Regardless of your perspective.., potential employee, or employer, the purpose of a job interview should be the same.
The similarity is that both the potential employee and the employer need to make an initial assessment (in a very brief amount of time) as to whether the candidate is a good fit for the open position.
Both the candidate and the employee will base their decisions on observations and shared information.
We can talk about the "proper" answers to the canned questions - many articles have already been written pertaining to that subject - so let's not get side-tracked by politically correct canned minutiae.
Actually, on both sides of the desk the interview often degenerates into a canned go by the numbers routine of "where do you see yourself in five years" and "what is your weakest trait" type drivel, and "I'll do anything required" and "I am sure I would have no problem with ..." type of innocuous responses.
Please, people, let's get real.
First, a few ideas for the employer. Please do not treat the interviewing process as an inconvenience or formality. Take a thorough and genuine interest in the candidate with the goal of envisioning him/her within the organization, while at the same time keeping in mind that this is an investigation - not a coronation. It's ok to ask canned questions - but try to do it in a way that does not make you sound like an automaton. Instead of "where do you see yourself in 5 years" ask "what are your thoughts on career advancement."
Also, please devote the time to the interviewee. If at all possible, meet with the candidate away from your office, phone, curious co-workers, and info-seeking superiors.
Try to be pleasant and not haughty. You may feel that your company is the greatest place on Earth to work and that it would be an ultimate privilege to work there, but in reality, not every one would agree. You are an employee trying to hire another employee for the purpose of making the Company stronger - that's all. Being down to earth will allow the candidate to loosen up and lead to a clearer picture of the person. He/she will be much more likely to share views and ask questions (which will also be revealing) if they are relaxed and not uptight.
Please do not be long-winded. The idea is to exchange information. You will not be able to draw information from the candidate if you spend 20 minutes of the 30 minute session pointing out the long history of the Company, a detailed explanation of the benefits package, and a detailed rundown of your work history and accomplishments.
When you talk about the history of the Company, be brief and concise. Ask the candidate what they know about the Company - this will tell you if the candidate has done any homework, but more importantly it will also create a dialogue.
Intertwine your work record with questions about the candidates' experiences. It will be easier to consider and compare similarities and contrasts. More relevant details and a better understanding may be extracted if you can discuss similar prior experiences. Again, be conversational.
By the end of the interview, you want to have a good understanding of 1) why the candidate thought they would be a good fit for the position, 2) the overall capabilities of the candidate, 3) a feel for whether the candidate would be a good fit into the organization, 4) the likelihood of the candidate being successful (also if additional training would be required, or if he/she could hit the ground running).
These factors can all be evaluated with open and frank conversational discussion.
These are just a few of the things to keep in mind when interviewing prospective employees.
In my next article, I will address some of the factors the prospective employee should keep in mind during an interview.
Rick Caciale is an Engineer with 15 years experience as a supervisor and 35 years experience as an employee. For more Job Interviewing tips, please visit my Blog at Http://job-interview-tips-useful.blogspot.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rick_Caciale
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Interviewing - How to Sell Yourself and Your Skills Without Bragging
If you are like so many of my clients, then one of the toughest challenges you face when interviewing with potential employers is how to convey your skills and strengths without that creepy feeling that you are bragging on yourself.
Communicating your strengths of course is an absolute must for any interview. So what's the secret? Here are 3 tips to help you make a dazzling impression without feeling like a braggart:
Tip One - Become a storyteller Giving examples of your strengths is the most powerful method for communicating your skills. Additionally it also helps your listener envision YOU working for THEM. Here is an example: One of my greatest strengths is pioneering long term strategic growth plans. As an example, in my previous position our company was struggling to achieve a global presence. I did A, B and C and within 24 months we had achieved our marketing goals and increased our revenue by $33 million.
Tip Two - Share ALL your relevant skills It's normal to downplay the brilliance of all you do - when it comes to unearthing and communicating all your relevant skills. Let's say for instance you have a keen ability resolving internal company disputes. You can turn this into a powerful testimonial by simply thinking back to the last time you used this skill. What was the problem? What happened? Did you encourage someone not to quit, mentor someone to a higher quality of work or resolve an inner office dispute that was affecting workplace morale? Put in story form you will help your listener
Tip Three - Use a template to communicate clearly every time Here's and easy to use template for communicating your skills. Simply identify the following: the problem or challenge, what you did, and finally, what the result was. When you share your results try to quantify with $ or % if you can.
Using these three powerful tips you can confidently communicate your strengths in your job interviews in a compelling and meaningful way.
Career marketing expert and nationally certified professional resume writer, Mary Elizabeth Bradford is "The Career Artisan". Mary Elizabeth delivers simple ways for career seekers to focus on, find and land the job they want. For free articles and to sign up for her free tele-seminar "5 simple steps to focus on, find and land your dream job - starting today" visit http://www.maryelizabethbradford.com
Communicating your strengths of course is an absolute must for any interview. So what's the secret? Here are 3 tips to help you make a dazzling impression without feeling like a braggart:
Tip One - Become a storyteller Giving examples of your strengths is the most powerful method for communicating your skills. Additionally it also helps your listener envision YOU working for THEM. Here is an example: One of my greatest strengths is pioneering long term strategic growth plans. As an example, in my previous position our company was struggling to achieve a global presence. I did A, B and C and within 24 months we had achieved our marketing goals and increased our revenue by $33 million.
