Job Interview

JOB INTERVIEW PREPARATION SKILL
LESSON 4
WHAT IS INTERVIEW?
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4.1 Definition for Interview
Interview: A conversation between two or more people where questions are asked by the interviewer
to elicit facts or statements from the interviewee / a meeting of people face to face, especially for
consultation.
4.2 Types of Interview

4.2.1 Panel Interview
A panel interview is another special interviewing situation where 2 to 5 interviewers are
present to interview a candidate. Usually, various types of people in an organization
participate, including Human Resources personnel, managers, as well as supervisors and
colleagues of the particular position.
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4.2.2 Face-to-Face Interviews
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LESSON 5
INTERVIEW PREPARATION
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5.1 Preparation for Interviews

x Resume & Cover Letter
Definition: A resume is a written compilation of your education, work experience, credentials,
and accomplishments and is used to apply for jobs.
There are several basic types of resumes used to apply for job openings. Depending on your
personal circumstances, choose a chronological, a functional, combination, or a targeted
resume.
Chronological format:
The chronological resume is the most used out there, it’s the employer’s favorite as it is very
easy to read and it’s hard to hide anything in it. It works brilliantly when you have stayed
consistent in your career. As long as the job you are applying for is in the same field, the full
chronology will be relevant to the reader and therefore the focus is about your experience.
Your employment history is actually in reverse chronological order and your current position
will be at the top of the list. The chronological resume doesn’t work well when you have gaps
or when you have shifted industries often, as it will expose your weak points.
x Objective
x Summary
x Experience
x Education
x References
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5.1.1 Resume
A resume is typically sent with a cover letter that provides additional information on your skills and
experience to apply for jobs.
What is the purpose of a resume?
The purpose of a resume is to provide a summary of your skills, abilities and accomplishments. It is a
quick advertisement of who you are. It is a "snapshot" of you with the intent of capturing and
emphasizing interests and secure you an interview. It is not an autobiography. Since your resume is a
primary tool in your job search, it needs to be carefully written and critiqued. The rest of this website
is designed to guide you through the process.
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5.1.2 Cover Letter
If you are sending an application directly to a potential employer, you should write a one-page letter
(covering letter) to accompany your CV. The covering letter may either be typed (good if you are
applying to a large company) or written neatly by hand (better if you believe that a typed letter may
appear too formal). An example is shown below.
If you know the name of the person who is dealing with the job applications, you can start the letter
with "Dear Mr Smith" or "Dear Ms Smith" (you can use "Dear Mrs Smith" if you know she is married;
if the person has a title you should use it, for example "Dear Professor Smith"), and in this case you
should end the letter with "Yours sincerely". If you do not know the name of the person, you should
start the letter with "Dear Sir" or "Dear Sir/Madam", and end the letter with "Yours faithfully". If you
are applying for a particular job vacancy, write which job you are applying for (including a reference
number if there is one) and where you saw the advertisement. Briefly describe why you think you are
suitable for the job; mention any relevant work experience or qualifications which you have. Explain
in your letter how you can be contacted. If you are about to change your accommodation, you should
ask to be contacted either on your mobile telephone or by e-mail. If you give the telephone number
of your host family, you should ask them for their permission first.
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EXAMPLE OF COVERING LETTER
========================================================================
Akiko Tanaka
52 Orchard Street
London
W2 3BT
Mobile: 07960 999999
E-mail:
akiko9999@hotmail.com
Fortnum & Mason's
181 Piccadilly
London
W1A 1ER
3 August 2002
Dear Sir/Madam,
Job as a part-time sales assistant (reference: JBW5014)
I would like to apply for the job of a part-time sales assistant in the food section of Fortnum & Mason's
in Piccadilly, as advertised in Loot Recruit on 2 August. Please find attached a copy of my CV.
My previous jobs include two years as a sales assistant in an organic food shop in Japan. This has given
me experience of dealing with customers, as well as cashier skills and a basic knowledge of food
retailing. I have been living in London since last September, and am currently studying English at a
language school. I have good English communication skills (recently I passed the Cambridge First
Certificate in English exam). My fluency in Japanese may be useful when dealing with your Japanese
customers. I am an enthusiastic worker, and enjoy working in a team. My student visa entitles me to
work up to 20 hours per week (or longer during my school holidays), and I could start work
immediately.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss the job vacancy with you on the telephone or in an
interview. I can be contacted most easily on my mobile telephone or by e-mail (see details at the top
of this letter).
Yours faithfully,
Akiko Tanaka
Akiko Tanaka
========================================================================
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5.1.3 Documents
The following is a list of supporting documents that may be required to be submitted with an
employment application.
a. Resume
b. Cover Letter
c. Reference List
d. Letters of Recommendation
e. Transcript
f. Portfolio
g. Writing Sample (essay, articles, or other writing samples)
h. Employment Certificate
i. Certifications (teaching or computer certifications, for example)
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5.1.4 Document Sample

Functional format
The functional format should be used when you want to draw attention away from your work
experience due to job hopping, a very long career, a very short career, long gaps, re-entering the job
market and so forth. The functional resume focuses on what you can do, what your achievements are
and your core competence.
This format is used by graduates, people seeking to change their career completely and anyone with
employment gaps that don’t add any value to their experience. If you are looking to change industries,
make sure to focus on transferable skills such as sales or people management. A word of warning;
employers are known to raise their eyebrows when they see a functional resume so only use this
format if you absolutely have to.
x Objective
x Accomplishments
x Capabilities
x Employment History
x Education
x References
The combined format

