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Interview Resources list


Learn how to Dress for Success
Playing Fair-Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Job Seeker
How to Prepare and Practice
Interview Types
Interview Questions and Etiquette

PREPARE FOR YOUR JOB SEARCH by assembling all of your tools. Below are some popular downloads to help you organize and prepare for your job searching experiences. For quick printing you can download the PDF file; or if you want to customize these files, download the Microsoft Word/Excel versions and edit them.

Job Search Checklist Job Search Tracking Sheet Network & Informational
Interview Tracking Sheet
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Microsoft Word Version Microsoft Excel Version Microsoft Excel Version

Follow-up Your Resume with a Phone Call


Most companies get hundreds of resumes each week requesting an interview. Managers look for ways to save time, and an efficient way of sifting through all the candidates and discerning which ones are serious about working for their company and not just sending in a resume because they are one of the many companies on your hitlist is to wait for a phone call..

Does this really work? Statistics say if you send 20 resumes out and follow up with phone calls, you will land 4 interviews. Of course there is more to it than just calling up and asking if they received your resume. Think of this phone conversation as a "mini-interview." This is your first real interaction with someone involved in selecting new employees for their company. As you want to make sure you give a good first impression, preparing for this step is as important as the actual interview. A tape recorder is a very good tool in helping you prepare for this. A friend playing the role of a potential employer can also be a very good way of preparing for the conversation.

Don't get discouraged if you make mistakes the first few times. As with everything else, practice makes perfect. The more calls you make, the better you will become. Also, managers usually begin meetings after 10 am, so it's a good idea to make all of your phone calls before then.

Here is a good telephone calling script to help you practice:

Telephone Script for Requesting an Interview

Be friendly. Speak clearly and have a pen and paper handy. If the manager isn't available, ask if there is a good time to try again.
1. Call the manager and Introduce yourself:
Good Morning, Ms. Ivegotbucks? Hi, my name is Josephine Aggie.
2. Always say something friendly:
How are you doing today?
3. Get down to the Nitty-Gritty:
Ms. Ivegotbucks, earlier this week I sent you a letter with a copy of my resume. I wanted to follow-up and make sure you received it.
4. Prepare for the unexpected:
Oh, I'm sorry to hear that you never received it Ms. Ivegotbucks. I was hoping to schedule an appointment with you to learn about and discuss career opportunities as a golf-ball retreiver in your company...(keep it going)
5. Ask for the interview:
...Would it be possible for you to spare a few minutes, at your convenience, to explore opportunities with me?
6. Prepare for problems:
Oh, I do understand. A lot of companies have hiring freezes this time of year. But those hiring freezes can't last forever...(keep it going)
7. Sell yourself - but don't over sell - you may come off as pushy; and never beg:
...I'd like to be the first on your list to be considered when you lift your hiring freeze. Would you take a few minutes to meet with me and see where I might fit in once your hiring freeze is lifted?
8. Wrap it up and confirm the date:
Excellent. That's Tuesday afternoon at 2:30. Thank you very much Ms. Ivegotbucks. I appreciate your taking the time to meet with me. Here's a tip - use the other person's name every now and then in conversation. It makes the conversation seem more personable. "Thank you very much Ms. Ivegotbucks, it was a pleasure talking to you" sounds a lot better than "Thank you very much, it was a pleasure talking to you."
You Try it

Telephone Script for Requesting an Interview

1. Call the manager and Introduce yourself:
2. Always say something friendly:
3. Get down to the Nitty-Gritty:
4. Prepare for the unexpected:
5. Ask for the interview:
6. Prepare for problems:
7. Sell yourself - but don't over sell and come off as pushy; and never beg:
8. Wrap it up and confirm the date:
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How to Prepare and Practice

Know the Organization

To prepare, research information about the organization. At the very least, review the organization's Web site and understand the mission of the company. Notice any important details on the Web site (new products, acquisitions, etc.) in the event these are mentioned during the interview.
Additional interview preparation ideas include scanning the company's annual report and company literature, attending an on-campus company information meeting and meeting representatives at Internship and Career Fairs. Read area newspapers and industry trade journals, and listen to local and national news to keep informed about trends.

