Kaitlyn-
The interview is usually thought of as the most stressful part of getting a job, and rightly so. With a resume, they look at it and ask "Is she qualified?" With an interview, they say "Do we WANT her?'. Its live, in-person, and requires on-the-spot thinking. However, there are plenty of ways to make sure you are prepared, one of them being the website PerectInterview.com.
So how did your simulated interviews go? Did you like the suggestions they provided? Since you can't really interact too much with a computer, be sure to let us know if there's anything you want a second opinion about.
Now that we've all done some practicing, the best thing you can do when it comes time to interview is relax. Their intent is to get a glimpse of your viewpoint, which you undoubtedly have, so show it!
Ryan -
I totally agree with Kaitlyn on this one. The interview is the most important and stressful part about getting a job. When you are getting ready for an interview you should have all of your information and papers ready to hand in to your employer or interviewer. Its important to provide them with a resume of your past accomplishments. Make sure you look them in the eye at all times and answer the questions as best as you can without looking nervous.
They gave some great suggestions on interviewing skills. I realized I haven't had an interview in over 3 years because I've stayed with the same companies. However, my job allows me to audition for certain roles. An interview is a lot like an audition, practically the same thing. A resume and headshots are required, your previous experience, and then you sell yourself with your talents through a monologue or short performance. It's just as nerve wrecking. I think it has been helpful to have a little bit of interview practice through this course.
ReplyDeleteI definitely think eye contact is important also. The good thing about going to the interview is that the person interviewing you knows that you're nervous! So I just think to myself that the person interviewing me was once in my position. I think once the first couple minutes have gone by I feel much more comfortable.
ReplyDeletePlease find the following my Interviews from "Perfect Interview":
ReplyDeleteInterview Short 1:
http://www.perfectinterview.com/online/review_gateway.asp?id=3021298&type=standard
Interview Short 2:
http://www.perfectinterview.com/online/review_gateway.asp?id=3021299&type=standard
I didn't expect much at first from doing this exercise, however, I actually learned a lot. For trying to do a interview via computer system It was great practice for a real interview situation. My responses were not as specific as those in the alternate response however, my previous job wasn't a "office" job.
I did gain great pointers of "action verbs" and ways to express myself with examples. It would have been cool if the program would "correct" my responses with the questions asked.
Great exercise. It was very helpful in order to gain practice for a interview.
Also I would have to add a side note from my personal interview experiences. Most definitely make sure you have a positive attitude with a strong handshake and eye contact when introducing yourself. My mom has always told me this from day 1 and it is true people will judge you by your handshake.
ReplyDeleteKelly,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you on how the interviewer is aware of your nerves. They have been in the hot seat before and are very familiar of how you feel.
Nicole,
ReplyDeleteI too liked the exercise and thought the action verbs were helpful! Yes corrections would've been nice.. The questions they used are ones that I'm sure we've all heard in an interview.
Link:
http://www.perfectinterview.com/online/review_gateway.asp?id=3021307&type=standard
Link 2:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.perfectinterview.com/online/review_gateway.asp?id=3021312&type=standard
This website is a great way to practice for the real interview at an upcoming job. I have actually only had to go through one interview in my life so far and that really wasn't even a good interview because it was for a bouncer position and all they asked was if I had any other experience. This was great in telling me the many things that I needed to work on to improve my interviewing skills. Obviously its not going to be as accurate and as specific as the real interview but this site is a good way to practice for the real thing.
ReplyDeleteI would also have to agree with Kaitlyn, and say that when taking an interview it is very important to stay calm and collected. Even if your information is not as impressive as the next business managers like a strong person to represent the corporation. Another strong point is always look the interviewer in the eyes and have good posture. It leaves a great impression on the interviewer.
ReplyDelete