Congratulations! You got the interview. This accomplishment means you’re a viable candidate for the position you are seeking. However, you’re still far from getting an offer. It’s time to hone your skills and you prepare to sell an invaluable product…yourself! Here are five areas to focus on before your interview.
RESEARCH THE HIRING COMPANY
You will see that each of these tips focuses on preparation. One of the most important is to learn about the company you’re about to speak to. One way is to show the hiring manager that you are detail oriented and diligent. This can be accomplished by researching the hiring company. If you research the Allen School of Health Sciences, you will find that we have been around for nearly 60 years. Research the company’s website, and while you’re doing so make notes of areas, you’d like to bring up during your interview conversation. This exercise also gives you an opportunity to learn about the company’s culture. It’s important to look at the news and blog sections, as this is where you’ll find the most recent updated material. Google the company to get more objective information. You can impress your interviewer with a congratulations on a recent award or a question about the success of a new initiative.
HAVE A QUESTION READY
At the end of your interview, it’s almost certain that you will be asked, “do you have any questions for me?” The worst response you can give to this question is NO, even when is followed by an explanation, such as “No, I think I have all the information I need,” or “No, you covered everything.” Have two or three questions prepared that relate to the position, the company, or even the hiring manager and his or her responsibilities. Avoid questions about salary and benefits; especially on the first interview and never with anyone except for the human resources manager. Contact the Allen School of Health Sciences to learn more. www.allenschool.edu
PREPARE FOR COMMON QUESTIONS ASKED IN THE INTERVIEW.
You have some great questions ready, now it’s time for the even tougher part. You will inevitably be asked some, if not all, of these questions. Have your responses ready. What made you choose a career in healthcare? Or more specifically, why did you choose (your specific healthcare profession)? Why did you leave your last position? Why do you feel you’re a good fit for this job? Or, why should we select you over the other candidates? Be prepared!!
ARTICULATE YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS AND EXPERIENCE.
When you are asked about your achievements, put them in terms that will show direct benefits “The new patient intake form I set up was easier for our patients to understand and had them completing the forms more quickly. This led to higher patient satisfaction scores. “I passed my clinicals at school to qualify for this position. “I excelled at patient assessment skills that have prepared me to work well in a medical office”. Always feature your skills with the benefits they will bring to your position.
FOLLOWUP WITH ALL INTERVIEWS.
It’s surprising how many applicants don’t follow-up. It’s a great way to set yourself apart. Send a separate message (email or mail) to each person you spoke with. You should send it within 24 hours of your interview. Reiterate important aspects of the job and how you can directly meet their needs. You can also use this opportunity to add in anything important that you feel wasn’t covered during your interview(s). If you discussed any materials you created, you can attach them or mail them with your message.
The effort you put in before going on an interview will increase your chances of landing your dream job. Contact the Allen School today! We are enrolling now for our spring classes and cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.
-Allen School
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