Freeper advice needed on interviewing

[KantianBurke]

This friday I've got an interview coming up for a job. As I'm right out of college and in need of employment I was wondering if any Freepers would be able to give me some do's and don't. Is there any one thing that'll get their attention? Anything I should do or say that would get me hired?

[tcostell]

If it's a junior spot make sure your enthusiasm and communications skills are shown in their best light. I'll always hire someone who is interested in a job before someone who is taking it as their second choice. But be honest. "I always dreamed that one day I'd get a chance to work the night shift in a datacenter" won't fly on it's own without a good (and in this particular case a somewhat confusing) reason.

[Pern]

Just be confident and hold a good conversation. That's the most important quality.

Good advice. Also, look them in the eye when you talk to them.

[RikaStrom]

Also make sure you ask questions of the interviewer, about the company. It shows interest in the company.

Research the company on the web, get some background information. They will ask if you know anything about the company. It shows initiative.

Good luck

[CJinVA]

Always wear clean underwear. And never pick your nose.

[KantianBurke]

Nah. This job isn't with a inefficent Demorat union. My BA in econ and poly sci should help too.

[tdadams]

Tell the 40-something woman that interviews you, "This must be a great place for opportunity. I didn't expect to be interviewing with someone my own age."

[Cultural Jihad]

And another pointer: Someone arriving for an interview doesn't know the dynamics or the unique culture of the company. Perhaps it is the receptionist whose first impression is most valued by the interviewer(s).

[NYer]

Don't heed these goofballs! Try this link:

JOB SEARCH AND INTERVIEWS

Lots of good advice. Remember to smile, be yourself and be honest. If you truly want this job, your conviction will come across in the interview.

Lastly, remember that famous line from the movie Bridge On The River Kwai - "Be happy in your work".

[Gophack]

1) Know going into the interview what skills are necessary for the job, and mentally or on paper itemize the skills or experience you have that match up with the skills necessary to excel in the job.

2) Go in with a copy of the resume you submitted to them, proofread for typos AGAIN.

3) Mentally, review your strengths and weaknesses (they sometimes ask that). Don't tell them that your weakness is that you are an over-achiever who works late every night; likewise, don't say that your weakness is you are habitually late to work. Something like, "I am well-versed in most computer programs, but I need to work more with Microsoft Excel to get up to speed." Or maybe, "I am a perfectionist: I detest typos in my work. Because of that, sometimes it takes me a little longer to complete a project than people who aren't as detailed as I am."

4) Be honest, polite. Answer the questions asked, but segue into related areas if you think that it'll help.

5) Unless they absolutely require it, do not tell them how much you expect to make in this position -- you could highball or lowball it. Instead, say what the market rate for the position is. Research on monster.com or other salary sites to find out what the range is for the position you are interviewing for so that if they push you, you can give a good guess. Don't undercut yourself, and give a range "I would expect to make in the low-to-mid 30s with these duties and responsibilities."

6) Be prepared to answer a question like, "Where do you see yourself in five years?" They mean professionally, not personally (such us "I expect to be married with kids" wouldn't be a good answer). Something like, "I see myself working for this company in the same department, but perhaps in a management position. I am a loyal person; if we are both happy with my job performance, I will still be here in five years". Or, if this is like a law clerk position or where you have continuing education, "I see myself as a practicing attorney" or "I see myself getting my Masters at night" or whatever.

KEY: don't over-analyze. Get a good night sleep. Don't drink too much coffee, but don't go in there yawning. Be neat and presentable, enthusiastic but not overly eager. Research the company and know exactly what they do, even though you might not be working with other divisions or departments. If they have a website, gather as much information as possible, including information on the person interviewing you.

Good luck!

[America's Resolve]

FIRM handshake and FIRM eye contact. THAT'S the first impression they're going to get out of you.

Yah. And a bag of twenties left behind (with your name in bright red colors. wouldn't want them to confuse it with the last bozo that left a similar bag behind) 8^)

[twigs]

When you are asked your best and worst traits (many interviewees are asked this), be honest and give them a bad trait, whatever that may be. You can't avoid that question. But then tell them the good side about that trait. For example: I'm very particular about my work, which can drive people crazy. However, I care a great deal about the quality of my work and I keep at it until its done right. Or something like that. Have in mind how you may answer this question in advance. Or have several answers prepared and give them the one that seems best as the interview progresses.

[diotima]

Research the company. This is very important. Let them know subtly, that you have taken the time to find out information about their operation. This goes a long long way.

[yournamehere]

Be prepared to offer examples of what you state in your resume. For instance, if you say that you are a team player, they may ask you about that. You should have a short story memorized that specifically mentions an experience about how that relates to what you say. Be confident, but not to the point of seeming arrogant. If you are impressed with the company, and want the job, don't hesitate to tell them that. Good luck, and don't forget to zip up your fly!

[TheBigB]

...and if they push for more info, just say, "Look, the charges were dropped because the Judge agreed she LOOKED 18!"

Heh. :) Seriously, dress neatly and conservatively (natch). Practice talking up your good qualities (efficiency, punctuality, etc.)...be friendly but not overbearing. Be honest and don't worry. There's always another possibility somewhere.

[Bloody Sam Roberts]

Do some research. (If you haven't done so already) Find out as much as you can about the company you are interviewing with. Its history, its executives' names, annual revenues, etc. etc.

You may get some questions along these lines and they will be impressed if you've taken the time to find out something about who you are seeking employment from. They may also find it flattering.

[JRandomFreeper]

"I always dreamed that one day I'd get a chance to work the night shift in a datacenter"

Always a dream of mine. No bosses interrupting, no users with emergencies, daylight hours to run errands. Sigh.

/john

[Uncle Fud]

The best advice I can offer is to go into the interview with this frame of mind:

"I'm here to decide whether to accept a position with this employer" NOT "I'm here to see if they'll hire me"

[rface]

Each interview is a learning experience. The jobs I have landed always came my way in an unexpected manner. Sometimes you gotta tell them what they want to hear. My best wishes

Ashland, Missouri

[Redbob]

It's unlikely you'll be doing salary negotiations in a first interview.

Like others have said:
Dress professionally;
Get an "adult's" haircut;
Get there early - arriving late is the kiss of death!
Be prepared to tell them where you see yourself working in 5 years; and if it's someplace else - lie!
And relax - it's only an interview.

Good luck!