Resources to Improve Your Effectiveness

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INTERVIEW TIPS

If there is ever a time to put your best foot forward, the job interview is it. The key to a successful interview is presenting yourself in a positive, professional manner that highlights how you can add value to the employer. That takes thoughtful preparation and practice.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for your next job interview.

Preparation

1. Know why you are interested in the job.

2. Assess your strengths and weaknesses.

3. Assess your major accomplishments.

4. Be prepared to discuss your current and previous job responsibilities.

5. Evaluate your skills and experience as they relate to the specific position requirements that you are applying for.

6. Prepare your questions about the position.

7. Research the company. Do you want to work there?

8. Make sure you are ready to make a professional presentation, both in appearance and in your verbiage.

9. Show how you would/could add value to the department and to the firm.

10. Write a good resume, which accurately reflects your education and work experience. It should be neat and should have no typing or spelling errors.

11. Draft a thank you letter, which you can easily customize and send immediately after your interviews. Thank the interviewer for the opportunity and express a strong interest for the position.

Questions to Expect

How you answer a question may be as important as your technical competence. Companies today are looking for a well rounded, business oriented professional. Give some thought to how you might respond to these questions:

1. Tell me about yourself. (Creative, analytical, hardworking.).

2. Why are you preparing to leave your present position?

3. What are your career plans/goals?

4. What is your current salary? What range are you looking for?

5. What are your greatest strengths?

6. Tell me about some recent accomplishments or special projects?

7. What outside interests do you have?

8. Describe a typical day on your present job.

9. How do you approach problem-solving?

As you prepare for upcoming interviews, practice! Write down answers first and refine them, then work with a friend and answer these questions out loud. There is simply no substitute for good preparation.