Interview Help

I am actively looking for a new job. I have been on a few interviews but I am worried that perhaps I am not giving the right answers. Interviewing is so stressful. Any tips, ideas? I am really getting down about this and need to get out of my current position.

Re: Interview Help

my only advice is to always look them in the eye! i cant tell you how many people i've interviewed in the past that would look at the floor, or look around the room whlie being interviewed. it made me feel as though they werent truly interested. good luck!

Re: Interview Help

Also realize that people are going to probably hire you if they like you. I try to answer the questions as honestly as possible always focusing on actual success I've had. I also try to be myself because I have a strong personality and I refuse to hide it and thats how i would be once i get into teh job. Just pretend you are talking to a curious stranger at a party

Re: Interview Help

We had an event with HR professionals a few weeks ago, and one of them suggested to keep in mind these questions that an interviewer is trying to answer when they are interviewing:

1. Are you the right person for the job?
2. Are you qualified for the position?
3. Do you want the job?/Will you stay with the company?

So, try to tailor each of your answers, to demonstrating that the answer to all three of those questions is yes, whether they are asking "tell me about yourself" or "what is your greatest strength."

Also, remember that information tells, but stories sell. Give examples of your successes - ie., rather than saying "I'm a great team player" actually give an example from a prior work experience where your teamwork skills really shined.

Most of my students have difficulty with the "what is your greatest weakness?" question. If you translate this into "in what are can you improve/what would you like to learn more about?" that may be helpful. For instance, "my greatest weakness is my confidence in public speaking, however, I have been committed to challenging myself in this area in my previous positions, and have learned that as long as I'm prepared properly I am more confident, I've also taken courses/read books to help me learn techniques for improving my presentation skills" Always turn it around to show that you are working on it already so you can demonstrate your commitment to improving your skills.

Also, research the company, and know the industry. Be prepared with questions about the organization and the position that are well thought out.

And remember, we are all nervous on interviews, but the person doing the interview has a need as well. They have to fill the position, so they really are hoping that you fill that role - they WANT to like you as much as you want them to like you.

Hope that helps. If you have specific questions, please let me know.