Preparing For The Interview
Interview Objective
An interviewer has just one objective: to decide whether or not to make you a job offer. While the interviewer will examine your work history and educational background, your strengths and accomplishments will also be important criterion. He or she is also interested in evaluating your level of motivation, values, attitude and personality. In other words, to find out if you are the right person for the job, what your potential is for promotion and whether or not you will fit into the company environment.
While it is true that an interview is an important screening tool for companies, it also allows you, the candidate, to learn those things you need to know about the position and the company so that you can make an intelligent decision about the job. Always approach an interview focused on your objective: getting a job offer.
As with many situations, preparation is the key to success. The job market is very competitive and you probably will not be the only qualified candidate for a position. This is true in virtually every industry and for virtually every position – even, and especially, in Information Technology. The deciding factor may simply be the way you present your skills and qualifications relevant to the position and how well you conduct yourself during the interview.
General Interview Tips
Compiled by contributing Monster.com Writers
Check in During Interviews: Some of your best stories probably take time to detail, but your initial interview answers should be brief. Check in with the interviewer after two minutes and prompt an invitation to go on. Say something like, "Now that I've described the outcome of my work on that project, would you like to hear about my role in detail?"
Prove What You Could Do: Always put a positive spin on your answers to difficult questions. If you lack a particular skill or don't know a certain technical skill, emphasize how quickly you learn. Give an example of a time when you were able to get up to speed in a similar situation. Never exaggerate your knowledge in a technology with which you’re not completely comfortable… it will show. Hiring managers would much rather a candidate show they are willing and eager to learn.
Managing Time in a Job Interview: In an effort to try and dig themselves out of trouble, most job interviewees give long answers to hard questions and they give short answers to easy questions. Mistake! That increases the proportion of the interview spent on weak points. Short answers for hard questions and longer answers for easy ones is a good rule of thumb. Another tip for managing time in a job interview: You want the employer to picture you in the position, so spend as much time as possible discussing what you'd do in the new job. The mantra: Focus on the future, not the past.
Think of an Interview as a First Date: When facing a job interview, the natural tendency is to gird yourself against the onslaught of killer questions and to do everything you can to snow 'em. That can be a prescription for failure. Under pressure, job seekers frequently utter turn-off canned phrases such as, "I'm seeking a new challenge," or, "I believe I'm uniquely qualified for the position." You will likely come off as defensive, even disingenuous.
Follow the Interviewer: During the interview, your interviewer is giving you information that can guide you on how to behave during the meeting. Observe your interviewer's style and then pace and match it. Answer questions by providing only the information asked. Telling more than needed could be a mistake. Too much information, particularly personal information, should not be discussed during the interview.
Telephone Interviews
Telephone interviews are increasingly commonplace; especially for IT positions. The need to make a good impression on the phone cannot be overemphasized. The telephone screening interview is a make-or-break proposition. Included below are some important factors to consider when you are selected for a telephone interview. Preparation will increase your confidence and ability to focus on the conversation during the interview as well as enabling you to make a favorable impression.
Clear a work area near the phone and keep the following tools handy to aid your fact gathering and information sharing.
1. A copy of the version of the resume you sent to the interviewer.
2. A note pad and pen.
3. Two or three carefully worded questions you’ll want to ask.
4. Company literature with pertinent sections highlighted.
5. A calendar.
6. A watch or clock.
Phone Personality
Voice reflects personality. The quality, pitch and tempo of your speech convey a certain attitude, energy level and enthusiasm. “Enthusiasm and excitement are the biggest selling points of candidates talking on the phone,” says Mr. Young of First American Rehab. “This translates directly over to their performance and work ethic.” Here are some practical tips to enhance your phone “personality” and overall presentation.
- Talk directly into the mouthpiece. Hold the receiver approximately three inches from the mouth, not below your chin or above your nose. Speak in a relaxed, conversational style as though the other person were in the same room, not on the other side of the plant. Remember to enunciate especially clearly, a slight accent or slur can sound much more emphasized when there are no visuals.