Know the Opportunity

Effective interview preparation includes dissecting the job description. Use a highlighter to identify important phrases and job-specific terminology. Before the interview, contact the recruiter to make sure you have the complete job description. Also ask about the structure of the interview, e.g., "Is it a panel interview? How much time should I allow for the interview? Should I bring writing samples to the interview? Are tests a component of the interview?"

Review

Before the interview, review your resume and be prepared for questions about what is listed in your resume, specifically:

  • Work, volunteer and internship experience
  • Education-formal and informal
  • Skills
  • Leadership experience

Additional preparation tips include:

  • Obtain accurate directions to the interview location.
  • Bring a few copies of your resume, transcripts and reference list with you.
  • Have questions prepared for the interviewer, to ask at the end of the interview.

Rehearse
It is important to practice answering questions before the actual interview. Here are suggestions for interview rehearsing:
  • Use a tape recorder. This will allow you to hear the "filler words" in your vocabulary, e.g, "um," "like," and "you know." Listen for how fast you talk and pace your speech accordingly.
  • Use a video camera. Observe your hand gestures, posture, eye contact and decide, "How do I look?" Based on this interview, "Would I want to hire me?"
  • Answer questions in front of a mirror. If a video camera is not available, this method allows for some of the same effect.
  • Hold a mock interview with friends and/or family. Ask for feedback about your interview performance.
  • Use note cards. "Studying" for the interview is another way to prepare. When using note cards, write a sample question on one side and jot down some key phrases you would like to recall on the opposite side. Avoid memorized answers that could cause you to stumble.
  • Anticipate the unexpected. An employer may ask a question for which you are not prepared. If this happens, you can repeat the question aloud, allowing you some time to formulate your answer. Try to determine why they are asking this question. There are no right or wrong interview answers, only better and worse answers.
Follow-Up Is Necessary
No interview is complete until you have followed up with a thank you note. It does not have to be elaborate, just short and sweet. It should be polite, but also establishes the impression you made even more firmly. You should include your address, email and phone number on this note. This follow-up should be done within 24 hours of your interview, and should include the date you interviewed, the name of the interviewer with his or her address and phone number, a summary of the information and advice they provided you with, and any other information that may have surfaced, as well as reinforcing your interest in the position. This thank you note should be addressed to all of your interviewers, as in some cases there may be more than one.

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Interviews

Most types of interviews are discussed thoroughly in the Interviewing section of the Career Placement Manual. In this section, we will discuss Aggie Job Link--On Campus Recruiting Interviews, Phone Interviews, On-Site Interviews, and the increasingly popular Video Conference Interviews.

Aggie Job Link - On-Campus Recruiting
With Aggie Job Link - On Campus Recruiting, recruiters from different ogranizations conduct on-campus interviews for entry-level career positions with UC Davis graduating seniors, graduate students and postdoctoral scholars, and alumni. All on-campus interviews are conducted in the interview rooms at the Buehler Alumni Center. These sessions last anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour with the average being 30 minutes.

The on-campus interview may be conducted by a human resources representative, department or division manager, or an employee working in the position being considered. It is very common for companies to send recent UC Davis graduates working for their firm to conduct the interview.

Like most first interviews, the purpose of campus interviews is usually to screen potential employees. Because of this, it is very important to prepare for campus interviews as you would for other interviews. Your performance and appearance will determine if you will continue in the selection process. If you pass this stage, you will more than likely be invited to a second on-site interview.

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Telephone Interviews
Increasingly, telephone interviews are being used as a screening technique. If a candidate passes this stage, they are usually invited to an on-site interview. Telephone interviews are usually used by empoyers located in other parts of the country that don't have the time or budget to meet face-to-face with each candidate during the preliminary stages of the selection process. Please note that telephone interviews are increasing in popularity with local companies as well.
Overcoming Disadvantages to Telephone Interviews
Disadvantage Solution
During phone interviews, you cannot use non-verbal cues like smiling or nodding to assist in the interpretation of your responses. Remember that almost anything can be ministerpreted. If you're in doubt about the meaning or intent of a question, ask for clarification, and always think out your response before you answer. Conversely, if you feel you have not clearly communicated your thoughts, try again until you are sure your message has been correctly received.
It is often difficult to communicate professionalism, warmth, and enthusiasm. The key to sounding professional is "being" professional. Do whatever it takes to "be" professional. Some peole dress in business attire for phone interviews. Others have placed large mirrors in front of them during the interview to remind them to smile. The appearance of a smile can not be communicated through a telephone, but a friendly, smiling attitude can most definitely be heard.

