The process of getting a job is very similar to conducting a sale. In this manner, you are selling yourself as the best candidate for the position. In order to be successful in interviewing/sales, learn and apply these steps:
- Know the product, "YOU": You are the product. You bring to the table knowledge, skills, energy, accomplishments, and personality. Take an inventory and be sure your potential employer/customer fully understands your value.
- Know your customer's needs: Research the employer's organization and industry in order to determine needs, problems and opportunities. Resources include the Career Center Library, video tapes, employer presentations, career fairs, business and government publications, the Internet and informational interviews.
- Demonstrate how you can fill the needs or solve the problems: Highlight the skills and capabilities you have that can best serve the needs of the employer.
For All Interviews
Responses to interview questions are measured on two factors, content and style.
1. Content: The information you provide, add to, or clarify about your qualifications. Use a sales approach and make the most of the opportunity to describe all the positive things about you, the "product."
2. Style: Your delivery and mannerisms. The interviewer develops perceptions of your personality and skills based on your ability to "think on your feet." Organize your thoughts, and speak clearly and confidently. Be careful not to give short, incomplete responses or long, rambling discourses.
