Study the job description carefully. If you are answering an ad, go online
once you get the interview or call the human resources office well beforehand
and request a copy be sent to you. This is essential. You want to be clear on
what it is that they expect you to do so that you know what skills to brush up
on and what you'll need to learn in order to do the job efficiently. Have a list
of questions prepared about the details of the job. As thorough as job
descriptions are, there are always questions to ask.
Be Honest
If you don't possess all of the skills necessary to do the job—for example,
you are not proficient on a computer program that they use frequently—then be
forthright about it. This doesn't have to be a mark against you. Be sure to
emphasize your ability to learn quickly, any classes you may be currently
enrolled in that will train you to better handle the job, or another position
you held that gave you similar skills that transfer well. Confidence and
earnestness speak volumes and beat out competition that may possess the skills
but lack these qualities.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Most interviewers will ask you what it is you consider to be your biggest
weakness and strength. Prepare for these questions ahead of time and be ready to
discuss them intelligently. Don't brag but don't put yourself down either. Bring
up traits that have to do with the work. Don't bring up your tendency to drink
one too many or your excellent ability to program VCRs. And again, be honest.
Making it clear that you have thought this through and are not just tossing out
the first thing that comes to mind.
Questions You Don't Have to Answer
There are some things that the interviewer is restricted by law from asking.
Under federal law, anything about your gender, race, sexual preference,
religion, ethnicity, marital status, or issues involving your children or child
care may not be considered by the interviewer. If you feel comfortable answering
such questions, by all means go ahead. If you don't, however, there should be no
problem with your courteously declining to answer. The interviewer knows the law
and should not take offense or be surprised. If you receive one of these
reactions, then perhaps this is not the firm for you after all.