|
JOB INTERVIEW FAQ
These are some of the most frequently asked questions about job interviews. They may help you to prepare your job interview and progress in your career.
Why cant I just be myself in an interview?
We naturally play different roles at different times in our lives. Sometimes we are unaware of these roles because they are so much a part of our everyday lives. Effective interviewing requires a particular role, as does working in your profession, being a parent, friend, spouse... Or dating, or playing in your favorite sport. Everyone plays various roles at different times, often in the same day; we just don't give it much thought. Playing different roles under varying circumstances does not mean we're inauthentic: it simply means we are acting appropriately in the situation. A job interview is not something we do every day, therefore we typically have not developed an effective role for interviewing. Skilled interviewers, on the other hand, have developed techniques for being effective in their role. Landing the job you want means developing this effective interviewing role, otherwise you will likely bring other roles into play (without being aware of it) that will not be appropriate for an interview. Being successful in any new role takes some thought and preparation. The small amount of time and effort you invest can pay significant returns in income, quality of life and satisfaction.
How can I avoid making the most common interviewing mistakes
Thoroughly prepare for your interviews.
Present related skills, talents, and accomplishments confidently.
Understand the interviewing strategies used by employers, to respond appropriately to each employer's style of interviewing and perceived requirements of the position.
Use two-way communication appropriate for an interview.
Prepare your questions in advance.
Dress appropriately.
Focus on what you can contribute to the organization rather than what the employer can do for you.
Don't place blame on or be negative about past employers.
Follow up strategically after each interview.
What are the best ways to handle salary discussions?
Salary discussions during an interview center around what you have made in prior positions and/or what you are seeking to earn in your next position. (The rules are different if you're responding in writing to a written request for a salary history or requirements from an advertised position). A salary discussion is not a salary negotiation. It can however lay the foundation for a salary negotiation. Employers ask salary questions to see if a close match exists between the salary likely to be offered and your expectations. Naturally, the closer you are to the employer's salary range, the more likely you will accept an offer and remain with the company. Be prepared to disclose your salary history when asked. If your salary history differs significantly (higher or lower) than your current expectations, you must be prepared to address these differences at the same time. Keep in mind that you need to consider the total compensation package including benefits. Often a significant difference in salary occurs when making a change in career, industry, type or level of position, geographical area, or when starting a new career. Without knowing the appropriate salary range for the type of position you are seeking, you may not be able to address variances in your salary history. In this case, you need to conduct prior research as to salary ranges for someone with your experience and skills for the type of position in the industry and geographical area in which you are interviewing. You may also be asked directly regarding your salary expectations. For example, the employer may ask: "What are you wanting to earn in your next position?" In general you can use a range rather than a specific figure when discussing numbers at this stage.
How important is it to follow up after an interview?
Follow-up can significantly affect whether or not an offer is extended. Following up after an interview addresses a key employer concern: your interest level in the position. In addition, you are demonstrating, by the very act of following up, personal and professional qualities that are typically sought by an employer: dedication, tenacity, attention to detail, and the ability to follow through. In some instances, employers may even use the lack of follow-up as a screening device: a way to narrow down the number of candidates to a short list; those who do follow up become finalists.
What are the best ways to follow up after an interview?
There are several ways to follow up and you may want to let your interest level in each position guide you. Thank-you cards and letters, and strategic letters are most common. Strategic letters are considerably more effective; however, they require a little more effort on your part. These letters can be sent via e-mail or postal mail. It is best to save thank-you cards for those who have been particularly helpful, such as administrative assistants, etc. Strategic follow-up strengthens the interviewer's perception of you and addresses any concerns you felt the interviewer might have about this position being the right fit for you. It also provides an opportunity to add any related skills, abilities or interests, and other information that you did not think of in the interview, which may have a bearing on your candidacy. Since there will typically be several top candidates for the position, each with various tradeoffs regarding strengths and liabilities, this follow-up helps nudge that often difficult decision in your favor.
How can I delay accepting an offer in order to consider other forthcoming offers?
It is best not to accept more than one offer to avoid burning your bridges for the future. If you wish to delay acceptance of an offer, it is very important to express first your appreciation for having received the offer and your strong interest in the position. Next, explain that you are in the process of weighing several offers, and that you want to be certain you make the right choice for both yourself and the employer. You could suggest a time frame you have given yourself to make a final decision (keep in mind, only a few days to a week or so may be considered reasonable), or you could ask the employer in what time frame he or she needs your decision. Remember, the interviewer is human, and typically rejection is not among our favorite experiences, i.e., an employer does not want someone who doesn't want them. You need to make the focus about this being an excellent opportunity and that you just want to be sure you make the right decision for both of you.
|
Preparing your job interview
Career education
Career resources 
Add section