Transcript Interviewing Techniques - California Baptist University

Interviewing Techniques
Career Services, CBU
Special Topics: Career Planning
Definition of an Interview
“A formal gathering or
meeting . . .
To converse with,
exchanging questions
and answers . . .”
(Websters)
E-X-C-H-A-N-G-E
 E = EXAMINE WHO YOU ARE
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Self Assessment
Know your “Transferable Skills”
What are your values and
perspective on life?
What type of environment
makes you flourish?
Go on a “Treasure Hunt” of who
you are!
Don’t be a mystery to yourself!
X= “X” MARKS THE SPOT!
 Have a ready response but not a
rehearsed response!
 Hiring managers are seeking:
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Authenticity
Critical Thinking Skills
Communication Skills
 Project your adaptability to “fit” in their
work culture
C = COME PREPARED TO
ANSWER 3 DIFFERENT TYPES
OF INTERVIEWS
 Behavioral – Basic premise is that past
behavior is a good forecaster for future
behavior
 Peer – Group interviews are becoming
more common also – it’s about the “fit”
 Aptitude – Hypothetical or actual, e.g., a
writing sample, a marketing plan, or
solving a computer programming “crisis”
H = HONE YOUR
ENGLISH SKILLS
 Use informal but proper English
 Respond in complete sentences
 Don’t try to impress by using highly
technical terms unless it relates to the
position pursued
 Practice articulating your responses
A = ALWAYS RESEARCH THE
COMPANY’S WEB SITE
 Learn about company’s profile
 Type of business
 Company Culture – formal or casual
 Locations – local or national
 Potential for growth
 Vision – long and short-term
 Mission Statement
N = NEVER FORGET ABOUT
THE “NON-VERBAL” INTERVIEW
 First impressions are
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“Miss Braywood, call 911 . . . Tell them we’ve
got another case of interview burnout on our
hands.”
- Tom Cheney
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very important
Conservative, wellgroomed look is best
Be on time
Never, never chew gum
Don’t touch your face
Don’t’ tap your pen
G = GO WITH YOUR
QUESTIONS FOR THE
INTERVIEWER
 Have 3 to 5 questions prepared
 Use a 3x5 card – alleviate stress
 Never ask about salary, vacations, tuition
reimbursement or holiday with pay
 Remember, this is an exchange
E = ENTHUSIASM IS
INFECTIOUS!
 Sell yourself!
 Always have a ready
smile and a willing hand
 Prepare a closing
statement, summarizing
your strengths and your
desire to be a part of this
team
THANK YOU NOTES
 Regardless of the outcome, SMILE!
 Fewer than ½ of those interviewed send
thank you notes
 Refer to the sample given in handout
materials
 Write a thank you note to every
interviewer within 24-48 hours
REMEMBER . . .
E-X-C-H-A-N-G-E
 Interviewing
techniques are
developed skills
 Choose to make it a
time of sharing
dreams and goals
 Seize this adventure,
and you will never be
the same!