International Advantage Session 4: Interview Skills Brent Atwater, BPO Rendy Schrader, CDC Banu Alfar, CDC

Program Today’s mission Interview structure Communication Non-verbal communication Role plays

Today’s Mission:

Business Casual? Women Dress/Skirt Heels Make-up? Men Khakis or dress pants No tennis shoes Tie or jacket

Finishing Touches DON’Ts Use heavy perfume Wear native dress Eat garlic/onion DO’S Use deodorant Mints Use a lint brush Check teeth/hair Tuck in Other thoughts

Interview Structure Be on time Greetings/offer resume Small talk, 5 minutes Interview questions minutes Interviewee questions, 5-10 minutes Graceful exit

Communication Greetings Introductions What to say Keeping their attention Visa questions Graceful exits

Greetings Hi Hello Jane, John Ms. Smith/Mr. Jones Madame/Ma’am/ Sir

Introductions Let me introduce myself:  My name is (s-l-o-o-o-w and clear)  I’m ________ (slow and clear)  Consider: short version first name only

Role Play

Be prepared To answer tough questions To talk about yourself To talk about your best or worst traits To talk about your former experience To tell a few accomplishment stories

“So, tell me about yourself……” Don’ts Get too personal Talk too much Talk politics Dwell on family Sound practiced Do’s Tie your story to business needs Let your personal traits shine Be straightforward Relax Be professional

Time Fillers Good question, let me think about that a minute So, you are asking if……. Can you repeat that question, please? Wow! No one’s ever asked me that one before….. Silence is okay, too

Keeping Their Attention Connect your experience with the company: I’ve _____ You mentioned ______. That’s exactly what I did in Marketing class/project I’m a great team player You mentioned “globalization” – that’s me all the way! My real strong point is ______

Non-verbal Communication Firm hand shake Look at them Maintain good eye contact Smile appropriately Nod if necessary Show enthusiasm Be alert and attentive Maintain good posture Be confident

Interpersonal Traits Confidence, not arrogance Communication skills Cross-cultural adeptness Enthusiasm/Positive Energy Team Player Strong sense of personal accountability/responsibility Honesty/Willingness to learn

Visa Question Do NOT bring it up on your own Assure them that for internship/1st year, they have no obligation “If you’re really globalizing, who could be better?” IF you prove yourself and they help you apply for an H-1B, you’ll pay for it, and you’ll be loyal for at least 3 years

Graceful Exits Thank you for your time I appreciate it I will be looking forward to hearing from you

Role Play and Practice