10 Tips to Acing a Job Interview

      Landing a job that pays what you’re worth in today’s marketplace is a multi-step process. It could take days, perhaps weeks (or longer). Be patient. After you pinpoint a handful of job openings you’re qualified for and create an attention-getting resume and cover letter, hopefully you’ll be invited to participate in one or more job interviews.

Depending on the position, your interview might be conducted in-person, over the telephone or as part of a group. You should also be prepared for several people to interview you. Regardless of the job interview setting, there are specific things you can do to properly prepare for the interview.

SOME TOPICS SHOULD NOT BE DISCUSSED  

During your job interviews, there are certain topics -- such as your recent divorce or the fact that you’re now raising your children or teens as a single parent -- that should be avoided, at least initially. Providing too much personal information could jeopardize your chances of getting hired.
 
“As difficult as it may be, be sure to separate the personal from the professional when interviewing for a new job. Your feelings of anger and insecurity are understandable, but the fact remains that potential employers really don’t want to hear about your personal challenges. Instead, keep your personal life personal, and focus on impressing the potential employer by emphasizing the contributions you can make to the future success of their organization,” explained Nancy Collamer, career coach, founder of www.jobsandmoms.com, and creator of "The Back-to-Work-Toolkit: A Guide for Comeback Moms."

Also, if you’re returning to work after an extended absence, you'll need to account for the gaps between jobs (the time you spent at home raising your kids or being a homemaker, for example). Plus, if you’re now a single parent, you’ll need to assure the interviewer(s) in no uncertain terms that your parental responsibilities will not jeopardize your ability to meet the requirements of the position.       

“When asked about your decision to stay home with your children, be upbeat and positive. Use phrases like ‘I elected’ or ‘I chose’ to emphasize that your decision to stay home was planned and deliberate, not just a default position. Explain that you feel fortunate to have been able to be home with your children while they were young; emphasize that you have gained valuable skills during this time period; and then quickly steer the focus of the discussion back to your interest in the job,” said Collamer.       

During your interviews, never get defensive about your past. “Whatever you do, never apologize for your decision to stay home or make excuses about why you didn’t return to work earlier.  If you feel good about the choice you made, the interviewer will appreciate your comfort and conviction.  Employers want to hire people with positive attitudes who demonstrate confidence in their choices,” added Collamer.    

The good news is that employers have become family-friendly and understand the unique needs of a single parent. Your first goal should be to pinpoint these potential employers. "Working Mother" magazine, for example, publishes an annual list of the top 100 family-friendly employers in America.       

For someone who is returning to work after an extended absence, instead of focusing on your employment history, focus specifically on your skills and qualifications. Any experiences that have allowed you to develop and hone your skills (as they relate to the job you’re applying for) should be highlighted for potential employers, including volunteer work, part-time jobs, past employment, internships and other life experiences you’ve had.


10 JOB INTERVIEW STEPS

Try to schedule all job interviews at least 24 to 48-hours in advance. This will give you ample time to get ready. Regardless of how experienced you are participating in job interviews, you’ll want to prepare for each interview separately. Your preparation should include the following 10 steps:  

1. Get the facts.
Obtain the name and job title of the person you’ll be interviewing with, as well as the address where the interview will be held. Determine how you’ll get to the interview and arrive at least 15 minutes early. Never be late for an interview. 

2. Do some research.
Learn as much about the company as possible, including what challenges it’s facing, how it’s performed recently and who its primary competition is. The Internet is a powerful research tool. If the potential employer is publicly traded, read a copy of its annual report. 

3. Learn about the job opening.
Know what your responsibilities might entail, plus what qualifications and skills the employer is specifically looking for in applicants. This information is usually described in a ‘Help Wanted’ ad, or within a job description. Showcase yourself as the ideal applicant.

4. Determine your presentation.
Figure out how you’ll present yourself during the interview. Your appearance and wardrobe should be consistent with the people currently working for the employer. 

5. Anticipate the questions.
Prepare well-thought-out responses. Almost every employer will ask, “What made you apply for this job?” They’ll also make statements like, “So, tell me about yourself.” 

6. Put a positive spin on any negatives.
Decide what you plan to say about negative information in your employment history, such as gaps in employment. If you come off as someone with personal problems, who is distracted by your family, or someone going through a lot of emotional turmoil as a result of your divorce, this will negatively impact your chances of getting hired. 

7. Ask some questions.
Prepare a list of relevant questions you can ask the employer during the interview that will showcase your knowledge and interest in the job. 

8. Never ask about salary, benefits or vacation time.
Ask these questions only after you've received a job offer. 

9. Bring copies.
Gather copies of your resume, research materials and other items that you’ll bring into the interview. 

10. Participate in a mock interview,
Actually participate in a mock interview with a career counselor, friend or relative who will be able to help prepare you for the actual interview. The more you rehearse and prepare, the more relaxed and confident you’ll ultimately be.