The combination format is exactly what it sounds like; it combines the chronological and functional
formats to give you the best of both worlds. It allows you to use the tasty features from the functional
resume, but you can still fly in under the radar in the eye of the reader.
Examples of people that can benefit from this would be someone wanting to change careers and has
some relevant skills for the new field. It can also be useful when someone wants to pack more skills in
than the work experience section allows for or would not bring out adequately.
x Objective
x Summary
x Accomplishments
x Experience
x Education
x References
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i) Sample Chronological Resume

========================================================================
Paul Jones
6 Pine Street, Arlington, VA 12333
555.555.5555 (home) 566.486.2222 (cell)
phjones@vacapp.com
Experience
Key Holder, Montblanc

April 2001 - February 2005
• Opened new specialty boutique

• Placed orders to restock merchandise and handled receiving of products
• Managed payroll, scheduling, reports, email, inventory, and maintained clientele book and
records
• Integrated new register functions
• Extensive work with visual standards and merchandising high-ticket items
Sales Associate, Nordstrom - Collectors and Couture Departments

July 1999 - April 2001
• Merchandised designer women's wear

• Set-up trunk shows and attended clinics for new incoming fashion lines
• Worked with tailors and seamstresses for fittings
• Scheduled private shopping appointments with high-end customers
Bartender
Jigg's Corner
February 1997 - July 1999
• Provide customer service in a fast-paced bar atmosphere

• Maintain and restock inventory
• Administrative responsibilities include processing hour and tip information for payroll and
closing register
Education
Ramapo College, Arlington, Virginia
Computer Skills
• Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, and Internet
========================================================================
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ii) Functional Resume

A functional resume focuses on your skills and experience, rather than on your chronological work
history. It is used most often by people who are changing careers or who have gaps in their
employment history.
Sample Functional Resume
========================================================================
Jose A. Adelo
1525 Jackson Street, City, NY 11111
Phone: 555-555-5555
Email: jadelo@bac.net
OBJECTIVE
To obtain a position where I can maximize my multilayer of management skills, quality assurance,
program development, training experience, customer service and a successful track record in the
Blood Banking care environment.
SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS
Results-oriented, high-energy, hands-on professional, with a successful record of accomplishments in
the blood banking, training and communication transmission industries. Experience in phlebotomy,
blood banking industry, training, quality assurance and customer service with focus on providing the
recipient with the highest quality blood product, fully compliant with FDA cGMP, Code of Federal
Regulations, AABB accreditation and California state laws.
Major strengths include strong leadership, excellent communication skills, competent, strong team
player, attention to detail, dutiful respect for compliance in all regulated environments and
supervisory skills, including hiring, termination, scheduling, training, payroll and other administrative
tasks. Thorough knowledge of current manufacturing practices and a clear vision to accomplish the
company goals. Computer and Internet literate.
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PROFESSIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Program/Project Manager
Facilitated educational projects successfully over the past two years for Northern California blood
centers, a FDA regulated manufacturing environment, as pertaining to cGMP, CFR's, CA state and
American Association of Blood Bank (AABB) regulations and assure compliance with 22 organization
quality systems.
Provided daily operational review/quality control of education accountability as it relates to imposed

government regulatory requirements in a medical environment.
Assisted other team members in veni-punctures, donor reaction care and providing licensed staffing
an extension in their duties by managing the blood services regulations documentation (BSD's) while
assigned to the self-contained blood mobile unit (SCU).
Successfully supervised contract support for six AT&T Broadband systems located in the Bay Area.
Provided customer intervention/resolution, training in telephony and customer care, Manpower
Scheduling, Quality Control, Payroll and special projects/plant extensions and evaluations to ensure
proper end-of-line and demarcation signal.
Reduced employee turnovers, introduced two-way communication to field employees, enhanced

employee appearance and spearheaded the implementation of employee (health) benefits.
The chief point of contact for the AT&T telephone and the ABC Affiliated TV stations as it relates to
complaints and diagnosing communications problems either at the site or remote broadcasting. Also
tested/repaired prototype equipment for possible consideration or for future use.
Reviewed FAA safety requirements and procedures to ensure compliance for aircraft and passenger
safety.
Communication expert and programming specialist for the intermediate range Lance and Persian
missile systems. Trained to operate and repair the (FDC) fire direction control computer system and
field satellite communications.
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Supervised and maintained the position of System Technician in charge of status monitoring and the
integration of monitoring devices in nodes and power supplies. For the reception and transmission of
telemetry to the network operation centers (NOC's) located in Denver, CO and Fremont, CA. Designed
plant extensions, improved the paper flow and inventory control for the warehouse. Provided
preventative maintenance at the system level, face to face customer interaction when required and
traveled to several telephony/@home systems in the U.S. for evaluation and suggestions in using the
status monitoring equipment.
EDUCATION
x Associate of Art, Administration of Justice, San Jose University, San Jose, CA
x NCTI Certified, CATV System Technician, Denver, CO
x ABM Certified, Cornerstone Technician, Denver, CO
========================================================================
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iii) Targeted Resume
A targeted resume is a resume that is customized so that it specifically highlights the experience and
skills you have that are relevant to the job you are applying for. It definitely takes more work to write
a targeted resume than to just click to apply to your existing resume. However, it's well worth the
effort, especially when applying for jobs that are a perfect match for your qualifications and
experience.
Sample Targeted Resume

