Interviewing


Most hiring decisions are made at the first interview. How 
you come across in that interview could be as important as 
your experience and job talents.

Here are some interviewing tips that will help you get the 
job you want.


Before The Interview:

¥ Learn as much as you can about the company, salary, and 
benefits. Friends, neighbors and relatives who work for the 
company. are goo'd sources of informatlon. Libraries, local 
chambers of commerce, etc. are also helpful.

¥ Learn everything you can about the job and how your 
previous experience and training qualify you for the job.

¥ Write down the things you need to complete applications:

      your background and experience list (contains names 
      of former employers, schools, training, etc.)

      a resume 0r summary 'of work experience


      samples of your work (if pra,ctical). Also include 
      any work-related or community service avards that you 
      have received.

      social securitv card, driver's 
      license, union cards,  military records, etc.


 The Interview:

¥Dress for the interview and the job. Don't overdress or 
look too informal.

¥ Have pen, notepad, extra copy of your resume (business 
cards if you normally use them) available where you can 
find them fast without fumbling through pockets or purse.

¥ Always go to the interview alone. Arrange for baby 
sitters, transportation, and other pitfalls ahead of time 
so that you can be on time and relaxed in the interview.

¥ Find common ground with the employer. Pictures, books, 
plants, etc., in the employer's office can be conversation 
iterns leading into the inte17Iiew (this can make both of 
you more comfortable).

¥ Express your interest in the job and the company using 
information you gathered to prepare for the interview.

¥ Let the interviewer direct the conversation.

¥ Answer questions in a clear and positive manner. Show how
  your experience and training will make you productive in 
  the shortest time with minimal supervision.

Note_
¥ Speak positively of former employers and co-workers no 
matter why you left even if you were fired from your last 
job.


¥ÊLet the employer lead into conversations about benefits. 
Your focus on these items can be a "turn off." But, don't 
be afraid to ask questions about thi~gs that you really 
need to know.

¥ When discussing salary, be flexible-avoid naming a 
specific salary. If you're too high, you risk not getting 
the job. If you're too low, you undersell yourself. Answer 
questions on salary requirements with responses such as, 
"I'm interested in the job as a career opportunity so i'm 
negotiable on the starting salary". Negotiate, but don't 
sell yourself short.

Closing'' the Interview:

¥ If the employer does not offer you a job or say when you 
will hear about it, ask when you may call to find out about 
the decision.

¥ If the employer asks you to call or retur~ for another 
interview, make a written note of the tirne, date and 
place.

¥ Thank the employer for the interview and reaffirm your 
interest and qualifications for the job.