Interviews Skills and C.

V Writing
Objective:

The aim of this enjoyable course is to give intensive training and

practice for you to perform effectively in job interviews and to get the job
you deserve. The course covers the entire interview process from the
stage when you are notified of an interview for employment, right
through what you should do after the interview.

The objective of this course is to enable you to have the most effective
strategies for success in job interviews and have the confidence you need
to impress the interviewers and outshine the other applicants.

• Learn how to present and sell yourself like a professional.

• Handle difficult questions easily and effectively.
• Learn how to sell yourself as the best candidate.
Index:
What is an Interview? 4

Types of Interviews 5

Pre-Interview Preparation 6

Greeting & Introduction 8

Body Language: 9

Types of Interview Questions 10

General Interview Strategies 12

Dressing for Success-Men 13

Dressing for Success-Women 14

FOLLOW-UP 15

“Thank you” letter samples: 16

Suggestions 18

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What is an Interview?
A job interview is a conversation which occurs between a potential employer and a job applicant.
During the job interview, the employer hopes to determine whether or not the applicant is suitable for the
job, while the applicant tries to learn more about the position while also impressing the employer. As a
general rule; a job interview is an important part of the process of applying for a job, and it may range in
formality from a casual conversation to a series of serious discussions with a variety of people working
within the company.

- Interviewing is a skill, like riding your bike!

- PRACTICE makes PERFECT

Interviewing is a two-way street.

- Employers are attempting to determine if you are an appropriate fit for the job and their culture.

- You decide if the environment is right for you.

So, they should be prepared for you too. Unless, you may not like their company!

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Types of Interviews.

One-to-one Interview:
This is the most common type of Interview. The candidate for employment meets directly with the
interviewer.

Phone Interviews:

Are becoming increasingly popular among large corporations who are conducting a mass-hiring of
employees. These interviews are conducted entirely over the phone and eliminate bias that may arise from
a candidate’s appearance, mannerisms, or ethnicity. Often times, phone interview questions are structured
and the question are behavioral in nature; to further eliminate bias.

When preparing for a phone interview you should follow all of the steps listed above including getting
dressed for the interview. Studies have shown that people who dress professionally for a phone interview
will perform better than those dressed casually.

Group Interview:
In the group interview style you will be interviewing simultaneously with two or three other candidates all
contesting for the same position. In this interview style one or more applicants may be asked the same
question or the pool of applicants can be broken into teams to determine a solution to a problem posed by
the interviewer. This style of interviewing is most common in the technology fields or any field where
group cohesiveness is of extreme importance.

The best way to prepare for a group interview is to follow the steps listed above.

Panel Interview:
A panel interview involves three or more members of the hiring organization meeting simultaneously with
the person being considered for the position. This interview style is most common in academia or when
hiring a senior level corporate executive. The term “search committee” is commonly used to describe a
Panel Interview.

In preparing for a panel interview it is best to understand an organization from every point of view. For
example, if you are going to be interviewed by an organization’s Customer Service Manager, Finance
Manager, and Human Resources Manager; you should familiarize yourself with current information about
the organizations customer service policies, finance policies, and HR policies.

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Pre-Interview Preparation

Interviewing for a job is not easy. However, with good preparation before the interview, you can
count on a successful interview. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Learn about the employer

Find out something about the employer. What do they make?

What services do they provide? On your interview, they may
ask what you know about their company.

Wear professional clothing

You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Make sure that your
clothing is neat and presentable. Wear a minimal amount of jewellery. Go easy on
the make-up and perfume/cologne as well.

Arrive Early

Never be late for a job interview. It makes a bad impression.

Know the exact location of the interview and allow yourself
enough time to reach your destination. It is advisable to drive
to your location ahead of time. Upon arrival, give your name
to the receptionist.

Allow enough time for the interview

Your interview may start late or run longer than expected. Make sure that your
schedule is open.

Be patient when waiting for your interview

Although you have an appointment for an interview, your

interviewer may be running late. Remain calm, be polite, and
wait quietly.