- Avoid sitting in a hunched position, grasping the phone in a vise-like grip. This will add a note on stress, and your voice will communicate that uneasiness. Try standing, it opens your diaphragm to a smoother air flow and imparts a feeling of liveliness. Getting up and moving around introduces an element of action, which instills a relaxed, conversational manner and reduces fatigue. A longer cord or cordless phone will maximum mobility.
- Pay attention to the interviewer’s voice patterns; does he speak slowly or rapidly? Try to match the cadence so that the conversion flows smoothly. Adjust your speaking rate, voice volume and phrasing to be more in rhythm with the interviewer.
- Sound upbeat. Genuine enthusiasm is contagious. Smile to show a sense of humor.
- Be a conversationalist. Listen carefully to get the big picture and to avoid saying something that indicates any momentary mental distraction. Allow the interviewer to complete questions without you finishing his train of thought or blurting out answers prematurely.
- Handle any trick questions in stride. The interviewer may throw in several to test your alertness or mental keenness. Be cautious: the interviewer may say something that puzzles you or that you firmly disagree with. Show enough respect to voice your thoughts in a professional manner. A defensive posture or argumentative tone is the surest way to alienate the interviewer and eliminate your candidacy.
General Telephone Interview Tactics
- Establishing a rapport at the beginning of the phone conversation sets a favorable tone.
- During the first few minutes, mention something that shows commonality of interest or similarity in background. This helps both parties feel more comfortable as the conversation progresses.
- Get to know the person behind the voice. Does he show a sense of humor? Is she direct and forthright in supplying information? Does his speech sound “canned”, or does it exhibit freshness of thought and expression? Just as importantly, does she listen to you, or merely wait for the chance to ask her next question? The interviewer may be a HR manager or a hiring manager. If the individual is someone with whom you will be working, pay all the more attention to her explanation of the job and what potential it offers.
- Your prepared list of questions will indicate that you have given careful thought to the prospect of joining the firm. Even though you don’t know everything about the position at this point, convey the impression that it’s something you are interested in and competent at handling.
- Only in a face-to-face interview can you totally sell yourself. The purpose of the phone interview is to identify areas of mutual interest that warrant further investigation. In other words, whet their curiosity and give them good reasons for wanting to invite you to the company location.
- As you glance over your notes and keep an eye on the clock, there may be additional important points to cover in the pre-allotted time frame. Tactfully take control and introduce the subject mater that needs to be discussed or further elaborated. Example: “That’s a good point. Can we come back to it a little later? I have some additional thoughts on the subject we were discussing a moment ago.”
- As the conversation winds down, become less talkative and give more thought to what you say. Your final words will generally have greater impact and be remembered longer. Careful word choice and voice inflection will under-score the significance of your remarks. By contrast, a machine-gun volley of words will likely put the listener on the defensive or turn him off altogether.
The Home Stretch
- After 30 minutes, both parties should know how much of a “fit” there is. Provided the job interests you, express your desire to proceed to the next step: an in person interview.
- The interviewer may extend an invitation at that point. The on site company visit interview will be coordinated between Andiamo Partners and the hiring manager (or Human Resources at the company). Follow up with your Andiamo Partners recruiter to discuss the next steps and gather feedback.
- End the conversation on a positive note. Thank the interviewer for the information shared. Let her know again that you look forward to visiting the company. After all, if the position discussed is not the ideal job for you, something else might be. Improved telephone interviewing techniques can really give you a competitive edge.
- If you are sincerely interested in the position and are satisfied with the answers given, you should ask the interviewer if he/she feels you are qualified for the position. This gives you another chance to review points that may need clarification. Illustrate confidence in your abilities and convince the interviewer that you are capable of handing the position successfully.
In Person Interview Preparation
1. Know Yourself
Can you honestly visualize resigning from your current position? (See “Dealing With Counteroffers”)
- What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses?
- What are your short and long-term goals?
- Evaluate yourself in terms of the position you seek?
- Formulate responses by asking the question: “Why should they hire me?”
- Remember that you are there to sell yourself and secure a job offer.
2. Research the Company
- Know the company’s products and services.
- The Internet offers a wealth of company information and industry statistics.
- Be prepared to tell the interviewer why their company is attractive to you.
3. Items to Bring to the Interview
Resume
- Review your resume thoroughly and be prepared to discuss all points.
