Anyone who has ever actively searched for a job knows that the most painful part of submitting a resume to a prospective employer is the waiting that occurs once the resume is sent. Will you get a call? Will you be asked in for an interview? If you are, how can you be sure you'll make the best possible impression?
For those answers, we turned to veteran recruiter Megan Cuthbertson.
For starters, Megan says, give yourself every chance to be successful. Research not only the company but also any available alumni groups to get a feel for the company and the position. Prepare questions and prepare for questions. If the interview location is in unfamiliar territory, drive the route ahead of time so you know where you're going, where you're going to park, and how long it takes to get there. And, remember that the interview really starts with that first phone call. Treat the caller, and everyone else you encounter at the organization, with respect.
Once you begin the interview, be confident. "Remember," says Megan, "they asked you to be there."
Megan also advises candidates to listen carefully to the questions they're asked and to answer those questions only. Don't offer additional information: nervous chatter can backfire on you. Make sure, too, that you understand the role. Ask the interviewer to walk you through a typical day in the position.
Before you leave, reiterate your interest in the position. Then, ask if anyone at the company has any reservations about your ability to fulfill the role. This, Megan says, gives employers an opportunity to address their concerns about you before you walk out the door.
When the interview is over, don't forget to follow-up with a thank you. If you missed our March enewsletter, be sure to check it out here, http://www.amidirect.com/files/enewsmar2012.pdf, to see why following-up can be so important.
Do you have a better suggestion to offer or a challenge you'd like help with? Say it here. Your comments are always welcome
No comments:
Post a Comment