- SHOW & TELL
2. GATHER INFORMATION Bring a portfolio of your work to the interview… not sure this really applies to you? Think of including:
- 5-7 copies of your resume on resume paper. [Panel interviews are to be expected].
- A list of successful projects/high profile accounts you manage/programs you direct.
- A list of references 5 - 7 names with basic contact information.
- A list of accomplishments in example form of initiatives you suggested/new processes or ideas you spearheaded/problems you solved.
3. ASK QUESTIONS Often we perceive that interviewing is a one-way street. Not so...sometimes we are so anxious about getting the job that we don’t take time to ask questions about the job. Make a list of open-ended questions such as “What are some of the first projects you would like me tackle during my first 30 days?” and take them to the interview with you along with a notepad and pen.
4. DO YOUR HOMEWORK Back to school - not quite - but you still need to brush up on the basics. Company basics that is. Research the company that you applying to. Know what their vision and mission statements, press releases, news statements, financials, employee reviews, and company history are about. Understand their products, consumers, clients, philosophy, or ‘motto’. Get a leg up on your competition by being able to speak specifics about their organization - it just may become your organization.
5. DRESS SHARP Enough said! Sharp as in business sharp. That could mean a suit or dress pants/skirt and a shirt with a blazer. Know their company culture and then dress 1-2 notches above. It is still an interview.
6. THANK YOU LETTER Too formal or nice touch? The right touch of professionalism to land clients the job. I’ve had clients hired because they sent a Thank You note after the interview and the first selection fell through.
7. BE PREPARED FOR THE NEXT LAYER OF INTERVIEWING Interviewing can often be a multi-layer process starting with a call from HR and ending three interviews later. It not uncommon to have a telephonic interview, followed by a one-on-one manager interview, followed by a panel interview just to get to a job offer. So hold onto those notes and keep your phone close.
For more career tips visit me on facebook at: www.facebook.com/APlatinumResume/
or connect at: www.linkedin.com/in/karavarner
Kara Varner, MAOM, CPRW
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