Interview Help

[T. Lynn]

Next week I have an interview scheduled. I've already had a telephone interview with them yesterday. It's been a couple of years since my last one. Actually, I was hired within 5 minutes because I was referred by a coworker and they take referrals serious; therefore, it wasn't too much of an interview. The interview before that was in 1995.

I'm getting nervous because I really need a job soon. The job description is everything I'm interested in. It's 4 hours a day while my DD would be in school. I could have the best of both worlds...my career that I love & time to spend with my DD. During the summer, my mom could watch her (saving me sitter fees too) because she lives next door. If there is bad weather, I could stay with my parents so I don't miss work. There are just so many factors that are good about this job and I want to do well in the interview. I'm starting to get stressed because I want it so bad. Then again, if it wasn't meant to be, hopefully something else will come along but I'm sure it will be a disappointment.

If you are someone who conducts interviews, can you tell me some things you look for? It would be for an office/admin position.

Any helpful tips or advice would be greatly apprecited...

 

[Christine]

I have conducted a few, and some of the best interviews are when the interviewee (that would be you) can relax and hold a confident conversation. I do my best to put people at ease so I can get to that point with them.

Eye contact--make sure that you keep good eye contact with the interviewer. Really LOOK at them when you answer a question. Every interviewer I've known comments on this.

If you don't know the answer to something or how to do it, admit it. Don't try to BS anyone, they can usually see right through it.

Whenever you are asked why you want the job, never make it about personal reasons, even if that is the truth. Let the interviewer know that their position is something you want because you are ready to take on a new challenge, move "up" to the next level and take on more responsibility, and excel in areas where you feel you have been limited. Always make it look like their job is offering you great professional expansion. Don't say anything about how their benefits are better. No kidding but I had an applicant state that she wanted to work at my place because the leave benefits were great and her father had always wanted her to work there.

Just be confident (not cocky) even if you are jello inside.

Good luck!

 

[T. Lynn]

Guess I should have posted this thread before my telephone interview.

In the telephone interview they asked me about myself and why I wanted the job. I mentioned as I did above how I was looking for a pt job that will give me best of both worlds. I already made the mistake in giving some personal reasons. I was so upset at myself because I felt I could have done so much better. I didn't want to do that again so that's why I'm asking for help.

I'm not a person who likes to call off work and I thought that letting them know about family living next door would help. As in if weather is bad, I could stay there so not miss work or if babysitter had day off or DD was sick, my mom would be right there so I could be at work.

Guess maybe I'll leave that out now? I just thought it would help so it showed I wanted to be dedicated...

 

[Christine]

I'm not a person who likes to call off work and I thought that letting them know about family living next door would help. As in if weather is bad, I could stay there so not miss work or if babysitter had day off or DD was sick, my mom would be right there so I could be at work.

Guess maybe I'll leave that out now? I just thought it would help so it showed I wanted to be dedicated...

I don't think there is anything wrong with saying that but just make sure that there is a natural progression to that conversation. For instance, don't just jump into that but if they ask you about your situation and any challenges you might face getting yourself to work, it would be an excellent time to bring that up.

Of course, you can take some of my advice with a grain of salt. I think that interviewing for a part-time position is far different than the people that come into the interviews I have. These are salaried employees making close to six figures, so naturally, people don't want to hear how the job works out better for your kids. Part-time work is very different and employers know that busy parents are often looking for that for that specific reason. So I don't think you did anything wrong. Just try to put more emphasis on why you are excited about the position (even if you really only want it for selfish reasons!).

 

[Jewel1310]

You received excellent advice. I would say not to stress too much over the personal reason. This particular job is part time. When I hire for part time I expect there to be a reason why they want part time and not full time.

Learn about the company/office business. Ask some questions. It shows interest to the interviewer.

The obvious. Dress professionally. Be prompt. If you bring anything (resume or references) make sure they are in good condition with no spelling errors. I am a lousy speller but still notice the errors in others documents.

You will be nervous, but try to enjoy the experience. It will show in your face and enthusiasm.

Send a thank you note. While not the end all be all, when I had two equal candidates a thank you note has helped to sway the decision.

Good luck - can't wait to hear how it goes.

