Interview 505

Best way to get an interview

            A job search

            Good recommendation letter …

Reply the advertisement:

            According to the instruction in the ads, with a page of cover letter

Before Interview:

            Do some search on the company.

            Know the company

            Make sure that you are compatible with the company's position.

Prepare your CV

            No types, No mistakes, No fluffs.

Put the important items on the first page. But leave the margin space for (reviewer) notes.

            List Education, Prior employment, Awards.

            Always include reference's contact information (not "Available on request")

            Always include a publication list

Prepare the interview:

            As if for a seminar:

            Make sure the media and there is a projector.

            Prepare you presentation for the projector

            Make sure that you have a backup media.

            Bring one or two hard copy.

            Clean up and dress professionally

            Plan to show up 5-10 minutes early at the reception desk

            Turn your cell phone off.

Your seminar:

            You should be expert on you seminar subject

            Remember your audience

            Keep to the allotted time.

            Be prepare to answer questions and welcome advice

            If you do not know the answer to a question, admit and move on.

            Practice, practice and practice

At the interview:

            Things look for: hand shake, Eye contact, hand motions, knowledge.

            Ability to talk and listen. Willingness to learn, relocation, hobbies.

            Be prepare to discuss salary, benefit.

            Do not say bad thing about yours previous employer

            You may ask lot of questions:

            Make compatible with the position.

            Make compatible with your potential co-workers

            …

Meals:

            Meals is a mean by which the interviewers see how you behavior a social setting

After interview:

            It is fine to send an e-mail or note thanking the interviewer(s) for their time etc,

but do not expect response to the note.

            If you do not hear anything within 1-2 weeks, make a call.

In summary:

            Do not assume.

            Do not take things personally (eg: not sleep well which could happen to everyone)

A final thought

            Preparation is the key factor in a successful interview.