Keys to Successful Interviewing Part 2/First Day on the Job

Today was my first day temping. Whew. I went in at 8:30 this morning and filled out an application then got the run through of my duties. At first it was pretty overwhelming. But after I got back from lunch it went a little better.

My fine moment of the day is when I answered the phone. "hello. oh uh buh wait, Faculty Administration!" haha but luckily it was someone I knew and they knew I was new. Everyone was very nice and accommodating. So Hurrah! for a very successful first day at my new job :)

Now on to Keys to Successful Interviewing Part 2! (Info compiled by John Denio, Bryant University '04)

The Interview

Before the Interview:
-Take copies of your resume, list of references and your notes.
-Be on time, early is even better.
-Know the interviewer's name (how to spell and pronounce it) and title.
-Remember to be courteous to all personnel you meet. Good manners make a good impression

During the Interview
-Begin on a positive note, firm handshake, smile, and eye contact
-Be aware of your non-verbal attitudes, alert posture, eye contact, facial expressions, body language, and demeanor
-Allow the interviewer to lead the interview
-Be responsive to interviewer's questions; avoid short answers. The interviewer wants to know about you
-Be sure to bring up your assets and skills. Sell your strong points
-Wait for the interviewer to discuss salary and benefits
-Let your interest and enthusiasm show!

Closing the Interview
-Take the cue from the interviewer; do not prolong the leave-taking
-Ask what the next step will be in the employment process for this job
-Thank the interviewer for his/her time
-Close on a positive note, firm handshake, smile, and eye contact


That it's for during the interview. The only thing I would add to this is that you should have prepared questions for the interviewer, and hopefully they'll ask you if you have any. If they don't, towards the end of the interview say that you have some questions for them if they don't mind. I'll get more into what kind of question on another post. Look for the After the Interview points next post.


Have a great day :)