Interviewing Essentials Part 1

Summary

Dr. Erin Charlens hosts 'Interviewing Essentials,' guiding viewers through the interview process. She emphasizes the two-way street of interviews, where both parties assess fit. Key points include preparing by gathering interview details, researching the organization and position, reflecting on relevant skills, and predicting potential questions. Dr. Charlens advises practicing responses, planning appearance, and confirming logistics to ensure interview success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Interviews are a two-way street, allowing both the employer and the candidate to assess each other for fit.
• 📊 Preparation is key to interview success, including gathering information, researching the organization and position, and reflecting on personal skills and experiences.
• 🔍 Researching the company involves understanding its values, history, competitors, leadership, and social media presence.
• 📝 Reviewing the job description carefully can help anticipate potential interview questions and align personal experiences with job requirements.
• 💡 Reflecting on one's skills and experiences helps in mapping them to the job description and preparing for questions related to teamwork, communication, conflict, and multitasking.
• 👔 Planning your appearance and doing a dry run can prevent last-minute wardrobe issues and ensure you feel confident on the day of the interview.
• 🗣️ Practicing interview responses out loud, ideally in front of a mirror or with a critical friend, helps refine answers and identify areas for improvement.
• ⏰ Confirming logistics such as travel details, arrival time, and parking arrangements can reduce stress and ensure punctuality.
• 📂 Bringing multiple copies of your resume, a notebook, pens, and other necessary materials shows preparedness and professionalism.
• 🍬 Preparing for the interview day by bringing snacks, water, and ensuring you have any required payment methods for parking can help maintain comfort and energy levels.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of an interview according to Dr. Erin Charlens?

The primary purpose of an interview is to assess a candidate's skills and qualifications, motivation, and fit for the job and the organization, while also allowing the candidate to determine if the job and organization are a good fit for them.

How does Dr. Erin Charlens describe the interview process?

Dr. Erin Charlens describes the interview process as a two-way street, involving three phases: the invitation, the meeting itself, and any necessary follow-up.

What is the significance of interview preparation according to the workshop?

Interview preparation is crucial and is where success is found. It involves gathering information about the interview, researching the organization and position, reflecting on one's skills and experiences, and predicting potential interview questions.

Why is it important to research the organization and position before an interview?

Researching the organization and position is important to understand the company's values, history, competitors, leadership, and to familiarize oneself with the industry's language and job duties, which can help in anticipating interview questions.

What does 'mapping' refer to in the context of interview preparation?

Mapping refers to the process of identifying and connecting specific skills and experiences from one's background that align with the key areas mentioned in the job description, such as teamwork, communication, conflict resolution, and ability to work under pressure.

How can a candidate predict potential interview questions based on their research?

A candidate can predict potential interview questions by reviewing the job description, noting the key areas and duties, and turning those bullet points into possible questions. Additionally, common categories like teamwork, communication, conflict, multitasking, and working under pressure are often addressed.

What is the significance of planning responses to potential concerns or reservations an employer might have?

Planning responses to potential concerns or reservations helps a candidate to be prepared to address any mismatches between their skills and the job requirements, gaps in employment, or other issues that might arise during the interview.

Why is it recommended to think of five things you want the employer to know about you before an interview?

Thinking of five things you want the employer to know helps to focus the interview preparation and ensures that the candidate can effectively communicate their key strengths, achievements, and relevant experiences that align with the job requirements.

What does Dr. Erin Charlens suggest for practicing interview responses?

Dr. Erin Charlens suggests practicing responses through mock interviews with critical and honest feedback, practicing in front of a mirror, recording oneself to observe mannerisms, and practicing out loud to ensure clarity and confidence in delivery.

Why is it important to confirm logistics and prepare materials before the interview day?

Confirming logistics and preparing materials before the interview day helps to reduce stress and ensure a smooth process. This includes reviewing travel details, planning arrival time, and bringing necessary items such as multiple copies of the resume, a notebook, pens, and any personal items like mints or snacks.