PRACTICE - PRACTICE - PRACTICE

Rehearse some of the common questions employers will ask you. Recite your skills

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 and abilities that make you qualified for the job.
Greeting & Introduction
Only 1 chance to make a good 1st impression

- Greet the receptionist or secretary with respect. A good greeting should go like this:

• Greeting: “Hello” or “Good Morning”

• Your name: “Mr. Ayman”
• The reason you’re here: “ I have got an interview
• Time of the interview: “At 2:00”

When you go into the interview, it is important that you give important information to your interviewer.

1) Greeting......

2) Give your name.....

3) Give your affiliation.....

4) Give your purpose.

• Shake the interviewer's hand.

• Greeting "Hello, Mr. Ayman”
• Affiliation "and I'm from Huron High School.
• Purpose "I'm here for the 2:00 interview for the Auto Mechanic position”
• Look at the interviewer when you talk with them.

Remember.....you never get a second chance to make a good impression. So:

1. Extend your hand to shake hands with the interviewer.

2. Don’t sit down until asked.

Most interviewers decide whether or not they are going to hire you within the first three minutes of
the interview, so you see the importance of good greeting!

Body Language:

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What signals are you sending?
Positive Signals

• Arms & Legs open: Arms and legs are not crossed. For example appearing to hold things
and form more detailed shapes.

• Looking around and at the other person: The head may be directed solely towards the
other person or may be looking around. Eye contact is likely to be relaxed and prolonged.

• Handshake: As the other person approaches, move to left side, extend your arm
horizontally, palm down (be first to do this). Grab their palm firmly, pull them in and hold
their elbow with your left hand.

• Talking & Emoting: Talk with confidence and use the body beat in time with assertions.
It is also powerful to show that you have emotion, but in the right place only.

• Breathing: Breathing is steady and slower. This may make the voice a little lower than
usual.

Negative Signals

• Arms Cross: In a closed positions one or both arms cross the central line of the body.
They may be folded or tightly clasped or holding one another. There may also be
holding one another.

• Legs Cross: When legs are crossed but arms are not, it can show deliberate attempts
to appear relaxed. This is particularly true when legs are hidden under a table.

• Looking down or away: The head may be inclined away from the person, and
particularly may be tucked down.

• Fear and nervousness: Fear occurs when basic needs are threatened. Examples are
cold sweat, pale face, damp eyes, varying speech tone, etc.

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Types of Interview Questions
Interviewing is not a science. Nor is it an art form. It is simply an imperfect form of human
communication designed to increase the predictive validity of potential employer-employee
relationships. And it is very imperfect.

There are basically eight types of questions you may face during the course of an interview:

1. Standard questions:

This type of question includes What was your GPA? and How long were you at . . . Its
purpose is to place objective measurements on features of your background.

2. Experience verification questions

This type of question includes what did you learn in that class? And what were your
responsibilities in that position? Its purpose is to subjectively evaluate features of your
background.

3. Opinion questions

This type of question includes what would you do in this situation? And what are your
strengths and weaknesses? Their purpose is to subjectively analyze how you would respond in a
series of scenarios.

4. Dumb questions

This type of question includes what kind of animal would you like to be? And what color best
describes you? Their purpose is to get past your pre-programmed answers to find out if you are
capable of an original thought. There is not necessarily a right or wrong answer, since it is used
primarily to test your ability to think on your feet.

5. Math questions

This type of question includes "What is 1000 divided by 73?" to "How many ping pong balls
could fit in a Volkswagen?" Its purpose is to evaluate not only your mental math calculation
skills, but also your creative ability in formulating the mathematical formula for providing an
answer (or estimate, as can often be the case).

6. Case questions

This type of question includes problem-solving questions ranging from: "How many gas
stations are there in Europe?" to "What is your estimate of the global online retail market for

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books?" Its purpose is to evaluate your problem-solving abilities and how you would analyze and
work through potential case situations.

7. Behavioral questions

This type of question includes Can you give me a specific example of how you did that? and
What were the steps you followed to accomplish that task? Its purpose is to anticipate future
behaviors based upon past behaviors.

8. Competency questions

This type of question includes "Can you give me a specific example of your leadership skills?"
or "Explain a way in which you sought a creative solution to a problem." Its purpose is to align
your past behaviors with specific competencies which are required for the position.