- Always bring a resume copy identical to the one supplied to the interviewer by Andiamo Partners.
- Bring along samples of your work, if possible. Never discuss or show proprietary information.
Other Items
- Bring a folder and pen to the interview to jot down notes.
- Prepare and review your questions as well as specific responses.
- Bring directions to the interview location. Also, bring the contact information of your Andiamo Partner recruiter so you can call him/her in case you are running late and to give immediate feedback following the interview.
- Be sure to allot time to check in with security and present a current photo ID.
Appearance
Male Candidates
- Fingernails should be short and clean; manicured if possible.
- Hair should be clean, well groomed and freshly trimmed. Use a dandruff shampoo, if necessary, and always comb hair with your jacket off.
- A navy blue or dark gray suit is appropriate for most positions. Be sure it is cleaned and pressed. Men with stout builds should avoid three-piece suits.
- Shirts should be white, freshly laundered and well pressed.
- A quiet tie with a subtle design and a hint of red is suitable for a first interview. Avoid loud colors and busy designs.
- Jewelry should be kept to a minimal amount. A watch and wedding or class ring are acceptable. Generally avoid pins that indicate membership in religious or service organizations.
- Use deodorant and avoid colognes or fragrances completely.
- Shoes should be black and freshly polished (including the heels). Socks should be black or blue and worn over the calf.
- For good posture, cross legs at the ankles, not at the knees.
- Maintain good eye contact.
- Don’t take cellular phones or beepers into an interview.
Female Candidates
- Fingernails should be clean; manicured if possible. Choose subtle low key colors over bright fashion colors for nail polishes.
- Wear a suit or tailored dress in basic navy or gray. Blouses should also be tailored and color coordinated. Avoid big bows or ties.
- Avoid exotic hairstyles and excessive makeup. Hair should be neat, clean and brushed with your jacket off. Makeup should be light and natural looking.
- Use deodorant and avoid colognes or fragrances.
- Jewelry should be limited and subtle. Generally avoid jewelry or pins that indicate membership in religious or service organizations.
- A closed toe pump that is color coordinated with your outfit is appropriate for an interview. Avoid open-toed shoes or sling-backs.
- For good posture, cross legs at the ankles, not at the knees.
- Maintain good eye contact.
- Do not take cellular phones or beepers into an interview.
Arrival at the Interview
- Arrive no earlier than 15 minutes before the interview, but no later that five minutes prior to the start of the interview.
- Allow adequate time for traffic, parking, and/or public transportation as well a last minute appearance check. If possible, scout out the location the day before the interview to avoid any last minute problems.
- Review your notes and go in with confidence.
- If asked, complete an application. Complete the application in full and leave no blanks. Do not write “see resume” as a response to any application questions. If the application includes a section for expected salary or anticipated compensation, write something similar to “commensurate with market value and in line with company’s pay range.”
The Interview
A typical sequence of events:
- Interview with personnel; general questions, review of the company and their benefits.
- Interview with the immediate supervisor and peers.
- Interview with the hiring authority (manager, etc.)
- When meeting with an interviewer initial contact should include a firm handshake, direct eye contact and a pleasant salutation.
- Maintain a high energy level. Sit up with back straight. No coffee (to spill) and no smoking (preferably not before, definitely not during). No fragrant foods prior to interviews (garlic, etc). Make sure to take breath mints along.
- It is to your advantage if a subject of mutual interest arises, but do not fake knowledge. Be yourself. Poise, confidence, and self-respect are of great importance.
Conduct yourself with confidence and determination to get the job. You have other options, of course, and your interviewer knows this, but wants to think that you want a job with this company. You must present a positive attitude to the prospective employer. You must NOT seem disinterested or appear to be job shopping.
The interview should be a two-way conversation. Ask questions of the interviewers. This shows your interest in the company and the position, and enables you to gather the right information to make an intelligent decision afterwards. The questions you have prepared can be asked to the different people you see. Remember, the objective of the interview is to obtain an offer. During the interview, you must gather enough information concerning the position to make a decision.
Interview Questions & Responses
You should give complete but brief and relaxed answers to questions. When possible use questions as a basis for developing information that you want to make sure is presented. Continue to sell yourself in a positive way.
