Be prepared for personal questions . Most interviewers know what they can and cannot ask legally, but anticipate how you will handle personal questions. Be certain you understand the question . It is acceptable to ask for clarification and restate the question in your own words if necessary . Accentuate the positive . Be positive and honest, but never apologize for lack of experience or weaknesses . Emphasize what you can do for the employer . Employers want to know who you are, but they are most concerned with what you can do for them. Take a pen and paper . Ask the interviewer if you are permitted to take brief notes. Do not take excessive notes as that may disrupt the flow of the interview. A good practice is to listen and interact intently during the interview, then once you leave, write down as much as you can remember. Never speak negatively or overshare information . Negative comments about a former employer, colleague, teacher, an institution or friend will reflect poorly on you. Speak slowly and watch your grammar . Employers are interested in candidates who can express themselves articulately and properly. Avoid expressions such as “like” and “you know” or too many “ums” and “ers.” Ask questions . Be prepared with appropriate questions about the job and ask when the interviewer prompts you for questions. Avoid questions concerning salary, benefits and vacation time . Do not continue to talk just to fill short silences . It is important to understand there will be short periods of silence in each interview. These short silences are natural, and you should not feel nervous and continue speaking just to fill the gap. Wait for a job offer to talk about salary . As an interviewee, do not bring up the topics of salary, benefits, vacation time, personal time or any other compensation issues. Hopefully, the interviewer will bring those topics up. However, you may be asked, “What salary are you seeking?” There are several answers that would be acceptable. One is to say that the salary would depend upon all the compensation factors involved. Another response is to reply in return and ask the salary range. If you are pressed for a salary figure, you should have a broad salary range in mind. If you need further
information, an internet search can provide you with salary ranges related to the education and experience the position requires. Keep in mind, job titles and salaries vary by geographic regions. Mental Preparation on Interview Day An interview can be a very stressful event. It is important to remember you have been selected from a larger applicant pool, but you will need to impress the interviewer and distinguish yourself from the other applicants in a positive manner during your interview. Understanding your strengths and accomplishments and why you are an excellent candidate to fill the position will enable you to have a positive interview experience. • Get proper rest the night before and allow plenty of time to get ready • Avoid excessive caffeine • Prepare to market yourself—think of an interview as a competition • Put on a friendly smile and be confident Arriving for the Interview Be on time . This means 10–15 minutes early. Sometimes, interviewers are ready before the appointed time. Avoid arriving too early unless it is specified that you will need to complete some paperwork or other task prior to the scheduled interview time. If there is an unexpected emergency, such as a sudden road closure, call the interviewer as soon as possible. Arriving late to an interview will reflect poorly on you as a candidate. Prior to entering the building, turn off your cell phone and keep it out of sight. Phones should be turned off completely—not in silence or vibrate modes. You do not want it to be the cause of an unexpected interruption nor appear rude during the interview. Be polite and friendly with everyone you encounter. If you are greeted by a receptionist or administrative assistant, make sociable conversation. It is suggested you have your folder/briefcase or handbag in your left hand so that you can easily offer a firm handshake. Establish eye contact, smile, listen attentively and speak clearly. If you are required to take a pre-employment test or demonstrate your skill level, this will usually occur prior to meeting with the interviewer. When you are contacted to be scheduled for your interview, information should be conveyed to you concerning pre-employment testing, so if you need to bring any special equipment, you will be prepared.
50 CCAC Job Search Manual
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