I am often asked if I will meet with someone prior to an interview to help them polish up their skills. Many people are not comfortable with the interview process and second-guess themselves when it comes to answering questions.
Recently we interviewed for a position at Christian HELP, and we were very fortunate to have several great candidates. The interviews all went very well and we actually had a difficult time making a choice.
When it came down to it there were a few factors that we looked at above and beyond their qualifications. One was how they fit in or complemented the people already in place, and the second was their long-term goals and how they saw themselves growing within the organization.
One of the interviewees was someone I was already connected with so she felt comfortable in the interview. This was great for both of us, but she said she is not always that comfortable in interviews. As I gave her advice, I let her know that she had done great in the process and should always be like that in an interview.
Practice sample interview questions with a friend or a coach prior to interviewing. If you have no one else, use a mirror. Listen to your answers as they come out. Answers to standard questions like tell me about yourself, what are your strengths and what are your weaknesses should just roll off your tongue. These are asked so regularly that you should always have an answer.
After you leave an interview, record your impressions. This will help you to improve. Also use that time to write a thank you note and recapture what you want to emphasize from the interview and anything that you would like the interviewer to know.
If you have additional questions about interviewing, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Take care and best wishes-
Please send any questions you have regarding employment to:
sandi@christianhelp.org
Fax: 407-260-2949
Mail: Ask Sandi C/O Christian HELP
450 Seminola Blvd, Casselberry, FL 32707
Our goal is to answer many of the questions you may have about your employment search, resumes, networking, promotion opportunities, and other employment related questions you may have.
Note to employers: If you e-mail your job leads to cfec@cfec.org, we will share your job openings with Christian HELP clients.
Until next time-
Sandi
Sandi Vidal is the Executive Director for Christian HELP and the Central Florida Employment Council. She has more than 15 years of Recruiting and Human Resources Experience. Visit the website at www.cfec.org.