========================================================================
FirstName LastName
Street, City, State, Zip
Home: 555.555.5555
Cell: 566.486.2222
Email: email@email.com
SUMMARY OF PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
x Experienced manager with expertise in human relations and project management

x Extensive background in staff recruitment and retention
x Staff training and development
x Superb written and oral communication skills
x Organizational and Strategic Planning
x Management Coaching
x Program Marketing
x Contract negotiation and compliance
x Knowledge of Federal and State Employment Law
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PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
x Society of Human Resources Management

x Portland Human Resources Management Association
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
CLINICAL DIRECTOR
Riverbend Inc., 2000-2005
x Senior Management of a Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO)

accredited treatment facility. Responsible for all aspects of program management; clinical,
administrative, fiscal.
x Responsible for recruiting, orienting, training and supervising 50 staff, was able to reduce staff
turnover from 68% to 14% by improving staff orientation and training, professional development,
and mid-level management coaching.
x Oversight of all aspects of staff performance; performance evaluation, progressive discipline,
mediation of staff disputes and grievance procedures in accordance with state and federal laws.
x Leadership in the setting and achieving of strategic and organizational goals.
x Established training programs for staff in regard to all aspects of workplace performance and
professional development.
x Program Marketing, increased annual revenue by 38%.
PROGRAM DIRECTOR
R. Dykeman Center, 1998-2000
x Administrative, clinical, fiscal and human resources management of a large outpatient mental
health center; 60 full time employees and 45 contract employees housed in various locations.
x Responsible for the recruitment and supervision and performance evaluation of clinical,
administrative and medical staff.
x Provided training to enhance workplace performance at all levels of staffing.
x Nominated as Training Co-ordinator for the West Seattle Mental Health Consortium, providing
training as the a trainer or contracting with the relevant professionals to provide training in the
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areas of culturally relevant services, professional ethics and law, and areas of professional
development as requested by staff members.
PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Family Reconciliation Services, 1988-1998
x Provided program management of the largest FRS contract in Washington State.

x FRS was responsible for providing in-home crisis counseling to families on a 24/7 basis.
x Responsible for the recruitment, orientation, supervision and performance evaluation of up to 45
Master's level clinicians.
x During this 10-year period, increased the ethnic diversity of staff from 0% to 36% providing more
culturally relevant services to the community served.
CLINICAL DIRECTOR - Chemical Dependency Treatment Programs

Rogue Valley Medical Center, 1985-1988
x Hired by the medical center to design and implement a residential treatment program.
x Responsible for the recruitment and hiring of all staff; medical, administrative and clinical.
x Responsible for public relations and Program Marketing
EDUCATION
x Senior Professional Human Resources (SPHR) certification course work completed

x The Whidbey Institute, Organizational Development and Leadership
x University of Heidelberg, Germany, Psy. D in Clinical Psychology
x University of California at Berkeley, BA in Philosophy and German
========================================================================
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iv) Mini Resume

A mini resume contains a brief summary of your career highlights and qualifications. It can be used for
networking purposes or shared upon request from a prospective employer or reference writer who
may want an overview of your accomplishments, rather than a full length resume.
Mini Resume Template
Contact Information
The first section of your resume should include information on how the employer can contact you,
or your contact information can be printed on the front of a standard size business card with your
career highlights on the back.
First Last Name

Street Address
City, State, Zip
Phone (Cell/Home)
Email Address
Career Highlights
x A mini resume lists your key achievements and skills.

x The best way to present the information is in a bulleted list format.
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Mini Resume Sample
========================================================================
Janet Miller
848 Excelsior Circle
Stanford, MI 09991
999-999-999
jmiller@abcd.com
Career Coach
x Certified Workforce Development Professional with 14 years experience as a Career Specialist.

