The Trip
Raise your hand if interviewing scares you. Many years ago, I would have had my arm held high. I was terrified of interviews. Granted, I was young and a girl from the hood who wasn't exposed to the muckety mucks in corporate America; even during my college years, but I wouldn't use that as an excuse for my discomfort. Plain and simple??? I was intimidated because I somehow felt that the person sitting across the desk from me held my fate in their hands.
Then something changed. I took a trip to American Museum of Natural History's Rose Center for Earth and Science. I had no idea what an impact a screening of the Hayden Planetarium's Passport to The Universe, would have on my life...forever...
Aside from Tom Hank's narration (LOVE HIM!!), the visual journey was breathtaking; the underlying message being:
"There comes a time in each of our lives when it first dawns on us that we are not the center of the universe . . . that we are part of something larger than ourselves."
As Earth became smaller and smaller in the overhead dome's "virtual universe" presentation, I had an epiphany...that we are all tiny, tiny specs; significant yes as individuals here on this planet, but the same, nonetheless in our relation to the Universe. With this in mind, I no longer felt unworthy of or lesser than the person sitting across the desk from me.
I'm not sure if this exhibit is still open, but if it is, I implore you to go see it. Here's the trailer:
Your Guide
So once one conquers the jitters, there are some finer points you need to know about the interview:Converse, Connect and Convince
The Handshake – First Impressions Mean Business
- Shake - Smooth, not limp or over-enthusiastic. Shake from the elbow, not the wrist or shoulder
- Flow - Establish eye contact
Be Prepared
- Re-examine the job posting
- Review your phone interview notes
- Research interviewer
- Revisit the company website
- Review module “Putting Your Best Face Forward”
- Print copies of your résumé
- Get directions/transportation information
- Pick your clothing
- Write and organize your questions - Think bigger than yourself and the job. Be sure to ask questions about the interviewer
- Plan Your Answers
- Active Listening - Paraphrase the question. Pay attention to non-verbal communication. Ask for clarification if needed
- Soft Selling – Answer the question asked. Stay on point. Be specific and give examples. Confirm you’ve answered their question
- Relax, Be Yourself and Smile!!!!!
Follow-Up
- Send a Thank You note right away - SAME DAY
- Call - At least 5 days after
Words from Your Fellow Travelers
"I'll try to be myself"
"What can a prospective employer legally ask?"
Travel Advisory
Interview Thank You Letter Resources
No comments:
Post a Comment