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Interview Advice
Don't let your stomach tie itself in knots... be prepared for your interview by practicing answers for questions in this group, share your best tips, and stories :)
Photo Credit: Nils Geylen
Network Leader: Rebecca Thorman
Heath Port
Does being an accomplished generalist hinder or help you in the current job market?
http://www.heathport.net/2011/09/27/the-curse-of-a-generalist/
34 weeks ago from Boulder, CO, Interview Advice, Rocky Mountain Networking, Denver Careerists and Ask A Coach3 more
Laura:
@jrandom42 Ha, Michael Brown had a generalist command of patronage, and that was about it, but I guess that's all you need to climb the ladder.
32 weeks ago
32 weeks ago
Laura:
At a company I used to work for, in a true Dilbert moment, they abolished "centers of excellence" which were essentially work centers staffed by ...MoreAt a company I used to work for, in a true Dilbert moment, they abolished "centers of excellence" which were essentially work centers staffed by specialists, because in some geography and in some subject matter, it didn't work. The work centers continued on but we couldn't call them centers of excellence, so we coined the term "periphery of mediocrity." Point being, it's a polarizing issue and I'm not even sure why.
32 weeks ago
32 weeks ago
TOP IDEA:
Heath Port
While on the job hunt I have been thinking about how I sell/brand/present myself and blogged about my thoughts/approach here: http://wp.me/p1MmA7-2N. Feel free to add your own tips and experiences!
33 weeks ago from Interview Advice, Blogging Ideas, Denver Careerists and Boulder, CO2 more
Michelle Barbeau
Hey guys! My mentor, Dr. Woody, is having a Twitter chat Wed. night at 8pm EST on Tips on Beating a Bad Interviewer! Thought I'd pass along some details: http://ow.ly/4VXyV
Becky Benishek
When interviewing, we all do our best to research the company and come up with those thoughtful, impressive questions, but can you OVER-prep? Karalyn of Interview IQ has some what not-to-dos: http://ow.ly/1bEu9M
63 weeks ago from myFootpath and Interview Advice
Noel Rozny recommended this
Noel Rozny:
Great tips! I feel like talking over the interviewer, interrupting, and acting as if you already know everything there is to know about the ...MoreGreat tips! I feel like talking over the interviewer, interrupting, and acting as if you already know everything there is to know about the company is another dead giveaway.
63 weeks ago
63 weeks ago
Diane Staheli
My fiance had a 3rd interview for an out of state job. When asked about his plans to relocate, he said he planned to rent an apartment.The interviewer asked if he was planning to sell his house, he said he was not in a position to do so, but maybe would be an option later.They told him they were not offering him the job bc he was not willing to sell his house. Aside from being wildly inappropriate, is it illegal to ask personal questions in an interview, and base a hiring decision upon it?
Andrew Hill:
Edward, my understanding of the situation is that it would be something extremely difficult to successfully prove in court. Once you voluntarily ...MoreEdward, my understanding of the situation is that it would be something extremely difficult to successfully prove in court. Once you voluntarily provide information you're pretty much screwed too. What makes it difficult is that hiring is a multifaceted examination of the individual and it is just as easy to say something else held them from hiring the individual. I have a friend that was in the same situation once before and it wasn't ideal to say the least.
67 weeks ago
67 weeks ago
Edward Antrobus:
@Andrew, ah yes, reality and legality are often at conflict with each other. Illegal hiring or firing practices are often impossible to prove in ...More@Andrew, ah yes, reality and legality are often at conflict with each other. Illegal hiring or firing practices are often impossible to prove in court. In this case, if he had refused to answer, they probably would have not hired because he was being evasive.
