Executive Career Services - Advice On How To Interview for 100k+ Jobs

By Jason Lee

Never take interviews to be a question-and-answer inquisition, take it as a purposeful, highly focused conversation. An interview offers you and an employer the opportunity to learn whether or not there is a "fit" between you and the employer's organization. Preparation is vital. Be able to discuss why you want both this type of work and a position with this particular employer. Identify your strengths in relation to each job for which you interview. Prepare examples to make your answers credible and memorable. You can then use an open-ended question to allow you to talk about the strengths you wish to stress. Anything on your resume is fair game for discussion. Prepare to describe, explain or discuss any item on it.

Anticipate and prepare for superlative questions such as what was your most challenging experience? Your best job? Your worst mistake? You should be well aware about the organization, industry and position for which you are interviewed. On-campus recruiters typically make a great deal of information available to you in the library. . A full day will often include a group interview and perhaps a meeting over lunch. If you're a doctoral student applying for a research position, you'll usually also be asked to give a talk. Ask if there is any special preparation that may be helpful. These are appropriate requests; do not hesitate to make them. If you have questions, be sure to ask the executive recruiter or headhunter who helped setup the interview. You can find a free list of recruiters who hire people for executive jobs and executive level jobs at JobConcierge Best Executive Recruiters.

Always remember a lively, friendly and confident approach to a first meeting can set the stage for positive impressions. Approach the interview situation with enthusiasm that is expressed in your body language and demeanor. Make transportation plans and arrive early so there is no chance of unnecessary stress being created by a late arrival. Prepare questions that are not answered by the employer's annual report or brochure. They should relate to what you need to know: the scope of the job, the reporting structure, and how the position develops over time. Obtain appropriate clothes. A conservative suit is standard interview attire for both men and women.

Always remember that you have a brief time to discuss your qualifications so keep your answers job-related. Initial screening interviews, whether on or off campus, are usually brief, lasting about 30 minutes. They range from highly structured question-answer formats to open-ended conversations. In either case, try to establish as much rapport with the interviewer as the situation allows.

Always prepare for the telephone interview in the same way you would prepare for a face-to-face meeting by researching the organization, reviewing your resume and knowing your own strengths and professional goals. Designate a time and arrange a quiet, orderly and private space at your telephone for the telephone interview. Use positive body language and facial expressions to be sure that your voice expresses your energy and enthusiasm. Some people find it helpful to dress up as they would for a face-to-face interview. If you are interviewed by more than one person, take notes as they introduce themselves so you can remember who is who. For more job search advice and job interview advice, check out the JobConcierge Best Job Search Advice on the Internet. JobConcierge collected some of the best job search advice on guerrilla job tactics, interview advice, and common job search mistakes and resume advice and ranked the best articles on the executive job search website. - 31955

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