Congratulations on receiving a job interview, NOW is not the time to panic but to prepare. Seems like each day “what to do next” interview questions come in. As a result, the following goes out to Bianca who asked:
“I have an upcoming job interview at the Grand Hyatt hotel, what advice can you share?”
An obvious response on my side of the equation is “why would a potential employer want to interview you?” Think about it for a second, what qualities do you offer which are considered valuable? What knowledge, skills, and/or abilities do you bring to the table?
Career tip: Once these questions are answered honestly, the next step is to expand and strengthen your contributions.
An easy task? Not really but one which must be performed. Here are a few steps I suggest you take prior to the interview:
- Review your resume and cover letter, making sure you can respond to any questions in a confident and quantifiable manner. For instance, if you trained peers, be ready to detail the number of peers, your direct involvement, and the outcome.
- Research the job position, description, and company. A typical question asked is “what do you like about our company” or “what interests you most about the position.” A huge turn-off is when the applicant is unable to respond adequately or states he or she did not have time to research… a big time no-no. http://www.onetonline.org is a good job position description source.
- Dress professionally… there is no compromise when it comes to how you look. Remember you will be representing the organization.
- Be kind and courteous to all you come into contact with, including and especially the receptionist. Professionalism goes a long way!
- Ask pertinent questions when given the opportunity; this is where research comes into play.
- After the interview, send an electronic thank you note AND a hand written thank you note. This display of professionalism is often neglected.
Though the above points are not all-inclusive, this is a great foundation no matter the level of experience you happen to be at.
Oh yes, one more before this concludes: BE and BELIEVE IN YOURSELF…
I hope this helps and you secure a successful interview. Let us know how it goes…
Education Career Services, pens and publishes career development textbooks and single target booklets. Our “Interviewing Like a Star”
single topic guidebook offers hard hitting questions, truths,
activities, samples, and proven strategies to improve your career
station. If interested in this or any career collateral, go to our
products page on our website (www.edu-cs.com), or go to Amazon (simply search Danny at ECS).
For additional information or assistance, don’t hesitate to
reach out and send your request through the comment section or email me
directly at dhuffman@edu-cs.com).
Danny Hufman, MA, CEIP, CPRW, CPCC
www.educationcareerservices.com
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