General Forums >> Ask A Career Woman >> More Interview Advice Needed
More Interview Advice Needed
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Posted 3 months ago I'm sorry, but I am having a real hard time. Since I was laid off from work due to closure, I have been having some difficult interviews. My interviews are beyond the entry level interviews which most people train you on. It seems that when I am asked these difficult questions, I know in my mind what I want to get across, but the words don't come out and I just seem to ramble. It is so frustrating since I know I can do the jobs I am interviewing for and do them well. Is there any way of practicing for harder questions, especially since there is much more competition right now for these positions due to a lot of places closing due to our economy at the moment. I am an educated woman, yet I feel so uneducated when I leave most interviews. Please help give me some advice. |
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| Posted 3 months ago Marsha, that does sound frustrating! Can I ask you to elucidate on the stumbling-block questions you have had to deal with? My initial piece of advice is to first re-phrase the question- one, to make sure you understand what they are asking and two, to give yourself some time to formulate your response. The last job interview I had (actually for the job I have now) started with a telephone screening by one person. I was then interviewed by a panel of 8- the "hiring committee". After spending one hour with them I presented for 15 minutes on a topic provided to me the week prior- with a group that extended past the hiring committee to anyone from the greater department who could attend- 20 people. Then I had a one-on-one discussion with my potential boss- the VP of the division. Non-entry level interviews are GRUELING. You do not get the same questions that you do for entry-level. I found that researching the company, talking to anyone I knew who worked at that company, or similar organizations, was very helpful. They often would tell me internal concerns that I may be asked about, or asked to form a perspective on, on the spot. I suppose the answer I used the most, and now being on a hiring committee for another position that I find highly qualifies canidates are using as well, was: That is a really interesting question- these are some of my thoughts "xxx", however, I really couldn't offer a definitive position until I had a great understanding of the insitutional culture/ conducted a needs assessment/ etc. I hope that some of these suggestions and personal anecdotes are helpful! Good luck, and do NOT be nervous. You were called in for the interview for a reason- you are there to interview them as much as they are you. Korina Anja |
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| Posted 3 months ago Nerves from the entire process can make you feel inadequate, so I agree that you do need to relax and give yourself time to think. I would try doing some rehearsals, as well. Once you get an idea of the questions you're going to be asked, try asking a friend to help you practice how you would answer. This will give you a little more confidence, and could help you to stop the rambling. |