Typical/ Common Interview Questions
Tell me about yourself.
- Answer these questions in terms of the qualifications required of the position.
- Keep responses concise and brief and avoid being derogatory or negative about previous jobs and bosses.
- “Tell-me-about-yourself” means, “Tell me about your qualifications.” Prepare a one or two minute discussion of your qualifications. Start with education and discuss your experiences. Describe your performance (in raises, promotions, innovative designs, sales volumes, increased profits, etc.)
What are your greatest strengths?
- Interviewers like to hear abstract qualities. Loyalty, willingness to work hard, eagerness, fast-learner, technical skills, politeness, and promptness, expressed in concrete terms are good examples. Avoid the simple generalization “I like people”. It’s not a good answer.
What are your greatest weaknesses?
- Don’t be intimidated. The interviewer probably wants reassurance that hiring you won’t be a mistake. This is not the time to confess all your imperfections. (Do not state “not being able to go to work on Mondays”, or “coming in late”, etc.). Present your weaknesses as professional strengths, (i.e., “Sometimes work too hard to make sure things are done accurately”). Be prepared to explain how you overcome your weakness.
Personality Questions
What do you do in your spare time?
- Workaholics are not always the best employees. Present yourself as a well rounded person. Your answer gives you dimension. Name some hobbies.
Motive Questions
Answer motive questions enthusiastically. Show the interviewer that you are interested in the position and that you really want the job. Remember to maintain eye contact and be sincere.
How can you contribute to this company?
- Be positive and sell! Bringing strong technical skills, enthusiasm, and desire to complete projects correctly and efficiently are good responses.
Why should I hire you for this position?
- Explain your qualifications and how they “fit” the available position. Address your interest in the job and the field and why it’s work that you enjoy. Emphasize your ability to successfully perform the duties required.
Why do you want to work for our firm?
- Make a compliment about what the company does, its location, or its people. Other positive remarks might be about the company’s product or service, content of the position or possibilities for growth or advancement. Research about the company is important here.
Where do you hope to be in five years?
- Use conservative growth positions that clearly show you plan to be there in five years, and that their investment in you will pay. Be sure that you know what you can and cannot be achieved by the ideal candidate in this position. Never tell the interviewer that you feel you’ll be more successful than they are. But do show a strong desire for promotions.
What interests you most about this position?
- Teasing the interviewer with a truthful one or two-word answer such as, “the challenge” or “the opportunity”, will force them to ask you to explain. Here again, you have the chance to demonstrate your knowledge of the company.
How long do you plan to be with the company?
- As with marriage, most employers expect a till-death-do-us-part attitude, but they can be equally attracted to the candidate with ambition and candor. “As long as I continue to learn and grow in my field”, is a reasonable response.
What are your career goals?
- Short term – “I want to be the best in my current position, while learning additional responsibilities. This, in itself, will assure my commitment to the firm and raise me to the next level of responsibility and promotion. I see myself wanting to stay technical but learn the necessary skills to lead people and projects.”
- Long term – “After proving my abilities, I see myself in a firm with the possibility of moving into a level of management that allows me to keep my skills sharp.
What are you doing to achieve your goals?
- I look at continued learning as the key to success. I continue my education, as you can see from my resume, by taking company educational courses, when offered, and college courses. I also read trade publications and magazines to keep informed about the current and future directions in my field. When possible, I participate in professional organizations in my field.
Job Satisfaction Questions
Why did you leave your previous employer?
- NEVER speak poorly about a former employer. Be pleasant, be positive and be honest. Your answer will probably be checked. Mention your desire to work for a more progressive company that offers more growth opportunities and recognition.
What did you like least about your previous job?
- An employer can evaluate the type of worker you will be by the items you choose. Give specifics. You are also providing clues about the environment you seek. What you liked most can include a strong teamwork atmosphere, high-level of creativity, attainable deadlines. What you liked least should include any situations that you are unlikely to encounter in your new position.
Why are you looking for another job?
- Again, be positive. “I have to say that I have really enjoyed my years at Corporation. There are a lot of good people over there. But I am looking for a more progressive organization with greater opportunities for growth, and recognition. I am looking for a team to join where I can make real contributions and advance my career.”
