This phase is very important. You want to
make a good first impression and, if possible, get additional
information you need about the job and the company.
Make a good impression. You only have a few
seconds to create a positive first impression which can influence
the rest of the interview and even determine whether you get
the job. The interviewer's first impression of you is based mainly
on non-verbal clues. The interviewer is assessing your over-all
appearance and demeanor. When greeting the interviewer, be certain
your handshake is firm and that you make eye contact. Wait
for the interviewer to signal you before you sit down. Once seated,
your body language is very
important in conveying a positive impression. Find a comfortable
position so that you don't appear tense. Lean forward slightly and
maintain eye contact with the interviewer. This posture shows that
you are interested in what is being said. Smile naturally at appropriate
times. Show that you are open and receptive by keeping your arms
and legs uncrossed. Avoid keeping your briefcase or your handbag
on your lap. Pace your movements so that they are not too fast or
too slow. Try to appear relaxed and confident.
Why does the company need someone in this position?
Exactly what would they expect of you?
Are they looking for traditional or innovative
solutions to problems?
When to ask questions. The problem with a traditional
interview structure is that your chance to ask questions occurs
late in the interview. How can you get the information you need
early in the process without making the interviewer feel that
you are taking control? Deciding exactly when to ask your questions
is the tricky part. Timing is everything. You may have to make
a decision based on intuition and your first impressions of the
interviewer. Does the interviewer seem comfortable or nervous,
soft spoken or forceful, formal or casual? These signals will
help you to judge the best time to ask your questions. The sooner
you ask the questions, the less likely you are to disrupt the
interviewer's agenda. However, if you ask questions too early,
the interviewer may feel you are trying to control the interview.
Try asking questions right after the greeting
and small talk. Since most interviewers like to set the tone
of the interview and maintain initial control, always phrase
your questions in a way that leaves control with the interviewer.
Perhaps say, "Would you mind telling me a little more about the
job so that I can focus on the information that would be most
important to the company?" If there is no job opening but you
are trying to develop one or you need more information about
the company, try saying, "Could you tell me a little more about
where the company is going so I can focus on those areas of my
background that are most relevant?" You may want to wait until
the interviewer has given an overview of what will be discussed.
This overview may answer some of your questions or may provide
some details that you can use to ask additional questions. Once
the middle phase of the interview has begun, you may find it
more difficult to ask questions.
