Interview Techniques for Your First Job

Q. I’ve just graduated from college, and am actively looking for my first “real” job. I’m finding that the job market is much tighter than I thought it would be. I have an interview next week for a job I’d really like, but my resume is really a listing of part-time jobs, internships, and college activities. How can I land the job with this company? — James F.

A. Today’s job market is still a little tight, but it’s getting better. Start by learning all you can about the company. Read the last one or two annual reports (get them from a stockbroker; contact the company and ask for one; check the library.) Then learn all you can about the job you’re applying for, and think through why you want this job, with this company. Knowing these two things is key, because if you appear to interviewers as just “fishing around”, they’ll spot it fast and trash your application even faster.

Practice Your Answers

Plan your answers to these key questions, and ask a friend (one who will tell you the truth) to play the role of the interviewer. Then practice—practice—practice your answers.

“You’ve seen the job description; what seems to interest you the most? The least? Why is that?

Be careful about saying what you don’t like; you could come across as negative or narrow-minded, and both will limit your options. Focus on the challenges you can experience and learn from with situations you’re less than enthusiastic about.

How does this job compare with others you are now considering?

Don’t appear to be shopping around; let them know you’re serious about this job. Show how much you know about the company, and how serious you are about the job. Say something like, “Actually, this is really the only job I’m interested in, because…”

What do you eventually want to do five years from now? Ten years?

Show that you have a plan for your life and your career: to commit to something that will interest you and challenge you for several years.

What has been your greatest achievement?

This reveals your self-image, your pride in accomplishments, and your sense of purpose.

Tell me about your most recent disappointment—when you just couldn't get a job done in your own way, on your own terms.

This shows your flexibility; ability to handle adversity; ability to bounce back quickly when things get tough.

What additional information do you think I should have about you?

Here’s a perfect opportunity to sell yourself and your talents, tailored to this job. Use your experiences in college or in other part-time jobs to show you’ve learned important job skills.

Where do you want to wind up, professionally, at the height of your career?

Again, this shows your plan for your life. It’s an ideal segue to ask about training opportunities, educational assistance, and the depth of opportunity in the company.

Tell me why you prefer to work alone (or in a group).

Be careful here; you may have to be able to function well either way. But if you have a strong preference, say so, and why, in a positive, enthusiastic way.

How do you respond to criticism?

Being eager to learn from more senior people is key for newer, younger employees. You may want to give examples of where your work has been criticized, and how you learned valuable information from the experience.

“What led you to major in _____?”

This question helps identify your long-term focus.

“With (your work experience), what were your typical duties and tasks?”

This reveals the level of responsibility you’ve handled.

“Tell me about your specific experience with (equipment, technology, etc.).”

This shows the depth of your knowledge or skills. Don’t try to bluff it. Rely on what you learned in your college courses.

“This new job I've just described to you--what about it is most appealing?”

Employers want to hire enthusiastic people—people with a passion for what they do day after day. Whatever turns you on about this job—show it.

Your Turn: Have Questions Ready

Be ready to ask questions that will help you to better understand the position,

the organization, the location, the working environment, company culture:

• Why is the position available?

• What are some of the key objectives of the job?

• What are you looking for in a strong candidate?

• What type and how much training will be provided?

• What is a typical workday like?

• What are the skills and abilities considered necessary?

• What does it take to be successful here?

• How is performance evaluated?

If you’re prepared to answer—and ask—questions like these—it shows you’re well informed and serious about the job. Good luck!