What do you think your employers obligations are to you?
- Interviewers listen for employees who want a positive, enthusiastic, company atmosphere, with the opportunity to advance. Such a person, they surmise, has motivation and staying power.
Are you applying for any other jobs?
- In your answer, show that your search is geared for similar positions. This demonstrates a well-defined, focused objective. Make it known that your talents are applicable to other businesses and that you have explored ways to maximize your potential and are serious about finding the perfect opportunity. Don’t give an indication that you are just shopping.
Past Performance Questions
These questions are aimed at determining behavior based on past examples:
What kind of decisions are most difficult for you?
- Again, be truthful and admit not everything comes easily. Be careful what you do admit so as not to instantly disqualify yourself. Explain that you try to gather as much information and advice as you can to make the best decision possible.
What causes you to lose your temper?
- Everybody has a low boiling point on some particular issue. Pick one of yours; something safe and reasonable. People who are late to meetings, blame shifting, broken appointments and office “back-stabbing” are suitable responses. Don’t say that you never fly off the handle. You won’t be believed.
What are your greatest accomplishments?
- Be ready to recant one or two stories that demonstrate strong capabilities or achievements that will make you attractive to your new employer. A special project that you pioneered at your previous job, cutting department expenses, increasing productivity or receiving frequent promotions.
How do you feel about a younger male/female boss?
- A question like this usually means that your boss will either be younger or of the opposite sex or both. Be certain that if you register any concern, you will probably not be hired. Explain that their age or sex is of no importance to you. You are only interested in their capability and what you can learn from them.
What kind of worker are you?
- Again, no one is perfect. Showing that you tackle every assignment with all of your energy and talents is admirable but mention that you also learn from your mistakes.
Salary Questions
Salary discussions should be avoided, if possible. You should NOT be the one to bring up salary questions.
What type of salary do you have in mind?
- Do not state a starting figure. A suitable reply: “I am looking for the right opportunity and I am confident that if you find me the best candidate for this position, you will extend to me your best and most fair offer.”
What is your current salary?
- Answer truthfully. Also, if you are due a raise in the next three months, state the approximate percentage you realistically expect.
Other Questions You Should be Prepared to Truthfully Answer
Are you willing to relocate?
May we check your references?
May we verify your income?
Answer a question to the best of your ability and then relax. If there is a period of silence before the interviewer asks the next question, stay calm and do NOT fill in the blank spaces. Interviewers often use silence to see if you can handle stress and maintain poise.
Questions for You to Ask
Your interviews should be two-way conversation. You must ask questions and take an active role in the interview. This demonstrates the importance you place on your work and your career. Asking questions gives you a chance to demonstrate your depth of knowledge in the field as well as to establish an easy flow of conversation and relaxed atmosphere between you and the interviewer. Building this kind of rapport is always a plus in an interview.
Remember, you are not just there for the interviewer to determine if you are right for the position but your questions can help you determine if this position is right for you. Some of your questions should evolve from research you’ve done on the company in preparing for the interview. Following are some guidelines for your questions as well as some examples.
- Don’t cross examine the employer.
- Ask questions requiring an explanation. Questions which can be answered with a “yes” or “no” are conversation stoppers.
- Don’t interrupt when the employer is answering YOUR question.
- Ask job-relevant questions. Focus on the job, the company, products, services and people.
- Ask about your potential peers, subordinates, and superiors. Take notes.
- Ask the employer how he/she got where they are today.
Interest Questions
Why do you want someone for this job?
- Force the interviewer to explain why this job can’t be done by one of his current employees. The answer may give you a valuable job description.
Job Satisfaction Questions
Ask questions that relate to the responsibilities, importance and authority of the position as well as those investigating the rewards for a job well done and the long range career opportunities.
Past Performance Questions
If the position is a replacement role – Was the prior employee promoted or did they leave the company?
- If the turnover has been high, you have a right to suspect that the job may leave something to be desired. Or it could mean that you can expect to be promoted quickly.
How did you get started in the company?
- A good way to get to know the interviewer better and gain insight into the promotional path the company follows.
