Job coach Larry LaBelle of trainingtamer.com hosted this week's TBO.com online chat about preparing for a job interview. Here are five of the best tips discussed in the chat:
Handling the "strengths and weaknesses" questions: Win over interviewers by showing them how you overcame a weakness and turned it into a strength. An example might be a weakness with time management; show that you attended a seminar that helped you use you're time more efficiently. For your greatest strength, choose one in which you can show how it would contribute to the success of the company or manager.
Refrain from discussing salary and benefits: The time to do that is when you have a firm offer. It's OK, however, to ask for company literature that might outline benefits and policies.
Practice the little things: Speak as if you're talking to your best friend. Smile and maintain eye contact. Show enthusiasm in your voice. Maintain good posture and avoid fidgeting. Take 5 seconds to think of an answer to a question before responding in order to give a great answer. Use concrete work examples and accomplishments to support your answers.
Handling your job loss or layoff: Tell employers what you've been doing with your time. "The best answers involve volunteer work, helping an ailing family member, and the like," LaBelle said, which show you have been active.
How to answer when you're told you're overqualified: Change the interviewer's perception. Find an insider in the company who can refer you to the hiring manager. A recommendation before the next interview will eliminate the issue.
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