This document provides tips and guidance for job interviews and the hiring process. It discusses preparing for an interview by researching the company and job, practicing common interview questions, and ensuring professional social media profiles. During the interview, it recommends dressing professionally, being enthusiastic, relating skills to the job, and asking questions. Follow-up steps include sending a thank you note, evaluating your performance, and contacting references if needed. The overall document outlines best practices for maximizing success at each stage of the interview and hiring process.

1. How to Land the Job You Want:
The Interview and Beyond
Career Development
Shawnee State University

2. Learning Outcomes

Preparing for the interview

During the interview

Following up after an interview

3. Preparing for the Interview

Your life online

Conduct extensive research

Practice, practice, practice

4. Your Life Online
Facebook
Twitter
Other social media

5. Conducting Research
Learn as much as you can about the job
Research the company and its competition
The internet is your best research tool

6. Practice, Practice, Practice
Role play
Speak clearly and not too fast
Remain attentive and eager to listen

7. The Interview
Look good and dress for the culture
Bring your career portfolio
Arrive early
Don’t bring your cell phone
Offer a firm handshake
Use proper, comfortable posture
Be aware of your body language

8. Sell Yourself
Be enthusiastic
Explain your qualifications
Relate your experience
Maintain a positive attitude
Make good eye contact
Ask questions

9. Common Interview Questions
Tell me about yourself.
What is your greatest weakness?
What are your long-term goals?
Why do you want to work for us?
Why should I hire you?
Do you have any questions?

10. What Employers Look For
Your dependability
Your experience
Good communication skills
Your knowledge of the company and job
How well you get along with others
If you project a positive image
How well you handle challenges

11. Interview Tips
Keep your answers brief, but thorough
Use examples to illustrate your point
Think before you speak
Relate your answers to the job

12. Interview Tips
Match your skills with the company’s needs
Don’t volunteer information
Don’t bring up compensation

13. The Closing: Ask Questions!
When will you make a decision?
Have I answered all your questions?
May I call you in a few days?
Stress that you want the job
Thank the interviewer

14. Evaluate Your Interview

15. Following the Interview
Send a formal thank-you note
Re-iterate your qualifications
Stress your enthusiasm
Add ideas you may have forgotten
Take notes on what worked, what didn’t

16. Contact
Nikki Karabinis
Acting Director, Career Development
 nkarabinis@shawnee.edu

17. References
Massachusetts One-Stop Career Centers