FACE TO FACE INTERVIEW GUIDE

Whether you're looking for your first job or your fifth, you're after an entry level sales position or top management spot, there are some universal rules to successful interviewing. An interview is not a two way street! It is your job to sell yourself with a positive attitude and enthusiasm. Regardless of your initial impression of the job opportunity, your main objective is to obtain a JOB OFFER by outshining the competition. It is impossible to properly evaluate a position before a bona fide offer has been extended. Preparation for an interview should be a serious matter. Interviewers are looking at you not only as a candidate but as a performer in their organization. Pre-Interview 1. Go to the library or use the Web and research the company. Find things to discuss during the interview. This impresses the interviewer. 2. Know the five year growth of the company and future direction. 3. Know the company's financial position, i.e. net worth, stock price etc. 4. Know the competitors. 5. Know the product line. 6. You should call on at least three possible customers to get their opinion of the company and the product. Let the interviewer know this. Tell the interviewer with whom and where you investigated their company. Attire 1. Employers reject improperly dressed candidates. Accept the fact that many employers have an unwritten dress code and like to hire properly dressed candidates. Forget your own personal preference. You should dress according to the impression you want to create, i.e., successful, conservative, and business-like. 2. Men--Conservative blue or gray suit, white starched shirt, conservative tie with contrasting colors, shined shoes dark socks over calf, avoid aftershave. 3. Women--Skirted suit or tailored dress, dress feminine not sexy, avoid excessive make-up and perfumes. 4. Hairstyles for both men and women should be modest. 5. Men, Facial hair, if any, should be modest and neatly trimmed. 6. Your attire/appearance WON'T get the job, but it CAN certainly rob you of it. a. No sports jacket for men. b. c. d. Timing 1. Get exact directions to the interview site at least one day ahead of time. 2. Be 15 minutes early. 3. Be courteous to the staffespecially the secretary. An employer is always influenced by opinions of other employees. No pantsuits for women. Dress for your boss's job. You can't be TOO conservative.

Resume Take a resume with you even if the interviewer has one. 1. Do not fold it! 2. Offer the resume to the person in a new file folder. 3. References 4. Take your "that a boy" letters and offer them at the appropriate time. 5. When requested, provide a typed list of names, addresses, phone numbers, and letters of personal and professional references. Introduction 1. Example: "Good morning, Larry. I am" 2. Shake hands firmly and look the person in the interviewer eyes. Maintain good eye contact during the interview. 3. Maintain high energy level. 4. Sit up. 5. Back straight. 6. No coffee, (to spill). 7. No smoking. Note: 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. The Site 1. Motel room: Position yourself for good eye contact, (Don't be afraid to move a chair; it shows positive traits. i.e., control. 2. Employer's office: If there is more than one chair, take the one closest to the side of the interviewers desk. The desk is the barrier! 3. Bar/Restaurant: Sit across from the person and wait for the interviewer to order drinks before you do. Do not feel compelled to drink if you normally don't drink. Style 1. Eye contact! Look directly at the interviewer. 2. Listen! Give the person the opportunity to talk. Do not touch anything on the interviewer's desk. Do not fidget with anything you have, such as a pen, tie, etc. 3. Relax and be confident (do deep breathing to relax). 4. Be enthusiastic-use your eyes, hands, and voice inflection to show support. Fielding Questions Be Succinct - Keep your answers brief, concise, and to the point. Everyone gets nervous in an interview, but some try to disguise it by talking-excessively. The more nervous you get, the more you talk. The more you talk, the more you convince the interviewer that you are not right for the position.