67 weeks ago
67 weeks ago
Becky Benishek
Interviews seem to be going more toward the collaborative, conversational style than the traditional Q&A--and if you can, try to turn it that way!--but just in case you get socked with the five most common difficult interview questions, here's how recruiters say you should answer them: http://bit.ly/fncbwU
68 weeks ago from myFootpath, Interview Advice and Job Resources and Career Coaching1 more
Noel Rozny recommended this
Becky Benishek:
*raises hand* I've experienced the conversational interview! To me, it shows that the interviewer has already done _their_ homework: Evaluated ...More*raises hand* I've experienced the conversational interview! To me, it shows that the interviewer has already done _their_ homework: Evaluated your background, checked you out on LI and other social media platforms, etc. This type of interviewer now just needs to fill in the more organic blanks from how you think to how you'll fit in culturally with the company and department. Establishing a rapport at this stage is crucial--if you think the job is the right fit for you.
68 weeks ago
68 weeks ago
Tony Forte
Okay, it's survival of the fittest this summer, Apply for some of the coolest internships around. If your young and driven, pursue your dream, but intern there first, check out the internship list attached. U DEFINE SUCCESS. http://www.urbanprofessor.com/2011/01/05/11-cool-internships-to-get-the-...
71 weeks ago from I am Gen Y, Graduate Students, Interns, Interview Advice and Mentors & Mentees3 more
Tony Forte
Camera skills aren't just for the Kardashian's, apparently they're for college entry and landing your next job. What are your thoughts on camera presentation interviews? Concerns? Check out a good article about it below, love it or hate it, they're coming.
http://www.urbanprofessor.com/2010/11/22/cam-artist/
78 weeks ago from Career Changers, Career Rocketeer, Interactive Media and Marketing, Interview Advice and JobSTART 1013 more
Alicia
I have a 2nd interview with my entire prospective office at a small legal aid that I hope to work for. How do you prepare for a group telephone interview?
Alicia:
Well just finished the interview. I think it went well - used notes but failed to refer to names. I think getting interviewed by potential peers ...MoreWell just finished the interview. I think it went well - used notes but failed to refer to names. I think getting interviewed by potential peers is harder than potential bosses...
74 weeks ago
74 weeks ago
Dain:
Glad it went well! And yes, getting interviewed by potential peers can be harder. Especially, since they will be working more directly with you.
74 weeks ago
74 weeks ago
Tony Forte
With social media connecting the world easier and faster, the need to keep your relationships in good standing is more important than before. Think about it before you say good riddings to that Professor or Boss. Great read here, don't burn that bridge too soon:
http://www.urbanprofessor.com/2010/09/27/keeping-tabs/
86 weeks ago from Interns, Interview Advice and Networking Tips1 more
Becky Benishek
Here are 5 Brilliant (Yet Simple) Job Interview Strategies from Lindsey Pollak that you can use right away! I like #5: Respond positively to rejection. I confess I wouldn't have thought of writing a response to a rejection note, but it seems that taking the time to be gracious about it keeps you in the interviewer's mind for future opportunities. Do you do this? http://ht.ly/2GM3U
87 weeks ago from myFootpath, Job Resources and Career Coaching and Interview Advice1 more
Tony Forte
Style is surely a part of one's personal brand. Dressing in the office, can be both fun and stylishly impactful, but, it's all about the accessories. Here's a good read about a proven accessory winner; Dress Socks. http://www.urbanprofessor.com/2010/08/26/kick-socks/
What are some of your favorite dress accessories?
www.urbanprofessor.com
90 weeks ago from Personal Branding, Mentors & Mentees, JobSTART 101 and Interview Advice2 more
Sean Masters:
Actually, Elizabeth, I haven't seen too many professional women under 40 wearing "legcessories" for several years now. Here and there, yes, but ...MoreActually, Elizabeth, I haven't seen too many professional women under 40 wearing "legcessories" for several years now. Here and there, yes, but the majority (in Massachusetts, at least) stick with bare legs.
90 weeks ago
90 weeks ago
Mike Ambassador Bruny:
Great Question Tony. I was going to say my bow ties are my favorite, but they becoming a staple with me. I do like a nice watch and business ...MoreGreat Question Tony. I was going to say my bow ties are my favorite, but they becoming a staple with me. I do like a nice watch and business card holder.
