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It's
possibly the most significant 30 to 60 minutes you'll spend in
determining your first job.
Yet
despite the importance of interviews, most
people
don't spend much time preparing for them. Interviewees
may be so nervous that any thoughts of preparation are blocked.
In other
cases, they
think they speak well and "whatever happens, happens."
Both attitudes lead to poor results.
Just
as in learning any skill—from making a speech to serving
a tennis ball—successful interviewing requires learning
what to do and then practicing.
The
secrets to a great interview?
Preparation!
Preparation! Preparation!
Practice! Practice! Practice!
Interviewing
Tips
- Be
sure you know the exact names of contacts, the organization, related
departments and the job title for which you're applying. These
names may come up during the interview and knowing them makes
you appear prepared and confident.
- Arrive
15 to 20 minutes early for interviews. Too many bad things can
happen if you are in a rush or late, while good things are possible
if you are early. For example, you may have more time to meet
with the interviewer, meet other employees, hear or read important
information which you can incorporate in your interview or receive
an office tour.
- Maintain
effective eye contact with the interviewer especially when making
key points.
- Personal
appearance and appropriate clothing are important in all interviews
but especially with major corporations, financial institutions
and CPA firms who are concerned about the image they project to
their clients. Dress conservatively by wearing a dark suit, minimal
jewelry, conservative shoes and coordinated accessories. Hairstyles
should also reflect a professional status, and cosmetics should
be natural.
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