2015 MSOE

The Interview Conversation and Purpose

Preparing for the interview ...

All hiring and promotion decisions hinge ultimately on conversations and relationships. Credentials get you the interview – attitude gets you the job offer. Attitude = Positive, Interest and Enthusiasm. The interview is a conversation with a purpose. Interviewer’s Purpose • Are candidate interests and this position a match? (focus) • Can the candidate do the job? (skills) • Will the candidate do the job? (attitude) • Will the candidate fit into my organization? (ability to relate to others) Interviewee’s Purpose • Are my interests and this position a match? (career goals) • Is this the type of organization I want to work for? (values) • Will this position provide me with opportunities for continued personal and professional growth? (values and goals) To interview effectively you have to ... • Prepare • Continually evaluate your performance and improve • Be able to interview based on your strengths • Talk about those skills and attributes that you possess that are important to the position • Ask questions that show insight and interest • Ask for the “sale” (i.e., reiterate interest in the position)

• Research the company or organization • Conceptualize the position • Articulate your competencies

Employers look for ... • Communication skills

• Interpersonal relationship skills • Intelligence • Positive attitude • Diversity

Your goals during the initial interview ... • Make a good first impression • Establish a positive relationship with the interviewer • Sell your strengths • Show interest and enthusiasm • Be invited to the next step in the process

After the interview ...

• Evaluate your performance • Make notes of: ◦ names

◦ date of interview ◦ follow-up actions ◦ personality traits noticed ◦ “clues” picked up from interviewer • Send a thank-you letter within 24 hours, if possible

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