Since NASCAR's giving you a break this weekend before they head to Vegas, you've got no excuses - it's time to prepare for your interview. And, lucky for you, the Online Education Database recently served up a detailed job prep article to help you cover your bases.
Although I don't like using the words "Job Interview" and "Tricks" in the same post title (interview preparation is all about hard work and practice - not tricks), I couldn't find a single trick in the entire article.
The article is rather long, but I do recommend it for those fairly new to the job hunt trail. Click HERE to read the article in it's entirety (all 88 tips).
Here's an abbreviated version which includes a few of my faves (by the way, if you put in the time - practice - hard work and you still don't ace the interview, let me know. I'll send you my lucky pink socks):
#1 - Practice your writing skills. In today's Internet-oriented world, good communication skills are crucial. Technical writing and documentation seems to be a weak point for many new grads.
#2 - Stay updated. Read and subscribe to relevant weblogs, magazines, and newspapers. Use web feed subscription tools like Bloglines or Newsgator Online Edition.
#4 - Start a blog. Demonstrate your knowledge of a topic related to a field you'd like to be employed in by writing a blog and mentioning it in your resume.
#11 - Don't lie on your resume. It's not a novel. Mention skills you're capable of. Say "learning such and such" for everything else.
#29 - Try networking. Career networking websites such as LinkedIn or JibberJobber can go a long way toward helping you find a job.
#49 - Be prepared. Know where you're supposed to go. Check their Web site, and call in if you have to. (My favorite mantra begs to be repeated here: There is no substitute for preparation).
#59 - Make a good first impression and maintain it. Mirroring is a powerful technique if used subtly, no matter the interviewer's mood.
#61 - Be succinct. Don't be a Chatty Cathy; don't tell your life story. Give a bit of detail instead of just "yes" and "no".
#79 - Remember what it's about. Think "what's in it for them", not just "what's in it for me". Both parties have to benefit.
#84 - Say thank you. Thank the interviewer and the receptionist - be genuine. (do not forget the "thank you" letter/card - I don't care what the so-called experts have to say about this).
#87 - Keep an interview log. It'll help you track the state of each application (sent application, pending interview, interview complete, followed up, rejected, etc.). Include dates.
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