By Hucky Austin
Following are some guidelines to help you succeed as the interview gets underway.
+ Be sure to sit in the middle part of the chair, rather than leaning back. You want to be upright and alert, with your chair fairly close to the desk. If close enough to the desk, place your hands on the desk, rather than under.
+ Be aware of constantly nodding in the affirmative during the interview.
+ Express your enthusiasm for the position.
+ Don’t use slang words or curse words.
+ When answering questions, speak out so you can be heard. Keep responses on-topic; don’t get long-winded. Don’t answer with just a “yes” or “no.” Illustrate your successes by providing examples of your good work.
+ No negative comments should be made regarding prior employers, supervisors or colleagues.
+ Stress your achievements, emphasize your positive attributes in a sincere manner, without being self-aggrandizing.
+ Don’t share family problems or personal issues.
+ Share what it is you think you can do for them-not just what they can do for you.
+ Don’t make any statements or behave in a way that makes you appear desperate for the job; don’t forget-this is your opportunity to evaluate them, too!
+ Be truthful; lies always catch up with you.
+ Ask specific questions about the position; with the exception of the question of salary. It is also inappropriate to ask about bonuses, benefits, vacations, etc. An excellent strategy for yourself is to wait until you have a job offer to discuss salary requirements. Don’t exclude yourself from employment consideration by providing salary requirements that may not be within their budget.
+ Assuming you’ve done your research on the company, don’t be afraid to demonstrate what you know about them!
+ Close the interview with a “thank you” and a handshake, and tell them that you want the job. Ask them about the next step in their hiring process.
+ Obtain a business card from the individual(s) with whom you’ve interviewed.
+ Send a follow-up thank you letter or note. Keep it professional, to the point, and perhaps highlight a point that you feel was one of your strengths for the position.
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