Why Should I Hire You? So school just let out for the summer. You’re planning on attending college in the fall. It’s time

Keys to Success Preparation Appearance The Interview Follow-up

There are two ways to prepare for an interview How do I prepare? There are two ways to prepare for an interview Know about the company and the job you’re interested in Answer the question Why should I hire you?

Preparation Before the Interview Appropriate email address and voice mail greeting Research the Company Portfolios

Email and Voicemail Make sure you have a valid email Avoid childish or profane email addresses Make sure you have a voicemail or answering machine Professional and enthusiastic greeting

Research the Company Internet Newspapers Trade Magazines Company’s website Press releases Profiles – www.hoovers.com Newspapers Upcoming events Achievements Trade Magazines Also know how to get the building, and where you need to go when you get there. Even call the human resource office and ask for information as well.

Portfolios What is a portfolio? All about you Your key to becoming memorable! All about you Resume References Work samples Letters of Recommendation Awards/Certificates Bring my portfolio to use as example. Tie in McCann-how we help prepare students with a portfolio.

During the Interview                                                                                                               Appearance Body language Attitude

Interview Attire Women Conservative suit Blouse Cotton or silk                                                   Interview Attire Women Conservative suit Blouse Cotton or silk White or pastel colors Minimal jewelry Close-toed shoes with small heel Hair and makeup not overdone Panty-hose with skirt Skirt no shorter than the knee

Interview Attire Men Conservative suit White long sleeve shirt Tie                                                         Interview Attire Men Conservative suit White long sleeve shirt Tie Avoid bold designs and colors High socks Polished shoes

Body Language Posture Eye contact Handshake Shoulders back Sit straight in a chair Eye contact Shows confidence and listening skills Handshake Firm

Attitude Slight sense Professional of Humor Confident Enthusiastic Optimistic

Interview Questions Answer all questions Answer honestly and thoughtfully Be positive Turn negatives into positives Sell yourself and what you can do for the company! Interview is your opportunity to shine!!!

Types of Interview Questions What do you think it takes to be successful in an organization like this? “I think determination, a willingness to work hard, and a desire to excel are key attributes to be successful in your organization. A successful employee would also need to be a team player, handle pressure well, and a great communicator.” Tell them the first question will probably be “Tell me about yourself” Example answer to question: I think determination, a willingness to work hard, and a desire to excel are key attributes to be successful in COMPANY’S NAME. A successful employee would also need to be a team player, handle pressure well, and a great communicator.

Types of Interview Questions Describe three things that are important to you in a job? “I feel my top three important things in any job I take is a great organization, a product or service I truly believe in, and a real career opportunity.” Example answer: I feel my top three important things in any job I take is a great organization, a product or service I truly believe in, and a real career opportunity

Types of Interview Questions Tell me about yourself. Explain how your academic training has prepared you to step into this position. How do you respond to criticism?

Types of Interview Questions “I’m well motivated, I’ve got a strong desire to succeed, and I’m always ready and willing to learn new information and skills.” What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses? “I’m a perfectionist. I like things to be in order, and I will keep trying until I think it is perfect.” Keep answer limited to no more than three strengths. Avoid listing personal flaws or negative weaknesses. Name a positive weakness such as too ambitious.

Types of Interview Questions Name three adjectives that can be best used to describe yourself. Reliable Innovative Energetic Hard-working Organized

General Tips Arrive at least 15 minutes early Bring extra resumes, a notepad, and pen Do not smoke, chew gum, swear, or use slang Be polite to everyone Turn off your cell phone

Interview DO’S Be yourself Be relaxed Be honest Be a good listener Ask questions Take notes

Interview Don'ts Ask about salary on the first interview Over exaggerate Make up answers Make negative statements Bad mouth past employers

What are employers looking for? Skills in the field of study Critical thinking and problem solving skills Leadership Communication skills Oral and written Technical skills Impersonal skills Confidence Teamwork Flexibility Self-motivation Positive attitude towards work

After the Interview Send a thank-you note Phone follow-up once a week until position has been filled Followup

Summary WHY SHOULD I HIRE YOU? Preparation, appearance, the interview, and follow-up are all about one thing, and that is answering the question WHY SHOULD I HIRE YOU?