Let's Do This: In Person Interview

source

Prior to reaching the "in person interview" phase, you may have had a number of phone calls with the the company. Well here you are, you made it to the "in person interview" phase. Also known as the "onsite interview". Congratulations! 

Are you ready for this step?  Do you know what to expect and what's expected of you? In this phase you may meet with upwards of 5 people. Each interviewer will have a different style of interviewing - some better than others. You may be asked some pretty interesting and crazy questions like: "If you were a brick, what would you be used for?" Yup that's right, today's interview questions are getting pretty crazy. Why? Well they want to see how you think on your feet!

source

Some other questions might be:

• Explain a situation where you had to work in a team:
• what were the dynamics
• how did you communicate
• were there expectations set - how and what were they
• what is the greatest lesson you took away from that experience
• What would you say your top 3 strengths for this position are?
• What would you say are your top 3 development areas for this position?
• Explain what you bring to the table to help us succeed?
• How do you keep yourself and work organized so nothing falls through the cracks?
• Why would you not accept this position if offered to you?

How you present yourself and answer these questions will be the difference of moving forward and receiving an offer or not.  Here are some tips and tricks to get you through:

• Don't jump into the answer - take a deep breath and speak clearly and concisely
• Don't ramble
• Have enthusiasm and be engaging
• Think about your answer - but not too long.  You want to keep the conversation moving along
• Watch how many "Fillers" you use. 
• Fillers are "um's", "ah's", "you know's", "like"...  
• Have a sense of confidence when you speak

It's a 2 way conversation - They are interviewing you and you are interviewing them.

• Prepare questions for each interviewer - Yes you can ask the same question of each person you speak to.  WHY?  You want to compare their answer

When the interview is done - send each person a personal Thank You email:

• Thank them for their time in speaking with you
• Express your interest in the position and working for the company
• Ask any final questions and let them know they can contact you if they have an additional questions.

Remember, Be Yourself - You Can Do This!