x Ability to provide career counselling, coaching, and job seeker services.
x Expertise at identifying values, developing possible career paths, and developing strategies for
entering a career.
========================================================================
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v) Example Of Letter Of Recommendation
========================================================================
April 8, 20XX
To Whom It May Concern:
It gives me great pleasure to write this letter of recommendation for John Smith. I worked side-by-
side with John for the last seven years in the finance department at the 3M Corporation. For three
years, John served as a financial analyst and was a direct report to me. John was later promoted to
the Manager – Project Finances position, where we worked together as peers.
As a direct report, John was a successful, easy to manage associate, and he always gave that extra
effort to meet deadlines. John demonstrated superior analytical capabilities and soon became an
expert in the area of corporate finance. John demonstrated his leadership capabilities when a fellow
manager became ill and he was asked to step into that role. John was permanently promoted after
his team successfully developed a new quarterly closing process that reduced the number of days
required to close the books from four days to two, saving the company over $500,000 annually.
As a member of the company’s Global Strategies and Finance Committee, John played a key role in
leading a group of fifty associates through a process that would standardize practices across the
enterprise.
While I’ll certainly miss the working relationship I had with John through the years, I’m confident he
will be able to make an immediate as well as positive impact on your organization. If you have any
questions or concerns about John’s capabilities, experience or credentials don’t hesitate to call me at
the number below.
Sincerely,
Tom A. Workerbee
Manager – Project Finances, 3M Corporation
Office: 800-555-1212 Extension 1234
========================================================================
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vi) Example Of Reference List
John H. Smith
12 Rutgers Street
West Orange, New York, 10012
Employment Reference List
Orwell Brooks Nicky Blane
Major Account Representative Supervisor – Bookkeeping
Kinder Company Tagbug Enteprises
322 4th Street 480 Main Street
Claysville, PA 15323 Hall Summit, LA 71034
orwell.brooks@kinder.com nick.blane@tagbug.com
412-555-1212 337-555-1212
Vernon Cymbeline Isadore Stacy
Facilities Manager Manager Information Systems
Kayndo Limited Centimbee Corporation
124 Washington Avenue 290 Cherry Way
Kingsland, GA 31548 Missouri Valley, IA 51555
vernon.cymbeline@kayndo.com isadore.stacy@centimbee.com
478-555-121 641-555-1212
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5.1.5 Know the Company
Know the Company (Website, Magazine, Business Newspaper & Direct contact the employers) – Main
Products / Services, Competitors, Area of Operation, New Product / Service Launched
x Company Website
The very first place you want to look is the company’s main website. Depending on where you’re
interviewing the company may not be big enough or public enough to warrant a website, but most
businesses – even the small ones – will have one. This is probably the best resource you’ll find.
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x Google Search
Most people use Google to find a company’s website and stop there. If you really want to benefit,
keep going and dig deeper. In particular, study the company’s competitors, study their field, and look
for relevant press releases and news articles about the company. Don’t forget to study the
competition. What are they doing right now? How are they reacting to advancements in your
prospective company? How is your prospective company reacting to competitors? What direction is
the field moving in? Your potential employers will be impressed if you show them that you’re on top
of these things.
x Talk to people
Find people who work for or know about the organization. This could be people you meet at a career
fair, family members, neighbors, parents of friends, students who graduated ahead of you, and alumni
contacts.
x Internet Research
Note sources of information you find and gauge the credibility of those sources. Sources to research
industries, careers, employers.
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x Call or write the organization and ask for information

AFTER you've searched for it elsewhere. This is perfectly appropriate to do if you simply cannot find
information about the organization through their website, or if the information is not clear. If you have
an interview scheduled with an employer, the employer should have already provided information
(website, brochures, etc.); if not, by all means, ask for this.
Be careful. If you e-mail with a question the answer to which you could have found online with a little
effort, you'll be perceived negatively as a potential employee (lazy, not smart....). As a potential
employee, you want to be perceived as a person who does the work, not creates more for someone
else.
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5.2 Performances During & After Interviews

5.2.1 Self-Confidence
“Promise yourself, no matter how difficult the problem life throws at you, that you will try as hard as
you can to help yourself. You acknowledge that sometimes your efforts to help yourself may not
result in success, as often being properly rewarded is not in your control. - Professor Raj Persaud –
When walking into a room of strangers, visualize the qualities you admire most in someone with
serene self-confidence. This can be an actor, writer, or the friend that carries themselves with quiet
self-confidence.
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Think of this person as your mentor for self-confidence.
• How does this person walk? Tall and straight? Wide strides?
• How does this person listen to people? {too much "me" appears needy.}
• Does this person look directly into another’s eyes? {so can you}
• Does this person shake hands by reaching out first? {so can you}
Visualize their smile and adopt it as your own style.
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Play this personality in your mind by heart, as you apply for a job or walk into a room of strangers.
Think of this as your "tool" for self-confidence and people skills. You are adopting qualities to open
doors for success and better first appearances. You will find yourself adopting your mentor's
personality into your own.
Practice handshake in job interviews and social situations in public.
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THE BEFORE, DURING & AFTER INTERVIEW
BEFORE
1. Research the company's products, services, trends, leadership and community ventures. This is the
fuel for your interview, and it demonstrates your interest in the company.
2. Know where you are going, the length of time it will take you (arrive 15 minutes early, anything
earlier could be interpreted as poor time management), who you are interviewing and the correct
spelling and pronunciation of their name.
3. Prepare several, edited resumes and cover letters on quality paper, a portfolio (work samples,
recommendations, references, pad and pen) and questions, such as, can you discuss the corporate
culture? Can you describe the company's management style?
4. Practice answers to questions you may be asked, such as why are you interested in this job and can
you describe a weakness. (For example, I have been known to become very nervous when making
public presentations, but I've since joined Toastmaster's to help improve in this area.)
5. Impress Mindtools.com says it takes 3 seconds to make a first impression. This impression is based
on your dress, body language, mannerisms and your speech. So be sure to exude professionalism
in all areas. That means sitting up straight, a firm handshake and eye contact.
DURING
1. Ask how you may address the interviewer: Mr., Mrs., Dr. or first name.
2. Treat all people you encounter with professionalism.
3. Inquire if it is okay that you take note of key points throughout the interview.
4. Be prepared to demonstrate a skill you say you have - if you say you speak Chinese, be prepared to
speak Chinese.
5. Be concise with your answers, but that still includes answering your questions with details. For
example, I am a team player, tell the employer a time when you've demonstrated that quality.
6. Don't pull all your answers from one place. Use the "suitcase compartment method" - imagine you
have a suitcase with five compartments and each compartment contains specific experiences. For
example: 1. current job, 2. past job, 3. community service, 4. entrepreneurial experience and 5.
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education. Now that you've identified all five compartments pull your answers from each of them
so your answers will not be mundane - but be honest!
7. Listen carefully to the interviewer and answer the question asked. A chief economist once said,
"Most of the successful people I've known are the ones who do more listening than talking."
When ending the interview, ask where the company is in the hiring cycle? When may you follow-up?
I also suggest you ask if they have any doubt in your ability to do the job. This would give them the
opportunity to have you address any concerns. Remember, it is to be expected that you talk about
your accomplishments and successes.
AFTER
1. Ask for their business card and when you are back in your car, make notes right away so you don't
forget the critical details.
2. Send a thank you note with specific details of the interview and your qualifications, email or hand-
written (more personal approach).
3. Follow up in 1-2 weeks if not given a specific time frame, as this will demonstrate your continued
interest.
4. And if you receive notice that another person was hired still send a follow-up note letting them
know you thoroughly enjoyed the interview and should another, similar position open in the future,
you would appreciate the opportunity to meet with them again.
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5.2.2 Interpersonal Skills
Interpersonal skills are the life skills we use every day to communicate and interact with other people,
both individually and in groups. People who have worked on developing strong interpersonal skills
are usually more successful in both their professional and personal lives.
Employers often seek to hire staff with 'strong interpersonal skills' - they want people who will work
well in a team and be able to communicate effectively with colleagues, customers and clients.
Interpersonal skills are not just important in the workplace, our personal and social lives can also
benefit from better interpersonal skills. People with good interpersonal skills are usually perceived as
optimistic, calm, confident and charismatic - qualities that are often endearing or appealing to others.
Through awareness of how you interact with others - and with practice - you can improve your
interpersonal skills. These help you learn and develop your interpersonal skills by providing an
extensive library of quality content.
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A List of Interpersonal Skills Includes:
i. Verbal Communication - What we say and how we say it.

