Past Issues of Interview Fitness Training, the newsletter
Brought to you by: Carole Martin, The Interview Coach
Email: carole@interviewcoach.com
Only for those who are serious about Acing the Interview
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March Issue, 2003 |
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We value your privacy, and will never share your information. |
You are receiving this message because of the interest you have shown in the past about improving your interview skills. At some point I have received a request, a question, or an inquiry about my services or mailing list from you.
If you would like to continue to receive this type of information, do nothing. If you would like to have your name removed from this list, please see the instructions at the bottom of this email. Thank you.
THE COACH'S INTERVIEWING ADVICE
The Don't Categories
I recently interviewed several "interviewers" to get their opinion on mistakes people make while interviewing. Several of the interviewers had a lot to say about things that "drive them nuts."
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Don't be late if you are really interested in working here. |
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Don't look at your watch eighteen times like you have somewhere else to be. |
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Don't shake hands like a "wet fish." |
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Don't answer your cell phone during an interview. |
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Don't apply for full-time positions when you are only interested in part-time. |
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Don't ask what time the lunch break is. |
COACH'S ARTICLESRead the latest article that I wrote for Monster 10 Fashion Blunders To prepare for this article, I interviewed Anna Soo Wildermuth, an image consultant and incoming President of the Association of Image Consultants International, she said, "Clothes should be a part of who you are and should not be noticed. " |
A big congratulations to "Dr." Julie.
I worked with Julie after her graduation from medical school and before her residency interviews. She emailed me telling me she has been accepted by her first choice. Here's what she had to say:
"Working with you made a rapid improvement in my interview skills overall. Also, you helped me with responses to frequently asked questions but most of all I gained confidence through practice."
Dr. Julie (I like the sound of that)
Check out my latest article on Monster.com
Many of you have requested more information about what to ask the Interviewer when it is your turn. I came across a really helpful book this month and am referring it to you:
"201 Best Questions to Ask on Your Interview" - by John Kador -
In addition to some really savvy advice, this book quotes the most memorably good and memorably bad questions heard by interviewers.
Sample of a memorably good question: "Do you have any questions or concerns about my ability to perform this job?"
Sample of a memorably bad question: "What is your policy on long-term disability?"
Q. Dear Interview Coach
In the last 10 years, I have been downsized, position eliminated (twice), had the company move (to a place where I did not want to live) and made a mistake about going to work for the company. It makes me look like a job hopper, but I'm not. I'm looking for stability, but no one sees past all the job changes. Search Executives have suggested that I put the "Reason for Leaving" on my resume, which I have done, but to no avail. What do you suggest to get me hired somewhere again? It's been 14 mos. and no one wants me. - Feeling like a Victim
A. Dear Victim
In today's unusual job market your situation is not unique. Downsizing and layoffs are making it the norm to have many jobs in a short span of time.
There could be various problems with your situation, but let me start with the basics. If you are not getting interviews, you should look at your resume - it may need to be redone - you may not be marketing yourself well. If you are getting interviews and not offers, you need to look at your interviewing techniques - you may be appearing desperate instead of in-charge.
Companies are looking for people to solve their problems. The problems have to do with getting the work done. For some reason (someone left, was promoted, or this is a new position) they have a gap in their system. It is up to you to show that you could fill the gap and perhaps even bring something more to the company if you were hired. In other words, you are the solution to their problem and can bring "added value."
Interviewing with a "consultant mind-set" often helps. Take the time to analyze what the company is seeking. Not just what is written in the ad or job description, but what it would take to get the job done - and done well!
In an interview situation listen for clues given through the questions asked and comments made. Let the interviewer know through your responses and the questions you ask that you have an understanding of this job, and have what it takes to solve the problems from your past experiences.
Best
wishes.
Carole Martin - The Interview Coach
Send me your stories - what is the strangest interview question you've ever had? I will print them in future newsletters. mailto:carole@interviewcoach.com
Most
difficult question asked --
"If you could interview any
famous person - who would you choose?" This is a tough one because you would
not want to name anyone who might be considered controversial or extreme. Who
would you choose? Got any ideas how to answer this one?"
THE COACHING PROCESS?
Prepares you to confidently face any questions asked during the interview.
Helps you feel more confident and prepared, and able to deal with those difficult questions you dread so much.
Teaches you to sell yourself more effectively - make the most of each interview opportunity.
THE COACHING STEPS
- The first step in this process is to talk with me - 10 minutes - no charge - to assess your situation and my services.
- When we agree that I can offer you what you need, you will send me your resume, and a job posting that is of interest to you. I will analyze the job posting from the interviewer's point of view. We think "strategy" together. (What will it take to get this job done? If you were the recruiter, what would you be looking for?)
- We work together to come up with answers to your most dreaded questions; strategize a salary negotiation; deal with sticky situations - bad references, been fired or laid off. I help you script and practice so that you can handle these situations with confidence.
PREPARATION
= CONFIDENCE = SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEWS =
JOB OFFERS
An investment in your future
Carole Martin
The Interview Coach
http://www.interviewcoach.com
1-877-647-5627
How much is it costing you to blow the interview?
Carole Martin - MONSTER.com's interview expert - has a workbook full of exercises and tips.
"INTERVIEW FITNESS TRAINING"
http://www.interviewcoach.com/workbook.html
Preparation + Practice = Successful Interviews = Job Offers!
