INTERVIEWING

The Fifth Step to Finding the Work You Love: Successful Interviewing

Today’s workplace is desperately seeking competent workers. During an interview present yourself with confidence, follow up, and be ready to go to work. Here are the 8 reasons most commonly given by those who regularly interview people and decide not to hire them:

1. Lack of enthusiasm
2. Lack of interpersonal skills
3. What’s in it for me
4. Unclear job goals
5. Poor personal appearance
6. Unprepared for the interview
7. Not being clear on strengths
8. Not selling yourself

The 10 most common interview questions:

1. What are your weaknesses?
2. Why should we hire you?
3. Why do you want to work here?
4. What are your goals?
5. Why did you leave or do you wish to leave your present job?
6. When were you most satisfied in your job?
7. What can you do for us that other candidates can’t?
8. What are three positive things your last boss would say about you?
9. What salary are you seeking?
10. If you were an animal, which one would you want to be?

The young American worker today will have 14-16 different jobs during his or her lifetime. These positions will be attained through the process of an interview. A person who does not interview well will not receive job offers. You may have an exceptional resume which describes exceptional credentials and qualifications, but if you do not present well during the interview you will not receive job offers. You must be able to market yourself by showing enthusiasm and a strong desire to provide what the company needs to excel. Therefore, the two most important facets of the preparation for an interview should include a thorough knowledge of yourself and a thorough knowledge of the company for which your are interviewing. Within 10 seconds of beginning an interview the interviewer has usually made a decision regarding your prospects for the job. Eighty-five per cent of the reason a person is hired is based on how well he or she is liked, not how skilled he or she may be. Will you fit well in the organization? Remember to smile, be pleasant and outgoing, show self-confidence, do not run down former employers or co-workers, know your resume thoroughly, and express a sincere interest in the company.

The above information came from “48 Days to the Work You Love” by Dan Miller.