ii. Non-Verbal Communication - What we communicate without words, body language is an
example.
iii. Listening Skills - How we interpret both the verbal and non-verbal messages sent by others.
iv. Negotiation - Working with others to find a mutually agreeable outcome.
v. Problem Solving - Working with others to identify, define and solve problems.
vi. Decision Making – Exploring and analyzing options to make sound decisions.
vii. Assertiveness – Communicating our values, ideas, beliefs, opinions, needs and wants freely.
viii. You Already Have Interpersonal Skills.
ix. We've all been developing our interpersonal skills since childhood - usually subconsciously.
Interpersonal Skills become so natural that we may take them for granted, never thinking about how
we communicate with other people. With a little time and effort you can develop these skills. Good
interpersonal skills can improve many aspects of your life - professionally and socially - they lead to
better understanding and relationships.
Interpersonal skills are also sometimes referred to as: social skills, people skills, soft skills,
communication skills or life skills. Although these terms can include interpersonal skills they tend to
be broader and therefore may also refer to other types of skills.
Develop Your Interpersonal Skills
There are a variety of skills that can help you to succeed in different areas of life and SkillsYouNeed
has sections covering many of these. However, the foundations for many other skills are built on
strong interpersonal skills since these are relevant to our personal relationships, social affairs and
professional lives. Without good interpersonal skills it is often more difficult to develop other
important life skills.
Unlike specialized and technical skills (hard skills), interpersonal skills (soft skills) are used every day
and in every area of our lives.
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How to Improve and Develop Interpersonal Skills
x Learn to Listen
Take time to listen carefully to what others are saying through both their verbal and non-verbal
communication.
x Choose Your Words
Be aware of the words you are using when talking to others. Could you be misunderstood or confuse
the issue? Practice clarity and learn to seek feedback to ensure your message has been understood.
Encourage others to engage in communication and use appropriate questioning to develop your
understanding.
x Understand Why Communication Fails
Communication is rarely perfect and can fail for a number of reasons.
x Relax
When we are nervous we tend to talk more quickly and therefore less clearly. Being tense is also
evident in our body language and other non-verbal communication. Instead, try to stay calm, make
eye contact and smile. Let your confidence shine.
Learn to take time to relax.
x Clarify
Show an interest in the people you talk to. Ask questions and seek clarification on any points that
could be easily misunderstood.
x Be Positive
Try to remain positive and cheerful. People are much more likely to be drawn to you if you can
maintain a positive attitude.
x Empathise
Understand that other people may have different points of view. Try to see things from their
perspective. You may learn something whilst gaining the respect and trust of others.
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5.2.3 Be Honest
Here are a few rules to follow which can help you find the balance between lying and giving away too
much information.
x Keep it clean from the outset
It's easy to get caught in a web of lies. A slight distortion of the facts on a resume may score you an
interview, but the truth will eventually come out whether it's in the interview itself, during a reference
check or when you turn up for the first day on the job and have no idea what to do. Know the
difference between dressing up the facts to make them look good and making them up altogether.
x Keep it to yourself
Do yourself a favour – if you don't get directly questioned about something that you know will require
a slightly unsavoury answer, don't just go and bring it up anyway. Only answer the questions you are
asked and if possible try to stay focused on the positives.
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x Don't try and bluff
When you are asked a direct question, like why you left your last job, don't think you can weasel your
way out a response. Answer it directly, honestly and with a smile, without losing your composure or
getting defensive. Most situations aren't the big deal many candidates perceive them to be, so if you
don't blow it out of proportion the interviewer probably won't either. Plus, professional HR types are
trained to detect a bluff from a mile off, so while you think you are pulling the wool over their eyes,
they are probably taking note of what your eyes are doing to see if you are playing by the rules.
x Be true to yourself
The last person you want to lie to is yourself. If you tell the interviewer you are keen to take the job
(salary, working hours and conditions all taken into consideration) then be prepared to live with it! If
you ramp up your qualifications or lie about your current salary to get a better starting price, you will
have to be prepared for higher expectations and heavier workloads.
x Inappropriate questions
If you are asked a question which you deem as inappropriate or discriminatory, whether it be your
age, if you have any children or your sexual preference you are within your rights not to answer. Illegal
questions are those in relation to race, disability, sex, marital status, parental status, religious or
political beliefs. Legally permitted questions are those that relate to the skills, experience and
knowledge required to do the job. A good response to an illegal question is to remain pleasant and
ask about the relevance of the information to the job. Pointing out that a question is illegal will only
put the interviewer on the defensive.
x A positive mind-set
Remember the worst thing you can possibly do is rock up to a job interview focused on your negative
points. Be proud of your experience, skills and character and use the interview as an opportunity to
show them off. By focusing on the positives, you might just slip through with minimal emphasis placed
on the negatives, without actually having to be deceptive.
56
x The Thank-You Note
On this point, everyone agreed: A thank-you note is a must. Most of the pros recommended you send
one via email within 24 hours of the interview. Several suggested a handwritten card as a supplement
when a personal or creative touch might be especially valued. But if you really want to stand out, you
need to do more than just say “thanks for your time.” The experts suggested these techniques to make
your thank-you note shine: Reference an article of interest. Include in the note a relevant article, link
or book recommendation relating to a topic that was discussed during the interview. It’s a value-add
for the interviewer and will reinforce your industry expertise.
x If You Don’t Get the Job
