subject: First, Graduation, Then The Employment Search [print this page] As tough as it is to believe - it really is time to stop celebrating that fantastic moment in your life --- the diploma and the graduation ---- and get down to the really demanding lessons of life.
Like going out and getting a job.
Hopefully you have sent out several resumes and are starting to obtain a few nibbles from employers. If you are not perhaps you ought to have a look at your resume.
Nevertheless if you are lucky enough to begin receiving some invitations to come in and interview this is the time to start learning a few fresh tactics on interview techniques.
Interviewing is a learned proficiency.
As with every proficiency you've ever learned, you have to learn the technique and after that practice, practice, practice. A mock interview will not only assist you practice your system, but allow you to get constructive feedback and coaching on your presentation.
Sue's Story
Sue is an accomplished tennis player, and has worked on her stroke and technique for many years. She has taken coaching from professionals, and listened to their guidance when they gave her their critique. She has read guides and talks to fellow tennis competitors comparing points.
She is now graduating from college and has signed up for several on-campus interviews with recruiters. She feels certain that she is familiar with her subject and is a fairly skillful talker, so she decides to blow off the career center and the need to get feedback. She can overcome this stuff by herself no coaching considered necessary here.
Regrettably, Sue does not perform too well in her interviews. Out of three on-campus interviews she had, there are no offers for the face-to-face at the company. To say she is "bummed" would be an understatement. .
Jill's Story
When her roommate, Jill, comes back from her job interview meeting she is bubbling with excitement. She can't wait to tell Sue that she's already been invited for an on-site business job interview in two weeks.
Although Sue is delighted for Jill, she is still extra depressed in relation to her performance. She has always done superior at sporting activities than Jill, and she has a higher GPA. What happened to her during that job interview?
Even though it is difficult, Sue asks Jill why she thinks her interview went so well. Jill laughs and tells Sue that she has been working challenging to prepare for these interviews.
"You know all those mini-classes I've been taking during job week, well, I got a few great points and advice," she tells Sue. "But, the thing that helped most was the mock interview offered. Receiving feedback on the answers I was giving to those usual questions was a true eye-opener. I didn't realize how much I say things similar to, "You know" when I talk. I left that mock session with an assignment that I took seriously - to prepare and rehearse," Jill tells Sue.
"How can you rehearse for something when you do not know what they will ask?" says Sue.
"Let me give you the information that the career center coach gave to me, it will help you see the advantage of preparation," says Jill.
Sue does not let on that she is paying attention just tells Jill, "Thanks."
When Jill leaves for the evening, Sue picks up the leaflet - Pitfalls of Interviewing.
The Handout
Here are 10 of those actual pitfalls to watch for.
1.Weak non-verbal communication slouching fidgeting lack of eye contact
It's about demonstrating assurance - standing straight, making eye contact, and connecting with a proficient, solid handclasp. That opening impression can be a great start, or a speedy conclusion to your interview.
2. Not dressing for the profession or business "over casual"
Today's casual dress codes in the workplace, don't give you permission to dress as "they" do when you interview. It is critical to give the impression of being professional and well groomed, above all. Whether you wear a suit or something less formal depends on the company culture and the position you are looking for. If possible, telephone and find out what the business dress policy is prior to the job interview.
3. Not listening simply worrying about what you are going to say
From the very beginning of the job interview, your interviewer is giving you information, either directly or indirectly. If you are not listening turning up your intuitive - you are missing a most important opportunity.
Good communication skills include listening and letting the individual recognize you heard what they said. Watch your interviewer and match that style and tempo.
4. Chatting too much revealing it all even if it's not applicable
Telling the interviewer more than they must know can be a significant error. When you haven't prepared ahead of time you may perhaps be likely to wander off the point, at times talking yourself right out of the job. Practice for the job interview by reading through the job posting; matching your skillsets with the requirements of the position, and relating only that information.
5. Being over-familiar your new-found best friend is NOT the interviewer
The interview is a professional meeting to talk business. This is not about making an up-to-the-minute friend. The level of familiarity should mimic the behavior of the interviewer. It is critical to bring energy and enthusiasm to the job interview, and to make inquiries, but not to over-step your position as a candidate looking for a job.
6. Using inappropriate verbal communication you "guys" know what I mean
It's a given that you must use professional verbal communication during the job interview. Be alert of any inappropriate slang words or references to age, race, religion, politics, or sexual preferences these matters may perhaps get the door slammed very quickly.
7. Acting overconfident being full of yourself "king of the hill"
Mind-set plays an important role in your interview success. There is a fine balance between assurance, professionalism, and modesty. Even if you're putting on a performance to show your ability, over-doing is as serious, if not worse, as being too reserved.
8. Not responding to the question asked "jumping in without thinking"
When an interviewer asks for an "example of a time," you did something, he is looking for a sample of your previous actions. If you fail to convey a "specific" instance, you not only dont reply to the inquiry, but you fail to take an opening to provide evidence your ability and inform about your skillsets.
9. Not making inquiries a missed occasion you will live to regret
When asked if they have any inquiries, the majority of candidates answer, "No." Wrong response! It is exceedingly key to ask questions. It demonstrates an interest in what goes on in the business. It also provides you the opportunity to discover if this is the right place for you. The best inquiries come from listening to what is asked throughout the interview, and asking for additional information.
It's a tough job market, and you want a job! But, when you job interview with the "Please, please, hire me," approach you appear desperate and less confident. Maintain the three "C's" during the job interview: Cool, Calm, and confident! You know you can do the job, now, make certain the interviewer believes you can, too.
Sue Gets An "A" By Following the C's
It doesnt take a brick to smack Sue on the head she gets it. She set out for the Career Center the following day to get a little advice and feedback.
Everyone makes mistakes that's what makes us human. We are able to laugh at ourselves a great deal of the time when we tend to get tongue-tied or fail to remember someone's name even our spouse's. But in the job interview you need to be as ready and polished as possible. If you do make a blunder, think about it as human error and learn from the event. In the meantime do your homework and get prepared.
School is back in session at least until that job offer comes through.