Tip Two - Share ALL your relevant skills It's normal to downplay the brilliance of all you do - when it comes to unearthing and communicating all your relevant skills. Let's say for instance you have a keen ability resolving internal company disputes. You can turn this into a powerful testimonial by simply thinking back to the last time you used this skill. What was the problem? What happened? Did you encourage someone not to quit, mentor someone to a higher quality of work or resolve an inner office dispute that was affecting workplace morale? Put in story form you will help your listener
Tip Three - Use a template to communicate clearly every time Here's and easy to use template for communicating your skills. Simply identify the following: the problem or challenge, what you did, and finally, what the result was. When you share your results try to quantify with $ or % if you can.
Using these three powerful tips you can confidently communicate your strengths in your job interviews in a compelling and meaningful way.
Career marketing expert and nationally certified professional resume writer, Mary Elizabeth Bradford is "The Career Artisan". Mary Elizabeth delivers simple ways for career seekers to focus on, find and land the job they want. For free articles and to sign up for her free tele-seminar "5 simple steps to focus on, find and land your dream job - starting today" visit http://www.maryelizabethbradford.com
Why Do You Want to Work For This Company?
The first answer that comes to mind is, "Because you have an opening, and I need a job." While this may be the truth, it is not an answer that will get you points in a job interview. The interviewer is looking for an answer that indicates you have thought about where you want to work, and are not just sending out your resume to any company that has an opening. Doing research on the company and industry before the interview will make you stand out as a more informed and competent applicant.
It's all in how you say it
Annette is the first candidate interviewed for the position of HR Manager. When she is asked this question she replies,
"I always wanted to work for this company. I not only love the product but, have used it for many years. This job would be perfect for me, a real opportunity for me to grow and develop."
Annette's answer begins well, but then shifts to what she can get out of the experience instead of what she has to offer. The answer would be stronger is she were to indicate that she had done research on the industry and the company, and could discuss more than her experience with the product.
James is another candidate and answers more directly.
" Based on the research I have done, this company is an industry leader. When I visited the website, I found some very impressive information about future work planned here. I was also impressed with the backgrounds of the founders, and the current financial statements. This is a company I have been looking for, a place where my background, experience, and skills can be put to use and make things happen."
James's answer demonstrates his interest and enthusiasm for the company and what it stands for. He also indicates that he envisions how he could be a member of the team.
The last candidate, Phillip, answers,
"I'm not sure at this point. I answered the ad because I fit the description but, from the research I've done, I think that this is the type of company and industry I want to work in. I know I have what it takes to do this job, and based on my research, there are some challenges here that would be a great match with my past experience and skills."
Phillip's answer is honest and forthright. He is here to learn more and check them out.
Research
It is a must to do research before the interview, and come up with two or three reasons you want to work for this company. It would also be beneficial for you to think of at least two reasons that this job is a match for you - your skills, your strengths, your experience, and your background - what you can bring to this company.
Your Answer
There are no right or wrong answers to this question. Your answer should reflect that you have thought about what you want and have done research on companies, and this one in particular. Let the interviewer know that you are being selective about where you want to work, and that this is the company you want to work for. A little flattery will go a long way.
Carole Martin is a celebrated author, trainer, and an interview coach. Her books, "Interview Fitness Training Workbook" and "Boost Your Interview IQ" (McGraw Hill) have sold thousands of copies world-wide. Receive Carole's FREE job interview tips by visiting her web site at: http://www.interviewcoach.com
It's all in how you say it
Annette is the first candidate interviewed for the position of HR Manager. When she is asked this question she replies,
"I always wanted to work for this company. I not only love the product but, have used it for many years. This job would be perfect for me, a real opportunity for me to grow and develop."
Annette's answer begins well, but then shifts to what she can get out of the experience instead of what she has to offer. The answer would be stronger is she were to indicate that she had done research on the industry and the company, and could discuss more than her experience with the product.
James is another candidate and answers more directly.
" Based on the research I have done, this company is an industry leader. When I visited the website, I found some very impressive information about future work planned here. I was also impressed with the backgrounds of the founders, and the current financial statements. This is a company I have been looking for, a place where my background, experience, and skills can be put to use and make things happen."
James's answer demonstrates his interest and enthusiasm for the company and what it stands for. He also indicates that he envisions how he could be a member of the team.
The last candidate, Phillip, answers,
"I'm not sure at this point. I answered the ad because I fit the description but, from the research I've done, I think that this is the type of company and industry I want to work in. I know I have what it takes to do this job, and based on my research, there are some challenges here that would be a great match with my past experience and skills."
Phillip's answer is honest and forthright. He is here to learn more and check them out.
Research
It is a must to do research before the interview, and come up with two or three reasons you want to work for this company. It would also be beneficial for you to think of at least two reasons that this job is a match for you - your skills, your strengths, your experience, and your background - what you can bring to this company.
Your Answer
There are no right or wrong answers to this question. Your answer should reflect that you have thought about what you want and have done research on companies, and this one in particular. Let the interviewer know that you are being selective about where you want to work, and that this is the company you want to work for. A little flattery will go a long way.
Carole Martin is a celebrated author, trainer, and an interview coach. Her books, "Interview Fitness Training Workbook" and "Boost Your Interview IQ" (McGraw Hill) have sold thousands of copies world-wide. Receive Carole's FREE job interview tips by visiting her web site at: http://www.interviewcoach.com
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