I've been working on combining my wardrobe with my Ambassador Bruny brand and here is a little blog post on my experience and a picture of my new shoes: http://hiphopaffirmations.com/?p=1084
Your Ambassador,
Mike Bruny
90 weeks ago
I've been working on combining my wardrobe with my Ambassador Bruny brand and here is a little blog post on my experience and a picture of my new shoes: http://hiphopaffirmations.com/?p=1084
Your Ambassador,
Mike Bruny
90 weeks ago
Tony Forte
Style is surely a part of one's personal brand. Dressing in the office, can be both fun and stylishly impactful, but, it's all about the accessories. Here's a good read about a proven accessory winner; Dress Socks. http://www.urbanprofessor.com/2010/08/26/kick-socks/
What are some of your favorite dress accessories?
www.urbanprofessor.com
90 weeks ago from Personal Branding, Mentors & Mentees, JobSTART 101 and Interview Advice2 more
Hannah Kane
I'm preparing for an interview, and trying to come up with a great answer for when the interviewer asks the dreaded "Tell me about yourself". I usually retreat into describing some previous experiences and interests, without actually mentioning positive qualities about myself. I just feel like I sound ridiculous talking about how awesome I am! Modesty is something that's been ingrained in us since birth-- how do you get over modesty to get the job?
94 weeks ago from Interview Advice, Nonprofiteers, Career Rocketeer, The Career Hot Seat! and Entry-Level Young Professionals3 more
Ty Unglebower, Becky Benishek and Cameron Plommer recommended this
Dr. Woody:
Know your talking points... regardless of the questions asked always be mindfull of weaving them into the conversation. It's your interview!!!
92 weeks ago
92 weeks ago
Diahann Boock:
I just helped someone practice for this yesterday. Create a umbrella statement you are comfortable with that will drive the rest of the ...MoreI just helped someone practice for this yesterday. Create a umbrella statement you are comfortable with that will drive the rest of the conversation. For example: "Professionally I really enjoy managing a project from cradle to grave. Influencing resources that I don't directly control and beating the completion challenge by delivering both under budget and cost. My best so far is saving X$ and X weeks. Personally, I love camping and traveling -- often combining the two. So far I've hit 3 continents!" Read the interviewer and determine if you should go on with a specific example story or if they want to ask a specific question. Good Luck.
92 weeks ago
92 weeks ago
Alison Rayner
Here is a fantastic post (via @the99percent blog) that outlines the 20 questions you better ask or be ready to answer. http://bit.ly/cYs3DU
Alison Rayner
In an interview last week I asked two questions that went over really well with the managers who were interviewing me, and gave me good insight into them as managers as well as the company culture.
1) Is there anything your employees do that really bothers you?
2) How does company culture exist within your departments?
Becky Benishek
This advice (4 Reasons You DIDN'T Get the Job Offer) helps you figure out what went wrong during the interview, but I'm thinking it can help before you even get in the door. If you know what to watch out for, maybe it can help you prove you can fit the job & company. What do you think? You want to be yourself, but you also want to get hired! http://bit.ly/all3LZ
Rebecca Thorman:
I definitely think evaluating interviews is a great way to improve for future interviews. One time, I turned down a job offer because I didn't ...MoreI definitely think evaluating interviews is a great way to improve for future interviews. One time, I turned down a job offer because I didn't think it was a good fit. I was surprised they offered it to me actually. But all the questions and prep I did really helped me prepare for the job I really wanted (my current position). Definitely be yourself. Finding a good job is often like finding a good relationship!
97 weeks ago
97 weeks ago
Becky Benishek:
Lately I've been hearing how you have to approach finding a good job like you would a relationship - definitely a shift from how people usually ...MoreLately I've been hearing how you have to approach finding a good job like you would a relationship - definitely a shift from how people usually approach it! Also, as you saw, it's just as important to make sure the job is a good fit for you versus trying to fit yourself into the job. Great practice for the job you really want.
