"Boning Up" on Job Interview Skills

 

With the unemployment rate continuing to hover around 9% and the country still suffering the effects of the economic downturn, this is a very good time to extend some job interviewing tips... First, always arrive early and make sure you make a good first impression.

With so many people out of work and so much competition, make sure you remain eager and energetic... Be prepared to prove that you can handle any task, even some duties you may have never done in previous jobs.

 

If the task seems unusual to you, don't let your interviewer know that you're confused or seemingly unwilling to do what is being asked... Studies show that 10% of the population may be willing to do these type of things, eliminating you from consideration altogether unless you will too.

Show that you have the balls to grab an opportunity with your teeth and advance to the next level in the evaluation process, and that you are able to handle the biggest of projects with ease.

 

If your interviewer starts to point at misgivings in your resume and skills, just suck it up and follow his lead... Do your best to show what you really can do to succeed.

If the discussion turns to dress code, let your interviewer know quickly how willing you are to be a team player and that you can adapt to any clothing or uniform requirement.

Of course, with today's casual office environment, that may mean you will not need to worry at all about a jacket or tie.

Be aware that many companies also require a pre-employment medical exam as a requirement for getting hired, so remain open, allow for plenty of time and be sure you're relaxed, ready and presentable, inside and out.

And depending on the position you seek or find yourself in, you may be required to come in contact with potentially hazardous liquids, and they may test you at the interview to see how well you can perform in stressful situations... But don't worry. With some experience and fortitude, your natural instincts will take over and you'll know exactly what to do when faced with any physical or oral test.



So if you're job hunting, good luck with your search. Remember that any job interview can be a valuable learning experience... To review anything covered here, go to the ButterLoads site. They have many more valuable and enjoyable audio-visuals.

[BTW – I happen to be looking for a new job or consulting project myself... mainly in the Washington-Baltimore area, but I'll consider offers from elsewhere too. Check out my career and freelance abilities in writing, publicity, marketing and communications. Or just email me to request more information.]