Interview Preparation Guide

1. Interview Preparation Guide

2. Does the idea of going to a job interview make you feel a little uncomfortable? Many people find that it is the hardest part of the hiring process. However, the more you prepare and practice, the more comfortable you will feel.  Increase your odds of landing the job you want by brushing up on your interview skills.

3. Prepare before you go Find out all you can about the department and position before you go to the interview. Understand the services that the department or clinic provides. Be familiar with the work activities on the job description.

4. Practice makes perfect  Practice your answers to common questions so that you feel more confident and relaxed. • What do you consider your strengths? • What do you consider your challenges? • Why do you want to work for this department? • What are your short-term goals? • Where do you see yourself in five years? • What do you like most about your current job? • What do you like least about your current job? • How would your coworkers describe you? • How would your manager describe you? • How do you manage multiple tasks/projects? Please give an example. • How do you deal with stress or deadlines? Please give an example. • Do you prefer to work independently or with a team? • Why should I hire you? Answer clearly, concisely and with confidence.

5. Know why you should be selected for the role  Determine the goals of the position. If possible, talk to others in the department. If you are unclear on this point, include it in the questions you ask at the interview itself and be prepared to incorporate it into your answer. Communicate how your skills and experience support the goals of the position. Articulate shared values. Look at the company’s mission statement and regular business practices. Explain why these are in line with your own values and goals. State your interest in the position. Be enthusiastic about the opportunity to work for this department. Share how your previous experience as a member of the Cone Health team will be beneficial in the new role.

6. Be prepared to answer behavioral questions The interviewer is looking for specific examples of things you did to contribute to the team. They are looking for: What was the situation? What did you do? What effect(s) did your actions have? This is called a STAR question. Example of a STAR answer: Situation/Task – A team member in the emergency department was in a car accident on the way into work and the team was one employee short. Action – I volunteered to stay and work her shift so that the team was fully staffed to serve our patients. Result – Everyone felt appreciated and I supported my coworker. This was a way I displayed our value of Caring for Each Other.

7. Make a list of questions to ask Almost all interviewers will ask if you have questions. This is a great opportunity to demonstrate that you have done your homework and have put some thought into your questions. • What are the primary duties of the role? • What do you consider the most important trait or skill for this position? • How would you describe a typical day in this position? • Why are you looking to fill this position? • How would you describe your management style? • What are the short-term and long-term goals for this role? • What are the prospects for advancement for this role? • What are the next steps in the hiring process?

8. The interview The interview is your chance to show that you are the best person for the job. Your application or resume has already exhibited that you are qualified. It is now up to you to show how your skills and experience match this position and department.

9. Make a great impression • It is always best to dress professionally for the interview. • Know the job description and communicate how your skills fit with theneed. • List your strengths. • Sell your experience. Employers are interested in what you have accomplished. • Speak with confidence. • Maintain eye contact. My strengths are… My experience is…

10. Say Thank You After the interview, follow up with a thank-you note. This is a chance for you to restate your interest and how you can benefit the company. Try to time it so that the note gets there before the hiring decision is made. You should also follow up with a phone call if you do not hear back from the employer within the specified time.

11. Thank you Sample Letter Today’s Date Your Name Address City, State Zip Dear <<Name of Interviewer>>: Thank you for the opportunity to interview yesterday for the position of <<position name>>. I am excited about the prospect of joining <<Company Name or Department Name>> and working with the team to accomplish the goals we discussed. My training and experience would fit well with the direction your organization is heading. <<List any specific training that would serve to emphasize your qualifications.>> I am very interested in working as <<position name>> for your department. I look forward to hearing from you after you have completed the first round of interviews. Sincerely, <<Your Name>>