Job interview tips (looking for any HR/MGMT people here)

[SkinsHokieFan]

EDIT: This was bumped by Disco Dave. I started this thread in 2007. I am pretty good at these things now :)


Alright bright minds of ES

Tommorow, Thursday, I have scheduled 2 interviews with some pretty decent companies in the area. Its a good chance for me to move up at either of these places and be involved in something I am more interested in

Job number 1) I already went through an intial hour long interview. It was a nice conversation, but not really an "interview" No behavorial questions, just a more formal getting to know you

Tommorow I will be interviewing with 3 people, including the VP I would be working under

Job number 2) This is my first interview at this large gov't IT contractor. I got this interview thanks to a friend who works there and he says they want to move very quickly with the position. I will be meeting with 3 people at this interview

I am just trying to get general tips. What do you look for in responses? What is a deal breaker for you? How do like someone to answer the "what is your weakness" question

Thanks!

[DoGood28]

As far as the "weakness" questions, I would recommend you say something to the effect of

"I sometimes might spend a little longer on a project to make sure that it meets my expectations and quality standards."

That's what I would say. It is a weakness but it isn't.

[SkinsHokieFan]

As far as the "weakness" questions, I would recommend you say something to the effect of

"I sometimes might spend a little longer on a project to make sure that it meets my expectations and quality standards."

That's what I would say. It is a weakness but it isn't.


I know what you are saying

I absolutley HATE that cliche response though

I hate having to say "I focus on the details too much"

Or "I take on more tasks then I need to"

Things like that. It is playing it safe, but I hate answering it that way

I'd like to say much more of "I find myself to be a constant work in progress, I would not determine anything particularly weak about myself, but I do realize I can constantly learn and improve my skills"

[PSUHeckler]

Weakness:
"I wouldn't EXACTLY say I'm a work-aholic, but unfortunately I tend to take my work home with me, or have it on my mind until I complete it to the best of my ability"

[zoony]

"I take my work home with me"


The weakness question is simply an intelligence question. No more. Don't spend too much time on it.



As for what to say and do, that is a very broad question.

THe best tip I could give you would be to be yourself and be honest. Bull**** is very easy to smell.



One of the most important things that I look for in candidates is not always whether that person is qualified to do the job (if I am interviewing them, they probably are)... but whether or not that person would be a good fit with our company's culture, and whether or not we (as a company) are a good fit for that individual.


So above all, be yourself, and be genuine. Smile a lot, and make sure you are adding energy to the interview. Make it clear you are interested in the job. Don't be arrogant, and don't give them a reason not to like you.

REmember, based on your resume, you are qualified. At this point, you are there to establish a relationship that they would be interested in furthering. Be likeable. :)

I would also ask questions at the end of the interview. Some good ones to ask are about the career-paths of the individuals conducting your interview, and questions about the culture, job expectations, and keys to success for the position/company you are interested in. Just be sure you ask them in a way that makes it clear you are genuinely interested... not just asking questions you thought might impress them or you read in an interviewing book somewhere.


.....

[skinfan2k]

a good response is that i ask too many questions

[Larry]

Don't ask if they block access to ExtremeSkins from the company computers.

[SkinsHokieFan]

"I take my work home with me"


The weakness question is simply an intelligence question. No more. Don't spend too much time on it.



As for what to say and do, that is a very broad question.

THe best tip I could give you would be to be yourself and be honest. Bull**** is very easy to smell.



One of the most important things that I look for in candidates is not always whether that person is qualified to do the job (if I am interviewing them, they probably are)... but whether or not that person would be a good fit with our company's culture, and whether or not we (as a company) are a good fit for that individual.


So above all, be yourself, and be genuine. Smile a lot, and make sure you are adding energy to the interview. Make it clear you are interested in the job. Don't be arrogant, and don't give them a reason not to like you.

REmember, based on your resume, you are qualified. At this point, you are there to establish a relationship that they would be interested in furthering. Be likeable. :)




.....


