May 15, 2006, 05:00 pm
Last edited May 15, 2006, 05:00 pm
update #2
OK, some tips for interviews, which may help.
Check out the facilities web site to give you an idea of them. Dont' be late. Go to the toilet, check your lipstick, and if your hands are ice cold from nerves, run warm water over them. Greet everyone with a smile, shake hands. Make eye contact, but don't stare. Dont look at your watch.
Show enthusiasm, employers need to see that you're excited about the possibility of working for them. Ask permission to take notes, you can use them to jot down information, taking notes also show your interest and gives you something to do with your hands. If they ask "Why don't you tell me something about yourself?" ask them where they would like you to start. Stick to work related information. Listen carefully, don't interrupt. If you don't know the answer to something, just say so.
The whole strength and weakness questions should be old hat now. Behavioural interviewing is becoming the standard, you may be asked about a time that
- you disagreed with a coworker,
- encountered a patient/family that was demanding rude, or dissatisfied,
- had to deal with an angry doctor,
- made a mistake.
and how you dealt with these situations. You may not have, but have an idea, of what you would do.
Give examples of what you have achieved.
Don't complain about anything, your current job, the traffic, the car parking, your old job, your boyfriend, whatever.
If they invite you to ask questions try: "What are the facility's short/long term objectives, its growth plans? What area could I contribute to most effectively? I also ask "What do you see as the priority for the person in this position in the short term" As I would be applying for a management position, this question always highlights any disharmony in the workplace. I have rejected job offers on the response made by my potential employer to this question.
At the end, thank the interviewer/s for her/his time, tell them you are really interested in the job and you look forward to hearing from them.
Traditionally, you will be told to wear dark colours, a suit if you have one. I have never stuck to this rule. My best offers came when I was wearing a pink suit, a pale lemon suit, and black/red combinations. I chose to stand out from the crowd of dark coloured applicants. You don't need to spend a fortune on finding appropriate clothes. If you can't borrow, check out ebay, they have some really lovely suits that are a fraction of the original price.
Bring a copy of your resume, and certified copies of your certificates, the station officer at the police station can certify copies.
Joanne