Avoid negatives by returning to a positive and stress that positive. As an example: "Well, Susan you have had three jobs in five years. Answer: Mary, I made a mistake on that Acme job by not checking their financial situation closely. I have been with U.S. Surgical for two years now and, as you can see, I've done a fine job. I'm seeking a career opportunity that offers greater stability and that's why I'm here." Be Specific - If you're explaining your accomplishments, try to support your claims by citing figures or specific accomplishments. Ranked #2 out of 10 people in my region; I was $75,000 over quota last year; my W2 has increased x thousands of dollars over the last 2 years. If you're discussing skills or talents that you can bring to the job, give clear examples of how you've demonstrated these abilities in other relevant situations. Sell Yourself - Now is not the time for humility. It is not bragging, and no one will find it offensive if you cite your achievements or awards or describe unique business programs that you have devised. It's an accepted and expected part of the interview process. Make sure that the interviewer knows about your accomplishments or special experiences. If the interviewer doesn't ask, find a way to bring them into the conversation. Be sure to mention any that aren't listed on your resume. No one else is going to sing your praises, and you usually don't get a second chance in these situations. Now is the time to bring out your that a boy' file and show written rankings or letters. Note: Translate your achievements, accomplishments, and personal qualities into benefits to the employer. Maintain Credibility - and don't over inflate your responsibility. Don't try to make a low-level position sound as if you were actually the CEO's right-hand man or woman. Most interviewers have a good idea of the responsibilities that accompanied your previous job-especially if you're interviewing in the same industry. If you inflate your position, you'll undermine your entire credibility, and the interviewer will doubt all your other real achievements. Once you're considered deceptive, you won't have any chance at being hired. Always be honest. Maintain Your Composure - Regardless of what happens in the interview keep calm, poised, and professional. If the interviewer seems to ignore you, don't get flustered. If the interviewer looks unimpressed, don't assume you have lost. If the individual contradicts something you say, explain your position but don't lose our temper or let the interviewer goad you into an argument. Don't become defensive if the interviewer seems to question certain responsibilities or achievements that you claim. It's all part of the game. Your composure may well be tested during the interview. Pay Attention - Sometimes people are so "charged-up" that they try to anticipate where the interviewer is going. They just jump in with the answer before the interviewer has completed the question. Let the person finish the questions and make sure you know what is being asked. If you're not sure, ask the interviewer to clarify the question. The last thing you want to do is plunge headlong into a story that doesn't give the interviewer the information he's seeking. You'll come across as rattled and confused-not exactly the stuff employer's dreams are made of. Tell-Me-About-Yourself Questions

1. Answer these questions in terms of the qualifications required of the job being filled and your business background. 2. Keep responses concise and brief. 3. Avoid being derogatory and/or negative when asked about previous jobs and bosses. 4. "Tell-me-about-yourself" means, Tell me about your qualifications. a. b. c. Prepare ahead of time a five to ten minute discussion of your qualifications. Discuss your experiences. Tell how well you performed (resulting in raises, promotions, innovative designs, sales volume, increased profits, etc.)

Your Personality Questions 1. Always answer in terms of your qualifications. 2. Support your claims by sharing experiences. 3. Answer personality questions in terms of ACCURATE ANSWERS supported by past experience. Salary Questions 1. Avoid talking salary until the job has been offered. 2. Negotiate salary from strength. 3. Your present earnings will be on the company application you fill in. Mark the "expected earnings" portion of the application, "Open or Negotiable." 4. If unemployed, seek a salary equivalent to your last earnings. 5. On the initial interview, you should NOT directly discuss: a. b. c. MANAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES FRINGE BENEFITS VACATIONS/MONEY

Asking Questions When Interviewing For A Job Interest Questions Ask yourself are they related to the job, the company, its products, services and people? An interview is a two-way street. These questions should communicate your interest in the position. 1. Don't cross-examine the employer. 2. Ask questions requiring an explanation. Questions which can be answered with a "yes" or "no" are conversation stoppers. 3. Don't interrupt when the employer is answering YOUR question. 4. Ask job-relevant questions. Focus on the job, the company, products, services, and people. 5. Prior to the interview, write your list of Interest Questions and take them with you. 6. Ask about your potential peers, subordinates, and superiors. Take notes. 7. Ask the employer how he/she got where they are today. Job Satisfaction Questions

Do they pertain to the importance of the job, does the authority you'll have match to the responsibility, the reward for a job well done, and the long-range career opportunities? 1. Don't ask salary questions or about fringe benefits, retirement, or vacations. 2. Don't go overboard, four to eight questions of this type should be plenty. 3. Do ask about long-range career opportunities. Past Performance Questions Ask questions like: 1. How many people have held this position in the past several years? 2. Where are these people now? 3. Were they promoted or did they leave the company? Sale Questions 1. Ask what the employer wants in a candidates, what experience, educational background, and performance. 2. Always ask what personality characteristics the employer desires. 3. Make a sales statement based on the employer's prerequisites or desires. (If you lack an asset, sell a compensating asset.) Ask For The Job 1. "I can perform the job you want. I've done it before and I've done it well." 2. "I'd like to work for you. What else do you need to know to make this happen?"