 

[T. Lynn]

I don't think there is anything wrong with saying that but just make sure that there is a natural progression to that conversation. For instance, don't just jump into that but if they ask you about your situation and any challenges you might face getting yourself to work, it would be an excellent time to bring that up.

Of course, you can take some of my advice with a grain of salt. I think that interviewing for a part-time position is far different than the people that come into the interviews I have. These are salaried employees making close to six figures, so naturally, people don't want to hear how the job works out better for your kids. Part-time work is very different and employers know that busy parents are often looking for that for that specific reason. So I don't think you did anything wrong. Just try to put more emphasis on why you are excited about the position (even if you really only want it for selfish reasons!).

Thanks so much...

I do love the job details as well. It seems exciting, challenging and involves things I do on a daily basis (even if it's personal things I'm doing). I'm known as a computer geek amongst co-workers so when anyone has a problem, I'm the first person they call and I always jump at the chance to help. From computer problems, making flyers, creating postcards, it's my passion and I miss doing this. I love seeing their face when I'm done knowing it's exactly what they were picturing or wanting.

Since I'm a Realtor at the moment, it's more of a self-employment job. I loved being an Admin in the office and I want that back.

Thanks so much for your help and anyone else who has something to add.

 

[T. Lynn]

Is it considered tacky to take notes during the interview?

 

[Barbossa]

Give thorough answers. A good interviewer will ask questions that test both your knowledge and thought processes. For example, I'll ask an engineering interviewee how he/she would design a particular electrical circuit. I'm looking for evidence that he/she has good knowledge of, and experience with, the topic being discussed. Short and vague answers (which I've received plenty of) will not bode well for the person I'm interviewing.

Also, demonstrate that you're a person who's professional, a team player, and easy to work with. I call it the "A__h__e Factor". I don't care if I'm interviewing Albert Einstein, if he's a pain to work with I won't recommend him.

Good luck!

 

[SC Minnie]

Is it considered tacky to take notes during the interview?

IMO-- No, its not tacky. When I conduct interviews I don't mind at all people taking notes- we actually encourage it. When I have interviewed I have also MADE notes before hand (on one page) just to jog my memory concerning projects or things that I wanted to make sure I brought up if/when asked.

 

[T. Lynn]

Thanks everyone for your help. I was offered the job today and gladly accepted. They also told me they were impressed by my telephone interview

Anyway, I was proud of the way I conducted myself in the personal interview and don't think I could have done any better.

Thanks again!

 

[lovesmurfs]

Many, many hearty congratulations!

I've started the interview process (full-time, salaried), and I'm learning all the do's and do not's listed in this thread --

Best wishes as you begin your new position!

 

[DisneyFix321]

CONGRATULATIONS

 

[nataliesdaddy]

Next week I have an interview scheduled. I've already had a telephone interview with them yesterday. It's been a couple of years since my last one. Actually, I was hired within 5 minutes because I was referred by a coworker and they take referrals serious; therefore, it wasn't too much of an interview. The interview before that was in 1995.

I'm getting nervous because I really need a job soon. The job description is everything I'm interested in. It's 4 hours a day while my DD would be in school. I could have the best of both worlds...my career that I love & time to spend with my DD. During the summer, my mom could watch her (saving me sitter fees too) because she lives next door. If there is bad weather, I could stay with my parents so I don't miss work. There are just so many factors that are good about this job and I want to do well in the interview. I'm starting to get stressed because I want it so bad. Then again, if it wasn't meant to be, hopefully something else will come along but I'm sure it will be a disappointment.

If you are someone who conducts interviews, can you tell me some things you look for? It would be for an office/admin position.

Any helpful tips or advice would be greatly apprecited...

I would agree with some of the other people I have seen posting here.

Relax - probably most important quality I have seen in an interviewee.

Be yourself, be relaxed, don't make up stuff, don't blow smoke. If you don't feel confident then don't pretend to be so.

 

[nataliesdaddy]

Many, many hearty congratulations!

I've started the interview process (full-time, salaried), and I'm learning all the do's and do not's listed in this thread --

Best wishes as you begin your new position!

oh cool. I posted to late to the original...


congratulations on your new position