Careers - Interview Tips
Sentient HR Services provides Human Resources Services to the Child Care and Education Fields.
Here are some simple steps to follow when preparing for an interview.
Phone interview
- Make use of the interview to determine whether you can be successful in the available position.
- Do know what job you are interviewing for.
- Keep all of your employer research materials within easy reach of the phone.
- Have a notepad handy to take notes.
- Turn off your stereo, TV, and any other potential distraction.
- Smiling always helps you in every situation. Smiling will project a positive image to the listener and will change the tone of your voice.
- Speak slowly and enunciate clearly.
- Take your time, it is perfectly acceptable to take a moment to collect your thoughts.
- Do give accurate and detailed contact information in your cover letter so your interviewers can easily connect with you.
- When being interviewed by phone, do make sure you are in a place where you can read notes, take notes, and concentrate.
- Give short answers.
- Do create a strong finish to your phone interview with thoughtful questions.
Face to face interviews
- Use the person's title (Mr. or Ms. and their last name.) Only use a first name if they ask you to.
- Know your strengths and weaknesses and prepare to explain both.
- Arrive at the interview 5-10 minutes early.
- Follow-up the meeting with a "thank you" notes.
- Confirm about the time, date and location of the interview
- Concentrate on the interview at the interview.
- If you are asked to bring certificates, references etc., get them ready before the day. Your interview letter must be with you.
- Always remember that communication is two-way things so give them a chance.
- Don't interrupt to interviewer when he/she is talking. Give him/her full chance to talk.
- During interviews be enthusiastic. Do not say bad points for the previous employers.
- Always put a positive spin on your answers to difficult questions. If you lack a particular skill or do not know a certain computer program, be sure to emphasize how quickly you learn.