The Interview Process
Getting the Job you Want- Part 3

The most critical step in getting the job you want is the Interview Process--specifically, what you do before, during, and after the interview. As reflected in the first two articles of the "Getting the Job You Want" series, each step in finding a job is critical. Finding the job you want requires a defined strategy with each step clearly identified. You can prepare a dynamic resume to open doors and network with the right people, but if you fail to perform during the interview process, all is lost.

To achieve an interview in today's economy is a celebration in and of itself. Interviews are few and far between compared to previous economic times. Now is the time to prepare, prepare, prepare. What you do before, during, and after the interview will make or break the next step--the job offer.

Before the interview you must research the company. You can request company literature, research the Internet, and competitors so that you are knowledgeable about the company, its products and/or services. Prepare questions you want answered in the interview about the company. During the interview process it is important to remember that interviewing the company is as important as the company interviewing you.

Questions you can ask the company:

• What are the company's culture, mission, and vision?
  
• What are the company's short & long-term goals?
  
• What are the priorities for this position in the first 30/60/90 days?
  
• Ask why the person in the position you are interviewing for left?
  
• How long had the person you are replacing been with the company?

You must also be prepared to answer detailed questions about your employment history and performance. There are plenty of books and resources on the Internet to guide you through the 50 most commonly asked interview questions. Take the time to answer each one before the interview. Chances are you will be asked most of these, but in the event you are asked one you did not prepare for, your preparation before the interview will help you "think on your feet" and answering the question confidently.

Most questions asked in the interview today are behavior-based questions. You may be asked, "Tell me about a time when you were responsible for leading a project, or describe how you have handled a difficult employee." In preparing your answers before the interview, make sure to link a specific on-the-job experience you've had with each situation. Once you have practiced answering the questions, practice, practice, practice!

Find the location of the interview, know how long it will take you to get there and arrive no more than 15 minutes ahead of time. Be prepared to have a conversation with the Administrative Staff when you introduce yourself. Some companies utilize people in these positions as a screening process to see how you handle yourself waiting for the interview.

During the interview, remember that you are interviewing them as well, so take a deep breath and enjoy. Maintain good eye contact and don't hesitate to ask questions when appropriate. Take the lead from the individual interviewing you as far as the tone and atmosphere of the interview. Are they uptight and all business? Respond accordingly, but don't be too rigid.

You'll be surprised at how you may help them relax if you appear the same. If you have come to the end of the interview and they have answered all your questions (before you even ask) and they ask, "Do you have any questions?" ALWAYS say yes! Ask the person to tell you about him or herself. How long have they been with the company? What do they enjoy most about working there? Ask for a business card; ask what is the hiring timeline, ask for the description of the perfect candidate for the position. This will help you identify your strengths and experience which directly relates to the position. Don't hesitate to express your interest in the position.

Send a thank-you note immediately following the interview; an old fashioned, handwritten thank you note. Yes, we live in a world of email; however, nothing will set you apart like taking the time to personally write a note to each person who took the time to interview you. Again, reiterate your skills and strengths that make you the perfect candidate and let them know of your interest in the position.

The research and preparation during the job search will pay off in getting the job you want!