95 weeks ago
95 weeks ago
Adam Lewis
Attention Brazenists! Excellent interview with Ben Leon, Managing Partner of Bravo Lima, who shares his advice on job searching and career development.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YsE6t1lsSyA
Hannah Kane
Over the course of my job search I've discovered the sheer quantity of advice that's available for job seekers, from networking tips to interview advice to the word that makes or breaks your resume. I've perused blogs, read articles, attended webinars. Sometimes the advice makes sense... other times, it seems silly, or it blatantly contradicts something else you've heard.
In the end, we all need to pick the tips we think are right. How do you decide what advice to follow?
98 weeks ago from The Career Hot Seat!, Networking Tips and Interview Advice1 more
Ty Unglebower:
In the end, all I can do is set a goal for myself in my job search, (or any field, really), and find out how I can achieve it in a way that is ...MoreIn the end, all I can do is set a goal for myself in my job search, (or any field, really), and find out how I can achieve it in a way that is comfortable for me. The job search really isn't scientific...wherein you can follow specific instructions and success comes out. It has to be tailored to the job hunter, and in order to do that, one must be as self aware as possible.
So I spend time getting to know me, and understand what I can and cannot do..and hunt accordingly.
98 weeks ago
So I spend time getting to know me, and understand what I can and cannot do..and hunt accordingly.
98 weeks ago
Dr. Woody:
The most important part of the journey is taking the time to really learn about yourself, your assets, your blindspots and how to make them work ...MoreThe most important part of the journey is taking the time to really learn about yourself, your assets, your blindspots and how to make them work for you!
96 weeks ago
96 weeks ago
Emily Jasper
Exit interviews: Should you be honest even if the feedback is negative? Only include the positive feedback? Include suggestions to change? Is there a way to be honest and not burn bridges?
Stanley Lee:
Including suggestions to change would make the feedback limitedly negative to a certain extent. Encourage the positive feedback to be reinforced.
97 weeks ago
97 weeks ago
Emily Jasper:
Thanks for all the advice, I think the overall feedback is be honest, offer suggestions, and if possible, keep things upbeat. Even if the message ...MoreThanks for all the advice, I think the overall feedback is be honest, offer suggestions, and if possible, keep things upbeat. Even if the message is negative, as Barbie said, it's all in the delivery.
97 weeks ago
97 weeks ago
Hannah Kane
I have a second interview for a job with a nonprofit organization today! I'm really confident that it will go well, but I'm trying to ensure that with a little preparation of sample questions they might ask. However, this is my first callback interview and the first interview seemed pretty thorough, so I'm having trouble brainstorming possible questions they'd ask. What kind of questions could I expect from a second interview? What can I do to really make myself stand out?
99 weeks ago from Young Professional Women (YPW), Non-Profit Management, Interview Advice and The Career Hot Seat!2 more
Hannah Kane:
I think it went really well! It was pretty similar to the first interview, a couple of the same questions, but also just some getting-to-know-you ...MoreI think it went really well! It was pretty similar to the first interview, a couple of the same questions, but also just some getting-to-know-you questions. I should hear by early next week... hoping for the best!
99 weeks ago
99 weeks ago
Dr. Woody:
Hannah, do you have any interview advice or tipe your learned that you could post the Career Hot Seat network?
99 weeks ago
99 weeks ago
Jay Hepner
Best websites/books for commonly asked interview questions and how to prepare for them?
Mehul Kar
My advice (and it works perfectly in theory): Don't prepare!
Go ahead, tell me how wrong I am, and then i'll show you how right I am.
Annabel Candy
This is a bit long, so only room for 4 out of 9 tips:) Good luck everyone!
1. Appearance - First impressions count.
2. Speaking - Practice aloud and in the mirror.
3. Prepare - Come up with 20 questions the interviewer might ask, jot down replies and practice being interviewed aloud.
3. Be still - Sit still, mirror the interviewer's body language, don't fiddle with anything or twitch.
4. Go slowly - Take time to think.
5. Be quiet - Know when to stop talking.
Kevin Kermes
I actually wrote an article about this just yesterday using the dating analogy Rebecca mentioned...great minds think alike! http://www.careerattraction.com/dating
