Calvary Chapel South Bay Job Seekers Ministry

The Interview

You are not alone. Interviewing is intimidating and nerve wracking. The secret of the interview process is being confident. We have prepared a few questions for you to get familiar with. Review these questions and practice answering them in front of a mirror, or preferably, in front of other people. You can only achieve confidence by being prepared. Before the day of your interview prepare all the materials needed for your interview, including your clothing. Go to bed early and get a good nights rest. Leave home with plenty of time to arrive to your interview (take into consideration traffic, distance, accidents on the road, etc.). If for any unforeseen reason you will not make it on time, “CALL” and let your interviewer know of the predicament and reschedule your appointment preferably for a later time. Your first impression is critical.

Interview Questions from the Interviewer

 Why are you applying at our company?  Why did you leave your last job?  What did you like the most about your last job?  What did you like the least about your last job?  What makes you a good candidate for this position?  Give me examples of how you would handle X situation or problem.  What will your previous supervisor will tell me about you when I call for references?  Do you have any questions regarding the position you are applying for?  Do you have any questions regarding our company?  What do you expect from (company) as your employer?  What are some of the things you and your supervisor have disagreed on?  Tell me about the last time you were disciplined at your previous job?  Did you think it was a fair decision?  What corrective actions did you apply, if any?  What do you consider your most significant weaknesses?  What do you consider your most significant strengths?  What are your biggest accomplishments?  How do you accept criticism?  What is the most difficult situation you have faced?  What are some of the things that bother you?  Do you prefer working with others or alone  How do you get along with different types of people?  Can you give me an example of a project that didn’t work out well?

Questions you might want to ask your potential employer

 How would you describe the responsibilities of the position?  How would you describe a typical week/day in this position?  Is this a new position? If not, what did the previous employee go on to do?  What is the company's management style?  Who does this position report to? If I am offered the position, can I meet him/her?  How many people work in this office/department?  How much travel is expected?  Is relocation a possibility?  What is the typical work week? Is overtime expected?  What are the prospects for growth and advancement?  How does someone advance within the company?  Are there any examples?  What do you like about working here?  Would you like a list of references?  If I am extended a job offer, how soon would you like me to start?  When can I expect to hear from you?  Are there any other questions I can answer for you?

Interview Questions NOT to Ask

 What does this company do? (Do your research ahead of time!)  If I get the job when can I take time off for vacation? (Wait until you get the offer to mention prior commitments)  Can I change my schedule if I get the job? (If you need to figure out the logistics of getting to work don't mention it now...)  Did I get the job? (Don't be impatient. They'll let you know.) Calvary Chapel South Bay Job Seekers Ministry

Phone interview

Employers use telephone interview as a way of identifying and recruiting candidates for employment. Phone interviews are often used to screen candidates in order to narrow the pool of applicants who will be invited for in-person interviews. They are also used as way to minimize the expenses involved in interviewing out-of-town candidates.

While you're actively job searching, it's important to be prepared for a phone interview on a moment's notice. You never know when a recruiter or a networking contact might call and ask if you have a few minutes to talk.

Be Prepared to Interview

Prepare for a phone interview just as you would for a regular interview. Compile a list of your strengths and weaknesses, as well as a list of answers to typical phone interview questions. In addition, plan on being prepared for a phone conversation about your background and skills.

 If you have a voice mail, be sure it is set up with a clear and courteous greeting or message.  Keep your resume in clear view, on the top of your desk, or tape it to the wall near the phone, so it's at your fingertips when you need to answer questions.  Have a short list of your accomplishments available to review.  Have a pen and paper handy for note taking.  Turn call-waiting off so your call isn't interrupted.  If the time isn't convenient, ask if you could talk at another time and suggest some alternatives.  Clear the room - evict the kids and the pets. Turn off the stereo and the TV. Close the door.  Unless you're sure your cell phone service is going to be perfect, consider using a landline rather than your cell phone to avoid a dropped call or static on the line. Practice Interviewing

Talking on the phone isn't as easy as it seems. I've always found it's helpful to practice. Have a friend or family member conduct a mock interview and tape record it so you can see how you sound over the phone. Any cassette recorder will work. You'll be able to hear your "ums" and "uhs" and "okays" and you can practice reducing them from your conversational speech. Also rehearse answers to the typical questions you'll be asked.

During the Phone Interview

 Don't smoke, chew gum, eat, or drink.  Keep a glass of water handy, in case you need to wet your mouth.  Smile. Smiling will project a positive image to the listener and will change the tone of your voice.  Speak slowly and enunciate clearly.  Use the person's title (Mr. or Ms. and their last name.) Only use a first name if they ask you to.  Don't interrupt the interviewer.  Take your time - it's perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to collect your thoughts.  Give short answers.  Remember your goal is to set-up a face-to-face interview. After you thank the interviewer, ask if it would be possible to meet in person.

After the Interview

 Take notes about what you were asked and how you answered.  Remember to say "thank you." Follow up with a thank you note which reiterates your interest in the job.