You only get one chance to make a first impression. We can help you learn how to "give a good interview" by leveraging your future
with a powerful presentation.
Whether you're seeking your first corporate position, looking to "make a move", or even change your career path, The Hamblin Group, Inc. has the expertise to provide you with the skills and confidence needed to gain the leading edge when presenting yourself.
Our coaching empowers you to:
– Write an attention-grabbing resume
– Determine the references that will best serve you in your job search
– Interview with the confidence you need while making that all-important "impression"
– Determine if your career goals are worthy of your skill set
– Leverage your strengths and ask for an offer
General Suggestions
Be Prompt and Know Where You're Going
It may sound cliche but you'd be surprised how often it happens. Ask for directions, reconfirm the date and time of your appointment, plan for traffic, parking and possibly getting lost. Arriving late not only makes a bad impression, it prevents from having a few extra minutes to relax and collect your thoughts.
Dress Professionally
Again, what sounds cliche is so important in making a first impression. Dress to what is appropriate for the job, company and industry culture. Avoid heavy makeup, perfume or cologne.
Writing Your Resume
During the course of meeting with The Hamblin Group, we may find that your current resume is quite appropriate but just needs a more professional appearance. Our experienced writer/typesetter will put your resume and cover letter in a format which will be more enticing to the eye and "reader friendly" to hiring managers.
Introducing Yourself
While your resume explains your skills and experience, the personal introduction you make of yourself is equally if not more important.
Be confident! Start with a firm handshake, a smile and look the interviewer in the eye. Be prepared to answer questions about yourself but remember - Be concise!
Listen attentively, don't interrupt and be sure to answer the question.
Relate Your Own Experience
Find out as much as you can about the position and the company's philosophy. Relate that with specific examples to your own work experience. Focus on results. Share your knowledge of the industry, whether it's personal contacts or a knowledge of the latest news in the field.
Ask Relevant Questions
It's important to remember that while you're the one being interviewed, an interview is also your opportunity to find out if the job or company is right for you, too. Ask relevant questions regarding the company and position, what the responsibilities are, management practices etc. Don't bring up salary information in the first interview unless you are specifically asked. Don't ask about vacation time or personal days etc.
Telephone Interview
A company may wish to meet you for the first time over the telephone. This type of interview is just as important as a personal interview, if not more important, because if it doesn't go well you won't get a chance to meet face-to-face with the company. Try to find a quiet place where you can speak freely and without interruption. Don't interrupt for call waiting! If the interview is coming to a close and the employer has not scheduled a personal meeting, ask politely "What is the next step?" or "Where do we go from here?" Always send a thank you note.
Personal Interview
Be enthusiastic, confident and build your case. Start by briefly introducing yourself and your background, link your abilities with the company's needs, and let them know how interested you are in the position.
Interview Questions
Tell Me About YourselfMake sure your first words impress favorably. Speak slowly, clearly and concisely. Answer the question and don't ramble. Relay your education and work experience honestly.
Why Are You On The Job Market?
Be honest - even if you were fired. Don't say negative things about your former employer.
What Are Your Strengths?
Team player? Enthusiasm? Assertiveness? Decisive? Flexible? Adaptive?
What Are Your Weaknesses?
Overuse of a strength is best, for example, "Some people mistake my decisiveness for impatience. I've learned to watch how I express things."
What Are Your Most Significant Accomplishments?
Be prepared and be specific.
Closing the Interview
Let them know how interested you are in the job. Better to get a job offer that you may choose to decline than no offer at all. Get a commitment on the next step - where do we go from here etc. Let them know that you are happy to provide references at their request. Finally, thank the interviewer for their time in meeting with you. Always send a prompt thank you note and follow-up with your recruiter.