Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Whether you’re on the hunt for your very first job or just looking for a change of scenery, preparing for an interview can be daunting. Not to worry, the best way to do well in an interview is to be prepared. These few steps will show you how to enter the interview with confidence.

1.Find out as much information as possible about the company.
First talk to your family and friends. Do they know anyone who has been interviewed with the company? Find out about the job duties and requirements needed for the position. Do an internet search and see if the employer has a website. Read the mission statement and the history about the company. Does the company specialize in a specific field? This will help you ask intelligent questions and show that you have some knowledge about the company

2.Do a Pre-Interview Self Assessment.
Are you able to tell your prospective employer positive information about yourself?
Make a list of your skills and personality traits that would benefit the position that you are applying for. Make a list of possible interview questions and practice them out loud with a friend or a family member. Be able to give specific answers and not just general statements. Here are a few of some of the most common questions asked.
•Tell me a little about your self
•What are your strengths and weaknesses?
•Why should we hire you?
•What specific skills could you bring into the company?

3.Dress in a professional manner.
Proper Business Attire for Men
•Choose a conservative suite in navy, black or gray either pinstripe or solid.
•A solid white dress shirt.
•Ties should be made of a silk like fabric. Avoid ties with cartoon characters.
•Shoe should be clean and well polished. No tennis shoes or flip flops should be worn.
•Keep jewelry to a minimum and don’t wear any earrings.
•Personal hygiene is the key to success. Don’t over due your fragrance.

Proper attire for Women
•Start with a skirted suit or pants for the most conservative look. How ever skirted suits look more professional.
•Skirts should be knee-length or slightly above or below.
•Blouses and sweaters provide color and variety to woman’s clothing, but should be appealing and not revealing.
•Makeup shouldn’t be put on heavy.
•Avoid excessive amounts of jewelry. Keep it simple one ring per hand, and one set of earrings in each ear.
•Personal hygiene is the key to success. Don’t over due your fragrance.
•Wear dress shoes with a medium heel. Avoid flip flops and tennis shoes.

Now you are ready to attend your interview. Good luck and best regards to you. Let us know about your interview. Feel free to leave some tips and success stories.

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