Interview Preparations

vengabeats

Par 100 posts (V.I.P)
The Basics

In addition to doing research andpractising your answers to common interview questions, you should be aware of general interview etiquette. Remember the following points when preparing for an interview:

Review your resume, and make sure that you can explain everything on it.

Arrive at the interview ten minutes early to give yourself an opportunity to collect your thoughts and relax. Be aware that many employers will have their receptionists record the time you came in. If you rush in at the last minute, an employer may have serious concerns about your ability to arrive on time for a normal day at work.

Get a good night's sleep before your interview. You will think more effectively in the interview if you are rested. Also, yawning will not impress anyone.

Eat something before the interview. If you are worried about your stomach growling, you will not be able to concentrate on the questions.

Dress appropriately for the position that you are applying to. Try to dress like the people who work there would dress if they were representing their organization at some function. If you are unsure about what to wear, always err on the side of being too dressed up.

Make sure that you are clean, neat, and well-groomed. Interviewers do notice your appearance, and first impressions are critical in an interview situation.

Take a copy of your resume, transcript, references and perhaps a portfolio or work samples with you. Also take a pen and paper, as you may want to record some important information.


Your resume is the first interface you have with your employer , Make the most of this opportunity.............
The employment market is changing all the time and so have resumes, evolving from a one-size-fits-all standard. Here are our tips to convert your resume into a catching one.
Follow These Basic Standards....

> Don't overcrowd your resume; allow for plenty of white space.
> Keep your resume to one page whenever possible.
> Keep the number of fonts you use to a minimum -- two at the most.
> Use a font that is easy to read. Times Roman works well.
> Do not justify the lines of type on your resume. Allow the right side of the page to "rag."
> Do not overuse capitalization, italics, underlines, or other emphasizing features.
> Make sure your name, address, and a phone number appear on your resume and all correspondence, preferably at the top of the page.
> Print your resume on white or cream paper using a good-quality printer.
> Second- and third-generation photocopies must be avoided
> Print on one side of the paper only.

Avoid Mistakes:

Spelling Mistakes:
To avoid spelling mistakes:
> Don't use words with which you aren't familiar.
> Use a dictionary as you write.
> Perform a spell check on your finished resume.
> Carefully read every word in your resume.
> Have a friend or two proof read your resume for you.

Punctuation Mistakes:
Things to look for:
> Periods at the end of all full sentences.
> Be consistent in your use of punctuation.
> Always put periods and commas within quotation marks.
> Avoid using exclamation points.


Grammatical Mistakes:
Grammar hang-ups to watch for:
> Do not switch tenses within your resume.
> The duties you currently perform should be in present tense (i.e., write reports)
> Duties you may have performed at past jobs should be in past tense (i.e., wrote reports).
> Capitalize all proper nouns.
> When expressing numbers, write out all numbers between one and nine (i.e., one, five, seven), but use numerals for all numbers 10 and above (i.e., 10, 25, 108).
> If you begin a sentence with a numeral, spell out that numeral (e.g. Eleven service awards won while employed.).
> Make sure your date formats are consistent (i.e.11/22/01 or Nov. 22, 2001, or 11.22.01. Choose one and stick with it.).

Choose Your Words Carefully:
> Phrase yourself well:
> Be on the lookout for the following easily confused words:
accept (to receive), except (to exclude)
all right (correct), alright (this is not a word)
affect (to bring about change), effect (result)
personal (private), personnel (staff members)
role (a character assigned or a function), roll (to revolve).
> Use action words (i.e., wrote reports, increased revenues, directed staff).

References:
In most instances it is not necessary to include names and address of references on the resume. If you include a reference, make it sure that the referenced person knows very well about you. It is also advisable to add the persons as references, whom the employer can contact easily. If possible add the phone number and e-mail ID of the reference. Never add a person as a reference, about whom you know nothing

STICK TO THE POINT
Employers have a busy schedule, so don't expect them to read through a long resume. Ideally, resumes should be of one page, or of two pages only if absolutely necessary, to describe relevant work experience.

WORDS COUNT
> Use of language is extremely important; you need to sell yourself to an employer quickly and efficiently.
> Address your potential employer's needs with a clearly written, compelling resume.
> Avoid large paragraphs (five or six lines).
> If you provide small, digestible pieces of information, your resume will be read.
> Use action verbs.
Verbs such as "developed", "managed", and "designed" emphasise your accomplishments. > Don't use declarative sentences like "I developed the ..." or "I assisted in ...", leave out the "I". Avoid passive constructions, such as "was responsible for managing". Just say, "managed": that sounds stronger and more active.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR EXPERIENCE
> Employers need to know what you have accomplished to have an idea of what you can do for them.
> Don't be vague. Telling someone that you "improved the company's efficiency" doesn't say much. But if you say that you "cut overhead costs by 20 per cent and saved the company Rs 20 lakh during the last fiscal year", you are more specific.


