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[Q21]Questions To Ask A Job Interview

by Cecile Peterkin, Cec

Here are some tips for a job interview that will help you come out of the process on top. When you walk into a job interview, the product you are selling is YOU. In order to successfully sell yourself, you must market your personal brand. That is, you must build a reputation that qualifies you, and only you, to successfully fulfill the job requirements. The job interview is your time to shine – your time to sell yourself and your abilities. In order to do that, you must have faith in your personal brand. That's what separates you from the rest of the candidates for your desired position. If you can do so successfully, you will be well on your way to landing the job of your dreams.

The successful job interview process begins when you accept the interview, and ends when the employer decides to hire you. The more you are able to communicate professionalism with personality, distinction and skill, the better your chance of getting the job.

15 Sure-fire Ways to a Successful Job Interview:

Before the interview:

Use the 3 P's – Plan, Prepare, and Practice.

1. Prepare for the interview; research the company and prepare questions based on your research.

2. Do mock interviews in order to prepare for all questions, especially uncomfortable ones.

3. Dress professionally even if the company dress code is business casual.

4. Arrive early! (12 – 15 minutes before the interview)

At the interview:

5. Give your interviewer a firm handshake. A powerful handshake and a genuine smile will get you off to a good start.

6. Beware of your Body Language; sit erect, stand and walk with confidence, lean forward toward the interviewer.

7. Build rapport – use powerful, effective communication techniques. Take charge of the encounter without being overbearing.

8. Be a good listener. Answer only what's asked, in a brief but effective manner.

9. Show enthusiasm and sincere interest. Don't act desperate.

10. Take notes. You may need to refer to them later in the interview.

11. Communicate your skills, qualifications, credentials and the benefits you offer.

12. Demonstrate your accomplishments; how you improve sales, reduce cost, improve productivity, solve organizational problems. In short, demonstrate why you're good for the organization's bottom line.

13. Make eye contact. It demonstrates confidence, trust, and power.

14. If you want the position, ask for it - directly.

After the interview:

15. Send a follow-up thank you letter. The letter should state what interests you about the position, why you are suitable for the job, and your appreciation for the interviewer's time.

The Top 10 Interview Questions

According to a recent survey by ResumeDoctor.com, the following are the 10 most frequently asked questions in interviews:

1. Describe your ideal job/boss.

2. Why are you looking for a job? or Why are you leaving your current position?

3. What unique experiences or qualifications separate you from other candidates?
4. Tell me about yourself.

5. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

6. Describe a time when you were faced with a challenging situation and how you handled it. It's almost guaranteed that you will be asked this question.

7. What are your short-term/long-term goals?

8. What are some of your strengths in dealing with people?

9. What are your salary requirements?

10. Why are you interested in this position? Our company?

There are 10 easy ways to help make your job interview go smoothly. Review these steps, practice and relax. After all, what is the worst thing that can happen? For many people the worst thing that can happen is "rejection" - not getting an offer. Try to look at the job interview as a learning experience.

Make sure you have these items under control before each interview and the interview process will go much smoother.

1. Look Sharp.

Before the interview, select your outfit. Depending on the industry and position, get out your best duds and check them over for spots and wrinkles. Even if the company has a casual environment, you don't want to look like you slept in your clothes. Above all, dress for confidence. If you feel good, others will respond to you accordingly.

2. Be on Time.

Never arrive late to an interview. Allow extra time to arrive early in the vicinity, allowing for factors like getting lost. Enter the building 10 to 15 minutes before the interview.

3. Do Your Research.

Researching the company before the interview and learning as much as possible about its services, products, customers and competition will give you an edge in understanding and addressing the company's needs. The more you know about the company and what it stands for, the better chance you have of selling yourself. You also should find out about the company's culture to gain insight into your potential happiness on the job.

4. Be Prepared.

Bring along a folder containing extra copies of your resume, a copy of your references and paper to take notes. You should also have questions prepared to ask at the end of the interview.

5. Show Enthusiasm.

A firm handshake and plenty of eye contact demonstrates confidence. Speak distinctly in a confident voice, even though you may feel shaky.

6. Listen.

One of the most neglected interviewing skills is listening. Make sure you are not only listening, but also reading between the lines. Sometimes what is not said is just as important as what is said.

7. Answer the Question Asked.

Candidates often don't think about whether or not they actually are answering the questions asked by their interviewers. Make sure you understand what is being asked, and get further clarification if you are unsure.

8. Give Specific Examples.

One specific example of your background is worth 50 vague stories. Prepare your stories before the interview. Give examples that highlight your successes and uniqueness. Your past behavior can indicate your future performance.

9. Ask Questions.

Many interviewees don't ask questions and miss the opportunity to find out valuable information. Your questions indicate your interest in the company or job.

10. Follow up.

Whether it's through email or regular mail, the follow-up is one more chance to remind the interviewer of all the valuable traits you bring to the job and company. You don't want to miss this last chance to market yourself.

Article Source : Pg. 4

About Author

Both Cecile Peterkin & Carole Martin are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.

Cecile Peterkin has sinced written about articles on various topics from About Branding, Personal Finance and Leadership. Cecile Peterkin is a Certified Career Coach, Corporate Mentor, author and speaker. In a world where the old definition of job security no longer applies, managing your career, just like managing your life, requires preparation and planning. Cecile's Elite. Cecile Peterkin's top article generates over 5400 views. to your Favourites.

Carole Martin has sinced written about articles on various topics from Interview Questions, Interview Questions and Marketing and Communications. Carole Martin, America's #1 Interview Coach is a contributing writer for Monster.com Try her FREE practice interview at . Carole Martin's top article generates over 165000 views. to your Favourites.