The following Power Tips are summarized excerpts from a publication of The Search Network called "21 Steps to Career Success". This booklet is given to all our candidates free of charge and summarizes all the moves an engineer needs to make to prepare for and secure the very best "next career step" possible.

Develop and Practice Your Interview

  • Catalog your previous positions, jobs skills and accomplishments.
  • Develop a powerful summary you can verbalize effectively and customize for each position you seek.
  • Review your material with a view to key ideas and phrases, not to "memorize".
  • Relax, be natural and don't appear to be reading a "script".

Maximize your Impact

  • Remember, employers don't always hire the person with the best skills and experience, but go for the best person for the job. This includes more subjective qualifiers like personality and style. They want people who are on the same wavelength.
  • Establish rapport- Studies have shown that only 7% of meaning is conveyed through words. Vocal tonality conveys 38% and body language an incredible 55%!
  • When the interviewer approaches, stand up, shake hands warmly and firmly, and walk in an open, upright and confident gait.
  • During the interview, look relaxed and have an upright, open posture.
  • Convey a sense of energy, enthusiasm and interest by being animated and looking directly at the interviewer.
  • Eye contact is extremely important.
  • Voice is a powerful instrument. Use proper volume, enunciation, pitch and speed to convey confidence and warmth.. Match the tonal quality and speed of your interviewer.
  • Dress conveys a strong impression, and many people are judged by their initial appearance.
          Men: To be safe, use a conservative, dark suit and navy blue or gray are the most powerful colors. Don't use polyester material. For some, polyester seems too informal.
          Women: Wear a conservative business suit in neutral colors such as gray, taupe, camel or blue. Avoid frills and bold floral print blouses. Keep accessories simple. Use conservative makeup and avoid lipsticks that are bright or dark.
  • Invest in yourself so that the company will feel confident investing in you!

Ace the Interview!

  • Arrive early.
  • Bring a copy of your resume.
  • During the first few minutes, ask the interviewer: What qualifications are you looking for in this position? The answer will give you invaluable insight into what to share about your experience.
  • Be positive!
  • Show enthusiasm for the company, the position and the interviewer.
  • Find opportunities to address the needs of the interviewing company and show how you can help them.
  • Don't discuss salary, vacation or benefits until you know they want to make you an offer. Your recruiter will help you get the strongest compensation and benefits package possible.
  • Be focused and succinct in your replies and comments.
  • Ask questions to set yourself apart.
  • Keep your body language, tonal quality and content in sync so your communication is believable.
  • Close the interview with statements about your regard for the company and your ability to handle the position, as well as a strong statement of your interest in it.
  • The Search Network, as part of its normal services to the candidates it is placing, offers in-depth interview coaching. Take advantage of this expertise! It will help set you apart from the "rest"!
   
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