Career EDGE Comprehensive Edition

Mastering the Interview: Step 1

Every interview is a buyer/seller relationship. You have a service to sell,

which is your value to the employer, and like a good salesperson, you

need to know how to use techniques to help you make the sale. Let’s

examine what a top-notch salesperson does.

Step 1: Establish Rapport

“Rapport is a “connection” between you and another individual.

Establishing that connection creates a comfortable, friendly

atmosphere. This is a crucial first step, and will contribute to the first

impression that you make. You will always want to maintain your most

professional demeanor. Attempting to go directly to selling yourself,

without addressing the issue of rapport, will result in a colder meeting,

and probably a shorter one. Remember, employers hire people they

like.

What are some ways to establish rapport?

_____________________________________________________________________

Section 14 – Preparing For The Interview

320