other than your home country, do you understand the cultural expectations?
Interview Practice
* Practice interview questions and answers
* Schedule a mock interview with your friend or family to gain experience and feedback.
* Be aware of your body language what is your body language under pressure?
* Remember to smile.
Checklist
* Confirm date, time and place of interview.
* Pack several copies of your resume; a list of references, including names, titles, addresses and telephone numbers; writing samples if appropriate; and letters of recommendation.
* Dress appropriately
* Be punctual. Plan to arrive early.
Research the Occupation
* Know the area in which you are interested.
* Read articles written by people who are in the field.
* Inform yourself about future trends.
* Check if your interests and abilities compare to the requirements of the position.
* Find out the average income earned by people in the occupation.
Researching the Company
Before the job interview, you should research the company. It is easier to convince an employer that you would be of benefit to the company if you are knowledgeable about it. In addition, information obtained through research can help you decide whether you want to work for a specific company.
General areas to research
* How old is the company, and what is its history of development?
* Where are the plants, offices, or stores located?
* What are its products or services?
* If the company sells, what are its markets? Retailers? Wholesalers?
* What are its new products?
* Is it a public or non-profit organization? What purpose does it serve? How is it funded? Whom does it serve? What functions does it perform?
* How does this organization rank in the industry?
* Are there any plans for expansion?
* What is the organizational structure?
* How does the organization fit into the community? To what degree is it committed to solving community problems?
* What problems does the organization need to overcome? (By identifying the problems that the organization faces, you can match your abilities to these ends during the interview.)
One of the best ways to find company information is on the Internet. You should be able to find plenty of information to get you started by exploring the Web with a good browser and search engine. Just entering the company name in the search engine will usually result in success.