Appreciate the feedback Zoony. I generally am very honest and genuine, I have realized that is key

I really do work to establish rapport. What I worry about is saying something that is an absolute deal breaker

I know some people hate interviews, to be honest I enjoy them. Thats the attitude I am going in with tommorow

[iheartskins]

I would say that what zoony says is pretty applicable in almost all companies.

Making sure the fit is right from both sides is the key.

Also, don't be Dr. Intenso, but don't act all lackadasical either. Show personality, but don't be off-color.

Don't ask canned questions, ask questions that show that you're actually interested in the company and the area.

[zoony]

Appreciate the feedback Zoony. I generally am very honest and genuine, I have realized that is key

I really do work to establish rapport. What I worry about is saying something that is an absolute deal breaker

I know some people hate interviews, to be honest I enjoy them. Thats the attitude I am going in with tommorow



In my experience, the "deal breaker" lines are rather obvious.


You need to demonstrate that you can be charismatic and think on your feet. If your last boss was an ass-hole, don't say that. Rather, when asked why you left your last job, say that you really want to get into this particular field of work or something similar.


Don't say bad things about past work experiences. Actually, the trick to interviewing succesfully is to not say bad things at all. No matter what, spin things positively. I can't stress that enough.

The interviewer will try his/her best to ask questions that might evoke a negative response. Such as "Why did you leave your last job." or "What are your weaknesses", etc. What you'll want to do is make those POSITIVE.

Don't really say that your old (or current) boss was an ass-hole. Be appreciative of past employers. Mention that you learned a lot about "x". Speak positively about them, no matter what. When asked about your weakness, tell them (kind of laughing or smiling) that some people have accused you of being rather nit-picky/perfectionist, or that your wife gets upset with you for talking about work all the time, hahaha, etc. etc.

They might throw situational questions your way. For instance, "what would you do if you were in "x" situation". Answer in a way that doesn't narrow your options. Don't go into specifics. Mention that you would be interested in knowing more about the specific situation, and that you might try a couple of different things based on input from your co-workers/team/manager, etc. If the interviewer continues to press for a specific answer... give it to him/her. But not until you are pressed repeatedly. Whatever answer you give, though, give it with a smile on your face and give it in a manner that shows you are open to other ideas.


Inteviewers are not impressed with people who have all the answers. By and large, organizations are going to be looking for someone who can function as part of a team, but when pressed can make a decision. If you come across as having all the answers... while you might think you are doing well in the interview, chances are equal that you're coming off as an arrogant blow-hard who would have trouble functioning in a team environment.

[HOF44]

I always hated the HR interview process. The best jobs I ever landed where through meeting people in the company through friends/family and getting to bypass the HR part of the interview. You just went by there to fill out the forms. You only interviewed with whomever would be your direct supervisor.

[ZoEd]

I was given some advice by a retired Colonel I used to work for.

He said when they ask how much money you're looking to make don't give them a $$ figure. In return ask them how much are you willing to pay someone who's going to show up on time, be a team player, make hard decisons and not steal from you. He said typically they come back with a figure that's pretty close to the max they're willing to pay.

He was referencing applying for a Foreman or Superintindent position in construction but I'm sure you could apply the same tactics to whatever job you're interviewing for. He also told me don't lowball because it shows them that you're afraid to ask for what your worth.

[GSF]

Be honest, concise, positive, and enthusiastic. Do NOT exagerate or embelish, good interviewers spot bull**** from a mile a way. Look them in the eye, smile, and be yourself.

[verneukery]

pay attention to the workers' little quircks, these i find are important.. things such as nervous movement is something i try to pick up on. good luck :)

[aszumilo]

Remain calm. Nervous tendacies will make them think that you might buckle under pressure. Keep your answers short and neat, do not "ramble" on. Most often when I interview people and they do not know the correct answer, they start elaborating. Often times they get farther from the answer and that makes them look incompetent. By keeping answers fairly short you will seem more in control. Let them make you elaborate on your answers. Do not be afraid to ask them questions, especially on details of the company. It may make them think that you have more of an interest in them than just a paycheck.

