10 answers
Amaiya
Student
Whittier, California
1
Question
Asked
683 views
How do I learn how to talk in an interview?
I want to learn more about jobs and how to easily get them. How to apply in the best way, I want to know more about college too. How to balance college and jobs.
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10 answers
Patrick Figaro
Manufacturing & IT
18
Answers
Springfield, Missouri
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Mastering the art of interviewing requires practice and dedication. To begin, search for sample interview questions related to the job or field you're interested in, and ask people to conduct mock interviews with you. Many interviews involve situational questions, such as describing a time when you improved a process, worked in a team, or disagreed with someone.
A helpful technique to use when answering these questions is the S.T.A.R. method, which stands for 1) Situation, 2) Task, 3) Action, and 4) Results. When responding to an interview question, set the scene by explaining the situation, the tasks required, the actions you took to address the situation, and the final results achieved.
Another strategy is to identify your strengths and key successes, and find ways to incorporate them into your answers during the interview. Additionally, writing down your responses to sample interview questions using the S.T.A.R. method can be beneficial. Some interviewers may allow you to use notes, which can be helpful in recalling your answers without having to memorize them. The most important step is to document your questions and answers so you can practice and become more confident in your interviewing skills.
Find sample interview questions, write down your answers
practice STAR method
A helpful technique to use when answering these questions is the S.T.A.R. method, which stands for 1) Situation, 2) Task, 3) Action, and 4) Results. When responding to an interview question, set the scene by explaining the situation, the tasks required, the actions you took to address the situation, and the final results achieved.
Another strategy is to identify your strengths and key successes, and find ways to incorporate them into your answers during the interview. Additionally, writing down your responses to sample interview questions using the S.T.A.R. method can be beneficial. Some interviewers may allow you to use notes, which can be helpful in recalling your answers without having to memorize them. The most important step is to document your questions and answers so you can practice and become more confident in your interviewing skills.
Patrick recommends the following next steps:
Madi Dunlap
Forensic Consultant
193
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Madi’s Answer
Hi Amaiya,
Boost your interview abilities by engaging in regular practice! Try rehearsing with yourself in front of a mirror using a variety of sample interview questions. To find questions tailored to specific companies, explore websites like Glassdoor or YouTube, where individuals share their interview experiences. The key is to be somewhat ready with your responses. Keep in mind, consistent practice leads to outstanding results!
Wishing you the best of luck!
Boost your interview abilities by engaging in regular practice! Try rehearsing with yourself in front of a mirror using a variety of sample interview questions. To find questions tailored to specific companies, explore websites like Glassdoor or YouTube, where individuals share their interview experiences. The key is to be somewhat ready with your responses. Keep in mind, consistent practice leads to outstanding results!
Wishing you the best of luck!
Sophie Clissold-Lesser
project manager in Sales Enablement
36
Answers
London, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Sophie’s Answer
In interviews the interviewer is trying to find out more about you and whether you are the right fit for the role.
They've already read your application but may ask you to summarise things that are included in that. Don't be surprised or think this is repetition - they'll be interested to hear it in your own words.
They want to get to know more about you - be ready to talk about yourself and share the things that interest you and that you are excited about. It can be useful to have thought in advance about some of the common questions. For example - why do you want this role or why do you want to come to this college... as the interviewer will expect you to have thought about that and be able to answer the question.
During the interview it's worth demonstrating that you have prepared - shows that you really want this... so for a job interview a bit of research about the company is worthwhile... have there been press releases, big news or changes - what are their goals or aims?
And really do listen to the question - particularly if you're nervous it's easy to start talking and forget what was asked... so be focused.
People often say "be yourself" - this may seem like odd advice but it is suggesting that you don't pretend to be something or someone that you're not...as this won't be sustainable if you get accepted. So if you don't read much there's no point having reading listed as a hobby... and you'll probably be asked what type of literature you like and to talk about it... Better to be honest about how you spend your free time.
There are positive things in everything you do - it helps when you can point those out... Example: you spend a lot of time with a friend group and are usually the one who books the bowling or arranges when and where you'll all meet... you're facilitating the group and doing the organising.
Overall interviewers aren't usually trying to trip you up or make it difficult so:
- do some preparation
- listen carefully to the questions and answer positively
- relax and breathe....
