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What you need to know to have a great interview experience......

Interviews

Interviewing can be quite the daunting experience, especially if you have not done this in a while. The main thing I feel that you need to remember is to make sure you have all your bases covered. Here are a few tips that may help you out.

1) Know what is on your resume

You are going to possibly be asked extensive questions about your resume, it's a good idea to be ready to talk about everything you have listed. If you say you have experience with something, be prepared to talk about it in detail.

2) Know the company that is interviewing you.

Do your homework - read up on the people and company interviewing you, this shows you have a sincere interest in that company.

3) Have a clear understanding of the position

Do everything in your power to research every faceted skill needed for the position you are targeting. If there is one skill you may be weak on, study up on that skill, especially if you might have a technical quiz or test during the interview.

4) Make the interviewer want to choose you

From the very start of the interview, when you have the "Tell me something about your background" moment, hook the interviewer by talking about key points of your background that could possibly make you stand out, you really want this person to not only like you, but to want to hire and work with you. It's also a good idea to know more about the person interviewing you, ask questions and be prepared by having at least four good questions for the interviewer ("What is the greatest challenge you are facing at the moment?")

5) Don't talk about bad work experiences

Many interviewers will ask about the worst situation you encountered, and how you handled it. Be prepared to talk about this situation, but do not expand on the negative, steer to the positive. Even if the outcome was not positive, describe the situation optimistically. Keep that optimism throughout the interview.

6) Always thank the person for taking time out to visit with you

Yes, this should go without saying, but keep in mind, this person may have tons of work to do, but they were chosen to take the time to speak with you. Make certain to acknowledge this at the end of the interview.

Good luck and remember, if you are not chosen for the position, there is still one out there looking for you!

If you have comments or feedback about any article, please email your thoughts to info@acp-advisornet.org.

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