21st-Century Skills: Interview Skills

Why should you be aware of an interviewer's "hidden agenda"? so you can find ways to address them in your answers so you don't fall into the interviewer's trap with the agenda so you don't offend the interviewer by not knowing the agenda so you arrive at the right time during the hidden agenda

Why should you dress professionally and do some research beforehand? You should dress professionally, but research is not needed. Dressing professionally and doing research help you appear confident and competent. You should research, but dress as usual to help them learn who you really are. If you don't do both of these, you will not even be interviewed.

What is a good response to the question, "What is your biggest weakness?" "I am a perfectionist and find myself disappointed that others aren't as careful in their work." "Weaknesses? Hmmm, gee, I can't think of any. I guess I don't have any weaknesses!" "I find it hard to stay focused sometimes, so I take frequent breaks." "I'd like to work on getting myself better organized. I have been trying out a new system."

What is the most appropriate way to greet your interviewer Mrs. Mary Jones? "Hey, Mrs. Jones. I hope I get this job! I really need the work." "Hi, Mary. I'm happy to be here. Thanks for seeing me." "Hello, Mrs. Jones. Thank you for meeting with me today." "Hello, Miss Jones. Sorry I'm a little late. Traffic was horrible."

What is a good way to prepare for the likely request, "Tell me about yourself"? asking a friend to write a paragraph about you and memorizing that cataloging your successes and finding examples that highlight relevant skills surveying your teachers and using their descriptions to write a speech showing them you can "think on your feet" by not preparing anything

Why is it important to reflect on how the interview went after it's over? so you can figure out if you got the job or not so you know what to say when the interviewer calls so you can improve on what didn't go well and think of a better answer so you will remember what you told them if you get the job

What is not a reason to research and prepare some questions for the interviewer to answer? It's a way to make the interview more like a conversation and can help put you at ease. It shows your interest in the job and that you have done some research. It gives you a chance to find out more about the position and company. It's a way to impress the interviewer with your expansive vocabulary.

Why should you research the company's mission and goals? You can use this information to show how you will be an asset to the company. This information will tell you whether or not the company is profitable. You can find out about the company's status and success rate by reading this information. It isn't necessary to look at this information.

What information can you find in the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH)? the value of every company in the same business the company's mission and goals, along with current salaries the job requirements, work environment, and salary range the listing of CEOs with addresses and phone numbers

Where should you look to find information about the company and position before your interview? in Yellow Pages in the newspaper in the business section on the company website

What is not a good question to ask in your interview? How much time is given for sick leave and vacation? What kind of training will I be given? Are there opportunities for advancement? What is the culture like in the organization?

What is the purpose of your "list of successes"? to boost your confidence to identify your qualities and skills to give to the employer along with the resumé

What is not a good approach to a question about your weaknesses? You should avoid using the word "weakness," but answer honestly. You should exaggerate a little in your answer to impress the interviewer. You should show how you've been working to improve in the area you mention. You should avoid trying to make it a positive: "I tend to work too much."

Which of the following choices describes an appropriate answer to an interviewer's question? Your answers must be as short as possible. Details are not needed. Your answers should be detailed and involved, with several examples Your answers should be complete but brief and to the point. Your answers should include extra information that will impress the interviewer.