[Chump Bailey]

As far as the "weakness" questions, I would recommend you say something to the effect of

"I sometimes might spend a little longer on a project to make sure that it meets my expectations and quality standards."

That's what I would say. It is a weakness but it isn't.


Trust me - don't say that...

They're looking for honest answers...

[Chump Bailey]

Remain calm. Nervous tendacies will make them think that you might buckle under pressure. Keep your answers short and neat, do not "ramble" on. Most often when I interview people and they do not know the correct answer, they start elaborating. Often times they get farther from the answer and that makes them look incompetent. By keeping answers fairly short you will seem more in control. Let them make you elaborate on your answers. Do not be afraid to ask them questions, especially on details of the company. It may make them think that you have more of an interest in them than just a paycheck.


I take a drug cocktail of Inderal to quell any anxiety along with the nootropic drugs Aniracetam and Deprenyl for exactly such purposes. Works very well.

[jbooma]

I am just trying to get general tips. What do you look for in responses? What is a deal breaker for you? How do like someone to answer the "what is your weakness" question

Thanks!

Be yourself, and when that question is asked be honest if this is an IT position lets say maybe your weakness is programming etc.... Whatever you say do not say I have no weaknesses, everyone knows that is BS.

You can tell how good an interview is going by the type of questions and how personable they get.

What type of a position is it so I can give you more advice?

Good Luck :cheers:

[portisizzle]

My favorite interview question...


What is more important to you, making money or enjoying your job.


How would you guys answer my question? :)

[jbooma]

My favorite interview question...


What is more important to you, making money or enjoying your job.


How would you guys answer my question? :)

enjoying your job while making money :laugh: :laugh:

[SkinsHokieFan]

Be yourself, and when that question is asked be honest if this is an IT position lets say maybe your weakness is programming etc.... Whatever you say do not say I have no weaknesses, everyone knows that is BS.

You can tell how good an interview is going by the type of questions and how personable they get.

What type of a position is it so I can give you more advice?

Good Luck :cheers:


Both positions are financial analyst positions. One is much more internal financial analysis, while the other position is financial analysis of projects (this would be for a large local gov't contractor)

[SkinsHokieFan]

Thanks for the help guys, it looks like I am going to be offered one of the jobs

I have the 2nd interview at 3 pm today, wish me luck

[CaptChaos86]

In school i had a class just on interview skills. Its really easy you just have to be cool, and make sure you know what your talking about. If they ask about something your not sure about dont make up any kind of BS because they will know your lying. Also just make eye contact, give a firm handshake, and its up to you to lighten the mood. An interview will be what you make it. Also if they have any pictures or anything on their desk ask them about it. Make casual conversation. I personally have never been turned down for a job and i just got promoted a few weeks ago and have only been with the company 8 months. So it works. Well good luck and hope it all works out for you.

[Disco Dave]

I have a huge interview at 10 A. M. tomorrow. It's a job that I would work until I am no longer able to work. (old age)

Wish me luck!!! I really need this job!!!

HTTR,

Dave

[Predicto]

Thanks for the help guys, it looks like I am going to be offered one of the jobs

I have the 2nd interview at 3 pm today, wish me luck

The sharia inflitration of the government continues, just like Victoria Jackson warned us! Run for the hills!

---------- Post added January-9th-2012 at 07:22 PM ----------


I have a huge interview at 10 A. M. tomorrow. It's a job that I would work until I am no longer able to work. (old age)

Wish me luck!!! I really need this job!!!

HTTR,

Dave

Kick some azz!

[RichmondRedskin88]

Job interview for Dummies. No seriously get it.

[wantarace17]

Its funny I am normally on the end of giving the interview but Thursday I will be interviewing with Palantir Technologies. I am little intimidated because of the type of people who work there but my friend who is a SA there said just to be humble and talk about what you do.

[royallypwned]

My biggest weakness is your smile.