You won't get every job you apply for BUT every interview is good practice and will help you get the job that's right for you.
Good luck.
They've already read your application but may ask you to summarise things that are included in that. Don't be surprised or think this is repetition - they'll be interested to hear it in your own words.
They want to get to know more about you - be ready to talk about yourself and share the things that interest you and that you are excited about. It can be useful to have thought in advance about some of the common questions. For example - why do you want this role or why do you want to come to this college... as the interviewer will expect you to have thought about that and be able to answer the question.
During the interview it's worth demonstrating that you have prepared - shows that you really want this... so for a job interview a bit of research about the company is worthwhile... have there been press releases, big news or changes - what are their goals or aims?
And really do listen to the question - particularly if you're nervous it's easy to start talking and forget what was asked... so be focused.
People often say "be yourself" - this may seem like odd advice but it is suggesting that you don't pretend to be something or someone that you're not...as this won't be sustainable if you get accepted. So if you don't read much there's no point having reading listed as a hobby... and you'll probably be asked what type of literature you like and to talk about it... Better to be honest about how you spend your free time.
There are positive things in everything you do - it helps when you can point those out... Example: you spend a lot of time with a friend group and are usually the one who books the bowling or arranges when and where you'll all meet... you're facilitating the group and doing the organising.
Overall interviewers aren't usually trying to trip you up or make it difficult so:
- do some preparation
- listen carefully to the questions and answer positively
- relax and breathe....
You won't get every job you apply for BUT every interview is good practice and will help you get the job that's right for you.
Good luck.
Mohit Goyal
Software Engineer
50
Answers
Gurugram, Haryana, India
Updated
Mohit’s Answer
To improve your speaking skills, try rehearsing responses to various questions while standing in front of a mirror.
To gain a deeper understanding of different professions, it's helpful to read job descriptions and connect with individuals who work in the same industry.
Securing a job may not be simple, but continuous learning can help. Apply for positions, seek out recommendations if possible, and work on enhancing your abilities.
The most effective method for submitting job applications is through referrals. However, you can also explore job portals and company websites for opportunities.
In order to maintain a balance between college and work, it's essential to have discipline and always prioritize your studies.
To gain a deeper understanding of different professions, it's helpful to read job descriptions and connect with individuals who work in the same industry.
Securing a job may not be simple, but continuous learning can help. Apply for positions, seek out recommendations if possible, and work on enhancing your abilities.
The most effective method for submitting job applications is through referrals. However, you can also explore job portals and company websites for opportunities.
In order to maintain a balance between college and work, it's essential to have discipline and always prioritize your studies.
Mark Howard
Billing-related Contract Management
24
Answers
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Updated
Mark’s Answer
In just three sentences, you've asked quite a bit! Let's break it down into four main inquiries:
1) How can you improve your interviewing skills before actually going to interviews?
2) How can you discover the various job opportunities available to you?
3) How can you choose the right college(s) to attend?
4) How can you maintain a balance between work (job), work (school), and life?
First, let's explore how to learn about available jobs. This involves two aspects: the job you want and the jobs available when you're actively searching. Begin by assessing your passions, interests, or existing skills that might catch an interviewer's attention. Strong interest in a subject can drive your learning journey. Make a list of appealing jobs and compare it to your interests/skills list. Highlight the jobs that match at least one of your interests. Research your highlighted jobs to understand their requirements, salary ranges, average weekly hours, etc. Then, search for these jobs within 100 miles of your location (or in a specific area if you want to move). This helps you get an idea of the job market and set realistic expectations. Also, look for trends in your desired job category to see if there's a surplus or shortage of professionals.
Regarding college selection, consider Form, Fit, Function, and Finances. Form refers to the teaching style (on-campus, online, correspondence, or a mix). Function means the school's strengths (what degrees they're known for). Fit is about whether the school feels right for you. Finances involve the total cost of attendance (tuition, room, food, utilities, entertainment, etc.). Aim for a school that meets at least two of these criteria. Research online or in libraries, visit campuses, and talk to Career Guidance and Admissions departments to gather information. Which two criteria are most important depends on you.