IF YOU MAINTAIN A "QUESTIONING AWARENESS" YOU WILL AUTOMATICALLY ASK THE "RIGHT" QUESTIONS, GIVING YOU A CONSIDERABLE ADVANTAGE WHEN INTERVIEWING. Close 1. Assume that you are the right person for the position. 2. Summarize all points of agreement. 3. Tell the person you want the opportunity and you are sure you could work well with him personally from your initial meeting. 4. Close after summary. As an example: "Jim, do you make the final decision?" "Fine, I'm ready to pursue the next step in the interviewing process. Can we see Susan tomorrow?" If the interviewer says they would like to see you again or that the interviewer will be in touch with recruiter, summarize and close again. Tell the person you are ready to pursue the next step and ask for a day's notice that you might coordinate your schedule. On Your Way Out

1. Thank the person for the time. 2. Shake his hand firmly and look the person in the eyes. 3. Tell the interviewer you look forward to the next interview. 4. Say good-bye to the secretary. Follow Up 1. Send a handwritten letter, fax, telegram, or e-mail thanking the interviewer for the opportunity of interviewing with the company and 3 or 4 good reasons to consider you. If this doesn't go out the day of the interview or the next day it won't be worth the paper it's written on. 2. If you do not have an answering service or recording device, buy one, or as an alternative, use the number of a friend who has one.

Career oriented people are more interested in gaining valuable experience, advancement, opportunities, and enhanced working environment rather than immediate salary increase. A lateral salary move, though rare, should always be considered based on career potential. Review 1. Make an inventory of what you did and how well you did it. 2. Research prospective employer, the nature of the business, its products and people. 3. Attire should be conservative and business-like, giving the impression of success and competence. MOST CANDIDATES ARE NOT EFFECTIVE DURING AN INTERVIEW, BE AN EXCEPTION!

Interview Tips Interviews makes you to show your talent and ability whether you can fit for that particular job or not. So make use of the following tips to improve your knowledge in attending the interview. 1.Practice makes the man perfect. So practice in front of the mirror or with your friends/colleagues. 2.Dress professionally for the job and do not wear jeans,T-shirts etc 3.Proper preparation will help to reduce the tension, nervousness in the interview. 4.Being on time to the interview is very essential. Make sure of interview time and be before fifteen minutes for the interview. 5.During the interview answer clearly and confidently. 6.Make eye contact to other interviewer while answering. 7.Turn off your cellphone,i-pod,pager etc., 8.Do not smoke while waiting for an interview.9.Do not answer 'yes' or 'no' type manner. 10.Listen carefully and answer the questions. If you are not clear with their questions ask another time and clarify it. 11.You prove your interest in work and talent while interviewing. 12.Do not forget to take copies of resumes, pen and writing pad. 13.Think positive and answer in best way. 14.Interviews are conducted on the basis of the information provided in their resumes, cover letters, and/or applications. 15.You can ask relevant questions about your job nature. 16.Close each interview by summarizing your strongest qualifications and continuing interest in the position. 17.Make sure to wish all the panels while you enter or leave the interview. 18.Send a thank-you letter to everyone you interviewed with.19.Use examples to explain your skills and experience.

20.Avoid discussing about political, salary, bonuses etc

1. Plan to arrive 10 minutes early. This will give you ample time to catch your breath, gather your thoughts and make a quick trip to the washroom to give your appearance one final check. To avoid unnecessary stress, choose your interview attire the night before.

2. Greet the interviewer by his or her last name. If you are unsure of the pronunciation, do ask the employer to repeat it. Or better still, check it with the front desk personnel or receptionist before walking into the interview room.

3. Let the interviewer lead the conversation but try to get him/her to describe the position and duties to you early in the interview. This will allow you to apply your background, skills and achievements to the position.

