Job Seekers Ministry - INTERVIEWING Job Seekers Ministry - INTERVIEWING
Agenda
• GOD’s Role• Expectations
– For You– Of You
• What is the Goal of an Interview• What Do Employers Look for in a Candidate• Interview Invitation • Organization• Preparation• First Impressions• Appearance & Attire• Final Thoughts• Panel Discussion
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GOD’s Role
• GOD is Center– Proverbs 3:5-6 – 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
– 1 Peter 5:7 – 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
– Philippians 4:6 – Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by
prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
• BibleGateway.com - (NIV)
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WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM THIS PRESENTATON
• A better understanding of the interview process and desired outcome
• Knowledge of what it takes to be prepared• Tools that can make your interview successful
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Our Prayers!
WHAT IS EXPECTED OF YOU
• Entrust your job search to GOD in prayer, HE’s listening
• Self Reflection – Your Qualifications and Experience• Follow through with the information provided
(Homework)
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INTERVIEW GOAL
1. Meet the need(s) of the employer/hiring manager2. Sell yourself3. Get an offer
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Most Times You Only Get One Chance
WHAT DOES THE EMPLOYER WANT?
• Each employer has a need – a job function to be met
• Assess your qualifications to match their requirements
• They are looking for the most qualified and suitable
candidate
– Qualifications may not be enough, other skills are important
• Attitude, Passion, Preparation, Professionalism, Appearance,
Listening Skills, Knowledge of the Company, etc.
• They want to know more about what’s on your resume
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“We’d like to schedule you for an interview on … ”• Never rush the date of the interview – Allow them to
schedule it or make it a few days away.
• Get explicit directions/instructions: who will you meet with; what position; when; where; how; and ask for a phone number in case you need to call. Don’t assume anything.
• Ask if there is anything specific you should bring that may make this interview more productive.
• Repeat their instructions and Give a sincere “Thank You”.
AN INTERVIEW INVITATION
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• Being organized is the best tool to keep you on target– Start a Call log - Log who you spoke with, what you
discussed, and when it took place
– Record responses – theirs and yours
– Print or write down driving directions. If necessary, drive to the site ahead of time.
– Focus on the job description and your qualifications– Know how your skills and abilities match the job
requirements– Have your stories polished.– Be ready to communicate
ORGANIZATION
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KNOW YOURSELF
What are your:• Strengths & Weaknesses? They will ask.• Answer honestly – lies will be found out• Show how you turned a weakness into a strength• Share what you’ve done to improve your weakness• Education and training credentials that apply to this
job? (especially if you are a recent graduate)
Homework
• Connect Your Abilities to the Potential Employer’s Need
• Mock interview – have someone ask you the tough questions
• Be prepared
PREPARATION
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KNOW YOUR SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Detail Your Accomplishments (Situations, Actions, Results)
• Tie in to your resume highlights• Greatest successes or achievements • Emphasize cost improvements or increased efficiency for
the company• Commendations or awards, etc
Homework• Consider your career in further detail• Make sure the stories apply directly to job requirements• Prepare these for your interview – The interviewer will
ask
PREPARATION
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PRACTICE
Carefully Review the Job Qualifications and Requirements
• Your stories should emphasize your ability to fulfill these requirements
Rehearse Answers to Questions:1. Tell me about yourself - elevator speech2. What are your strengths?3. What are your weaknesses?4. Why do you want to work here?5. Why should I hire you?
Homework
• Practice your stories and answers with someone you respect
• See the interview questions on the JSM Webpage
PREPARATION
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• A genuine smile shows openness and acknowledgement
• Combined with a handshake makes an impression– A Handshake – no bone crusher or limp fish
• Bring energy/enthusiasm into conversation
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
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WHAT TO BRING • Include (not limited to this):
– Resume: bring extra copies (paper quality counts)– Cover letter, References, Letters of Recommendation, – Work samples, e.g., graphics an/or pictures
• Use a briefcase or appropriate planner/organizer
• Relevant Information from the their Website or Periodicals– The company (Publications)– Management (Newspapers)
• A Notebook and Pen
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
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WHAT TO BRING Confidence – Not Arrogance• Behave like the person you believe you are• Believe in what you say and they will too • It’s OK to be nervous - just don’t act like it
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
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FIRST IMPRESSIONS Do’s and Don’ts
DO• Dress for success (see following section)
• Look directly at the person (appropriate eye contact)
• Turn your cell phone off during interview (it may cost you the job)
• Have fresh breath (mints)
DON’T• Text or use your cell phone in reception area (go outside)
• Bring your own personal beverage (accept if they offer)
• Chew gum (or anything else)
• Use non value words such as “like”, “ya-know”, “ah”, “um”…
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
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Job Seekers Ministry
… … do all as unto the Lorddo all as unto the LordColossians 3:17-23
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Look the part you are applying for or one notch above!
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
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FIRST IMPRESSIONS Can make or break you
• Dress Appropriately, Down to your Shoes
• Personal Grooming/Hygiene - Major First Impression
• Go light on: Makeup, Perfume/Cologne, and Jewelry
• Tattoos: cover them up, if practical
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
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FIRST IMPRESSIONS
• Attire: Clean, Pressed, Conservative, Business-Like
• Wear a Suit and Tie – Don’t Have? Borrow one (or get one at a thrift shop)
• Always Go One Cut Above– You Can Always “Dress Down” If needed
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
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Don’t Neglect These Guidelines. Your Interviewer Won’t
• Solid colors, conservative suit
• Coordinated blouse/shirt
• Moderate shoes–closed toe, polished
• Limited jewelry and accessories
• Neat, professional hairstyle– show your face (no hiding), – easy on the highlights, appear
natural
• Hosiery tan or light / socks to match slacks or shoes
• Sparse make-up, perfume, cologne
• Manicured nails – trimmed
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
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FINAL THOUGHTS
• Remember to Keep GOD First in Your Job Search
• Take Time to Prepare
• Know Yourself: What You Bring to the Table
• Sell Yourself
• Present Yourself Impeccable
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It’s All About What The Employer Needs!