HONESTY IS A GOOD POLICY
Employers will feel more comfortable hiring you if they can verify your accomplishments.
There is a difference between making the most of your experience and exaggerating or falsifying it. A falsified resume can cost you the job later.

DOUBLE-CHECK FOR MISTAKES
>Check your resume for correct grammar and spelling - evidence of good communication skills and attention to detail.
> Nothing can ruin your chances of getting a job faster than submitting a resume filled with preventable mistakes.
> Make your resume easy on the eye. Use normal margins (1" on the top and bottom, 1.25" on the sides) and don't cram your text on the page. Allow for some space between the different sections.
> Avoid unusual or exotic fonts. Preferred fonts: Arial and Times Roman




Types of Interviews


Panel/Board Interviews
Candidates are interviewed by two or more individuals. This process is commonly used by governments and large organizations. It is important to maintain eye contact with the person asking the question and give an answer with an example to support it. Always acknowledge the other interviewers' presence by making eye contact while answering rotating questions. Direct your attention at the beginning and end of your response to the person who asked you that question. The questions asked in the interview are often set out in advance. The board may already have decided which answers they will accept/prefer for the questions. Ignore note-taking by board members. Obtain employers' names prior to the interview and use them during the conversation.

One-On-One Interviews
Candidates are interviewed by one person. These interviews tend to be more informal, however, it always depends on the employer's style. The interviewer will often have a series of prepared questions, but may have some flexibility in their choices. It is important to maintain eye contact with the person interviewing you.

Impromptu Interviews
This interview commonly occurs when employers are approached directly and tends to be very informal and unstructured. Applicants should be prepared at all times for on-the-spot interviews, especially in situations such as a job fair or a cold call. It is an ideal time for employers to ask the candidate some basic questions to determine whether he/she may be interested in formally interviewing the candidate.

Second Interviews or Follow-Up Interviews
Employers invite those applicants they are seriously considering as an employee following a screening or initial interview. These interviews are generally conducted by middle or senior management, together or separately. Applicants can expect more in-depth questions, and the employer will be expecting a greater level of preparation on the part of the candidate. Applicants should continue to research the employer following the first interview, and be prepared to use any information gained through the previous interview to their advantage.

Dinner Interviews
The interviews may be structured, informal, or socially situated, such as in a restaurant. Don't be the only one at the table to order an alcoholic drink, and if you have an alcoholic drink, stop at one. Decide what to eat quickly, some interviewers will ask you to order first (don't appear indecisive). Avoid potentially messy foods, such as spaghetti. Be prepared for the conversation to abruptly change from 'friendly chat' to direct interview questions, however, don't underestimate the value of casual discussion, some employers place a great value on it.

Telephone Interviews
Have a copy of your resume and any points you want to remember to say nearby. If you are on your home telephone, make sure that all roommates or family members are aware of the interview (avoids loud stereos, etc.). Speak a bit slower than usual. It is crucial that you convey your enthusiasm verbally, since the interviewer cannot see your face. If there are pauses, don't worry, the interviewer is likely just making some notes.

Group Interviews
Employers bringing several candidates together in a group situation to solve a problem are testing your ability to work in a team environment. They want to know how you will present information to other people, offer suggestions, relate to other ideas, and work to solve a problem. In short, they are testing your interpersonal skills. It is difficult to prepare for this type of interview except to remember what is being testing and to use the skills you have to be the best team player and/or leader you can be. Some employers will take you to meet the staff who would be your co-workers if hired. This is a very casual type of interview, but leaving a positive and friendly impression is no less critical.
 

vengabeats

Par 100 posts (V.I.P)
Interview Tips



Answering Interview Questions

Regardless of what type of question you are asked, you will find it easier to respond effectively if you keep in mind some basic question answering strategies:
. You can never predict every question that you will encounter, so approach the interview with an inventory of important points. Make a list of the points about yourself that you want the interviewer to know. For example, if you were to apply for a job as a Sales representative, you might want to list the products you have sold before, types of customers (by industry, age, etc.), languages spoken, personal experience in that industry and related knowledge (perhaps from your academic program).
. Consider each question an opportunity to provide some of this information.
. Don't assume anything. You will be evaluated on your answers, not your resume.
Therefore, ensure you incorporate the relevant information from your resume in your answers.
. Pause a couple of seconds before you respond to each question, even if you know exactly what you want to say. Take this time to quickly plan your answer, this helps to avoid
misunderstandings and produces much more concise answers.
. If you don't understand a question, ask for clarification. This is expected and is preferable to providing an unsuitable answer.
. If you need time to collect your thoughts - take it. When people are nervous they tend either to "draw a blank" or to babble. It is better to think for a few moments and make sure that your answer is doing you justice and that there is a point to what you are saying.
. Always expand. Never answer question with a "yes" or "no."
. The interview is an opportunity for you to sell yourself. Don't be afraid to 'blow your own horn.' As long as you can back up what you are saying with examples which demonstrate that what you are saying is true, you are not bragging. Third party observations can also be mentioned. For example, "My last employer told me that I was promoted because of how I handled conflicts with clients."
. Be very positive. Don't complain about anything - from your former employer to the weather - and don't apologize for experience that you don't have. Just sell what you do have and let the employer decide if you have what he/she is looking for. Also, avoid negative words. For example, you would not say "I have a little experience...," you would say "I have experience......"
. Don't be afraid to repeat important points. In act, it is a good idea to do this.
 

