THE INTERVIEW

In a job interview, prospective employers are looking for the answer to one question, "Why should I hire you?"  You, as the job seeker, must convince the employer that you can fill a particular need or vacancy, and at the same time, you should be trying to decide whether to accept a position if offered.

 PREPARATION

 1.  KNOW YOURSELF - Analyze your strengths and weaknesses, your background, your academic performance, your vocational interests, and your personal aspirations and values.  Think about the skills that relate to the job and how you can demonstrate them.  Be prepared to explain why you are applying for the position and why you think you are qualified for the job.

 2.  KNOW THE ORGANIZATION - Learn what you can about the company, agency, or school district.  Read company literature and local newspapers and talk to employees and community leaders.  Find out all you can about the position for which you are applying.  Know what questions you want to ask the interviewer.

 3.  PROJECT A PROFESSIONAL IMAGE - Dress appropriately for the job and the organization for which you are applying.  Emphasize the positive.  Be assertive in answering questions.  Project self-confidence.  Most important, be yourself and try to relax.  Think of the interview as simply a conversation between two people.

 FOUR STAGES OF INTERVIEWING

 1.  RECEPTION/ACCEPTANCE - The initial stage during which you meet the interviewer and during which the interviewer usually forms a first impression.

 2.  INFORMATION EXCHANGE - During this stage the employer might tell you about the organization and/or the job.  Questions will be asked to determine if you are qualified for the job and if you will fit into the overall organization.  Questions Asked by Employers

 3.  YOUR TURN - During this stage, you have the opportunity to ask questions to obtain information that you will need in order to evaluate the employer.  Ask detailed questions, but avoid questions regarding salary, pension plan, etc.  These questions may be asked at a later time after a job offer has been made. Questions to Ask the Employer

4. Questions for Teacher Candidates (courtesy of Slippery Rock University)

5. CLOSING - The final stage when the employer indicates the interview is over and during which you find out when and how you will be informed about the outcome.  If the interviewer does not offer this information, then it is up to you to ask what the next step is in the procedure.

 FOLLOW-UP

A follow-up letter after an interview is an essential part of the process.  While it appears on the surface merely to express your appreciation for the opportunity to talk with the interviewer, it also serves to remind the interviewer of your qualifications and interest in the job or company.  Finally, it leaves a very favorable impression and could be the one factor that really makes you stand out from the crowd.