Additional Questions
- What would my responsibilities and duties be?
- What are the most difficult aspects of the position?
- Describe a typical day on the job.
- Describe the department’s/company’s growth in the next 2 years.
- What is the philosophy on training and development here?
- What projects would I be involved in now? In the future?
- Who would I be working for and with?
Common Mistakes
Selected items from an article written by Greg Williams – www.techrepublic.com
Talking techie to non techies
Feel free to discuss what you know, but remember: If you are talking to a non-technical manager or human resources representative, you are not going to impress them by reciting syntax. If you are interviewing with someone who you know is not technical, answer questions directly but keep the tech comments general. If you have questions about the technology in use at the site, keep your questions specific and relevant to the position for which you are applying.
Sharing your “negative” Tech Philosophy
If you hate Bill Gates, Windows XP, and the whole Office Suite, keep it to yourself. Ranting about your tech philosophy can ruin your chances at the position. If you are asked about how you feel about a product, be honest, but don't preach. The interviewer probably just wants to see how you respond to such questions.
Climbing the advancement ladder in the interview
If you are joining the ranks of a new company, the last thing the interviewer wants to hear is, "How fast can I get out of this job?" Do not ask about opportunities for advancement until the second or third interview. If you are joining a company just to advance into another position, silence is golden. Keep it to yourself unless the interviewer asks or unless it is somehow already known that you'll be advancing quickly.
Failure to discuss your abilities – relying solely on charm
Of course, there's no substitute for being a quality candidate with skills that match the job, but avoiding these interview mistakes can help your best qualities shine through. Remember that it may be what you don't discuss in an interview that makes or breaks your chances. Be yourself and focus on your talents and abilities. That way, you're sure to impress rather than charm. That's when you get the job.
Post-Interview Thank You Letters
Immediately following the interview, call your Andiamo Partners recruiter. It is very important to convey your impressions of the position and the company. Let the recruiter know whether you are interested in the position or not and if there were questions you forgot to ask at the interview, express them at this time. Only after we get your feedback about the interview and the company do we contact the employer for theirs. And finally, we follow-up with you regarding the employer’s thoughts.
It is always a good idea to send a short note of appreciation to thank the employer or interviewer for their time. Reiterate your interest in the position and the company as well as your ability to do the job. Be sure to mail or email your correspondence the following day. This is a good way to keep your name current in the interviewer’s mind. Following is a sample thank-you letter that you can adapt to fit your specifics. Send your Andiamo Partners recruiter a copy of your Thank You Letter prior to sending it to the interviewer(s). We will gladly provide you with additional advice.
1. Address Line
a. The full company name and address (no abbreviations) as well as the full name of the interviewer and his/her complete title.
2. Subject Line
a. “Re: Interview for the Position of (title) on (date).”
3. Greeting
a. “Dear Mr./Ms. (last name):”
i. “Miss” or “Mrs.” Should not be used unless you are sure that person does so. Do not use a first name in the greeting unless you have established a strong rapport.
4. Opening
a. “It was a pleasure meeting with you (day) to discuss the opening in (department) with (company).”
b. “I appreciated meeting with (name) and yourself in your office on (day) to discuss the (title) position with (company.”
c. “Thanks for taking the time to see me regarding the opening in (department).”
Again, comment or add something discussed during the interview that will allow you to restate your qualification and confidence in performing the job.
5. Body
a. “From our discussion, and the fine reputation of your organization appears that the (title) position would enable me to fully use my background in .”
b. “I was particularly impressed with the professionalism evident throughout my visit. (Company) appears to have the kind of environment I have been seeking.”
c. “The atmosphere at (company) seems to strongly favor individual involvement, and I would undoubtedly be able to contribute significantly to its goals.”
6. Closing
a. “While I have been considering other opportunities, I have deferred a decision until I hear from you. Therefore, your prompt reply would be greatly appreciated.”
b. “It’s an exciting opportunity, and I look forward to hearing your decision very soon.”
7. Salutation
a. “Sincerely,” b. “Very truly yours,” c. “Best regards,”
Thank you for taking the time to read through this material in preparation for your upcoming interview. We hope you found it useful and informative.