2017 MSOE Career Guide

Preparing for the interview…  Research the company or organization

All hiring and promotion decisions hinge ultimately on conversations and relationships. Credentials get you the interview – attitude gets you the job offer. Attitude = Positive, Interest, and Enthusiasm. The interview is a conversation with a purpose. Interviewer’s Purpose  Are the candidate’s interests and this position a match? (focus)  Can the candidate do the job? (skills)  Will the candidate do the job? (attitude)  Will the candidate fit into my organization? (ability to relate to others) Interviewee’s Purpose  Are my interests and this position a match? (career goals)  Is this the type of organization I want to work for? (values)  Will this position provide me with opportunities for continued personal and professional growth? (values and goals) To interview effectively, you have to…  Prepare  Continually evaluate your performance and improve  Be able to interview based on your strengths  Talk about those skills and attributes that you possess that are important to the position  Ask questions that show insight and interest  Ask for the “sale” (i.e., reiterate interest in the position)

 Conceptualize the position  Articulate your competencies

Employers look for…  Communication skills

 Interpersonal relationship skills  Intelligence  Positive attitude  Diversity Your goals during the initial interview…  Make a good first impression  Establish a positive relationship with the interviewer  Sell your strengths  Show interest and enthusiasm  Be invited to the next step in the process After the interview…  Evaluate your performance  Make notes of: o Names o Date of interview o Follow-up actions o Personality traits noticed o “Clues” picked up from interviewer  Send a thank-you e-mail or note within 24 hours, if possible

14 14