Successful Job Interviews
Get A Job in 10 Minutes
According to 150 executives polled in a survey across the biggest firms
in the US, it takes only 10 minutes to form an opinion of job seekers.
On average,
- Interviews for junior and intermediate roles last on average of 55
minutes.
- Interviews for management roles last on average of 86 minutes.
But impressions in the first 10 minutes are what counts overall.
According to executives, interveiwees should:
- Dress appropriately
- Smile, maintain good eye contact and use a firm handshake
- Project enthusiasm and confidence as soon as you walk in the door
- Prepare well for the first few interview questions, even if they
at first may seem casual and not related to work.
Most Commonly Asked Questions
The five most commonly asked questions at the start of an interview,
and how to answer them:
- Can you tell me a little about yourself? - discuss
your professional goals and interests as they relate to the job. Do
not discuss your hobbies or what you do outside.
- What do you know about our firm? - research the
business and organisation before the interview and prepare an answer
that describes how your experience and skills will help you contribute
to the success of the firm.
- Why do you want to work here? - respond in a way
that shows you understand the organisation’s priorities and objectives;
regardless of whether these are your reasons.
- Why are you looking to leave your current position?
- stay focused on the opportunity - for example, a chance to advance
your career. Avoid any negative remarks about your current colleagues
and bosses.
- What is your most significant professional accomplishment?
- Talk about an achievement that shows your ability to deliver tangible
results. For example, “In 2006, I was instrumental in growing
the company’s revenues by 22% to $4.2 million through marketing
and advertising initiatives set by my team.”
NEXT: Successful
Panel Interviews
Career Success Index | The
Right Job For You | Aligning Work-Life
Values | Interview Success | Getting
The Best Salary Package | Getting Promoted
| Resigning With Style
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