Here are some tips that can help you get through a successful phone interview.

  • Prepare a written script or jot down key points you want to make on index cards. Practice what you want to say so your delivery will sound smooth and natural.
  • Rehearse with a tape recorder. This is a very good step because many people are surprised at how they actually sound. Believe it or not, you can pick up on nervousness, excitement, enthusiasm, and a multitude of other emotions through the sound of your voice. Once you've gone through a couple, walk away from it for a couple hours (or even a day) then come back to it and listen again. This helps you clear your head and get a fresh start and may help you "pick up" on things you missed before.
  • Keep a copy of your resume, cover letter, and job announcement near you.
  • Remember that you are talking to a potential employer, not chatting with a friend. Be professional, courteous, and above all, pleasant. Don't ramble and always present the best of your qualifications and background.
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On-Site Interview
While on-campus screening interviews are important, on-site visits are where jobs are won or lost. After an on-campus interview, strong candidates are usually invited to visit the employer's facility. Work with the employer to schedule the on-site visit at a mutually convenient time. Sometimes employers will try to arrange site visits for several candidates to take place at the same time, so there may not be much flexibility... but you'll never know if the employer is flexible unless you ask.
  • An invitation to an on-site interview, often referred to as the "plant trip," is NOT a guarantee of a job offer. It is a chance to examine whether or not you will be a good match for the job and for the organization.
  • Notification of a plant trip may be by telephone or mail. Respond promptly if you are sincerely interested in this employer. Decline politely if you are not. Never go on a plant trip for the sake of the trip. Document the name and phone number of the person coordinating your trip. Verify who will be handling trip expenses. Most medium- and large-size companies (as well as many smaller ones) will pay your expenses, but others will not. This is very important, because expenses are handled in various ways: 1) the employer may handle all expenses and travel arrangements; 2) you handle your expenses and arrangements (the employer may assist with this), and the employer will reimburse you later; 3) the employer may offer an on-site interview, but will not pay for your interview.
  • Know yourself and the type of job you are seeking with this employer. Don't say, "I am willing to consider anything you have."
  • Thoroughly research the potential employer. Read annual reports, newspaper articles, trade journals, etc. Many companies have their own homepage, where you can read its mission statement, find out about its long-term goals, read recent press releases, and view corporate photos. Don't limit your research only to company-controlled information. The World Wide Web can be a valuable investigative tool. You may uncover key information that may influence-positively or negatively-your decision to pursue employment with a given organization.
  • Bring extra copies of your resume; copies of any paperwork you may have forwarded to the employer; names, addresses, phone numbers and e-mail addresses of your references; an updated college transcript; a copy of your best paper as a writing sample; a notebook; a black and/or blue pen for filling out forms and applications; and names and addresses of past employers.
  • Bring extra money and a change of clothes. Also, have the names and phone numbers of those who may be meeting you in case your plans change unexpectedly. Anything can happen and you need to be ready for emergencies.
  • Your role at the interview is to respond to questions, to ask your own questions and to observe. Be ready to meet people who are not part of your formal agenda. Be courteous to everyone regardless of his or her position; you never know who might be watching you and your actions once you arrive in town.
  • Don't forget your table manners. Plant trips may include several meals or attendance at a reception the night before your "big day." When ordering food at a restaurant, follow the lead of the employer host. For example, don't order the three-pound lobster if everyone else is having a more moderately priced entree. If you have the "dining jitters," some authorities suggest ordering food that is easy to handle, such as a boneless fish fillet or chicken breast.
  • Many employers have a set salary range for entry-level positions and others are more negotiable. Though salary should not be brought up until an offer is extended, it is wise to know your worth in advance. Contact your campus career center to obtain more information on salaries. According to Jay Wheeler, manager of university relations and staffing for Halliburton, "Students have been working on perfecting their product for a number of years and should know what kind of product they've created and what the company is willing to buy."
  • Soon after the site visit, record your impressions of your performance. Review the business cards of those you met or write the information in your notebook before leaving the facility. You should have the names, titles, addresses and phone numbers of everyone who was involved in your interview so you can determine which individuals you may want to contact with additional questions or follow-up information. A thank you letter should be written to the person(s) who will be making the hiring decision. Stay in touch with the employer if you want to pursue a career with them.
A site visit is a two-way street. You are there to evaluate the employer and to determine if your expectations are met for job content, company culture and values, organizational structure, and lifestyles (both at work and leisure). Take note of how the employees interact, and also assess the physical work environment.
Just as any good salesperson would never leave a customer without attempting to close the sale, you should never leave an interview without some sort of closure. If you decide that the job is right for you, don't be afraid to tell the employer that you feel that there is a good fit and you are eager to join their team. The employer is interested in hiring people who want to be associated with them and they will never know of your interest if you don't voice your opinion. Keep in mind that although the employer has the final power to offer a job, your demeanor during the entire interviewing process-both on and off campus-also gives you a great deal of power.

