1. Land the Job You Want:The Interview The Career Place Connecting Workers and Employers

2. Today’s Agenda • Preparing for the interview • During the interview • Following up after an interview

3. Preparing for the interview • Conduct extensive research • Practice, practice, practice

4. Conducting research • Learn as much as you can about the job • Research the company and its competition • The Internet is your best research tool

5. Practice, practice, practice • Role play • Speak clearly and not too fast • Remain attentive and eager to listen

6. The interview • Look good and dress for the culture • Bring your career portfolio • Arrive early • Turn off your cell phone and pager • Offer a firm handshake • Use proper, comfortable posture • Be aware of your body language

7. Sell yourself • Be enthusiastic • Explain your qualifications • Relate your experience • Maintain a positive attitude • Make good eye contact • Ask questions

8. Common interview ?s • Tell me about yourself. • What is your weakest point? • What are your long-term goals? • Why do you want to work for us? • Why should I hire you? • Do you have any questions?

9. What employers look for… • Your dependability • Your knowledge of the company and job • How well you get along with others • If you project a positive image • How well you handle problems

10. Interview tips • Keep your answers brief, but thorough • Use examples to illustrate your point • Think before you speak • Relate your answers to the job

11. Interview tips • Match your skills with the company’s needs • Don’t volunteer information • Don’t bring up compensation

12. The closing: Ask questions • When will you make a decision? • Have I answered all your questions? • May I call you in a few days? • Stress that you want the job • Thank the interviewer

13. Evaluate your interview • Did you dress appropriately? • Were you warm and friendly? • Were you confident? • Were you able to handle tough questions?

14. Evaluate your interview • Did you project the right ‘fit?’ • Did you show you can do the work? • Did you speak well, and to the point? • Did you understand critical points?

15. Evaluate your interview • Did you project knowledge of the job? • Did you present your qualifications? • Were you enthusiastic? • Did you show your determination?

16. Following the interview • Send a formal thank-you note • Re-iterate your qualifications • Stress your enthusiasm • Add ideas you may have forgotten • Call to see if you’re still a candidate • Take notes on what worked, what didn’t