If they ask your current salary, they have the right to know that…. If they ask how much you are looking for, your response is best interpreted by stating: ‘If there is mutual technical interest in our backgrounds, then I am sure we will come up with a figure that is mutually beneficial for both of us. (It is premature talking money before it is established there may be interest, or an offer).
Some of these questions outlined may be important to ask the hiring authorities to get an idea of their stability.
Do your Homework. Research the company you are interviewing with, and use this to your advantage.
We have learned to never assume anything. Take for instance, the lady who was going out on an interview for an Radar Cross Section Design position in a large corporation. I told her, “Wear something professional or, better yet, something you get a lot of compliments on.” The day of the interview she walked into my office, resume in hand, in a cocktail dress…with feathers flowing from the back.
The following tips may seem elementary, but being specific is better than being sorry!
Consider:
Men should wear a suit, long sleeved pressed shirt, a clean tie that hangs to the belt and shined shoes.
Suits are ideal for both men and women, because you can always take off the jacket if you are overdressed at a particular company. It is better to overdress rather than to dress inappropriately. The best bet is to investigate proper attire at the company before the interview by dropping by or asking someone who works there, but that isn’t always possible.
Should you wear the same outfit to every interview? Yes, if it is a conservative, well-planned outfit. You will be seeing different people each initial meeting, so why not?
Most people think you have to be wealthy to look professional. What you really need is style. When shopping for the perfect interview outfit, just remember that you don’t create a successful wardrobe by buying clothes you like, you do it by investing in clothing you need.
For all the power of your words, you should know that your body language says things you might not be aware of-or mean-at all. These signals send messages to interviewers, who often actually look for such signs.
If this applies, be prepared. If you’ve moved or been transferred, your situation might be obvious, but the potential instability could cost you the job. So, whatever the reason for “job hopping”, reassure the employer that your No. 1 goal at this time is stability. “I know it may look like I’m a job hopper, but there were a lot of circumstances beyond my control. The most important thing for me right now professionally is stability in both the company and my position.”
Why did you leave? Be truthful, but if it’s too negative, such as you had a personality conflict, think of another way to say it.
“I felt I had stagnated professionally and, after discussing the situation with my boss, we both felt I would have more opportunity with another company. It was a mutual parting.”
If you quit or were terminated and there was new management, you could also mention that there was a lot of turnover at that time.
Having Energy in your voice and actions can show the Hiring authority that you are a Motivated individual with a Design Oriented, New Ideas, and “Go get em” attitude. Employers are always looking for Engineers that can bring fresh new ideas to their company and Designs. Ask for a business card. Shake hands firmly with the interviewer while making eye contact. Thank him/her for the opportunity. Be direct and let him/her know that you enjoyed the interview and would very much want to work there. NEVER leave before asking for the job: “I want you to know that I’m very interested in the position and would like to be considered for it”
After the interview send a professionally formatted and printed follow-up / thank you letter to the interviewer(s). That’s why getting the business card is important. Be sure you get the name spelling and title correct. Not all candidates do this. It’s another way to separate you from the other candidates.
Below is a sample letter. (Feel free to copy it and use this one)
January 8, 2013
Joe Pattsmith
Techno Missile Systems , P.O. Box 82000 , Building R7 M/S C509
1000 E Imperial Hwy , Burlingame, MA 02389
Dear Joe,
I would like to thank you and the group for taking the time out of your busy schedule to afford me an opportunity to interview with you last week. I am very much interested in work that is going on in the engineering department, and see where I can be of immediate help to you.
I am happy that we did get a chance to cover some of the areas where my skills and your needs might overlap. Should you have any areas of concern or further questions that were not addressed in the interviews, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Joe Patsmith
P.S. Please forward a copy of this letter to the interviewers and all interested parties where appropriate.
Asking a few questions, and following protocols of this nature can help you in understanding a little more about your next potential employer, their hiring, and growth patterns.
Thank You for taking time to review these helpful tips on Interviewing. We are sure that you will do well at your next interview.
Review these tips shortly before leaving for your interview. Have them fresh in your Memory, and best of all, Have a Wonderful and prosperous interview !!