To balance life, get a job while in college (unless you're playing a highly competitive sport). Learning to manage the demands of a job, school, and social life is invaluable. Time management skills will benefit you throughout your career, and having extra money is always a plus.
Finally, to improve your interviewing skills, practice is key. Try different methods, such as talking to various people, participating in mock group interviews, or practicing with friends. The goal is to gain experience speaking about yourself in front of others, as that's what an interview entails. Group interviews can provide valuable feedback on your strengths and areas for improvement.
As for "easy-to-get" jobs, no job is guaranteed, but less skilled jobs are typically easier to obtain. To make skilled or professional-level jobs easier to attain, research, develop and enhance the necessary skills, and practice your interviewing skills.
Do self assessment of interests and skills (create a skills list)
Do research on job market you are interested in (type and locations)
Gain needed skills and enhance one you already possess.
Define what is most important criteria for you in a role/company (should be much more than just one thing)
Practice, Practice, PRACTICE those interview skills.
1) How can you improve your interviewing skills before actually going to interviews?
2) How can you discover the various job opportunities available to you?
3) How can you choose the right college(s) to attend?
4) How can you maintain a balance between work (job), work (school), and life?
First, let's explore how to learn about available jobs. This involves two aspects: the job you want and the jobs available when you're actively searching. Begin by assessing your passions, interests, or existing skills that might catch an interviewer's attention. Strong interest in a subject can drive your learning journey. Make a list of appealing jobs and compare it to your interests/skills list. Highlight the jobs that match at least one of your interests. Research your highlighted jobs to understand their requirements, salary ranges, average weekly hours, etc. Then, search for these jobs within 100 miles of your location (or in a specific area if you want to move). This helps you get an idea of the job market and set realistic expectations. Also, look for trends in your desired job category to see if there's a surplus or shortage of professionals.
Regarding college selection, consider Form, Fit, Function, and Finances. Form refers to the teaching style (on-campus, online, correspondence, or a mix). Function means the school's strengths (what degrees they're known for). Fit is about whether the school feels right for you. Finances involve the total cost of attendance (tuition, room, food, utilities, entertainment, etc.). Aim for a school that meets at least two of these criteria. Research online or in libraries, visit campuses, and talk to Career Guidance and Admissions departments to gather information. Which two criteria are most important depends on you.
To balance life, get a job while in college (unless you're playing a highly competitive sport). Learning to manage the demands of a job, school, and social life is invaluable. Time management skills will benefit you throughout your career, and having extra money is always a plus.
Finally, to improve your interviewing skills, practice is key. Try different methods, such as talking to various people, participating in mock group interviews, or practicing with friends. The goal is to gain experience speaking about yourself in front of others, as that's what an interview entails. Group interviews can provide valuable feedback on your strengths and areas for improvement.
As for "easy-to-get" jobs, no job is guaranteed, but less skilled jobs are typically easier to obtain. To make skilled or professional-level jobs easier to attain, research, develop and enhance the necessary skills, and practice your interviewing skills.
Mark recommends the following next steps:
Ebtisam Naeem
Landscape Architect/ Interior Designer
1
Answer
Kuwait City, Al Asimah Governate, Kuwait
Updated
Ebtisam’s Answer
An interview is basically an introduction of oneself, and you have to prove yourself worthy in front of the interviewer. You are meeting someone for the first time, and they do not know anything about you other than what they have seen in your Resume'.
So, the tip is to prove yourself in ways suitable, either by speaking about your capabilities and giving examples of how u handled a situation in the past similar to the role you are applying for.
Or Perhaps by demonstrating yourself, through a practical example, of course, by taking permission from the interviewer so that you are better able to explain yourself.
When an Opportunity comes your way, you try to not let it go, and Prove yourself (The art of convincing and communicating goes a long way).
Believe in yourself, and stay Confident.
So, the tip is to prove yourself in ways suitable, either by speaking about your capabilities and giving examples of how u handled a situation in the past similar to the role you are applying for.
Or Perhaps by demonstrating yourself, through a practical example, of course, by taking permission from the interviewer so that you are better able to explain yourself.
When an Opportunity comes your way, you try to not let it go, and Prove yourself (The art of convincing and communicating goes a long way).