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Video Conference Interviews
More and more companies and organizations are using video interviewing as a pre-screening tool. This process is used primarily for cross-country pre-selection by companies looking for cost-effective ways to recruit. As with telephone interviews, this process is becoming increasingly popular with local companies.

There are usually two types of video conference interviews: Those handled by independent vendors, or those done in branch offices.

For interviews held by independent vendors, you will be asked to report to a vendor office that specializes in contracting out video conference services. The facilities and technology are usally elaborate, and your interviewer will more than likely be a "professional interviewer" who will ask pre-determined questions. The video tape will then be turned over to the organization interested in you.

If you are asked to report to a branch office, chances are the facilities will be less elaborate than a professional independent vendor. The video conference equipment may consist of a PC, a slow scan camera and a microphone. In this setting, you will usually be interviewed by someone in the company's human resources department or another staff member.

In either case, video conference interviews present more of a challenge than telephone interviews. Be prepared to make a special effort to ensure your enthusiasm and warmth are projected to the interviewers because of this.

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Interview Questions and Etiquette


A Sample List Of Questions You May Face


What Are Your Weaknesses? This is the most dreaded question of all. Handle it by minimizing your weakness and emphasizing your strengths. Turn this question around to discuss an area that needs improvement, not an outright weakness. Then try to demonstrate that you are doing something to improve in that area. Another good weakness is recognizing a deficient skills set that can be improved. One important aspect to remember is not to give away a character flaw or negative personality trait and try to concentrate on professional skills.

Example: "Everyone has areas in which he or she can improve. Personally, I feel that mine is in expanding my computer knowledge, both hardware and software. Today, technology changes so quickly that by the time a person learns a new software, if becomes obsolete. I am currently looking into attending a workshop on doing business on the Internet."

********

Why Should We Hire You? Desire, commitment, and passion toward one's career goals are vitally important to a hiring manager. Emotion is as important as, if not important as, qualifications. Confidence comes from knowing your capabilities, desires, and goals. This self-assurance comes across in an interview in your voice and body language in addition to your answers. Confidence is everything!

Example: "I want this position because of the challenges and opportunities Golden Gates, Inc., offers. I have read a number of articles on the company over the past three years and I waited for the right position to open up and submitted my resume when the ad appeared. I am well qualified, have a solid verifiable record of achievement, and have skills and abilities suitable for Golden Gate's corporate culture."

********

Why Do You Want to Work Here? The interviewer is listening for an answer that indicates you've given this some thought and are not sending out resumes just because there is an opening.

Example, "I've selected key companies whose mission statements are in line with my values, where I know I could be excited about what the company does, and this company is very high on my list of desirable choices."

********

How would a former boss describe you? Personalities are not the issue here. Whether you were best friends or not, the key to answering this question effectively is demonstrating your accomplishments. What two or three achievement were you responsible for that your boss would acknowledge?

Example: "As a property manager, I have been recognized for effectively managing over 20 properties simultaneously, which is 20 percent more than anyone else in our organization. I am sure that he would mention that fact along with my strong organizational skills, attention to detail and ability to prioritize my tasks."

********

What are your short and long-term career objectives? Sometimes it's best to talk about short-term and intermediate goals rather than locking yourself into the distant future. The interviewer wants to see how you envision your future. Evidence supports the fact that high achievers are people who have defined goals for themselves. The interviewer also wants to see how realistic your objectives are and how they mesh with the company's goals.

