Preparation is the key to nailing a job interview. If you’re looking for a new job, you need to be relaxed, confident and ready for anything. Today on MoneyWise, we’ll give you some tips today on how to do that.
Well, it’s definitely a job seekers’ market these days, but you still need to be well prepared if you’re going to land that job!
APPEARANCE
Whether it’s an in-person interview or a virtual online interview, a neat and clean appearance is important. But if you’re interviewing virtually, don’t just think about YOUR appearance, consider your environment too.
Choose a setting that’s quiet so you won’t be disturbed. Make sure the background is well-organized and uncluttered. And it’s a good idea to keep any pets out of the room.
BE READY FOR THE BIG QUESTIONS
Keep in mind, interviewers don’t really want to trip you up. They ask tough, thoughtful questions hoping you’ll give a good answer.
One of the most common questions is, Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Use this question as an opportunity to show that you’re motivated to do good work and succeed. It’s okay to say you’d like to be in a different position than the one you’re applying for, maybe one that gives you more responsibility and a chance to grow professionally.
For example, perhaps your field has different levels of proficiency that require more certifications. You can talk about how you’d like to obtain them and how that extra training will help the company.
Here’s another tricky question you may be asked: "Why do you want to leave your current job?
Never say anything negative about your current employer! It will make the recruiter think you’re disloyal and ungrateful.
You might also be tempted to say that you want a shorter commute or a better health plan. But that could cause the recruiter to think you’ll probably leave this job for a similar reason. Instead, keep it positive.
Give a few reasons why your current company is a great place to work and how grateful you are for the opportunities they’ve given you. Then explain how you can provide more value to a company, but your current employer isn’t able to provide those opportunities right now. Use it to talk about your career goals and how you want to contribute more.
Next question: What’s your greatest weakness?
For this one, you always want to be honest with your answers. But there’s usually a way to be positive, even if it’s about a weakness.
For example, you might say, I sometimes tend to say yes when I should say I’m already maxed out, work-wise. But then turn it positive by showing how you’re learning to set priorities and give an example. That way you make it about your strengths.
Whatever weakness you choose to answer with, show how you’re working to overcome it.
One more question you may well encounter: Why should I hire you?
Here’s where preparation is especially important. Talk about how hiring you would be good for the company in very specific terms. To prepare for it, go over your resume and pick three things you’ve done to make an operation more efficient, or to increase revenue, or reduce overhead for your current company. Also, do some research so you’re able to point out how those skills will help the company where you’re applying.
PRAY!
Finally, the most important preparation you can do is pray. Ask the Spirit for the right words to say. Meditate on Jeremiah 29:11, 'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. And of course end with, Your will be done, Lord.
LISTENER QUESTIONS On today’s program, Rob also answers listener questions: ●When does it make sense to take advantage of credit counseling services? ●Is it okay to split a 10% tithe equally between your local church and another cause or should all of the tithe go to your local church? ●What is the wisest way to use the proceeds from a home sale? ●Is it okay for Christians to buy lottery tickets? RESOURCES MENTIONED DURING THIS PROGRAM: ●Christian Credit Counselors
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