Believe in yourself, and stay Confident.
Synopsys Volunteers
Volunteer
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Synopsys’s Answer
Be yourself and be confident! Inauthenticity will be apparent, even with a stranger. Confidence will also shine through to an interviewer, so be sure get yourself in a confident mindset before interviewing :)
Practice with a friend! Or anyone who has some free time. Practicing with a real person ahead of time will be more helpful than you might think.
I recommend practicing in front of a mirror before your interview, if you don't have someone to practice with over and over again. Repetition is key - getting really comfortable saying your talking points out loud will make answering interview questions come more naturally over time.
One thing I recommend is recording yourself practicing for an interview, so you can watch it back and see where you can improve!
My advice is to take as many interviews as you can - even if you know it's for a position you aren't interested in, doing an interview anyway will be great practice.
Practice with a friend! Or anyone who has some free time. Practicing with a real person ahead of time will be more helpful than you might think.
I recommend practicing in front of a mirror before your interview, if you don't have someone to practice with over and over again. Repetition is key - getting really comfortable saying your talking points out loud will make answering interview questions come more naturally over time.
One thing I recommend is recording yourself practicing for an interview, so you can watch it back and see where you can improve!
My advice is to take as many interviews as you can - even if you know it's for a position you aren't interested in, doing an interview anyway will be great practice.
Tony Rosselli
Sales
9
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Tony’s Answer
Hi Amaiya!
Interviewing is a lot like Sales. You are selling yourself to that interviewer or company. Now, many people tell me "I'm not a sales person, or I don't like to sell anything", etc. Truth is, we are all in Sales. Even your school teacher is in Sales. They work to share with you their knowledge about the course content and want you to rely on them for help. And yes, you do have selling experience in you today. Example: How do you convince your parents you need / want something (new Jordans shoes for example)? You speak to your parents with conviction and authority "Mom / Dad, I need those shoes because they will (a) make me look cool at school, (b) help with my track meets (c) allow my feet to fit naturally in a new shoe. You see? you sell Mom and Dad everyday. That's what you need to do in the interview - you need to sell yourself when answering interview questions, and show the interviewer you are the best person for the job.
Interviewing is a lot like Sales. You are selling yourself to that interviewer or company. Now, many people tell me "I'm not a sales person, or I don't like to sell anything", etc. Truth is, we are all in Sales. Even your school teacher is in Sales. They work to share with you their knowledge about the course content and want you to rely on them for help. And yes, you do have selling experience in you today. Example: How do you convince your parents you need / want something (new Jordans shoes for example)? You speak to your parents with conviction and authority "Mom / Dad, I need those shoes because they will (a) make me look cool at school, (b) help with my track meets (c) allow my feet to fit naturally in a new shoe. You see? you sell Mom and Dad everyday. That's what you need to do in the interview - you need to sell yourself when answering interview questions, and show the interviewer you are the best person for the job.
Rose Grace (Executive MBA - Sustainability)
Sustainability Manager
1
Answer
Addlestone, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Rose’s Answer
The best is to rehearse your answer to the question ‘tell me about yourself’. This question seems simple enough however it is most commonly answered incorrectly.
The question is generally always asked at the start of an interview and creates the first impression of you. The trick is to understand the company you are applying to by doing your research, the position that is available and then match those requirements to your special skills, education and experience. Be strategic in the details you provide to showcase your talents.
The interviewer doesn’t know you personally so ensure that you start with the qualities they are looking for first. The practice brings confidence naturally and also gets right into why you are suitable for the job.
Ensure to include an example or two for reference
Be clear and precise with your answer, don’t speak too long or ramble on
The question is generally always asked at the start of an interview and creates the first impression of you. The trick is to understand the company you are applying to by doing your research, the position that is available and then match those requirements to your special skills, education and experience. Be strategic in the details you provide to showcase your talents.
The interviewer doesn’t know you personally so ensure that you start with the qualities they are looking for first. The practice brings confidence naturally and also gets right into why you are suitable for the job.
Rose recommends the following next steps:
TRAVIS UPCHURCH
Federal Contract Admin
128
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
TRAVIS’s Answer
Look up the STAR interview method. There is some youtube videos about it. Practice it thoroughly.