The Vet2Work Job Procurement and Advancement Series

 

How to Conquer the Interview

 

Perfecting the First impression:

An interviewer makes an overall evaluation of a job candidate within a few seconds through observing the applicant's physical appearance and non-verbal behaviors.

1. Eye contact-you should greet the person interviewing you with a smile and establish direct eye contact when you walk into the room.

2. Appearance-your appearance should portray a professional, business-like persona. You should be well groomed and conservatively dressed. If you do not have appropriate business attire for more than one interview, try to piece together one professional outfit and wear it to all of your interviews. Best colors are black, dark blue, and gray. Wear a white shirt for a very professional look.

3. Handshake- both males and females should offer a firm handshake.

4. Voice-be enthusiastic, but don't overdo it. Try modulating your voice tone for impact.

5. Posture-keep your arms and legs unfolded and midway through the interview lean slightly toward the interviewer.

Perfecting the Interview Outfit. Here are some suggestions:

Women:

1. Wear a suit or dress with a jacket - if possible, do not wear pants. Choose a dark color and accent with a one color blouse or shirt.

2. Carry a small purse or briefcase (but not both) - too many objects can get in the way!

3. Wear low heels with closed toes - high, spiked heels are not considered professional.

4. Try to avoid wearing clothing made from a fabric that wrinkles easily.

5. Dress conservatively - no low cut tops, skirts which are too short, or too tight.

6. Keep your hairstyle conservative - no pony tail!

7. If you are planning to wear panty hose or stockings - check for runs! (keep a spare in your purse or pocket of your briefcase for a last minute change)

8. Avoid wearing bright red or black lipstick or nail polish! A nude or bare color is best.

9. Nails should be trimmed and well manicured.

10. Keep jewelry to a minimum (earrings and necklace or bracelet - not both).

11. Cover any and all tattoos.

Men:

1. Choose a conservative tie (preferably a dark color).

2. Avoid loud colors - blue, black, or gray suits with white shirts are the safest.

3. Wear black shoes with dark socks.

4. Make sure shoes are polished.

5. If you don't own a suit- dress slacks and a sports coat is acceptable. Once again, preferably in black, dark blue or gray colors.

6. Remove any earrings.

7. Nails should be trimmed and manicured.

8. Cover any and all tattoos.

The Interview:

Employers use the interview as a selection mechanism and as a central part of the hiring process. It is the first opportunity for an employer to meet you face-to-face and talk about their available position. Your performance during the interview is an important factor in determining whether or not you are going to move on in the hiring process.

Being successful in the interview could determine your future! An interview brings out and expands upon information from your resume. The interview also brings out your individual attributes such as your personal appearance, your attitude, and most importantly, your behavior. A face-to-face interview is your time to market yourself by convincing the employer that you are the perfect fit for their company. Be prepared - this is not the time to try to "wing" answers!

To be successful at interviewing you must:

1. Know yourself - what are your interests, skills, and abilities?

2. Have the ability to communicate who you are what you have to offer the company.

3. Identify the position you are seeking and why you are seeking it.

4. Have some pertinent information about the company you are going to interview with.

6. Be informed about the field you are trying to work in.

7. Establish a good rapport with the interviewer through good eye contact and pleasant gesturing.

8. Be able to communicate why you chose the particular field you are interviewing for.

 

 

C.A. Stapleton, A.S., B.S., M.B.A., is an experienced professional career consultant, mentor, and résumé/biographical writer. Get more information @ http://www.vet2work.com or http://www.naturallysilver.com © Copyright. All rights reserved Worldwide.