vengabeats

Par 100 posts (V.I.P)
Dressing Right


Dressing right for the interview

Let's say you are going for an interview tomorrow. You have prepared yourself well for the occasion anticipating the questions and getting ready the answers , but have you given a thought to what you will wear?
If you have not peeked into your wardrobe yet, it's time to take a real hard look now. Your application's fate depends not just on how well you answer the interview questions, but also on how well you project yourself physically.

The first impression your interviewer makes about you is based on the way you look, and you know what they say about first impressions.
According to JoeHodowanes, J.M. Wanes and Associates career strategy advisor, "The way a person dresses is the single biggest non-verbal communication you make about yourself."
The right dressing is a measure of the seriousness that you place on the position, as a person normally spends time on his looks if he considers an event important enough.
"Although proper dressing by itself will not get you the job, a poor dress sense may exclude you from further consideration," warns Gerry Ditching, managing partner ofFilgifts.com. Besides, given two equally good applicants, the company may choose to hire the person who is dressed more professionally.

Here are some tips to give you aheadstart.
Men
Long-sleeved shirt and dark slacks. White is still the safest and the best color for shirts. Thecolour is also appropriate for our tropical weather. Also acceptable: pale shades such as beige, blue, and other pastels. Tuck in the shirt and do not roll up the sleeves. Never wear a short-sleeved shirt to an interview or any business purpose. Wearing a short-sleeved shirt will destroy your executive image.

Ties. Optional. But if you do wear one, choose a conservative pattern. Solids, small polka dots, diagonal stripes, small repeating shapes, subtle plaids and paisleys are all acceptable.

Belts. Belts should match your shoes. Those with smaller buckles with squared lines look more professional.

Socks. Black socks are the best, followed by blue or gray, depending on your attire. Never wear white socks! Check your sock length, too--no skin should show when you sit down or cross your legs.

Shoes. Black or burgundy leather shoes with laces on them, because tassel loafers are very casual. Other suitable colors are brown, cordovan and navy.

Hair. Keep neat, short and preferably parted on the side. And shave off all those facial hair.

Jewellery. Wear no or littlejewellery. The watch and wedding ring are the only acceptable pieces of jewellery to go with the male attire. Thin gold or leather-strapped watches look professional but not digital watches. Also, avoid political or religious insignias, necklaces or bracelets. Definitely no pierced body parts, and cover up your tattoos!

Accessories. As much as possible, use leather briefcases or folders to hold copies of your resume. Use narrow briefcases and avoid plastic folders and plastic ball pens as they are out of place.

Women

Shoes. Closed shoes or pumps with at least 1½-inch heels suggest a more professional look. Dark colors are best.

Hair. Hair longer than shoulder length should be worn up or pulled back. Don't let it fall in front of your face and don't keep trying to fix it during the interview. Avoid large hair ornaments and trendy hairstyles.

Make-up. Be subtle; natural is the key word. Light shades of lip coloring and nail polish are
recommended."

Jewellery. Be conservative. Studs of gold, silver or pearls are best. Do away with gaudy fashionjewellery, and those that clank and make noise when one moves.

Accessories. Folders and bags should blend well with the total professional look. Women should match their purse with their shoecolour.
 

vengabeats

Par 100 posts (V.I.P)
Costly Mistakes



Think about the following points. Do any of them apply to you?


Oversell
Trying too hard to impress; bragging; acting aggressively.

Undersell
Failing to emphasize the fact that you have related skills; discussing
experience using negative qualifiers (i.e."I have a littleexperience...").

Poor Body Language
It is easy to create a negative impression without even realizing that you
are doing it. Are you staring at your feet, or talking to the interviewer's
shoulder? Be aware of what your actions say about you.

Lack of Honesty
The slightest stretching of the truth may result in you being screened
out.

Negative Attitude
The interview is not an opportunity for you to complain about your
current supervisor or co-workers (or even about 'little' things, such as the weather).

Lack of Preparation
You have to know about the organization and the occupation. If you
don't, it will appear as though you are not interested in the position.

Lack of Enthusiasm
If you are not excited about the work at the interview, the employer will not assume that your attitude will improve when hired.
 
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