1

International Advantage Session 3: Interview Skills

Rendy Schrader

2

Program

Today’s mission Interview structure Communication Non-verbal communication Role plays

3

Today’s Mission:

http://www.ucso.indiana.edu/

4

Interview Structure

Be on time Greetings/offer resume Small talk, 5 minutes Interview questions 15-20 minutes Interviewee questions, 5-10 minutes Graceful exit

5

Greetings

Hi Hello

Jane, John

Ms. Smith/Mr. Jones

Madame/Ma’am/Sir

6

Introductions

Let me introduce myself: My name is (s-l-o-o-o-w and clear) I’m ________ (slow and clear)

Consider: short version first

name only

7

Be prepared

To answer tough questions To talk about yourself To talk about your best or worst traits To talk about your former experience To tell a few accomplishment stories

8

“So, tell me about yourself……”

Do’s Tie your story to

business needs Let your personal

traits shine Be straightforward Relax Be professional

Don’ts• Get too personal• Talk too much • Talk politics• Dwell on family• Sound practiced

9

Time Fillers

Good question, let me think about that a minute

So, you are asking if……. Can you repeat that question, please? Wow! No one’s ever asked me that one

before….. Silence is okay, too

10

Keeping Their Attention

Connect your experience with the company: I’ve _____ You mentioned ______. That’s exactly

what I did in Marketing class/project I’m a great team player You mentioned “globalization” – that’s me

all the way! My real strong point is ______

11

Non-verbal Communication Firm hand shake Look at them Maintain good eye contact Smile appropriately Nod if necessary Show enthusiasm Be alert and attentive Maintain good posture Be confident

12

Interpersonal Traits

Confidence, not arrogance Communication skills Cross-cultural adeptness Enthusiasm/Positive Energy Team Player Strong sense of personal

accountability/responsibility Honesty/Willingness to learn

13

Visa Question

Do NOT bring it up on your own Assure them that for internship/1st year,

they have no obligation “If you’re really globalizing, who could be

better?” IF you prove yourself and they help you

apply for an H-1B, you’ll pay for it, and you’ll be loyal for at least 3 years

14

Graceful Exits Thank you for your time I appreciate it I will be looking forward to hearing from

you

15

Role Play and Practice

16

Evaluation Questions1. I found the presentation of material easy to

understand.2. This Advantage session increased my knowledge

on the subject presented.3. I will be able to use some of the information

from this Advantage session in the future.4. The presenter was well-prepared for this

Advantage session.5. This presentation should be repeated in future

semesters.

A – Strongly Agree; B – Agree; C – Disagree; D – Strongly Agree; E – Don’t know