Page 80 - Carlson School GBCC Career Guide

Closing the Interview (continued)
the position and the company is a good fit for you? Examples of
the types of questions that are appropriate include:
• What do you think the most challenging aspects of the job would be for someone with my background just starting out in the company?
• What training will I receive? How does the company develop employees for the long run?
• What do you find most satisfying about the job and the company?
• What does the company do that is different and better than its competitors?
• How will my skills fit in with the skills of the other members of the department?
• Could you tell me briefly about the people I will be working with?
• How would you describe your management style (asked to the person you will report to)?
Once you have asked your questions and the interview is coming to a close, you should prepare your “final sell” or closing to the interview. There are some general guidelines that you should follow:
• Restate your interest in the position and in the company. If possible, draw on some of the research that you’ve conducted in advance to demonstrate your knowledge of the company.
• Try to make a clear connection between what they’re looking for in an ideal candidate and what skills and experiences you have to offer.
Following Up After the Interview
Make sure you get a business card from each person you interview with for writing thank you letters after the interview. Because hiring decisions are often made very quickly, it is recommended that you follow up via email with a written thank you message within 24 hours of your interview. Some people also send a hand-written thank you note in the mail, but this
is not necessary, as email has become the preferred mode of communication for most professionals.
Stages of the Interview Process First Round or On-Campus Interviews
On-campus interviews are held at the GBCC, and will generally last between 30-60 minutes. You will usually interview with only one interviewer, but some companies will have multiple interviewers on-site, and you may meet with more than one person—either together or during back-to-back interviews.
INTERVIEWING
You should plan on arriving at the GBCC approximately 10-15 minutes early so that you have time to check in, use the restroom, and relax before your interview begins. Leave coats, backpacks, and other belongings in the coat closet, located behind the front desk. You should also avoid bringing things like water bottles or coffee into the interview, as these things can be very distracting. Your interviewer will come to the GBCC lobby to pick you up and escort you back to one of the interview rooms where the interview will take place.
If you found your opportunity via the External Job Postings on TalentLink or through other efforts, it is likely that your first round interview will take place on-site at the company. Many screening interviews may also take place via phone.
Second Round Interviews
Most interview processes will include multiple stages, so you should be prepared to have a second round interview if you are selected after your initial interview. Whereas your first interview is designed to ensure that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to excel on the job, the second round interview often gets at “fit” and how you will get along within the company. Second round interviews will generally be conducted on-site, which will allow you the opportunity to visit the company and meet with a number of other representatives. During your second round interview, you should expect to be interviewed
TIPS FOR PHONE INTERVIEWS
• Avoid cell phones and public places if possible. Find a quiet, private place for the discussion in order to help you avoid unnecessary distractions.
• Dress up even if you are doing the interview from home. You will exude more professional confidence.
• Consider conducing your interview in front of a mirror. Many people find that it helps them remember to smile, speak up, and vary their tone and inflection, which are all important non- verbals when conducing an interview over the phone.
• Organize your notes. Avoid relying too much on these, but it is fine to jot down some key points and have them in front of you during the interview.
• Don’t worry about silence as the interviewer is probably taking notes. Without the benefit of non-verbal cues, it is often tempting to fill any pauses. Don’t do it! Answer your questions concisely and if too much silence passes, ask the interviewer if he or she would like you to share more information.
• Follow up – don’t forget to send a thank you note afterwards. This will ensure you stay top of mind and it gives you an additional chance to state your fit and interest.
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