Interviewing Techniques Career Services, CBU Special Topics: Career Planning

Definition of an Interview “A formal gathering or meeting... To converse with, exchanging questions and answers...” (Websters)

E-X-C-H-A-N-G-E  E = EXAMINE WHO YOU ARE Self Assessment Know your “Transferable Skills” What are your values and perspective on life? What type of environment makes you flourish? Go on a “Treasure Hunt” of who you are! Don’t be a mystery to yourself!

X= “X” MARKS THE SPOT!  Have a ready response but not a rehearsed response!  Hiring managers are seeking: Authenticity Critical Thinking Skills Communication Skills  Project your adaptability to “fit” in their work culture

C = COME PREPARED TO ANSWER 3 DIFFERENT TYPES OF INTERVIEWS  Behavioral – Basic premise is that past behavior is a good forecaster for future behavior  Peer – Group interviews are becoming more common also – it’s about the “fit”  Aptitude – Hypothetical or actual, e.g., a writing sample, a marketing plan, or solving a computer programming “crisis”

H = HONE YOUR ENGLISH SKILLS  Use informal but proper English  Respond in complete sentences  Don’t try to impress by using highly technical terms unless it relates to the position pursued  Practice articulating your responses

A = ALWAYS RESEARCH THE COMPANY’S WEB SITE  Learn about company’s profile  Type of business  Company Culture – formal or casual  Locations – local or national  Potential for growth  Vision – long and short-term  Mission Statement

N = NEVER FORGET ABOUT THE “NON-VERBAL” INTERVIEW  First impressions are very important  Conservative, well- groomed look is best  Be on time  Never, never chew gum  Don’t touch your face  Don’t’ tap your pen “Miss Braywood, call Tell them we’ve got another case of interview burnout on our hands.” - Tom Cheney

G = GO WITH YOUR QUESTIONS FOR THE INTERVIEWER  Have 3 to 5 questions prepared  Use a 3x5 card – alleviate stress  Never ask about salary, vacations, tuition reimbursement or holiday with pay  Remember, this is an exchange

E = ENTHUSIASM IS INFECTIOUS!  Sell yourself!  Always have a ready smile and a willing hand  Prepare a closing statement, summarizing your strengths and your desire to be a part of this team

THANK YOU NOTES  Regardless of the outcome, SMILE!  Fewer than ½ of those interviewed send thank you notes  Refer to the sample given in handout materials  Write a thank you note to every interviewer within hours

REMEMBER... E-X-C-H-A-N-G-E  Interviewing techniques are developed skills  Choose to make it a time of sharing dreams and goals  Seize this adventure, and you will never be the same!