Finding Your Dream Job

Don't be rattled by your next job interview. It's possible to answer any question that comes your way preparing and knowing how to direct the conversation to the topics you want to cover. Careful preparation also is necessary to effectively answer any interview question. Confirm you'll be attending. Ring up and use it as an opportunity to check practical stuff like directions. Find out what the interview will be like. Who'll be interviewing you? Are there any additional tests or exercises as part of the interview? Good interviewers should supply you with a breakdown of the interview programme. If you didn't get one, ask what's involved when you call to say you're definitely coming. You will cope better if you've been able to prepare. Look at your application again. Pick out points interviewers are likely to want to talk about such as your qualifications, last job or skills you've stated on your CV (like an ability to use computers). Also, think about how you'll deal with any weaknesses or gaps in qualifications or experience.

Learn as much as you can about the job, and company. Re-read your application, thinking through your own career and the questions they might ask you. You should try to anticipate the general questions which they will ask and also prepare some questions to ask them. To do well at the interview you will need to convince the interviewer you are technically qualified to do the job. You will also need to show that you are sufficiently motivated to get the job done well and that you will fit in with the company's organizational structure and the team in which you will work. Some important questions to ask or expect:

• What are the significant trends in the industry?
• Are any acquisitions, divestitures on the future?
• Does the company plan to expand? What are the company's strengths and weaknesses compared to its competition?
• What do you think is the greatest opportunity facing the organization in the near future or the biggest threat?
• Would there be opportunities for advancement, and how long before I might be considered for one?
• How does the organization rank within its field?
• What is the reputation of the department to which I am applying?
• Can you discuss your take on the company’s corporate culture? What are the company’s values?
• How is this department perceived within the organization?
• What have been its goals in the last year, and, did it meet them?
• What would be the goals of the department in the coming year?
• What will be the greatest challenge in the job?
• What are the greatest strengths of this department and company?
• What would you expect me to accomplish in this job?
• How often would we meet together?
• What responsibilities have the highest priority?
• Can you describe a typical day for someone in this position?
• How might these responsibilities and priorities change?
• How much time should be devoted to each area of responsibility?
• What qualifications are you looking for in the person who will take up this job?
• What are some examples of the achievements of others who have been in this position?
• How many people have held this job in the last five years? Where are they now?
• How soon do you expect to make a decision?
• If I am offered the position, how soon will you need my response?

Many interviewers ask questions that require candidates to provide examples of how they handled a difficult challenge or other work situation. Such questions often start with a phrase such as, "Tell me about a time when you faced...." These questions require a story in response, but it's unlikely you have a story that fits every conceivable query. But the task of preparing becomes easier when you realize that interviewers typically are interested in only five or six general categories. Braun. Instead of trying to be ready for every potential question, come up with stories to fit these general issues, such as how you handled conflict or a difficult challenge.

When asked to tell interviewers about yourself, describe your specific qualifications that fit the company's key issues. For instance, if you know what challenges the company is facing, you can tailor your response to what the company is dealing with and how you can help. Be prepared to be asked about a past mistake on your career record, and don't try to dodge the issue. When discussing a mistake, be ready to say how you learned or benefited from it.

Your look is also important in getting a job. Dress smart as appropriate. The difficult part is when you are not sure what is appropriate for that particular company. You may do a quick research about the company and the dress code. Whatever you decide to wear, it should be smart, clean and you have to be comfortable to have it on you.

Need more tips on how to succeed in finding your dream job? Contact us today!


Good Luck!