Interviewing is a game in which I deal the cards, but you hold the aces. It's up to you to play them.

Questions asked by the interviewee

To determine if you are an appropriate fit for the company and position, prepare a list of questions for the
interviewer

Sample Questions

What type of assignments can I expect within the first year?

What do you like most about this company?

What is the biggest challenge facing this department right now?

What skills are you looking for in this position?

What is the next course of action?

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General Interview Strategies
- Be prepared to talk about yourself and your experiences.

- Master the art of storytelling.

- Provide specific and concrete examples of your results / accomplishments.

- Remain positive, enthusiastic, poised, and confident throughout the interview process.

- Remember an interview is a formal conversation--avoid filler words like “Um”, “Ah”, & “You
know”.

- Avoid indecisive phrases like: “I think,” “I guess,” “probably,” or “pretty good”.

- Think before speaking.

- Avoid long verbose answers--limit your response to 1-2 minutes.

- If you do not hear or understand a question, ask them to repeat or clarify it for you.

- General Interview Strategies.

- Remain calm, relaxed, and be yourself.

- Try to focus on the message you are trying to convey, NOT how well you are doing!

- Don't swear or use slang words.

- Don't slouch in your seat or do anything else that makes you look disinterested.

- Don't smoke.

- Don’t lie.

- Don't be arrogant and assume you've got the job.

- Don't discuss controversial topics such as religion, politics and gender relations or personal ones.

- Don't read from notes or your CV.

- Don't criticize former employers or colleagues.

- Don't argue with the interviewer, no matter what.

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Dressing for Success-Men
- Suit-Single or double breasted.

- Polished shoes.

- Long sleeve shirt.

- Conservative tie.

- Belt.

- Dark socks, conservative leather shoes.

- Neatly groomed hair, beard, and mustache

- Avoid strong colognes, earrings, and body piercing

- Limit the aftershave.

- Neatly trimmed nails.

Dressing for Success-Women

- Pant or skirt suit.

- The suit skirt should be long enough so you can sit down comfortably.

- Coordinated blouse.

- Professional hairstyle.

- Neatly manicured clean nails.

- Pumps with small to medium heels.

- Light makeup, perfume, and jewelry (no dangling earrings or arms full of bracelets).

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 - Wear neutral color hosiery.

FOLLOW-UP

What happens between the first job interview and making the hiring decision will vary from company to
company and position to position.

When closing the interview you probably asked for information about what happens next in the interview
process. How do you conduct yourself in terms of this process? When and how should you follow up to
keep the focus on your application but to avoid becoming annoying.

If you know approximately the time frame for the hiring decision you will have a better idea of how soon
to follow up. For example if they have told you they expect to make the decision within the next week you
will need to follow up more quickly, after a couple of days. If it is a longer time frame or they have not
given you a specific time frame it is usually best to wait about a week before making contact by:

- Interview thank you e-mail.

- Formal Interview thank you letter .

Whatever the time frame, you should not wait for the interviewer to contact you. You need to make contact
to know what is happening and to keep yourself in contention for the job. Use this initial job interview
follow up to highlight your enthusiasm for the position and to get more details about the status of the hiring
decision.

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During the follow up call you can thank them again for the interview and restate your interest in the
position. Find out if you are still under consideration for the position. Ask if there is any further
information they need. Find out when you can expect a final decision. You want to show the interviewer
that you are interested in the job but avoid sounding desperate. Be polite and professional.

“Thank you” letter samples:

Thank You letter 1:

7 Greenway Court
Eugene, OR 97401
503-555-0303

Mr. Archie Weatherby

California Investments, Inc.
25 Sacramento Street
San Francisco, CA 94102

Dear Mr. Weatherby,

Thank you for taking the time to discuss the insurance broker position at California
Investments, Inc., with me. After meeting with you and observing the company's
operations, I am further convinced that my background and skills coincide well with
your needs.

I really appreciate that you took so much time to acquaint me with the company. It
is no wonder that California Investments retains its employees for so long. I feel I
could learn a great deal from you and would certainly enjoy working with you.

