Helpful Tips

Visit us each month for some helpful tips on making your job search or current employment successful.

Interviewing is a Two-Way Street
By Mary Bauer, Career Development Specialist
Arizona Women’s Education & Employment (AWEE)

Ever been so nervous at an interview that you gave answers that you later regretted or even forgot totally what you answered? Are you getting interviews, but not offers? It’s time to review the interview process, your answers, and your attitude.

The interview process is an opportunity for both the employer and potential employee to determine if there is a “good fit.” As the potential employee, you will want to observe the workplace environment & dynamics. What is the atmosphere? Is it calm or hectic, friendly or reserved? Are the employees smiling? Do you feel comfortable in the setting? Is the environment a good match for you? At the end of the interview you will have an opportunity to ask questions. Make good use of this time. Not only will you want to clarify the wages and benefits but also find out what a typical work day would be like in your position.

Employers in turn want to learn about you and if you are a”good fit” with their environment as well as the other employees. The most commonly asked question is “Tell me about yourself." Prepare a quick summary of your skills, experience and how you are a good match for the job. Do not delve into personal issues. Many interview questions are meant to really get to know you and are behaviorally based. You will want to have examples from your experience to reply to these questions. Have ready to provide examples of how you worked in a team or resolved a conflict with a fellow employee. Always turn a negative answer into a positive one and never talk badly about a past employer. They will be accessing your appearance as well, so be neat and clean and dress appropriately.

The keys to a successful interview are being yourself, giving open, honest concise answers and taking the opportunity to observe. Remember they are interviewing you, but you are also interviewing them. It’s a 2-Way street. Enjoy this discovery process as every interview is a learning experience. It is not about right and wrong answers, it is about finding a “good fit.”

Contact AWEE today to learn how we can support your search for employment, a new career or expanded educational opportunities.