Module 7: Interview Techniques

Objectives for this Class:

learn about the parts of an interview and how to follow-up after an interview
build confidence in answering interview questions
learn tips on how to dress appropriately for a job interview

What are the main stages of a job interview?

Stage 1: Introduction It is essential that you start strong, offering a firm handshake, standing confidently, and making good eye contact.

Stage 2: Q&A The longest portion of the interview, this is when the employer asks you questions and listens to your responses.

Stage 3: Your Questions This is your chance to demonstrate your knowledge of the organization by asking thoughtful questions. Always come prepared!

Stage 4: Closing Reiterate your interest in the position and gather business cards from everyone present. Be sure to thank them for the invitation to interview and offer a firm handshake while making good eye contact.

Stage 5: Follow-Up A thank-you letter is probably the most overlooked tool used by job seekers! Be sure to send one within 24 hours of your interview. This gives you an opportunity to thank the interviewer for his/her time, restate your interest in the position, and include any information about yourself that you may not have mentioned during the interview.

Preparing for an Interview

So, you got that interview you've been working so hard for. Congratulations! Now what? Below is a list of tips for preparing to interview:

Understand why you're the right fit for the company. Do your hard/soft skills and experience match the job? Can you identify specific skills or traits that only you can bring to the employer? Why should they hire you over the next person?
Research the company. Look up the company website, talk with friends and family, and review the job description to better understand what the company is looking for in a candidate.
Wear appropriate interview attire. As more and more job interviews are happening on-line, it may seem less important to dress professionally, but you are still making a first impression. Dress like you would if you were going to an in-person interview.
Anticipate questions from the Interviewer and practice ahead of time. If you are applying for a Retail job, you will likely be asked to describe your customer service approach or experience. If you are applying for a front desk job at a hospital, you may be asked how you respond when someone you are helping is under a lot of stress. Find some typical interview questions and answers here
Prepare your own questions to ask. Click here for some examples. Always avoid asking about wages and benefits in the interview. Those questions can be asked when you are offered the job.

Assignment #1: Pretend you have an on-line interview for a grocery store clerk position at Safeway. Look to the interview preparation tips above and think about what questions might come up and how you'd answer them. What are some questions you have for the interviewer about the company and/or the position?

Being prepared for an interview when English is not your first language

How to use the STAR Interview Response Technique

www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/how-to-use-the-star-interview-response-technique

The STAR method is a procedure taught to help people tell stories with a beginning, middle, and end. STAR stands for

Situation

Task

Action

Result

Assignment #2 Think of a past work experience and apply the STAR method. Take time to reflect, write down important details, and think about how a discussion with a future employer might develop.

Assignment #3 If you had a job interview tomorrow, could you put together an appropriate interview outfit? If not, you can reach out to a case manager for help with interview clothing.

What to Include in an Interview Follow-Up LetterWhat to include in an interview follow-up email including the six components of an effective follow up message, how to ask for the job, plus examples.

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