Interview Protocol

James Kent • March 24, 2016
James Kent • March 24, 2016

Interview Protocol

• Do your homework on the company; from your recruiter, web site, & “Google”.

• Arrive early, at least 10 minutes early. Make certain you know the location prior to your interview. Take no chances on being late. “MapQuest” if necessary.

• Dress accordingly, you’re a professional. Remember the rule; “First impression is the lasting impression.” Ask your recruiter if in doubt. Business casual is normal.

• Shake hands firmly with good eye contact. Speak clearly and distinctly.

• Sit erect in the chair and lean forward slightly.

• When asked the question, “Tell us about yourself”. Don’t do the wife and kids routine, stay with your accomplishments in previous positions. Let them ask about your family if they want personal information on the first interview.

• Stay with the basics on what you bring to the table.

• Have writing material with at least 6 questions to ask during the interview

Suggested Questions:

o Ask what your responsibilities will be. Is there a formal job description?

o Ask how they will measure the success for the position

o Ask if this is new position if not, who has been doing the job

o What kinds of projects would I be expected to complete and in what time frame?

o How do you think I could help you in this position?

o What would my first assignments here look like?

o What direction is your department taking? Your company?

o What are some of the greatest challenges in this position? Are there problems that currently exist?

o How does this position fit into that direction?

o If I meet and exceed your expectations, where could this position lead?

Make notes of who you meet.

• No negative conversations during the interview process. NEVER “bad mouth” prior employers or supervisors.

• Do not talk money. When asked, tell them what you are making and then tell them that you will consider any reasonable offer.

• If you’re interested in the position – tell them so. Ask what the next step is in the hiring process.

• Be sure to call your recruiter within 1 hour after your interview. It is not uncommon for the hiring manager to call the recruiter for feedback. Be sure to do this.

Additional questions to consider asking if you feel comfortable

1. What are the traits of the successful reps within your organization?

2. What are some of the challenges you see this person being faced with?

3. What are the expectations of this position?

4. What attracted you to this company?

Ask the interviewer:(Get Personal)

1. When you made the move to come here, what was the most compelling reason?

2. What keeps you here?

3. I'm looking for a leader who I can believe in and whose coattails I can ride. Tell me your ambitions.

4. What do I have to do to get your job?

5. (End of interview) Do I have your vote? Are you going to recommend I be considered?

(Reality Check Questions)

6. You're not hiring because everything is wonderful. What are the problems that need solving?

7. Carpe Diem...companies hire short term solutions to short term problems. How can I stand out in the next 60 days?

8. I'm happy to give you references, are there people here or at some other company that I can talk to about you?

9. Profile your top performer for me. What does he/she do that makes him/her so much better?

10. When it comes to work, what keeps you up at night?

Most important – be sure to call the hiring manager and thank them for the interview.

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