Before the Interview: How to Prepare
An interview is the time to elaborate on the qualifications that you highlighted in you resume and cover letter. It also gives you the opportunity to learn more about the position and organization. Try not to think of the interview as an interrogation. Instead, it's a chance for you and the interviewer to learn more about each other's needs and assets.
Preparing for the Interview:
- Review your research on the company/organization. Find out what they do, what their mission is and where they are looking to grow. If they are looking to expand or change in any areas, think of ways that you could aid the organization in doing so.
- Look back over the job posting and think of ways that you fit each of their job requirements. If you're lacking one of the requirements, be sure you can explain how you will make up for that deficiency by suggesting how eager and quick you are to learn, etc.
- Review your resume and cover letter; make sure you can fully explain anything that is on either one. Pick three things you want to emphasize.
- Make sure you know the exact time, date and location of the interview. If the interview is in a place you are unfamiliar with, you may want to go there the day before to ensure you won't get lost.
- Know the interviewer's name (and how to correctly pronounce it) and title.
- Go over commonly asked questions during interviews (strengths, weaknesses, goals, qualifications). Think of examples of times you exhibited leadership, teamwork or resourcefulness. Possible questions you may be asked:
- Tell me about yourself. (try to hold your response to 2 minutes)
- Why should we hire you?
- What do you look for in a job?
- What skills and qualifications do you think are essential for success in this position?
- Where would you like to see yourself in 5-10 years? How will this job help you achieve that?
- What are your career goals?
- How would you describe yourself?
- What has been your biggest accomplishment?
- Why do you want to work for us?
- What other positions are you considering?
- What are your strong points?
- What are your weak points?
- What was wrong with your current or last position?
- Do you work well in groups?
- How have you dealt with a difficult situation involving a colleague or supervisor?
Prepare questions to ask the interviewer.
