OK, you've
searched all over the internet and read thru the
classified ads in the Orlando newspaper. You've
networked every way possible in Orlando. You even took
advantage of social media like Facebook, Twitter and
LinkedIn. You've visited the Orlando Chamber of
Commerce. All your hard work is starting to pay off.
You've finally earned a job interview and have a chance
at the perfect job at one of Orlando Florida's
finest companies. Of course, there's going to be some
pretty stiff competition because 1000's of other Central
Florida job seekers are also seeking employment. You
know you have the experience, qualifications and
references and you should be a shoe in for the job,
right? Well if you keep a few things in mind before and
during your job interview, you can improve your chances.
Here are some tips to help
you have a successful job interview in Orlando.
First, do your homework. Find out everything you can
about your prospective employer. Most companies have a
website. Seek them out. There are lots of very
large companies in Orlando, so you might think you
already know everything there is to know. If you are
serious about getting a job, do the work. Not only
will their website help educate you about their goods
and services of the company, but you'll get a feel for
their corporate culture and how they promote themselves.
How do you fit in?
Search Google for recent news articles and press
releases. Your research may turn up their plans for
expansion, recent sales forecast, even negative reports
and reviews will help you better understand their goals
and challenges. Your research will also give you a
better sense of where the company is headed and insight
into what the future may hold for you if you take the
job. And the more knowledgeable you are about the
prospective employer, the more prepared you will be to
ask and answer questions. Come prepared with thoughtful
questions about the job and the company. Find out how
they are involved in Orlando. A few minutes on the
computer ahead of time will show the interviewer you
have initiative.
Before you interview, get a good nights sleep. You need
to be on your game. Go into the interview relaxed and
rested. If you go into it feeling stressed, you will
have a more difficult time.
Plan ahead. Map out your commute and know how long it's
going to take.
Dress appropriately. Don't overdress. Look professional.
Be neat and clean. Take it easy on the jewelry and
makeup.
Be on time or a few minutes early. Call ahead if you are
running late but you'd better have a good excuse.
Know your interviewers name and how they should be
addressed. Introduce yourself. Shake hands and maintain
eye contact. Give the interviewer your card, contact
information and resume. Be warm and friendly. Don't
fidget. Try to relax. And by all means smile, listen and
look interested.
You will be asked a lot of questions. Think, before you
answer. If you don't understand a question, it's ok to
ask to have it explained. If you don't know an answer,
don't fake it. Tell the interviewer you will find out
and will get back with the answer.
Come to the interview prepared with highlights and
anecdotes of your skills, qualities and experiences. Do
not rely on the interviewer to spark your memory - jot
down some notes that you can reference throughout the
interview. Sell yourself with enthusiasm, confidence and
interest. Be honest about your background experience. If
you've been fired in the past, don't make excuses or
blame the previous boss, but rather explain the
circumstance and what you learned from the experience
and how you've grown and bettered yourself because of
it. Do not relinquish complete control of the interview.
If the interviewer does not ask you for information that
you think is important to proving your superiority as a
candidate, politely interject it.
Emphasize your strong points and professional
accomplishments. Mention your involvement with the
Orlando community or volunteer work.
If wages and benefits aren't brought up, don't worry. If
you get the offer you will find out soon enough. You can
then negotiate or walk away.
Upon conclusion, ask any other questions
about the job that were not
covered. Ask when they hope to make their hiring
decision. Let them know how interested and enthusiastic
you are about the opportunity then thank the interviewer
for their consideration and shake hands again.
Write a thank you note to the interviewer.
Make a follow-up call on or after the date a decision is
due.
