1. INTERVIEWING SKILLS

2. Workshop Objectives Explore various stages of the interview (preparation, non-verbals, “small talk”, Q&A, close) Understand the interview process from the employer’s perspective Practice responding to various types of interview questions

3. http://mason.wm.edu/mbacareers Interview Preparation Know….. The Company Yourself Interviewers

4. http://mason.wm.edu/mbacareers Interview Non-Verbals Conservative business dress Neat, clean, “polished” Eye contact Energy Enthusiasm

5. http://mason.wm.edu/mbacareers Interviewing: Small Talk” Stage Beginning of interview Safe topics – weather, trip to campus Handshake Minimal accessories, books, etc.

6. http://mason.wm.edu/mbacareers Interview Q&A Behavioral Questions – focus on past performance Situational Questions – role play relevant competencies Hypothetical, Open-Ended, Probing, Hypothetical, Open-Ended, Probing, Yes/No, Leading and Pressure Questions

7. http://mason.wm.edu/mbacareers Interview Q&A Behavioral Based on the principle that past behavior is the best indicator of future behavior Give me an example of a time when you…. How did you achieve that 20% increase in profits? What did you do in your last job to contribute toward a teamwork environment?

8. http://mason.wm.edu/mbacareers Interview Q&A Behavioral The STAR Formula (Situation/Task, Action, Results) State the situation or task Explain the steps/action taken Show quantitative results Be specific, listen to the question, take your time

9. http://mason.wm.edu/mbacareers Elevator Speech “Tell me about yourself” (beginning of interview) Talk briefly about four things: o Your education (why Vanderbilt, Why MEd) o Your work experience o One or two accomplishments o Your goals

10. Your Interview Questions Prepare questions in advance after thorough company research Ask three or four good questions Do not ask about benefits or salary Company, People and Position questions are good

11. The Close Why should we hire you? (end of interview) Reiterate the skill set you will bring to the company Demonstrate that you are a good fit for the position/company Explain specifically why you want to work for the company

12. Interviewer’s Perspective Looking for: Indicators of the applicant’s knowledge and competence Drive, motivation and energy Communication and interpersonal skills: Will they fit into the company culture? Demonstrated ability to achieve results: What can the applicant do for the company? Applicant’s level of interest in the position and the company

13. Interviewer’s Perspective As an interviewer, he/she strives to: Keep the interview focused and structured Come out of interview with a quantitative evaluation on dimensions observed Ask questions that force the applicant to display the required knowledge or ability

14. Things to Remember First Impressions are lasting ones Appearance, gestures, poise, mannerisms, ability to respond appropriately Preparation is critical The candidate who gets the job is not always the most qualified, but the one who appears to be the most qualified Get help from your campus partners

15. Next Step - Practice Optimal Interview Classmates Alums