Recap of interviewing techniques workshop

Interviews are generally an aspect of the job application process that scare people the most. But the good news is, interviewing is a skill that can be ​acquired and improved upon. Below are some highlights from my recent workshop on acing non-academic job interviews.

Consider these three elements to be the goals of your interview:

1. Demonstrate your ability to succeed. In other words, ​show how you were previously successful and make it obvious how you would be successful in the new position.
2. Show interest in the position. It is important not to assume this is a given just because you are interviewing. Be sure to convey your interest out loud.
3. Show you fit into the organization. This is the toughest part because you have the least control over this and often don't know the whole backstory of what the company is looking for. The best way to succeed is to do your research on the company to get the clearest sense of what they are looking for. Convey what makes your qualifications unique and a good fit for the position.

Spend time prepping for your interview by doing research in the following places:

• Position: job description and any connections you may have
• Employer: know the website, mission statement, LinkedIn profile
• Industry: know competitors, current trends, the state of affairs
• Yourself: know your resume, related experiences, be able to express your goals and skills

Practice, practice, practice!

• Look at UCSB's Career Services website, then search for "practice questions" to get a good sampling of questions that may be asked
• Consider coming in to do a mock interview with me
• Be prepared to ask the employer questions and have three to five questions ready. Ask questions that further convey your interest in the position and surrounding areas. Avoid questions about benefits. I also suggest checking how questions sound before you ask them in your interview. Good questions get at what your position will entail, how the company has overcome difficulties in your position, and those related to your work environment.

When responding the questions, consider using the STAR method. The STAR method is a great way to answer questions that require you to give evidence behind a question. This is the best way to answer questions that start with "tell me about a time you...."

• Situation: Detail the background by providing context. Answer when and where the event took place.
• Task: Describe the challenge and expectations. Answer what needed to be done and why did you choose to do it in that way.
• Action: Elaborate your specific action. Answer what you did, how you did it and what means you used.
• Results: Explain the results of your efforts. Mention the accomplishments, recognition, savings, and outcomes of what happened.

For more detailed information on how to be successful in an interview, feel free to come meet with ​me or attend this workshop in an upcoming quarter! Call 805-893-4412 to schedule an appointment with me.