Should you lose out for a position you interviewed for, accept rejection in a professional manner. Sure,
it hurts to hear “No.” But if you handle the rejection professionally, you might be considered for a
future job at the same employer.
x Stay in touch
You never know when an employer might have another opening or will hear of an opening and
recommend you, so remain in contact after losing out. You might use LinkedIn to send an article, or
to reach out with a helpful suggestion.
Otherwise, you might be seen as a pest, and that’s no way to stand out among job candidates as one
of the best.
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LESSON 6
TIPS FOR INTERVIEW
58
6.1 Some Tips for Interview
x Do your research
Fail to plan, and you plan to fail. You are certain to be asked specific questions about the company, so
make sure you've done your homework on things like their last year's profits and latest product
launches. Also take a look at the latest developments in the industry so you can converse with
confidence. Find out more.
x Practice your answers
Although there is no set format that every job interview will follow, there are some questions that you
can almost guarantee will crop up. You should prepare answers to some of the most common
interview questions about your personal strengths and weaknesses, as well as being able to explain
why you would be the best person for the job.
x Look the part
Appearances shouldn't matter, but the plain fact is that you are often judged before you've even
uttered a word. Make sure your shoes are polished, your clothes fit correctly and that your accessories
are subtle. Dressing one level above the job you're applying for shows a desire to succeed. Find out
more.
x Stay calm
Good preparation is the key to staying in control. Plan your route, allowing extra time for any
unexpected delays and get everything you need to take with you ready the night before. Remember
to speak clearly, smile and remember that your interviewers are just normal people, and they may be
nervous too! Find out more.
x Ask questions
You should always have some questions for your interviewer to demonstrate your interest in the
position. Prepare a minimum of five questions, some which will give you more information about the
job and some which delve deeper into the culture and goals of the company.
59
Greet your interviewer with a smile and a firm handshake. Give eye contact. Try to make small talk
during the walk from the reception area of the interview room.
x Be prepared
Re-read your CV and the job advert just before the interview. Do your research thoroughly: Look at
the company web site or obtain literature. You may be asked about the salary you are after so make
sure you research that as well.
x Don’t waffle
Answer questions properly – even if you need a few moments’ silence to collect your thoughts.
Anderson advises, “It’s better to say you need a minute to think about your answer rather than speak
instantly and regret it afterwards.”
x Why should they hire you?
Most job adverts will list the qualities they’re looking for – a team worker, a good communicator – so
it’s up to you to think of examples of how you can demonstrate these skills. Be ready to talk about
your knowledge, experience, abilities and skills. Have at least three strong points about yourself that
you can relate to the company and job on offer.
x Be positive
Your interviewer will be thinking about what it would be like to work with you, so the last thing they’ll
want to hear is you talking about your boss or current colleagues behind their back. Interviewers like
to see someone who enjoys a challenge and is enthusiastic.
x Remember your body language
It is not what you say, but how you say it. During the interview, do not fold your arms and lean back
or look to the floor! Sit upright and try to maintain good eye contact. Use your hands and lean forward
when making a point. Many people cannot think and control their body language at the same time,
which is why you need to prepare.
60
x Expect the unexpected
Your interviewer may try to catch you off guard: A survey by OfficeAngels has revealed that 90 per
cent of employers ask ‘killer’ questions in interviews. It is impossible to plan for every difficult
question, such as “How would your colleagues describe you?” but try to appear relaxed and in control.
Ask the interviewer to repeat the question if necessary, but do not evade it.
x Develop rapport
Show energy, a sense of humour and smile. Ask your interviewer questions about themselves and any
issues the business is facing.
x Clarify anything you are unsure of
If you are not certain what are meant by a particular question, ask for clarification. At the end, ask the
interviewer if there is anything else he or she needs to know about. Do not be afraid to ask when you
are likely to hear if you have been successful or not.
x Remember your manners
It is better to choose than to be chosen. Tell the interviewer why you are interested in the company
and the job opportunity. Ask them for a business card and follow it up by sending a “thank-you” e-
mail or letter, saying how much you enjoyed meeting them and how interested you are. Take the
opportunity to detail the key advantages you bring.
61
6.2 Do’s & Don’ts During Interview
6.2.1 Do’s
Interview DOs
Dress appropriately for the industry; err on the side of being conservative to show you
take the interview seriously. Your personal grooming and cleanliness should be
impeccable.
Know the exact time and location of your interview; know how long it takes to get
there, park, find a rest room to freshen up, etc.
Arrive early; 10 minutes prior to the interview start time [or earlier if the event or
employer instructs you to do so].
Treat other people you encounter with courtesy and respect. Their opinions of you
might be solicited during hiring decisions.
Offer a firm handshake, makes eye contact, and have a friendly expression when you
are greeted by your interviewer.
Listen to be sure you understand your interviewer's name and the correct
pronunciation.
Even when your interviewer gives you a first and last name, address your interviewer
by title (Ms., Mr., Dr.) and last name, until invited to do otherwise.
Maintain good eye contact during the interview.
Sit still in your seat; avoid fidgeting and slouching.
Respond to questions and back up your statements about yourself with specific
examples whenever possible.
62
Ask for clarification if you don't understand a question.
Be thorough in your responses, while being concise in your wording.
Be honest and be yourself — your best professional self. Dishonesty gets discovered
and is grounds for withdrawing job offers and for firing. You want a good match
between yourself and your employer. If you get hired by acting like someone other
than yourself, you and your employer will both be unhappy.
Treat the interview seriously and as though you are truly interested in the employer
and the opportunity presented.
Exhibit a positive attitude. The interviewer is evaluating you as a potential co-worker.

