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• 1. Self Assessment
• 2. Research
• 3. Decision-Making
• 4. Networks & Contacts
  • 4.1 Work Search
    • 4.1.1 Traditional Methods of Finding Openings
    • 4.1.2 Internet Sites Listing Job Advertisements
    • 4.1.3 Creative Methods for Finding Work
    • 4.1.4 Researching Employers
    • 4.1.5 Networking, Developing Leads and Making Contacts
    • 4.1.6 Networking Contacts
    • 4.1.7 Networking Diagrams
    • 4.1.8 Create a Job Seeker's Calling Card
  • 4.2 Resumes
    • 4.2.1 Preparing to Write Your Resume
    • 4.2.2 Major Sections of a Resume
    • 4.2.3 Types of Resumes
    • 4.2.4 Functional Resume
    • 4.2.5 Additional Resume Tips
    • 4.2.6 Action Verbs that Describe Skills
    • 4.2.7 Preparing an Electronic Version of Your Resume
    • 4.2.8 Resume Templates
    • 4.2.9 Resources on Resume Writing
  • 4.3 Letters
    • 4.3.1 Cover and Broadcast Letters
    • 4.3.2 Comparison of Cover and Broadcast Letters
    • 4.3.3 A Process to Develop Letters
    • 4.3.4 Creating Thank You Letters
    • 4.3.5 Sample Letter Format
    • 4.3.6 Resources on Letter Writing
  • 4.4 Interviews
    • 4.4.1 The Core of the Interview Process
    • 4.4.2 Selling Your Benefits
    • 4.4.3 Understanding Verbal & Non-Verbal Communication
    • 4.4.4 Approaches to Interviewing
    • 4.4.5 The Employer's Evaluation
    • 4.4.6 Tips for Effective Interviewing
    • 4.4.7 Your Rights in the Interview
    • 4.4.8 Resources on Interviewing
• 5. Work
• 6. Life/Work Planning

Step 4.4.4: Approaches to Interviewing

One-to-One

The most common interview format is one interviewer interviewing one candidate. This is sometimes the first of several interviews. Second and third interviews will usually have a number of interviewers.

Team / Board Interview With Two or More People

While it is important to have good eye contact with the person who asks you the question, also look at the other persons present periodically in order to include them in your answer. Try to remember each individual’s name and use his or her name at some point during the interview.

General (Group) Interview

This approach is intended to provide applicants with a large amount of information about the organization and the role. The format is used in order to save time and ensure everyone understands the basic facts. This process is usually followed by an individual interview.

Competitive Group Interview

Many candidates are interviewed at the same time, by one or more interviewers. This type of interview is sometimes utilized when a position being applied for involves team work and the interviewers want to see how you interact in a group setting; when the company wants to see who rises as a leader within the group; or when they have large numbers of people interviewing for several similar roles within the company. It is important to thoughtfully and intelligently contribute, but not monopolize the conversation.

Structured Interview

The goal of this approach is to eliminate bias and assist the employer in making an objective decision. All candidates are asked the same questions for the employer's ease in evaluating applicants. If there is important information that you have not conveyed by the end of the interview, when asked if you have any questions or anything to add, present your additional qualifications. Usually the interviewer will make written notes of your answers.

Semi-structured Interview

In a semi-structured interview you have a better opportunity to convey information, as there are fewer pre-determined questions. However, you need to be well prepared and know the points you want to make. You will also be expected to participate in ‘carrying’ the conversation.

Telephone Interview

Due to the high cost of paying travel expenses for candidates to the employer's location, some first interviews are being conducted by telephone. If the call surprises you and you are not ready for an interview, ask the person to call back in 15 minutes, or arrange another time, which will be mutually convenient. You need time to refresh your memory on the organization and what points you want to make. All advice about interview skills still applies. You just do not have to dress for the occasion. However, you may find that dressing up helps you perform better. Keep your resume and your list of questions to ask in front of you. Have a pen and paper available to note any comments or questions you may have during the interview. It is important to pay attention to the voice tone and tempo. Be sure to change your tone and tempo to demonstrate your interest.

Smiling on the Phone -

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Maintaining a Professional Image -

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Video Conferencing

Computer technology through on-line interview rooms allows companies to pre-screen more candidates from farther a-field than has been possible through visits to colleges and universities in the past. The company can then better select applicants to invite to the company for personal interviews. Recruiters conduct live, face-to-face interviews with job applicants via cameras and speakers. Use the same strategies you would if you were meeting in person. Clothing, body language, and dialogue do not differ. Your agenda is to be offered an invitation to meet personally for a second interview at the company.

Second Interview

With the exception of short-term positions (e.g., co-op, seasonal), a candidate being seriously considered by a prospective employer will be invited to visit the organization at one of its locations. One purpose is to provide you with an opportunity to meet other staff. The second is to give more people an opportunity to interview you at greater depth to determine whether a good match is developing. The visit can take from one hour to an entire day. When an organization offers to pay your expenses to travel to the interview, be prudent in submitting costs. Your choice of moderate rather than luxurious accommodation, food, transportation, etc. will reflect your good judgment.

Ending The Interview

When it appears that the interviewer is about to end the interview, there are certain points you should make sure you have covered before you leave the room:

1. Make sure you understand the hiring process. Be aware of the interview process yet to come before a candidate is selected for the job (e.g., another interview in same/other location, meetings with other individuals in organization, etc.).

2. Ask the interviewer when you can expect to hear about a decision or ask when you should make an inquiry as a follow-up.

3. Express your interest in the position and thank the interviewer for interviewing you.

4. Ask for a business card or ensure that you have the interviewer's name, title, and address so that you can send a thank-you letter. Make sure your letter arrives within 24 hours of the interview.

To continue with Step 4.4.5, click here.