4. When asked: "Tell me about yourself?", focus your answers on your background and a few professional and personal accomplishments.

5. Stress on your achievements. For example: your sales records, the processes you have developed or systems installed, projects that you initiated, etc.

6. Show enthusiasm. This can be demonstrated through verbal and non-verbal cues (for example, appropriate body language like nodding can be used to support your interest). Enthusiastic feedback can enhance your chances of being further considered.

7. Answer questions by speaking in terms of the position. Emphasise what you can do for the company. Mention specific accomplishments that show your abilities and determination to succeed in this job. Your answers describe the position and duties to you early in the interview. This will allow you to apply your background, skills and achievements to the position. should tell the employer why you would be an asset to the company and not why you need a job.

8. Bring an extra copy of your resume.

9. Explain whenever possible; don't answer with a simple "yes" or "no." Be prepared to answer questions such as: * Tell me about yourself.

* Tell me about your background and accomplishments. * What are your strengths? Weaknesses? * How would you describe your most recent job performance? * What interests you about our company? Also, be prepared to ask questions such as: * What would I be expected to accomplish in this position? * What are the greatest challenges in this position? * How do you think I fit the position? Remember, your lack of questions may be mistaken as lack of interest in the job. Summary If you are interested in the position, stress this to the interviewer. If you get the impression that the interview is not going well and that you have already been rejected, do not let your discouragement show. Once in a while an interviewer who is genuinely interested in you may seem to discourage you as a way of testing your reaction. Remember to thank the interviewer for his/her time and end the session with a confident and firm handshake.

IMPORTANCE OF BODY LANGUAGE IN INTERVIEWS

Interpreting your body language: Body language is one of the very powerful ways of communicating. When it comes to your career, especially while attending interviews, every small movement you make will amplify and suggest what's going on in your mind.
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You might unknowingly minimize the chances of getting into a job that fits your profile because of faulty actions. Lets look at a few 'wrongful actions' commonly committed during interviews so that you can try to avoid them in your next interview. Face is the index of mind. Your face is the most transparent medium in your body and every expression will send out large volumes of signals, both positive and negative. Eye contact is another very important aspect. Always maintain direct eye contact. Fickle eye movements suggest insincerity. However make sure that in an effort to maintain eye contact, you do not come across as offensive and intimidating.

Positioning your arms can convey confidence, arrogance or defensiveness. Use arm movements to emphasize your verbal statements. It will give added stress to what you want to convey without actually saying it. Here again make sure your arm movements are not too exaggerated so as to distract the interviewer. Crossed arms, closed palms, clenched fists etc send out negative ripples. Here are some more interesting interpretations of the body language: Chewing or biting nails/Patting or fondling hair/Fiddling with jewellery etc project insecurity, nervousness and lack of self-confidence. Rubbing your eye, looking down and turning your face away conveys disbelief and doubt. Stroking your chin, pulling or tugging at your ear etc indicates indecisiveness. Tilted head shows your interest while tapping your fingers is a sign of impatience. Pinching the bridge of your nose signifies negative evaluation. Open palm symbolizes sincerity, openness and innocence and in contrast touching your nose or rubbing it in between a conversation conveys that you are not being true. Rubbing your hands is a sign of anticipation while resting your cheek in your palm casts an image of thoughtfulness and evaluation. Your arms crossed on your chest communicates defensiveness. If you are aware of these body traits, you could use it to your advantage to evaluate your recruiter, If the recruiter's eyes wander away in search of something more interesting, then it means that your communication is not up to the mark and that there is a level of discomfort. If he nods in acceptance as you are conversing, it's a positive vibe and it also indicates that the person is listening to you. Smiling also is a positive sign but make sure he isn't smiling at the wrong time, which could indicate a negative influence. If the interviewer has his legs crossed with his hands clasped at the back of his head, it's better you think twice before taking the offer as this posture exaggerates extreme arrogance and superiority. Remember to be relaxed during an interview, your hands on either sides in front of you and maintain positive eye contact. Do not be over casual and lean right back on your chair, but position yourself in such a way that you face the person directly and show a keen interest in the opening and the company