Page 62 - 101 Dynamite Answers to Interview Questions

45 Key Interview Principles 55

I. Identify and assess your strengths.

One of the first steps any potential job seeker/job changer should
tale is to conduct a thorough self-assessment, which consists of an
evaluation of one's skills, abilities, and accomplishments. This is
important in part so you will laow what you are good at, but it is
also a critical step toward being able to clearly communicate your
strengths to potential employers. The old adage that you should
"laow thyself" is extremely important during all phases of your job
search. With this self-laowledge you will be in a better position to
tell employers what it is you do well, enjoy doing, and want to do
in the future. This information will play an important role in both
developing your resume and preparing for the interview. This self-
assessment generates a useful language that stresses your major
skills, abilities, and achievements.

2. Translate your strengths into job-related language of
em p I o ye rs .
accomplishments andbenefits relevant to the needs of

TEAMFLY
It is one thing to say that you
enjoy talking to people. But to
tell an employer you enjoy speak- Stress benefits you
are likely to provide
ing in front of groups and have a for the employer.
flair for holding their attention
and getting the action you desire
from them, translates your slull into a job-related benefit for the
employer. Whenever possible, give examples of your strengths that
relate to the language and needs of the employer.

3. Be sure your communications are employer-centered
rather than self-centered.
While you have specific needs in relation to the job - salary,
benefits, satisfaction - these are self-centered interests which should
not be the major issues discussed with interviewers. Always put
yourself in the shoes of the interviewer - he or she has specific
needs. Keep focused on what it is you can do for the employer
rather than what the employer can do for you. Most of your

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Team-Fly