How to Get the Job….

Caldwell

Unlock the Key to Success…..Job Interview Understand what an interview is Understand the purpose for an interview Know the different types of interviews Interview Questions Follow-up after the interview is over

Overview of Interviews

Define InterviewA meeting between a job applicant and a

representative of the company

PURPOSEThe purpose is for the company to get a

good look at YOU butIt is also YOUR opportunity to look at the

company

History of the Interview

1800’s Companies put up signs “Tall Men Needed”

and there would be no reason to apply if you didn’t meet the mark on the door.

If you owned a mill and needed a man to work a grinding stone, the interview would consist of the applicant’s hands being examined

Today, an interview is still a visual inspection and usually includes a drug screening

JobsInterview or Not??? List some jobs that would need an

interview

List jobs that would not require an interview

Types of Interviews Screening Interview

Determines whether the candidate is in or out

Does the candidate have the skills necessary to perform the job?

Questions are designed to collect factsClear and concise answers are looked for

This is usually done by reading the applications and resumes

Scenario—Screening Interview A manager I know had 23 applicants for an

open position. They all looked great from the applications and resumes. The position require excellent telephone skills. She decided to call each person first. All 23 candidates were taken out of the running because of the they answered their telephones. She saved a lot of time and effort by making the calls first.

What is she had scheduled a half-hour interview with each candidate first?

Selection Interview Usually conducted by the person with

the authority to hire Can you do the tasks required by the

position? Are you willing and motivated to solve

the employer’s problems? Are you going to fit in? Will I be comfortable seeing you every

day?

Types of Selection One on One Interview

Human Resource Manager, Business Owner, or General Manager

Panel InterviewInterviewed by more than one person at a

time3-7 peopleEach person will ask you questionsOthers will be observing you and listening

for your responses

Which type of interview would you feel more comfortable with? Why?

Which type of interview do think is fair?

Why?

Assignment: Talk to a friend or family member that has gone on interviews. What did they like or not like about the interview process?

Day TwoInterview Phases Demonstrate knowledge of the phases

of an interview Understand the different types of

interviews Understand when these types will be

used Know how to handle yourself with each

type

Four Phases to an Interview Introduction

Both the candidate and employer are getting first impressions of each other

You are selling yourself at this stagePersonal introductions are made

Background and Probe StageQuestions are asked Different types of questions are usedNotes are taken and later compared

Phases continued…..

Matching StageInterviewer asks you if you have any

questions of themBe prepared with a little knowledge of the

company and what is happening

Final Questions and CloseThese questions and answers will determine

if you go on to the next level or get the job

Types of Interviews

Screening-done by H/R Department or outside agency. This will eliminate those who do not have the basic requirements for the job.Give an example of basic requirement

The purpose of this position is to perform a wide variety of food preparation and simple

cooking tasks.Police Jobs and their Requirements: Must have a

two-year associate's degree, or at least 60 accredited college credit hours or any equivalent amount of active, full-time military experience,

The job description is compared to the candidate’s qualifications. Does the candidate have the skills necessary to perform the job?

○ Communications Skills (listening, verbal, written

○ Analytical/Research Skills. ○ Computer/Technical Literacy○ Leadership/Management Skills○ Problem-Solving/Reasoning/Creativity○ Interpersonal Abilities

Your Purpose: To Make a good impression

One on One (most common) Informal

Interviewer knows which questions they want to ask but they might change their minds and carry on a conversation with the candidate. This could be difficult. Why?

StructuredA list of questions has been prepared based

on the job requirements. The same questions are asked of every candidate in the same order. Notes are taken.

More One on One Unstructured

This can be stressful if you are not prepared. You may get ask a question or two and then there will be wait time. You should be prepared with questions of your own to show initiative.

SequentialYou interview with several people but only

one at a time. Treat each one as a separate interview. You may have to answer the same question over and over

YOU SHOULD ALWAYS BE HONEST AND PREPARED TO ANSWER HONESTLY

Panel Interview This is a group interview. These people

will have a list of prepared questions and will usually take turns asking the questions.

The purpose is to see how other react to you.

Make a good impression Maintain eye contact Check with the group and see if anyone

needs clarification

Behavioral questions You will be asked real-life situations.

They are looking at how you respond in given situations.Give me an example when you had to deal

with a difficult student/teacher/neighbor. What happened? What did you do?

Tell me about a major obstacle you encountered in your last job/class and how you handled it.

What types of things make you angry? How have dealt with them?

Assignment

Write a list of questions that might be asked of you in an interview.Include behavioral questionsSkills requirements10 questions minimum

Traditional Style Interview Questions Understand traditional style interview

questions Demonstrate ability to answer traditional

questions Understand how to follow-up after the

interview Knowledge of appropriate dress for an

interview

What the Employer Will Ask Education background

Past Work experience

Extra-curricular activities

Outside interests and activities

What is being determined? CAN you do the job?

WILL you do the job?

Will you FIT in the organization?

Top Questions Often Asked Tell me about yourself What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses? Why do you want this job? What are you most proud of? What do you know about the company? Give me an example of a time you went

above the call of duty at work/school

More Questions…..

What are the qualities of a good leader? What irritates you about other people? Have you had a difficult assignment?

How did you get through it? Where do you want to be in 5 years?

Interview Answers

Be positive even if it is negativeWhen asked about weaknesses---I have

trouble planning but I am taking steps to correct this. I just started using a pocket planner or computer organizer

Keep your answers focused on the good you can do for and with the companyInstead of talking just about anything make

sure you stay focused and relate your strengths to the questions

More Answers Make them know you are a team player

Yes, I’m very much a team player. Refer to the opportunities you have had in playing team sports and then give an example

Resolving ConflictsIf you say NO most interviewers will keep

looking until they find a conflict.Answer by noting conflicts in the past.

Understanding another person’s perspective, listening to the other point of view, then seek a solution

Business Attire Business casual is crisp, neat, and should

look appropriate even for a chance meeting with a CEO.

Avoid tight or baggy clothing; business casual is classic rather than trendy. Basics:

Khaki pants, neatly pressed, and a pressed long-sleeved, buttoned solid shirt are safe for both men and women. 

Casual Attire

Polo/golf shirts Shoes / belt:

Wear a leather belt and leather shoes

Details: Everything should be clean, well

pressed, and not show wear. 

Formal Business Attire

SuitTwo piece is best

Conservative ColorsGray or navy

ShirtsLong sleeve, white

TieConservative no flashy or trendy style

ShoesBlack or cordovan

Ladies Attire Skirts

Knee lengthLonger skirts should have a straight line

ColorsNavy, black, brown, gray

ShirtSmall print that coordinatesNo cleavage

Wrap It Up

After the interviewShake handsThank the employer for the timeLet them know you appreciate the

opportunityTell them you look forward to hearing from

them

Follow with a Thank-You note

Interview Success

Dress appropriately Speak clearly Be prepared Educated answers Educated questions Be honest Be positive Follow-up with the Thank-you note