How to prepare for an interview?

[pinkstars]

I sent in my resume for a job with my current employer in another town. I pouched it to HR last Friday, and heard back from them on Tuesday. I still haven''t heard back from the supervisor who would be picking who would get hired. So my supervisors think that the supervisor there probably got busy or is waiting for more applicants.
I expect to get an interview because I am qualified for the job and would be considered since I already work for them. But I''m so nervous, I haven''t interview since I got the job that I have now, that was 3 years ago! My boyfriend thinks over thinking everything about it, but I just want to make a really good impression and get a new job!
I''m wondering how I can prepare myself for an interview. My friend''s mom suggested preparing questions to ask the person who interviews me, but I already work for the same people basically, so I''m just not sure how to go about it. Any input would be appreciated.

 

[Elmorton]

I always call friends (in related fields) and ask them about their worst and best interview questions. In my last interview, my dad gave me "Describe a community college student" (which is a trick question - the interviewers expect that someone will spout off stereotypes) which was asked, and another friend gave me "How do you work under pressure?" and "What's your worst quality" which were also asked. I practiced my answers to these over and over in my head in the days leading up to the interview.

Another thing I did last time was that I had my hair styled the day of the interview. I have crazy frizzy hair, and I felt so good knowing that it looked normal, sleek, and professional when I walked in, and I didn't spend any time before the interview having a nervous breakdown with a curling iron. And a manicure, but that was more for the nerves

Oh - and I also did a lot of research, which also came in handy. Even though I actually already work for the college (in a different capacity), I studied up on stats and info that would be specific to the new position and I figured out how to incorporate these key numbers into a few of the answers to the questions I was expecting.

Do prepare 1 or 2 questions to ask at the end of the interview - I always think it looks unprofessional not to. Last time, I asked "What's your biggest challenge for this position?" or something like that.

Best of luck!!!

 

[pinkstars]

Thanks for the advice, I appreciate it!

 

[ang3199]

I got asked "What is most difficult / worst professional decision you''ve ever had to make?" I found this EXTREMELY hard because I''m a school psychologist and I like to think that all of the decision I have made concerning the kids I work with are the best.

And if they don''t call you soon for an interview, call to double check that they had all your information on file and ask if they need anything else. If the receptionist seems nice, I like to ask when they may be doing interviews.

Good luck!

 

[KimberlyH]

Be prepared for the "What would you say is your best quality, and your worst?" question. Have an answer, for the worst, that can be turned into a positive (e.g., I''m a perfectionist). If you work in a field that is conducive to having work samples, bring some with you. Remember to talk slowly, and not too much. Good luck!

 

[Shoopy]

Date: 10/23/2008 8:54:04 AM
Author: KimberlyH
Be prepared for the ''What would you say is your best quality, and your worst?'' question. Have an answer, for the worst, that can be turned into a positive (e.g., I''m a perfectionist). If you work in a field that is conducive to having work samples, bring some with you. Remember to talk slowly, and not too much. Good luck!

I ditto this question. It always gets asked, that and "what is a mistake you have made and how did you correct it?"

A little tip, always say "development areas" as opposed to "weaknesses" and try to link that with something that you are doing to work on those areas. For example, you can say "I believe one of my development opportunities is my communication skills. Give example of why you feel its an opportunity to develop. In order to enhance my communication skills, I''ve taken xyz course offered at the local university"

Or something like that (obviously checking my grammar because it ain''t good LOL

Another tip is the company''s website. If this is a public company, read their financial statement front and back paying attention to notes and the begging where it states their challenges and how they are growing. If private, companies will tend to have a publication or news releases area that you can research.

Good luck!

 

[omieluv]

Practice, practice and practice!!

You can always use google to search for example interview questions. However, do you have an answer to the often jilting "Tell me about yourself" question? It does not sound like a difficult question to answer, but I have had friends and family tell me that was the most difficult question to answer. It is difficult because it is rather open ended and sometimes it is difficult for the candidate to know how to answer in a concise way.

Definitely research the organization, because there is likely to be a question regarding your interest in the role and the organization. I would also prepare some sort of a response to the "where do you see yourself in the next x amount of years" question. Be sure to prepare intelligent questions to ask the interviewer about the role and the organization. Ensure they do not sound too generic by linking them to the job itself. You can also google examples of questions to ask for the interview. You can ask questions dealing with the direction of the organization, the position etc. Ask questions regarding future growth potential regarding the role, etc. Questions about pay should be avoided until subsequent interviews. Ask about how the role impacts other aspects of the work group. As why the role is currently available. If you get to speak with the person who would be directly managing you, ask about his/her management style and what the expecations of the position are. Please remember that It really looks bad if you do not ask follow-up questions.

I also do like Elmorton's suggestions too. Depending on the type of job, it is important to look polished from head to toe. Though you do not need a professional manicure, ensure that your nails look fresh and neat (though, getting a manicure is a bonus). Usually people feel confident when they look great, which can translate very well in an interview situation. Often times, confidence and poise can make up for so-so interview responses. Remember, they want you to be the one they pick, or else they would not have invited you into the process.

Good luck!

 

[Italiahaircolor]

If they ask you about a "weakness" make it something that could be considered positive...like, you''re very particular about things and would always be over prepared given the opportunity. This could be a weakness in your mind because you could consider yourself to anal retentive, but good because you''ll be focused on your work.