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This article
describes the structure of a Job Interview.
Before receiving
a job offer from an employer, you will typically have a series of
interviews.
The first interview is a screening interview conducted either over
the phone or at the employer’s office. On-campus interviews are
considered screening interviews. Screening interviews are brief,
usually lasting 30-60 minutes. During that time, the employer will
want you to elaborate on experiences and skills outlined in your
résumé.
Many employers use the screening interview as a chance to
describe the organization and the position. If the employer is
impressed with your performance in this interview, you will be
invited to a second (and perhaps third or fourth) interview. The
second interview is longer, lasting anywhere from two hours to a
whole day. It could include a variety of questions, some form of
testing, lunch or dinner, a tour, as well as a series of interviews
with various employees. You should come away from the second
interview with a thorough understanding of the organization's
culture and environment, job responsibilities, and have enough
information to decide on a job offer - if one is extended.
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The Warm-Up
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Each interview follows a
rather predictable pattern of warm-up, information exchange, and
wrap-up conversations. During the first few minutes of the interview
(the warm-up), an employer will be formulating a first, lasting,
impression of you. The way you greet the employer, the firmness of
your handshake, and the way you are dressed, will all be a part of
this initial impression. An interviewer may begin by asking
common-ground questions about shared interests, the weather, or your
travel to the interview. Some interviewers might start by saying
"Tell me about yourself." This is an opening for you to briefly and
concisely describe your background, skills, and interest in the
position.
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The Information
Exchange
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The information exchange
will be the primary part of the interview. This is when you will be
asked the most questions and learn the most about the employer. In
screening interviews, many employers will spend more time describing
their opportunities than asking you specific questions. The reverse
will be true in second interviews. Interview questions may range
from "Why did you choose to pursue a business degree?" to "What are
your strengths/weaknesses?" and "What are your long-range career
goals?" If you are prepared for the interview, you will be able to
emphasize your qualifications effectively as you respond to each
question. By practicing for interviews, you will gain confidence and
have more polished answers.
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The Wrap-up
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Eventually the employer
will probably say, "Do you have any questions?" This is your cue
that the interview is moving to the wrap-up stage. Always ask
questions. This demonstrates your research and interest in the job.
Your questions might be direct, logistical questions such as, "When
can I expect to hear from you?" (if that has not been discussed);
questions to clarify information the employer has presented; a
question regarding the employer's use of new technology or practices
related to the career field; or a question to assess the culture and
direction of the organization such as "Where is this organization
headed in the next five years?" or "Why do you like working for this
organization?" Do not ask specific questions about salary or
benefits unless the employer broaches the subject first. The
employer may also ask you if you have anything else you would like
to add or say. Again, it's best to have a response. You can use this
opportunity to thank the employer for the interview, summarize your
qualifications, and reiterate your interest in the position. If you
want to add information or emphasize a point made earlier, you can
do that, too. This last impression is almost as important as the
first impression and will add to the substance discussed during the
information exchange.
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