Be a good listener, says Ferrone. Be patient. Let the interviewer do the bulk of the questioning if possible (an 80/20 balance is ideal).
Also, do not attempt to interrupt, correct a comment or show an attitude.
The interview is also the best time to score points -- slip in some comments on the importance of teamwork and work ethics.
Do not initially risk turning off an employer by asking questions that pertain to salary, time off or office hours. There will be ample time to do so later, assuming your interview goes well.
If the question of salary is thrown on your lap and you are uncertain what the job pays, a good response is: "My primary objective is to work for the XYZ Company; while money is important, it is a secondary consideration -- I am sure that I will be treated fairly."
If you were able to research the salary range, you can begin by saying, "I understand the industry is paying $00,000-$00,000 for this type of position. However, my primary objective is to work for the XYZ Corp."
Come to the interview prepared with five or six questions of your own to pitch so that you're sure to end up asking at least one or two since some of them may already be answered by the interviewer.
Ferrone has an additional set of instructions if the interview is held in a restaurant:
"Arrive at the restaurant first. Wait for your host to arrive before being seated. Order simple food that is easy to cut and chew, nothing that is sloppy or requires work, such as shellfish, finger food, steak or pasta. At the completion of the meal, be sure to get follow-up directions. Do not attempt to extend the conversation. Lunch is over.
"But compose a follow-up letter and, ideally, have it received that day or the next morning. A follow-up letter is very important, and it is amazing how many people do not take the time to write.
"It enables you to sell yourself further by demonstrating your professionalism, your understanding of business procedures, your communications skills and your continued enthusiasm for the job. Prospective employers are looking for that spark, the energy indication that you really want this position. The letter should be sent the same day as the interview, or within 24 hours."
"Your follow-up letter to the person who interviewed you," says Ferrone, should include:
- Thank you for your time
- An expression of interest
- Why you are a good fit
- What you can contribute
- Reference to points discussed during the interview
- Restatement of any follow-up agreement
If you later receive that long-awaited job offer, do one last thing: Write an individual thank-you letter to each person you interviewed with. Thank each one for his or her support and confidence and for the opportunity to join them and work together.
This touch could well reinforce their decision to hire you, demonstrate your professionalism -- and, yes, score another plus for you.
Send individual letters because letters are often circulated to other people who are involved in the interview process. The letter that you sent to one person may be terrific, so much so that it is passed on to someone else.
Source: Virginian-Pilot. Powered by Yellowbrix.
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