Interview Tips -- Basic Approach

This quarter, we’re talking about interviewing skills.  We’ve already discussed the importance of researching the firm or organization, understanding the position, dressing for success and the role of body language.  This week, we’re focusing on a strengths-based interview strategy. 

Many interviews begin with either “Tell me about yourself” or “Walk me through your resume.”  The real question, however, is “How are you valuable to me?” 

To answer this question successfully, you must know what your strengths are and be able to relate those strengths to the job description and the firm or organization’s culture or mission. 

·                     Take inventory of your strengths: Are you an excellent researcher?  Are you passionate about fighting for the disenfranchised?  Can you write or argue your way out of a paper bag?  Are you a tireless worker?  Are you comfortable talking to people who are in distress?  Do you have a strong academic record? 

·                     Remember the job description.  What were the skill or trait words used in the job description?  Is the organization looking for someone who is organized?  An excellent writer?  Someone who thrives in a busy office?  Someone who is passionate about their cause?

·                     Keeping the job description in mind, choose three strengths and say, “My strengths include ____________, ______________, and ______________; which of these would you prefer I talk about first?” 

·                     The interviewer will choose or will let you choose.  Give the best example of when you demonstrated that strength.  Your example should be short and clear – no more than 2 minutes.

·                     Ask: “Is that the kind of information you want?  Would you like another example in this skill area or shall I go on to another?”  By asking this question, you will guide the interview so your greatest strengths are clearly communicated.

The Basic Approach to Interviewing:

·         Listen to the question

·         Think through the answers you could give

·         Answer briefly and to the point

·         Use only positive information

General Tips:

·         Be yourself

·         Speak clearly

·         Seek clarification if you don’t understand the question

·         Don’t be afraid to ask for time to think

·         Keep your answers relevant to the question

·         Ask questions!  Leave the interview knowing about training, job locations, when you should expect to hear the outcome of the interview, etc. 

Next week: Behavior-based questions, the STAR method, and how to answer tricky questions