Behave like someone you would want to work with.
Have intelligent questions prepared to ask the interviewer. Having done your research
about the employer in advance, ask questions which you did not find answered in
your research.
Evaluate the interviewer and the organization s/he represents. An interview is a two-
way street. Conduct yourself cordially and respectfully, while thinking critically about
the way you are treated and the values and priorities of the organization.
Do expect to be treated appropriately. If you believe you were treated inappropriately

or asked questions that were inappropriate or made you uncomfortable, discuss this
with a Career Services advisor or the director.
Make sure you understand the employer's next step in the hiring process; know when
and from whom you should expect to hear next. Know what action you are expected
to take next, if any.
When the interviewer concludes the interview, offer a firm handshake and make eye
contact. Depart gracefully.
63
After the interview, make notes right away so you don't forget critical details.
Write a thank-you letter to your interviewer promptly.
6.2.2 Interview DON'Ts
Don't make excuses. Take responsibility for your decisions and your actions.
Don't make negative comments about previous employers or professors (or others).
Don't falsify application materials or answers to interview questions.
Don't treat the interview casually, as if you are just shopping around or doing the
interview for practice. This is an insult to the interviewer and to the organization.
Don't give the impression that you are only interested in an organization because of
its geographic location.
Don't give the impression you are only interested in salary; don't ask about salary and
benefits issues until the subject is brought up by your interviewer.
64
Don't act as though you would take any job or are desperate for employment.
Don't make the interviewer guess what type of work you are interested in; it is not the
interviewer's job to act as a career advisor to you.
Don't be unprepared for typical interview questions. You may not be asked all of them
in every interview, but being unprepared will not help you.
A job search can be hard work and involve frustrations; don't exhibit frustrations or a
negative attitude in an interview.
Don't go to extremes with your posture; don't slouch, and don't sit rigidly on the edge
of your chair.
Don't assume that a female interviewer is "Mrs." or "Miss." Address her as "Ms."
unless told otherwise. (If she has a Ph.D. or other doctoral degree or medical degree,
use "Dr. [lastname]" just as you would with a male interviewer. Marital status of
anyone, male or female, is irrelevant to the purpose of the interview.
Don't chew gum or smell like smoke.
Don't allow your cell phone to sound during the interview. (If it does, apologize
quickly and ignore it.) Don't take a cell phone call. Don't look at a text message.
Don't take your parents, your pet (an assistance animal is not a pet in this
circumstance), spouse, fiance, friends or enemies to an interview. If you are not
grown up and independent enough to attend an interview alone, you're insufficiently
grown up and independent for a job. (They can certainly visit your new city, at their
own expense, but cannot attend your interview.)
65
6.3 Interview Questions & Sample Response
x Tell me about yourself?
Sample response: Thank you giving me an opportunity to talk about myself. My name is Valerie
Joannes. I was born and grew up at Kota Kinabalu. I matriculated last year and now I am looking
for a field where I can to commit myself with my positive attitude.
x What sort of job are you looking for?
Sample response: I am looking for the opportunity to use the skills that I have developed during
my years in marketing to engage your sales force and increase productivity and international sales.
x What appeals to you about this job?
Sample response: I like this job because it uses both skills and experience needed for this job and
the opportunity to use my skills and experience.
x Why do you think you’d be good at this job?
Sample response: I'm a hard worker. I pay attention into details and I always make sure my work
is done and accurate. I'm an eager to learn and I'm dedicated to my work, I believe that my
educational background matches with the current position am applying for, and given an
opportunity, I will prove myself to you.
x What are your strengths?
Sample response: My time management skills are excellent and I'm organized, efficient, and take
pride in excelling at my work.
x What are your weaknesses?
Sample response: Being organized wasn't my strongest point, but I implemented a time
management system that really helped my organization skills.
66
x Would you accept this job if it were offered to you?
Sample response: I'd naturally be very pleased. I am definitely very interested in this role and in
your organisation. However, before formally accepting, I would of course need to see the precise
terms of your offer so as to see how it compares to other offers I have received and I'd
subsequently need a little time to think over my various options and decide which one I should be
pursuing. It's an important decision and obviously not something I should be in a rush to make.
But, if you'd like to make me an offer, then I'll obviously give it my serious consideration.
x What do you know about this company?
Sample response: You're large and respected worldwide. You're both a clinical and teaching
hospital. Over the last 60 to 70 years you've produced award-winning research. In reviewing your
Website, I've familiarized myself with many of your corporate goals and objectives.
67
6.4 Other Common Interview Questions
x How did you hear about the position?

