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An Outline of the Interview Process
As an outline, consider the following steps to a successful interview:
1. Interview preparation (do your
homework) Research the employer
a. Review the website, obtain articles, annual reports, etc.
b. Identify potential problems you can solve
c. Formulate key questions/areas to discuss
2. Approach (strategy)
a. The telephone approach
State your credentials (if you are currently employed, state
your position)
• State the reason for your call
• Qualify the employer (are they the decision maker?)
• Cite the benefits gained by hiring you
b. The written approach
• Cite the purpose of your letter (I want the offer!)
• Review the benefits gained by the employer
• Describe your method of contact
(I was referred by . . . )
• Transition to information gathering (ask for an information
interview)
3. Learning the employer needs (long and short-term)
a. Data gathering
• Ask open and closed ended questions
• Listen carefully to employer responses to your questions
• Obtain operational and financial data (for example, organization
(chart)
• Verify hiring criteria (what kind of person are they looking for?)
• Determine future opportunities
• Determine what would prevent you from being hired
• Determine how you would fit in
b.
Assessment stage- Organize the information you have obtained
• Evaluate the information
• Formulate your hiring strategy (if not already hired)
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Section 14 – Preparing For The Interview