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In addition to my qualifications and experience, I will bring excellent work habits
and judgment to this position. With the countless demands on your time, I am sure
that you require people who can be trusted to carry out their responsibilities with
minimal supervision.

I look forward, Mr. Weatherby, to hearing from you concerning your hiring
decision. Again, thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

John Oakley

Thank you letter 2:

400C Hunter Ridge

Blacksburg, VA 24060
(540) 555-1111
boles@vt.edu

October 26, 2006

Ms. Glenna Wright

Human Resources Manager
Fashion Department Store
2000 Line Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030

Dear Ms. Wright:

I enjoyed interviewing with you during your recruiting visit to Virginia Tech on
October 25. The management trainee program you outlined sounds both challenging
and rewarding and I look forward to your decision concerning an on-site visit.

As mentioned during the interview, I will be graduating in December with a

Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising. Through my education and experience
I’ve gained many skills, as well as an understanding of retailing concepts and
dealing with the general public. I have worked seven years in the retail industry in
various positions from Salesclerk to Assistant Department Manager. I think my

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education and work experience would complement Fashion’s management trainee
program.

I have enclosed a copy of my college transcript and a list of references that you
requested.

Thank you again for the opportunity to interview with Fashion Department Store.
The interview served to reinforce my strong interest in becoming a part of your
management team. I can be reached at (540) 555-1111 or by email at boles@vt.edu
should you need additional information.

Sincerely,
Marianne Boles

Thank you letter 3:

Your Name
Your Address
Your Phone Number
Your Email

Date

Name
Title
Organization
Address
City, State, Zip Code

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name:

Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to talk to me about the
XXX position with XXX Company. I appreciate your time and consideration in
interviewing me for this position.

After speaking with you and the group, I believe that I would be a perfect candidate
for this position, offering the quick learning and adaptability that is needed for a
diversified position.

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In addition to my enthusiasm for performing well, I would bring the technical and
analytical skills necessary to get the job done.

I am very interested in working for you and look forward to hearing from you once
the final decisions are made regarding this position. Please feel free to contact me at
anytime if further information is needed. My cell phone number is ###.

Thank you again for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Your Signature

Your Typed Name

Suggestions & Final recap:

Job interviewing never seems to get any easier - even when you have gone on more interviews than you
can count. You are meeting new people, selling yourself and your skills, and often getting the third degree
about what you know or don't know. Here are job interview tips to help prepare you to interview
effectively. Proper preparation which helps lessen some of the stress involved in job interviews.

Practice

Practice answering interview questions and practice your responses to the typical job interview questions
and answers most employers ask. Think of actual examples you can use to describe your skills. Providing
evidence of your successes is a great way to promote your candidacy.

Prepare

Prepare a response so you are ready for the question "What do you know about our company. Know the
interviewer's name and use it during the job interview. If you're not sure of the name, call and ask prior to
the interview. Try to relate what you know about the company when answering questions.

Watch

Take a look at my Job Interview Tips Videos, so you'll be sure to dazzle a potential employer and leave the
right impression.

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Get Ready

Make sure your interview outfit is neat, tidy and appropriate for the type of firm you are interviewing with.
Bring a nice portfolio with copies of your resume. Include a pen and paper for note taking.

Be On Time

Be on time for the interview. On time means five to ten minutes early. If need be, take some time to drive
to the office ahead of time so you know exactly where you are going and how long it will take to get there.

Stay Calm

During the job interview try to relax and stay as calm possible. Take a moment to regroup. Maintain eye
contact with the interviewer. Listen to the entire question before you answer and pay attention - you will be
embarrassed if you forget the question!

Show What You Know

Try to relate what you know about the company when answering questions. When discussing your career
accomplishments match them to what the company is looking for.

Follow Up

Always follow-up with a thank you note reiterating your interest in the position. If you interview with
multiple people send each one a thank you note.

Best Regards

The End!

References

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- www.best-job-interview.com

- www. jobsearch.about.com

- www.job-interview.net

- www.jobinterviewquestions.org

- www.collegegrad.com

- www.jobskills.info

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