Example: "My long-term goal is to become an educator in the Bentwood County school system. To that end I am seeking a position as a substitute teacher to help me get my foot in the door for when permanent placement is available. This enables me to prove myself to my superiors and peers and contribute to the educational goals of the school system and the students."

********

How well do you handle stress? We live in a stressful society. Being able to deal effectively with stress is important. You don't want to go in depth with your answer, so keep it simple and general.

Example: "A certain degree of stress keeps me at my peak-performance level. Just as an actor experiences stage fright before stepping in front of the audience, I overcome nervous, stressful feelings by plunging into a project. Though I do not seek to create stressful situations, when they occur, I use them to my advantage and rise to the occasion.

********

What Can You Do for Us That Other Candidates Can't? What makes you unique? This will take an assessment of your experiences, skills and traits. The interviewer is testing your confidence level and composure under pressure. He is seeking an affirmation from you that you are the best candidate for the job. The interviewer is looking for reinforcement in order to make the right hiring decision.

Example: "I am sure you have interviewed many qualified people for this position. Perhaps they have somewhat similar skills, qualifications, and accomplishments, but I have a genuine enthusiasm for the company and the job. I offer you the opportunity to take advantage of my more than ten years of consulting experience. Most important, I am a person who would professionally represent your company, lead and coach your employees, and attain the challenging goals you have set forth."

********

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would it be? This is the time to pick a strong, powerful adjective that can easily accentuate your skills as an individual. Such words will not only demonstrate your strong leadership and communication skills, but that you have a strong drive and passion.

Example: "If I were to describe myself in one word, I would say that I am respectful. I always take into consideration of others. In projects that I have been a leader in, I always take the time to hear all alternatives before making a decision and always try to incorporate the ideas of others into plans in which I supervise."

********

Describe one of your past failures and how you handled it This can be a tricky question, but a good answer can set you apart from the rest of the field. Treat failures as a learning experience and show that failures lead to greater successes. You must have a good example or illustration prepared for this question.

Example: "I believe that failure should be treated as an opportunity to learn. One incident that immediately comes to mind occurred when my boss was traveling from Atlanta to Palm Springs. He arrived at the airport and discovered that his ticket was out of date. I had changed his reservation with the travel agent, but she forgot to issue the new ticket and delivered the wrong one. We had done business with the same travel agency for two years, and I never had this happen before. It certainly taught me the value of the saying "inspect what you expect." I learned that I should never assume anything."

********

If You Were an Animal, Which One Would You Want to Be? Interviewers use this type of psychological question to see if you can think quickly. If you answer "a bunny," you will make a soft, passive impression. If you answer "a lion," you will be seen as aggressive. What type of personality would it take to get the job done? What impression do you want to make?


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Other Questions You May Face


Organization and Planning Skills
These sort of questions highlight your thought process and the way you handle specific situations. The way that you have behaved in the past can show an interviewer just what type of person you may be to their company/organization. Try to use specific examples and never underestimate the power of storytelling.

Describe a specific situation which illustrates how you set objectives to reach a goal.
Tell me about a time when you had to choose between two or more important opportunities. How did you go about deciding which was most important to you?
Tell me how you normally schedule your time in order to accomplish your day-to-day tasks.
Describe a situation where you had a major role in organizing an important event. How did you do it?
Think about a lengthy term paper or report that you have written. Describe how you organized, researched and wrote that report.
Give an example of how you organized notes and other materials in order to study for an important exam.
Describe a time when you reorganized something to be more efficient. How did you do it?
Think of a time when you made important plans that were fouled up. How did you react? What did you do?

Interaction and Leadership

These questions focus on your ability and level of interaction with others as well as your ability to work independently. Demonstrate that you can work well in a team environment and produce exceptional results independently. Being able to describe a specific event relating to the question asked is critical for the interviewed to assess your past actions to potential future ones. Try to choose events that can be closely associated to the position you are seeking.

Tell me about an event in your past which has greatly influenced the way you relate to people.
Give a specific example that best illustrates your ability to deal with an uncooperative person.
Some people have the ability to "roll with the punches." Describe a time when you demonstrated this skill.
Tell me when you had to work with someone who had a negative opinion of you. How did you overcome this?
Recall a time when you participated on a team. Tell me an important lesson you learned that is useful to you today.
Describe an instance when you reversed a negative situation at school, work, or home. How did you do it?
Describe a situation which best illustrates your leadership ability.
Think about someone whose leadership you admire. What qualities impress you?

