1 Land the Job You Want: The Interview The Career Place Connecting Workers and Employers

2 Today’s Agenda Preparing for the interview During the interview Following up after an interview

3 Preparing for the interview Conduct extensive research Practice, practice, practice

4 Conducting research Learn as much as you can about the job Research the company and its competition The Internet is your best research tool

5 Practice, practice, practice Role play Speak clearly and not too fast Remain attentive and eager to listen

6 The interview Look good and dress for the culture Bring your career portfolio Arrive early Turn off your cell phone and pager Offer a firm handshake Use proper, comfortable posture Be aware of your body language

7 Sell yourself Be enthusiastic Explain your qualifications Relate your experience Maintain a positive attitude Make good eye contact Ask questions

8 Common interview ?s Tell me about yourself. What is your weakest point? What are your long-term goals? Why do you want to work for us? Why should I hire you? Do you have any questions?

9 What employers look for… Your dependability Your knowledge of the company and job How well you get along with others If you project a positive image How well you handle problems

10 Interview tips Keep your answers brief, but thorough Use examples to illustrate your point Think before you speak Relate your answers to the job

11 Interview tips Match your skills with the company’s needs Don’t volunteer information Don’t bring up compensation

12 When will you make a decision? Have I answered all your questions? May I call you in a few days? Stress that you want the job Thank the interviewer The closing: Ask questions

13 Did you dress appropriately? Were you warm and friendly? Were you confident? Were you able to handle tough questions? Evaluate your interview

14 Did you project the right ‘fit?’ Did you show you can do the work? Did you speak well, and to the point? Did you understand critical points? Evaluate your interview

15 Did you project knowledge of the job? Did you present your qualifications? Were you enthusiastic? Did you show your determination? Evaluate your interview

16 Send a formal thank-you note Re-iterate your qualifications Stress your enthusiasm Add ideas you may have forgotten Call to see if you’re still a candidate Take notes on what worked, what didn’t Following the interview