The Wackerle Corner

By: Andrea Emery
News Editor

Interviewing for a first job is something everyone will face at some point during his or her professional life. What questions to expect and what answers to give are two things that make interviewees extra nervous.

There are several preparation tools interviewees can do to get ready for job interviews. Whether you are interviewing for a part-time job, an internship or a career, Todd Anten of Yahoo! HotJobs offers some insightful tips on answering questions in preparing for interviews.

According to Anten, there are four general questions you might expect to be asked at a job interview:

• Tell me a little about yourself?

• Why did you leave your last job?

• What’s your biggest weakness?

• Do you have any questions for me?

Remember to answer each of these questions carefully. When asked about yourself, respond with an answer that shows your potential employer what qualities you have which would be beneficial to the company. Your key accomplishments, strengths and how they relate to the job you are applying for are all important aspects to touch upon.

When explaining why you left your last job (if this question is relevant to you), Anten suggests you keep it short and stay positive.

“The best way to answer this question is to stay positive and talk about your desire for growth opportunities. This will paint you as a proactive employee who enjoys responsibility and challenges,” Anten said.

Do not be afraid to tell your potential employer the truth and remember to use your last job to show that you have room for growth.

When asked what your biggest weakness is, Anten suggests, “Pick a weakness that is real but understandable or relatively harmless.”

Some examples of answers include organization, procrastination or detail orientation. All these are examples of weaknesses which can be improved upon. If you can show a potential employer that you can work hard to overcome these weaknesses, then you have given a good answer.

If you are ever asked by an interviewer if you have any questions for them, answer yes. Have a few questions in mind before you step into an interviewer’s office. Know a little background information about the company and the job position. Anten also advises not to forget to ask for the job. Tell your potential employer you are interested in the job and look forward to the next step in the interview process.

Karen Cates, lecturer in political economy and commerce, has a few other tips to keep in mind before, during and after an interview.

“Be prepared before you get the phone call for an interview,” Cates says. “Most companies do an initial screening to find out if you are still interested in the job.”

Cates also suggests to have good posture, make eye contact and watch verbal ticks. Be confident.

Following the interview, Cates recommends to “thank the interviewer(s) for their time, and follow up with a thank you note.” If your handwriting is good, send a handwritten note. If not, type it. Cates also suggests providing some follow up information such as a book recommendation or an informative web site.

After the interview, thank the interviewer(s) for their time, and follow up with a thank you note.

With these tips and a little preparation, job interviewing will not be a situation to dread, rather an event to look forward to in anticipation.