Interview Skills
SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEWING SKILLS WHAT IS AN INTERVIEW?
An interview is a conversation between an employer and a candidate for both parties to learn more about each other for the purpose of filling a position within a company or organization. You and the interviewer each have a need: you want a job and the interviewer wants to find the right person to fill the job. If you receive an interview, chances are you have already been “prescreened” and meet all or most of the requirements the employer is looking for in a candidate. Typically this prescreening has been done through an application process and/or resume review. The interview is an opportunity for further screening. Through an interview both parties start to form impressions of whether a “fit” exists between your qualifications/personality and the organization/position.
WHAT IS AN INTERVIEWER SEEKING?
Three main areas employers typically look at in the selection process: What can you do for us? If hired, how can you contribute to the department and/or organization differently than other interview candidates? This can be demonstrated through your educational background, prior experience, special skills and knowledge. Why do you want to work with us? An employer wants to make sure the candidate chosen has a solid understanding of the organization, department and position. If not, chances are the individual will not be a good hire, which can lead to ineffectiveness, resignation or termination. All scenarios cost the employer resources, time and money. As a candidate you need to state why you want to work in a particular industry, for a particular organization and/or department. Also, you need to convey to that employer that you have a realistic picture of the job and how this industry/position fits within your short and long term goals. What are you like once we’ve gotten to know you? Employers are looking at areas such as your motivation, initiative, creativity, problem-solving abilities and team-work skills, and how
An interview is a conversation between an employer and a candidate for both parties to learn more about each other for the purpose of filling a position within a company or organization. You and the interviewer each have a need: you want a job and the interviewer wants to find the right person to fill the job. If you receive an interview, chances are you have already been “prescreened” and meet all or most of the requirements the employer is looking for in a candidate. Typically this prescreening has been done through an application process and/or resume review. The interview is an opportunity for further screening. Through an interview both parties start to form impressions of whether a “fit” exists between your qualifications/personality and the organization/position.
WHAT IS AN INTERVIEWER SEEKING?
Three main areas employers typically look at in the selection process: What can you do for us? If hired, how can you contribute to the department and/or organization differently than other interview candidates? This can be demonstrated through your educational background, prior experience, special skills and knowledge. Why do you want to work with us? An employer wants to make sure the candidate chosen has a solid understanding of the organization, department and position. If not, chances are the individual will not be a good hire, which can lead to ineffectiveness, resignation or termination. All scenarios cost the employer resources, time and money. As a candidate you need to state why you want to work in a particular industry, for a particular organization and/or department. Also, you need to convey to that employer that you have a realistic picture of the job and how this industry/position fits within your short and long term goals. What are you like once we’ve gotten to know you? Employers are looking at areas such as your motivation, initiative, creativity, problem-solving abilities and team-work skills, and how