Article
Know Your Strengths When Interviewing

As a past Director or Human Resources and Hiring Manager, I had the opportunity to interview several candidates for various jobs at a computer consulting organization. The following are a couple of major points that will help you when you are interviewing for a job. First you should take a real honest assessment of yourself to know your strengths. In other words, how would you answer the question: “Describe yourself in three adjectives or characteristics and explain why you chose those particular words”. I have often asked this question during the interview process. The answers given are a great clue to the insight of the individual. They usually help describe the person the candidate perceives himself to be or strives to become. There really are no wrong answers but it’s important for you as an interviewer to really know yourself well. If you are prepared and know your strengths then it will be reflected in how you answer the questions being asked.

Also do your homework before the interview. Research the company and understand its line of business. You will want to be prepared and actually think of potential questions the hiring manager may ask you. Using the web and your network of friends is a good source to research information about the company.

When meeting the hiring manager for the first time, try to observe the work atmosphere at the company. Is it a busy company where people are moving around a lot and loud or is it a more quiet company where everyone looks very focused in their work environment. You will want to match your energy level with the person you are talking to. If that person is a soft spoken person, make sure you are not too loud and over zealous in your discussions. You want to sound positive and try to answer all the questions they ask.

Dress for success is an old cliché, but it is important to look sharp. It’s a part of the first impression. It’s better to be conservative and not dress to make a fashion statement. You can always call and ask what the appropriate dress code is for the company before arriving to the meeting.

Make sure you have a strong handshake to show confidence. It’s important to look the person in the eye and make direct eye contact while chatting. This is common sense but sometimes we forget the basics if we are nervous about the interview.

Remember to smile – people want to hire people that are enjoyable to be around and are happy about life.

DID YOU R.S.V.P.?

KNOW YOUR STRENGTHS WHEN ON AN
INTERVIEW

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