| Going on a job
interview can very nerve racking if you're not properly prepared or sure
how to effectively market your background and skill set. You only
get one chance to make a first impression. We can help you learn
how to "give a good interview" by leveraging your future
with a powerful presentation.
Whether you're seeking your first
corporate position, looking to "make a move", or even change
your career path, The Hamblin Group has the expertise to
provide you with the skills and confidence needed to gain the leading
edge when presenting yourself.
Our coaching empowers you
to:
– Write an
attention-grabbing resume
– Gather the references that will best serve you in your job search
– Interview with the confidence you need while making that
all-important "impression"
– Determine if your career goals are worthy of your skill set
– Leverage your strengths and ask for an offer
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General Suggestions
- Be Prompt and Know
Where You're Going
It may sound cliche but you'd
be surprised how often it happens. Ask for directions,
reconfirm the date and time of your appointment, plan for traffic,
parking and possibly getting lost. Arriving late not only
makes a bad impression, it prevents from having a few extra minutes
to relax and collect your thoughts.
- Dress
Professionally
Again, what sounds cliche is
so important in making a first impression. Dress to what is
appropriate for the job, company and industry culture. Avoid
heavy makeup, perfume or cologne.
Writing Your Resume
During the course of meeting with
The Hamblin Group, we may find that
your current resume is quite appropriate but just needs a more
professional appearance. Our experienced writer/typesetter
will put your resume and cover letter in a format which will be more
enticing to the eye and "reader friendly" to hiring managers.
Introducing Yourself
While your resume explains your
skills and experience, the personal introduction you make of yourself is
equally if not more important. Be
confident! Start with a firm handshake, a smile and
look the interviewer in the eye. Be prepared to answer questions
about yourself but remember - Be
concise! Listen attentively, don't interrupt and be
sure to answer the question.
Relate Your Own Experience
Find out as much as you can about
the position and the company's philosophy. Relate that with
specific examples to your own work experience. Focus
on results. Share your knowledge of the industry,
whether it's personal contacts or a knowledge of the latest news in the
field.
Ask Relevant Questions
It's important to remember that
while you're the one being interviewed, an interview is also your
opportunity to find out if the job or company is right for you,
too. Ask relevant questions regarding the company and position,
what the responsibilities are, management practices etc. Don't
bring up salary information in the first interview unless you are
specifically asked. Don't ask about vacation time or personal days
etc.
Telephone Interview
A company may wish to meet you
for the first time over the telephone. This type of interview is
just as important as a personal interview, if not more important,
because if it doesn't go well you won't get a chance to meet
face-to-face with the company. Try to find a quiet place where you
can speak freely and without interruption. Don't
interrupt for call waiting! If the interview is coming
to a close and the employer has not scheduled a personal meeting, ask
politely "What is the next step?" or "Where do we go from
here?" Send a thank you note.
Personal Interview
Be enthusiastic, confident and build
your case. Start by briefly introducing yourself
and your background, link your abilities with the company's needs, and
let them know how interested you are in the position.
Interview Questions
- Tell Me About Yourself
Make sure your first words
impress favorably. Speak slowly, clearly and concisely. Answer
the question and don't ramble. Relay your education
and work experience honestly.
- Why Are You On The Job Market?
Be honest - even if you were
fired. Don't say negative things about your former employer.
- What Are Your Strengths?
Team player?
Enthusiasm? Assertiveness? Decisive?
Flexible? Adaptive?
- What Are Your Weaknesses?
Overuse of a strength is
best, for example, "Some people mistake my decisiveness for
impatience. I've learned to watch how I express things."
- What Are Your Most Significant
Accomplishments?
Be prepared and be
specific.
Closing the Interview
Let them know how interested you
are in the job. Better to get a job offer that you may choose to
decline than no offer at all. Get a commitment on the next step -
where do we go from here etc. Let them know that you are happy to
provide references at their request. Finally, thank the
interviewer for their time in meeting with you. Always send a
prompt thank you note and follow-up with your recruiter.
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