15 Tips For Making The Job Interview Successful

TAMPA, Fla., April 20 /PRNewswire/ -- Whether you are employed and looking to make a career move, or between positions and searching for the right fit, the job interview can be an intimidating, make-or-break process, according to Kforce Professional Staffing. In many ways, the job interview amounts to a sales call, a parallel that probably explains the anxiety many job candidates feel. Learning to overcome this discomfort and manage the communication process can help them make a more positive impression on hiring managers.

		For more expert career advice and articles on career issues and topics, visit TechCareers.

"Good interviewing skills can translate into multiple job offers, allowing candidates to control their career options," says Dave Dunkel, CEO of Kforce. "Homework and effective communication can spell the difference between a successful interview and a poor impression." Kforce offers the following interview tips to boost confidence and give candidates a winning advantage:

1. Research both the company and the prospective supervisor. Review the company's Web site, do an online search and/or ask the internal contact person to send a brochure or other printed material with background on the company. Ask whoever is setting up the interview for insights about the interviewer, including personality and managerial style.
2. Don't limit research to financial and corporate information. Review the Web site for information on the company's mission to gain insights into what they value in employees.
3. On the day of the interview, arrive 10 minutes early, energetic, well rested and dressed professionally. Greet the receptionist warmly. Once you meet the interviewer, extend a firm, friendly handshake and express appreciation for the interviewer's time.
4. During the interview, use your research to strengthen your case. Interviewers like to know that you've done your homework, so drop details from your research as appropriate. This will also generate conversation that should yield additional insights into the company.
5. Always maintain good eye contact and express yourself clearly using proper diction and grammar.
6. Anticipate questions the interviewer may ask and be prepared with concise responses. Give direct responses to questions, and answer any tough questions with a question to clarify and gain time to think.
7. Describe past experiences positively. Compliment past employers or minimize negative details.
8. Ask questions to demonstrate interest in the position, the company and the industry it represents. Prepare questions in advance to minimize the need to "think on your feet."
9. De-emphasize money and benefits. Remain open on salary during the interview.
10. Exhibit confidence and poise, and convey an assertive attitude without being overly aggressive.
11. Be prepared to describe your past experience as a creative problem solver, a decisive person and a strong team member.
12. Express a purpose and goal for a career move, but also emphasize your willingness to "earn your stripes." Show interest in long-term opportunities.
13. Display high moral standards, avoid prejudicial comments and show broad interests in both work and play.
14. Take criticism in a professional and non-defensive manner. Do not leave any negatives or weaknesses unaddressed or without restating one of your positives.
15. Identify your "key messages" (what differentiates you and makes you a good choice) in advance, and be prepared to summarize these as appropriate at the conclusion of the interview.

"Remember, the goal is to get the offer -- allowing you to make a decision about whether this is a good fit for you," says Dunkel. "By leaving a solid impression upon the hiring manager and earning an offer, candidates gain control of their job search and have the ability to choose the most desirable career path." Kforce Inc. is a professional staffing firm providing flexible and permanent staffing solutions for candidates and organizations in the skill areas of technology, finance and accounting, and health and life sciences. SOURCE Kforce Professional Staffing Web Site: http://www.kforce.com For more expert career advice and articles on career issues and topics, visit TechCareers.

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