Interviewing Success

Ways to ace the interview.

Everyone, whether an industrial or clerical candidate, or an executive placement, will be interviewed by OnLine.  Many times a second interview will also be conducted by our clients.  Following are some tips regarding interview etiquette and common interview questions to help you have a positive interviewing experience.

Before you get there... You should be well-groomed for your interview.  Make sure you have an outfit put together that is appropriate and neat.  Additionally, arriving on time is key to making a good impression.  Keep in mind that your interviewer has a schedule to keep and arriving late will throw that off, and give a negative first impression as well.  To avoid being late, plot out your route beforehand, allow time for parking, and be sure to bring extra copies of your resume, and any other paperwork requested.

When you get there... First things first.  A firm handshake shows confidence and professionalism.  Along with this, remain enthusiastic and personable.  Carefully consider the questions asked of you, and give a thoughtful answer rather than just jumping in without thinking it through.  Another good tip is to keep eye contact with your interviewer while not staring them down.  This shows your interest, and also that you're really listening to them.

Typical Questions... Following are some typical interview questions, and what the interviewer is looking for in your answer.

"Tell me about your strengths and weaknesses."   The interviewer is looking to see how self-aware you are.  Make sure the answers you give are work related...don't tell them that your weakness is chocolate or Mel Gibson movies.  Highlight a few things that you feel are strengths that could serve you well in the position, giving examples of how you put these strengths into action in past positions.  As for weaknesses, try to point out a weakness that you've had in the past, and ideally how you've overcome it.  

"Why are you leaving your current position?"  Above all, keep it positive.  It's not in your best interest to bring up things like low pay or that your boss is a tyrant.  Have a diplomatic answer prepared, and be as honest as possible without turning things negative.  Elements like industry  downshifts, possible layoffs, or desire to make a career change are all acceptable answers.

" Tell me about yourself."  This is not the time to tell your interviewer how much  you enjoy off-road racing, scrapbooking, or about your undying love for  N'Sync.  Describe your professional life up to that point, making sure to point out strengths, achievements, and skills you've developed and how they would apply to the position you're interviewing for.  

"Why do you want to work for us?"  For this question, hopefully you've done your homework, and can use information you've learned about the company as part of your answer.  Do not talk about how salary, benefits, or opportunities for advancement play into your decision.  You want to show your interviewer that you are excited about working for the company, and that you know what they do there as well.

"Why are you the best person for this job?"  Use specific requirements from the job posting, and taking them point by point, explain what qualifications and skills you possess to fulfill that need.  Additionally, take information you've gathered from the interviewer thus far and use it to form your answer.  For example, if they've mentioned that the job involves juggling multiple projects, talk about your ability to remain calm under pressure, and your keen ability to prioritize and organize.

These are just a few of the countless questions that might be asked of you during an interview.  The main things to remember are to take your time, think things through before answering, and remain as diplomatic and honest as possible when talking about past experiences or future expectations.