8
Steps to mastering your Central Florida Job
Interview!
You’ve
got the interview; now find out what you need to know to make one of the most
important steps in the job searching process a success. We have the tips and
advice on how to prepare for the big moment and how to put you in control of
your own career destiny.
1. Be prepared.
The
way you prepare for an interview is the first example that shows the
interviewer how you’ll prepare for the actual job. Read the trade papers and
know what challenges are facing the employers and the industry at the moment.
Being pro-active in this crucial step will yield a large amount of benefits.
Thanks to the internet, a lot of basic information will be available at the
company’s own Website. But don’t discount the value of talking to people you
may already know who work at the company. Try to get a feel, not only for the
management style, but also for the corporate culture. With the diversity of
many Central Florida companies, this is a
critical step that is frequently overlooked.
If you are not serious about getting the job, don’t go on the interview.
2. Practice
your presentation.
Remember
the old saying, “You never have a second chance to make a first impression”? First
impressions do count so prepare to arrive early, and make sure you give
yourself enough time for traffic and parking so you can be composed, not
flustered. (If you live in Kissimmee
and the interview is in Maitland, try to schedule the interview between 10:00am
and 2:00pm to avoid traffic) Try to match your wardrobe to the personal
style of the organization, information you probably would have been able to
glean from talking to someone who works there or while visiting the site. If
you don’t know what their style is, err on the side of conservative. Pay
attention to your handshake. You should strive for something firm and assertive
without being aggressive. But the best interview tip of all is: Remember to
look your interviewer in the eyes. Good eye contact always displays confidence.
3. Make a good
impression.
It’s
up to you, the interviewee, to come with a strong sense of who you are and what
you can contribute to the company. Knowing this before you walk in the door is
essential. After some initial small talk, the interviewer will ask you questions
about you, your professional goals, and accomplishments. This is your
opportunity to let yourself shine. Make your career goals clear. Make it easy
for the interviewer to see how your s