STAGES OF THE INTERVIEW

There is usually a logical ordering of events in an interview and knowing the order in which things typically happen can help you feel more confident. This is not to say that things will always happen in this order, but the following is the format of a standard interview.

1.   Breaking the Ice

     Always shake hands and introduce yourself. Relax! Most likely the opening of the interview will include small talk. Be friendly and responsive. Feel free to initiate a discussion of some very general topic of conversation such as weather, travel or comment on an object in the office. The interviewer will likely review your interviewing agenda with you and confirm your interest.

1.    Company Information Sharing

The interviewer will usually begin the conversation with a general description of his or her organization, and the position for which they’re hiring.  Listening carefully is the best strategy here, although questions are very much appropriate.  Make a “mental note” of questions and responses to the information you may have, so that you can respond appropriately during the next phase of the interview.

2.    Questions from the Interviewer

After describing his or her organization, the interviewer will begin asking you questions in earnest.  You will be asked questions about your education and training, your work experience, and the skills that you have attained from work and interests. Remember how you organized your thoughts about your skills, motivations, and personal characteristics, refer to your resume when answering, and always give examples of when you used your best qualities to advantage.

5.  Solicit Questions

     An interview is not an interrogation! It’s a two-way process in which both interviewer and interviewee gather information and form impressions. It’s generally a good idea to wait on your questions until you are invited to ask them, but always have questions to ask! A lack of questions infers that you are not interested enough or alert enough to be inquisitive. Remember what you learned from “researching” the organizations, and don’t ask a question concerning things that you could have learned had you done your homework. Do not ask about salary in the initial interview. If the interviewer brings it up, however, then you are free to discuss it openly. It you are not invited to ask questions, politely ask if you may.

6.  Tying It Together and Closing

     It is during these final few minutes that any loose ends are addressed and any other questions that either the interviewer or interviewee need answered in order to make a decision are asked.

7.   Follow-up

     Here is yet another opportunity to make a good impression. Write a thank you letter right after the interview. So many people forget this step that if you don’t forget you’ll stand out! If you haven’t heard anything, wait at least one week and then call. Inquire as to the progress of the candidate search and ask about your current status as a candidate. If you don’t get the job, ask for some feedback. This is perfectly appropriate. Suggestions from past interviewers can help you strengthen weak areas and polish up for future interviews.