Assertiveness and Motivation

The interviewer is trying to test how you handle pressures in your everyday, academic and professional life. The way in which you manage your emotions in your personal life can greatly impact those in your work life. The interviewer is looking for someone who is not only well motivated, but has a drive and desire to achieve in the position they seek. When choosing examples, try to bring in ones that will relate closely to your position and what pressures may come from it.

Describe several work standards that you have set for yourself in past jobs. Why are these important to you?
Tell me a time when you have experienced a lack of motivation. What caused this? What did you do about it?
Describe a situation where you had to deal with someone whom you felt was dishonest. How did you handle it?
Describe a situation that made you extremely angry. How did you react?
Tell me about a time that best illustrates your ability to "stick things out" in a tough situation.
Describe a time when you motivated an unmotivated person to do something you wanted them to do.
Give me an example of a time when you were affected by organizational politics. How did you react?
Give me an example of when someone tried to take advantage of you. How did you react?

Decision Making and Problem Solving

The interviewer is looking for someone who can make important decisions while possibly under a variety of stressors. It is important to demonstrate that you are the type of person who can not only make effective decisions, but be able to work collaboratively with others in trying to make a decision or solve a problem. Use examples from your academic or previous work experience where you demonstrated the ability to utilize critical thinking and team management skills to achieve a goal.

Give an example that illustrates your ability to make a tough decision.
Tell me about a decision you made even though you did not have all the facts.
Describe a situation where you have had to "stand up" for a decision you made, even though it was unpopular.
Describe a situation where you changed your mind, even after you publicly committed to a decision.
Describe a situation that illustrates your ability to analyze and solve a problem.
Tell me about a time where you acted as a mediator to solve a problem between two other people.
Describe a problem that seemed almost overwhelming to you. How did you handle it?
Tell me about a time where you have used a creative or unique approach to solve a tough problem.

The following general questions will also help you prepare for employment interviews:

Always remember that you are being analyzed for the job position that you are seeking. Remember to try to relate any questions that you may receive back to the position you are trying to obtain.

Tell me a little about yourself.
Why did you attend UC Davis?
What led you to choose your major or career field?
What college subjects did you like best/least? What did you like/dislike about them?
What has been your greatest challenge in college?
Describe your most rewarding college experience?
Do you think that your grades are a good indication of your academic abilities?
If you could change a decision you made while at college, what would you change? Why?
What campus involvements did you choose? What did you gain/contribute?
What are your plans for continued or graduate study?
What interests you about this job?
What challenges are you looking for in a position?
How have your educational and work experiences prepared you for this position?
What work experiences have been most valuable to you and why?
Why are you interested in our organization? In what way do you think you can contribute to our company?
How would you describe yourself?
What do you consider to be your greatest strengths? Weaknesses? Give examples.
If I asked the people who know you for one reason why I shouldn't hire you, what would they say?
What accomplishments have given you the most satisfaction? Why?
What are your long-range career objectives? How do you plan to achieve these?
How would you describe your ideal job?
What two or three things are most important to you in your job?
Do you have a geographical preference? Why?
What do you know about our company?
Why should we hire you?
What can you do for us that someone else can't?
What do you look for in a job?
How long would it take for you to make a meaningful contribution?
How does this assignment fit into your overall career plan?
What kind of hours are you used to working or would like to work?


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Turning the Tables in the Interview


You've sat through most of the interview and have answered all the recruiter's questions. You know you've made a good impression because you prepared for the interview and your answers were articulate and decisive. You've come across as a very bright, capable candidate when the recruiter asks something you didn't anticipate: "Do you have any questions?"

If you don't have any questions prepared and you try to cover your mistake by asking a spur-of-the-moment question, chances are that you will damage your chances for a successful interview. Some recruiters refuse to hire people who don't ask intelligent questions. Don't ask questions just for the sake of asking questions-make sure it is information that you need.

Prepare Questions in Advance

You should have a list of questions prepared for this crucial part of the interview. Every question you ask should demonstrate your interest and confirm your knowledge of the organization.

You should read publications in the field. You can get information about new products or policies by surfing the employer's Web site or by reading general magazines or trade publications. It is appropriate to address some of your questions to what you have read. Ask about new products, how research and development is structured at the company, management strategies at the company, how the company has changed, and potential product growth.

