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- The Job Interview
Process - 5 Stages
- (c) 1997 LJL Seminars
While many of us may not think of job interviews as a
presentation, it may be the first presentation we ever
make. It may also be the most critical. With a job
interview we are there to "sell ourself" not just ideas.
First impressions are extremely important and like
presentations we should properly prepare ourself for the
interview. Below are the 5 stages I recommend you use
when preparing for your interview.
Here are the 5 Stages of the Interviewing Process:
1. Preparation - Learn as much about the company as you
can before your interview. Find out what they do, what
they make, what kind of services they provide and
determine if your skills can fit into what they do.
Determine what you can offer the company. Arrange and
confirm the time for your interview. Make sure you
arrive early. Don't be late. Ask for directions when you
confirm your appointment, if needed. Make a list of what
questions you may want to ask them. More importantly,
make a list of those questions you anticipate they might
ask you.
2. Introduction - Make sure your initial non-verbal
contact is positive. For example, smile when you first
see the person interviewing you. Have a firm handshake
and establish good eye contact when talking. You be the
one to start off the conversation. Go prepared with your
list of specific questions to ask them about the job and
the company. Don't forget to bring the questions with
you.
3. Presentation - When asked questions always listen to
their questions carefully. If you don't understand any
question, ask them to clarify the question. If you do
not know the answer to the question be honest and say so
but do offer to get back to them with the answer later
and DO GET back to them.
4. Obtain Information for Yourself - Remember, this job
interview is for your benefit also. Ask questions about
the actual job requirements, benefits and type of work
that you will be expected to do. Determine if the job
will fit in with your educational background and career
goals. (Have you written down your career goals?). Be
prepared to take notes during the interview. This
"shows" you came prepared. Write down all the names of
the people you meet and their position. Be active in the
interview process. Don't just sit there and not ask any
questions.
5. The Final Stage - Write down all the reasons for the
company to hire you. Ask if your background matches what
the company is looking for. Ask is they are interviewing
other people for the same position and when can you
expect a response. Ask if the interviewer wants you to
call later for a decision. Also, ask how long it will
take before they will make a decision. Don't forget to
follow up with a phone call or a thank you note. Clearly
tell them you are interested if you are BEFORE you leave
the interview.
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- Lenny Laskowski
- Lenny Laskowski is an international professional speaker and the author
of the book, No Sweat Presentations - The Painless Way to Successful Speaking and several
other publications. Lenny is also available for hire to speak to your organization,
college or association. Lenny also provides in-house seminars and workshops. Why not
contact Lenny today for your next function or event. Lenny can be found at his Web site, http://www.ljlseminars.com/ or can be contacted by
email at the following address: Sales@LJLSeminars.com.
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