Interview SuccessInterview Success

Effective Interview TechniquesEffective Interview Techniques

Program OverviewProgram Overview

What Recruiters Look For Preparing for the Interview Modes of Interviewing Types of Interviews Interview Process Overview Typical Interview Format Sample Questions Second Interviews Making the Right Decision

What Recruiters Look ForWhat Recruiters Look For

Recruiters are looking for demonstrated examples of Critical Behaviors:◦ Leadership

◦ Analytical Skills

◦ Problem Solving Skills

◦ Teamwork

◦ Communication Skills

◦ Creativity

◦ Passion/Interest in Industry

You can draw from RPI, professional, undergraduate & extracurricular activities to showcase your abilities

You need to show how your past successes & experiences will allow you to be successful at their organization

Preparing for the InterviewPreparing for the Interview

• Step 1: The Self-Interview

Know your strengths & weaknessesDetermine your employment interests; what do

you want to do and whyReflect on your values; what’s most important to

youBe prepared to cite several examples of

experiences, accomplishments, successes

Preparing for the InterviewPreparing for the Interview

Step 2: Research

Review employer website/literature Develop targeted questions concerning

employer and job Attend Informational Meetings Be sure you know what the company stands

for, its culture, and why you want to work for them!

Preparing for the InterviewPreparing for the Interview

Step 3: Practice!!

Review common questions Schedule mock interview Prepare list of questions Be alert to body language & eye contact SMILE Speak clearly; listen carefully Match your skills/experiences with jobs

Modes of InterviewingModes of Interviewing

On-campus Interviews Telephone Screening Video Interviews Interviews Over a Meal The Site Visit/Second Interview

Types of InterviewsTypes of Interviews

Self-Analytic Interviews Fact Finding Interviews “What If” Interviews Problem Solving/Case Interviews Critical Behavior Interviews Role Playing Interviews

Interview Process OverviewInterview Process Overview

• Typically consists of 2 – 3 rounds of interviews• Interviews last between 30 – 45 minutes• Mix of general, behavioral, situation/case

questions

Typical Interview FormatTypical Interview Format

Introductions/Ice Breakers Discussion of Positions/Opportunities Candidate Assessment (Sell Yourself!) Pose Questions – Make Them Good! Conclusion/Find Out Next Steps Assess Your Performance Send Thank-You Note Follow-up!

General Interview TipsGeneral Interview Tips

Arrive 10 minutes early Dress professionally – wear a business suit Focus & relax – Be Yourself! Develop a firm handshake Be confident, enthusiastic, truthful Allow interviewer to lead Expect the unexpected!

Post Interview AssessmentPost Interview Assessment

• Was it evident that you have a clear understanding of your self?

• Did you prove that you researched the company and the job?

• Did you show the match between the job, your technical skills and experience?

• What can you do to improve for the next interview?

Post Interview AssessmentPost Interview Assessment

• Did you successfully discuss your education and extracurricular activities?

• Were you composed, honest, confident?• Did you look and act professional?• Were you energetic, enthusiastic and

positive?

Sample QuestionsSample Questions

Tell me about yourself. Walk me through your resume. What are your strengths/weaknesses? Give me an example of a situation that tested

your leadership ability. Tell me about a time that you had to do

something you didn’t enjoy. Describe your greatest accomplishment. How would you define success?

When the Offers Come InWhen the Offers Come In

• Choosing the Right Job• The Art of Salary Negotiation• What About Fringe Benefits• Your Word is Your Honor• Notify Employers/CDC of Your Decision