Interview Skills

Getting the Interview

	Explain the basic function of an interview
	Define a hiring manager's needs for a position
	Design a list of skills to offer to a hiring manager
	Research companies and job openings
	Get in the front door for an interview

Preparing Yourself

	Handle a request for an interview
	Put together an interview kit
	Dress appropriately for an interview

Making an Entrance

	Arrive promptly for an interview
	Make productive use of the time waiting for the interviewer to arrive
	Manage nerves
	Enter the interview confidently
	Build rapport with the interviewer

Listening & Answering

	Focus on the speaker and draw out the issues and needs that should be addressed
	Listen and respond to the speaker
	Show the skills and solutions the manager can expect
	Answer common interview questions

Taking the Reins

	Decide when to provide direction and action to an interview
	Communicate effectively with many types of interviewers
	Negotiate salary at the proper time in an interview process

Asking Questions

	Identify which questions to always ask at an interview
	Use questions that demonstrate eagerness to get the job started
	Choose questions that confirm capability for a job

Opening Interviews

	Get an informational interview with companies in the targeted industry
	Conduct an informational interview
	Demonstrate suitability in gatekeeper interviews
	Handle telephone interviews in a manner that encourages additional interviews

Tough Interviews

	Manage group and multiple interviews
	Handle computer tests
	Deal with interviews during meals
	Solve performance tests
	Handle stress interviews

Following Through

	Resolve objections that arise during an interview
	Manage follow-up interviews
	Create thank-you letters after an interview
	Follow up after an interview
	Manage a job offer and starting a new job