x Why do you want this job?
x Why should we hire you?
x What is your greatest professional achievement?
x Tell me about a challenge or conflict you've faced at work, and how you dealt with it.
x Where do you see yourself in five years?
x What's your dream job?
x What other companies are you interviewing with?
x Why are you leaving your current job?
x Why were you fired?
x What are you looking for in a new position?
x What type of work environment do you prefer?
x What's your management style?
x What time you exercised leadership?
x What time you disagreed with a decision that was made at work?
x How would your boss and co-workers describe you?
x Why was there a gap in your employment?
x Can you explain why you changed career paths?
x How do you deal with pressure or stressful situations?
x What would your first 30, 60, or 90 days look like in this role?
x What are your salary requirements?
x What do you like to do outside of work?
x If you were an animal, which one would you want to be?
x How many tennis balls can you fit into a limousine?
x Are you planning on having children?
x What do you think we could do better or differently?
x Do you have any questions for us?
68

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JOB INTERVIEW PREPARATION SKILL

4.1 Definition for Interview

4.2 Types of Interview

4.2.2 Face-to-Face Interviews

5.1 Preparation for Interviews

What is the purpose of a resume?

5.1.2 Cover Letter

EXAMPLE OF COVERING LETTER

Job as a part-time sales assistant (reference: JBW5014)

5.1.4 Document Sample

The combined format

i) Sample Chronological Resume

Key Holder, Montblanc

• Opened new specialty boutique

Sales Associate, Nordstrom - Collectors and Couture Departments

• Merchandised designer women's wear

• Provide customer service in a fast-paced bar atmosphere

ii) Functional Resume

Sample Functional Resume

Provided daily operational review/quality control of education accountability as it relates to imposed

Reduced employee turnovers, introduced two-way communication to field employees, enhanced

iii) Targeted Resume

Sample Targeted Resume

SUMMARY OF PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

x Experienced manager with expertise in human relations and project management

x Society of Human Resources Management

x Senior Management of a Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO)

x Provided program management of the largest FRS contract in Washington State.

CLINICAL DIRECTOR - Chemical Dependency Treatment Programs

x Senior Professional Human Resources (SPHR) certification course work completed

iv) Mini Resume

Mini Resume Template

First Last Name

x A mini resume lists your key achievements and skills.

Mini Resume Sample

x Certified Workforce Development Professional with 14 years experience as a Career Specialist.

v) Example Of Letter Of Recommendation

To Whom It May Concern:

Manager – Project Finances, 3M Corporation

Office: 800-555-1212 Extension 1234

vi) Example Of Reference List

West Orange, New York, 10012

Employment Reference List

Orwell Brooks Nicky Blane

Major Account Representative Supervisor – Bookkeeping

Kinder Company Tagbug Enteprises

322 4th Street 480 Main Street

Claysville, PA 15323 Hall Summit, LA 71034

Vernon Cymbeline Isadore Stacy

Facilities Manager Manager Information Systems

Kayndo Limited Centimbee Corporation

124 Washington Avenue 290 Cherry Way

Kingsland, GA 31548 Missouri Valley, IA 51555

5.1.5 Know the Company

x Call or write the organization and ask for information

5.2 Performances During & After Interviews

Think of this person as your mentor for self-confidence.

Visualize their smile and adopt it as your own style.

Practice handshake in job interviews and social situations in public.