Don’t talk yourself out of the job

Oct 25th, 2006 | By Bill | Category: Employment News



Don’t talk yourself out of the job

A column on “Interviewing 101 – The Basics” was a request of a local employer. It seems that he hasn’t been too impressed with the interviewing skills of recent college graduates.

I’ve compiled this 101 list from previous columns and added information. Important things to remember include:

Prepare yourself. Before the big day, do your homework. Research the company to learn as much as you can. You can also research the industry and the specific position. This can be done by using the Internet and by talking with people in the organization.

Use the information to demonstrate your knowledge and interest during the interview. Don’t ever go into an interview and ask the employer, “What does your company do?”

Dress the part. A professional appearance alone will not land you the job, but a slovenly one will certainly hurt your chances. Dress as though you’re ready and enthusiastic to go to work.

Professionals dress professionally. Lose the college backpack. Wear a conservative outfit such as a suit. Go easy on the trendy; avoid displaying anything that may take attention away from your skills and qualifications – tattoos, nose rings, makeup, etc. And don’t forget to wear a smile.

Be polite. Show respect to everyone you meet, whether it’s the boss, the receptionist or a prospective co-worker. Since the first person you meet on an interview is usually a receptionist, consider this as the first impression you’ll make.

Sell your strengths/catalog your skills.

Make sure you’re ready to tell the interviewer what you have done and what you can do for the company. Focus on what you can offer the interviewer to address his or her problems. Don’t talk about how the job or company can help you solve yours.

Ask intelligent questions. It shows that you have done some homework, demonstrates your interest in the field and can help you get a better understanding of expectations, culture, etc.

Don’t immediately ask about the salary and benefits. Give the employer a chance to provide you with that information.

Have a good handshake. Your handshake is your first opportunity to create a great impression. Don’t give a bone-crusher and don’t have a limp wrist. You simply want a firm grip with two shakes.

Talking appropriately. Over-talking makes you look flaky or nervous. There are many nervous habits that come out during an interview, and a nervous candidate seldom makes a good impression.

While over-talking isn’t good, under-talking doesn’t give you the opportunity to sell yourself enough. And don’t speak negatively about current or past employers/managers. The fastest way to talk yourself out of a new job is to say negative things about the last one.

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