|
|
| by Human Resources Development Canada, |
Aug 20, 2001 |
If you have no idea what this means or how to send an electronic resumé, check out the Canadian Careers Web page on electronic resumés.Interview DOs
- Dress more formally than you would normally dress for the job.
- Introduce yourself. Don't wait for someone else to make the first move.
- Be ready to shake hands. Do it firmly.
- Show your energy and enthusiasm for the job.
- Listen closely to the interviewer.
- Make eye contact. (If you don't, you'll come across as either lacking confidence or having something to hide.)
- Answer all questions carefully and honestly. Take the time to think over your answer when you need to.
- Close the interview by restating your interest in the job and summarizing your good points.
- Arrange to call back in a few days.
Interview DON'Ts
- Don't be late. If you're going to be late, or if you can't make it to the interview, call the employer as soon as possible and explain why.
- Ask if you can arrange a new interview time.
- Don't come across as too shy or too aggressive.
- Don't answer questions with merely "yes" or "no" responses — elaborate... sell yourself by giving concrete examples.
- Don't say anything negative about other people or past employers.
- Don't lie or exaggerate your abilities.
- Don't be overly familiar with the interviewer.
- Don't chew gum, interrupt or use slang during the interview — even if the interviewer does.
Just before the interview, take deep breaths and relax your muscles. This will help you relax physically and mentally. Don't try too hard to impress the interviewer — just be yourself.If you get a job offer, don't be afraid to discuss the terms and conditions before accepting. Find out — or confirm — things like what you'll be doing, the hours you'll be working and whether there's an orientation procedure for new staff. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to share them with someone whose opinion you respect before committing yourself.
Aside from breathing a sigh of relief, there are two things you should do right after your interview:
- Go over the details of the interview and consider what worked and what didn't. What would you say or do differently the next time you're in an interview?
- Write a thank-you letter to the interviewers thanking them for their time, restating your interest in the job and subtly reminding them of your qualifications.
The first task will help you make sure you learn from each interview experience. The second gives you yet another opportunity to sell yourself and make a good impression.
If You Don't Get the Job…
- Don't give up. Finding a job takes time. A person who knows how to conduct a job search will eventually be successful.
- Try not to feel depressed and dejected. Simply recognize that, although you're qualified, someone with more experience was chosen.
- Send a thank-you letter anyway. (The interviewer may think of you if another job opening comes up.)
- Go over your cover letter, resumé and interview techniques. See if there are areas where you can improve your presentation.
- Ask the employer how you could have done better.
- Keep a positive outlook. Discuss your job hunt with friends and family members who will provide support and encouragement. Keep in touch with people you know who are working and who may have job leads.
- Explore other options. Don't rule out volunteering or job shadowing as a means of connecting with the workplace.
|
|
Tags
You must be logged in to add tags.
|
Comments
You must be a TakingITGlobal member to post a comment. Sign up for free or login.
|
|