Some of the publications providing a wealth of information are Fortune, Forbes, BusinessWeek and The Wall Street Journal.

Questions To Ask

1. Ask specific questions about the position. You need to know what duties will be required of the person in the position to see if there is a fit between your interests and qualifications and the job you seek.
2. Try to find out as much as possible about qualities and skills the recruiter is looking for in job candidates. Once you determine the necessary qualities, you can then explain to the recruiter how your background and capabilities relate to those qualities.
3. Ask questions concerning advancement and promotion paths available. Every company is different and most advancement policies are unique. Try to find out what the possible promotion path is to see if it fits your career goals. You may also want to ask about periodic performance evaluations.
4. It is appropriate to ask specific questions about the company's training program if this information is not covered in company literature.
5. Ask questions about location and travel required. If you have limitations, this is the time to find out what is expected in the position.

Questions Not to Ask

Not only should you know what questions to ask during the interview, but it is important to know what questions not to ask. You don't want to alienate the recruiter by putting him or her on the defensive. The following areas should generally be avoided:


1. Avoid asking questions that are answered in the company's annual report or employment brochure. Recruiters are familiar enough with their own information to recognize when you haven't done your homework. If some information in the annual report isn't clear to you, by all means ask for clarification.


2. Don't bring up salary or benefits in the initial interview. The majority of companies recruiting are very competitive and will offer approximately similar salaries and benefits. The recruiter may choose to bring up the information, but you should not initiate the topic.


3. Avoid asking any personal questions or questions that will put the recruiter on the defensive. This includes questions such as the interviewer's educational background, marital status, past work experience and so on.


4. Don't ask questions that have already been answered during the interview. If you have prepared a list of questions and some of them have been addressed during the interview, do not repeat them unless you need clarification.


Sample Questions

What is the standing and reputation of your firm in the industry?
What are the stability and growth goals for your company?
Describe the structure of your firm and the various departments or divisions.
Who is your biggest competition?
What areas are you trying to develop within?
What is the communication style of your firm?
Why is this position open?
How often has it been filled in the past five years?...What were the main reasons?
What do you look for in an employee?
What is the reason someone should come work for your firm, this job, ect..?
What would be the natural progression for growth?
What would you like done differently by the next person who fills this position?
What are some of the objectives you would like to see accomplished in this job?
What is most pressing? What would you like to have done in the next 3 months?
What are some of the long term objectives you would like to see completed?
How many people are in these areas?
What type of support does this position receive in terms of people, finances. etc?
What freedom would I have in determining my own work objectives, deadlines, and methods of measurement?
What advancement opportunities are available for the person who is successful in this position, and within what time frame?
In what ways has this organization been most successful in terms of products and services over the years?
What significant changes do you foresee in the near future?
How do you train or cross-train people for new areas?
Where can I expect to be in 2-5 years?
What salary should one expect, and how quickly can they grow?
What are some of the more difficult problems one would have to face in this position?
How do you think these could best be handled?
What is the communication style of your firm?
How is one evaluated in this position?
What accounts for success within the company?
What do you like most about this industry?
What do you like least about this industry?
What would you do differently in your career?
If you were to leave this business, what would be the reasons?


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Interview Etiquette

Know the names of your interviewers and address him/her appropriately during the interview. If you don't know the name of your interviewer in advance, call the receptionist and ask. Also get the receptionist's name so if you need to call back, you can use it.

Try and greet all the individuals you may encounter inside your interview building. That is, smiling to workers you may pass and greeting the receptionist.

Watch your non-verbal communcation, especially your posture, eye contant and excessive hand gestures. Don't appear to be over-relaxed or too rigid.

Do not assume that the interview is over when you walk outside the interview room. You should remain in your interview clothes until you are back at home or at a far enough distance from the location of your interview. You don't want to be seen taking off your tie or having changed into a more relaxed shirt while at lunch at the restaurant next door.

Also, remember to relax and that it's okay to be nervous. Many interviewers themselves get nervous and will most times understand you and your nervousness.

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Information contained in this sheet was compiled from:

The Job Hunting Handbook: Job Outlook 20 2006, Published by Dahstrom and Company.
UC Davis Career Resource Manual
UCLA Career Resource Manual
UC Berkeley Career Resource Manual


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