[ixcuincle]

Good luck sir

[The Mayor of Fed Ex Field]

Just be yourself. The worst thing is to act any different than you really are and they find that out, your first week there.

I have hired people that have aced their interview with me, only to find out they are not as advertised, soon thereafter.

Im sure I have passed on someone also, who acted different to the point I didnt hire them.

Show then the SkinsHokieFan they will see every day. You have good people skills (iv'e met you) and seem to be well educated.

[Burgold]

I think my most successful answer to the "What is your weakness" question was...

I'm a bad dancer. Made the interviewer laugh. To me, that's usually a good thing if you have the knack for it. Make it as human an interaction as possible. Make them think you would be not only be great at the job, but a great guy to work with because you will be living with each other five days a week for at least 8 hours a day.

Don't forget to be the person while being the candidate.

[Chump Bailey]

I always hated the HR interview process. The best jobs I ever landed where through meeting people in the company through friends/family and getting to bypass the HR part of the interview. You just went by there to fill out the forms. You only interviewed with whomever would be your direct supervisor.

HR people are essentially useless IMO and they should have zero part of the hiring process. Their role should strictly be benefits and managers as mediators for conflicts.

[SkinsHokieFan]

Wow this brings up some memories. This interview thread, which helped get me a job with a large IT contractor back in 2007, literally changed my life and my income potential. I am way up the ladder now as I make more then double what this position offered me in 2007 and have access to the highest levels of my current company. Now I am the one who is doing the interviewing #notsohumblebrag

Nearly 5 years later- THANKS!

[gbear]

Have a narative of your life in your mind. I'm not saying to tell them the narative, but just remember who you are. Like for me, I am a dad. I am also a manager whose has had every employee under him leave for promotion or retirement. I am a teacher of skill and critical thinking. That type of thing tends to go over fairly well.

[heyholetsgogrant]

HR people are essentially useless IMO and they should have zero part of the hiring process. Their role should strictly be benefits and managers as mediators for conflicts.

In my job search process, I have found a few of them to have big heads.

[Thiebear]

Show up early incase of crazy traffic.
Show up dressed to impress (IT guys) normally look like they are in their dads suit, but i don't care i like that your trying. dockers and polo are for a job you already have.
Smile and make eye contact
Positivity in answering questions, turn a negative statement into a "question".
I have a list of your average TQ(technical quesitons) and BQ(behavioral questions) we have to ask every person to ensure it is autidable by EO/HR.
Your competence will come through during the answers: Dont Bull the person that does this for a living, we know you don't know some of this

(just be better than the last guy that was late).

[Elessar78]

In case anyone is looking for an actual job: http://jobview.monster.com/Wet-Wound-Design-Pump-Engineer-Job-Cheswick-PA-105271614.aspx

[Kilmer17]

It doesnt matter what you say when asked what your biggest weakness is.

Without prompting, I look for a person to able to A- tell me what their weakness(es) are and more important B- tell me what you are doing to fix it.

[China]

Managers to Millennials: Job Interview No Time to Text (http://www.cnbc.com/id/100684583)

Newly minted college graduates soon entering the job market could be facing another hurdle besides high unemployment and a sluggish economy. Hiring managers say many perform poorly—sometimes even bizarrely—in job interviews.

Human resource professionals say they've seen recent college grads text or take calls in interviews, dress inappropriately, use slang or overly casual language, and exhibit other oddball behavior.

"It's behavior that may be completely appropriate outside the interview," says Jaime Fall, vice president of the HR Policy Association. "The interview is still a traditional environment."

Fall and other HR executives say such quirks have become more commonplace the past three years or so, and are displayed by about one in five recent grads. They're prompting recruiters to rule out otherwise qualified candidates for entry-level positions and delay hiring decisions.

Click on the link for the full article

[renaissance]

We did 5 interviews over the last 2 weeks. 2 people were late. The 2nd was late bc they were "lost" but didn't call to say they were lost until the time the interview was supposed to start.