Jobs & Money Detail
The all important job interview
Matt French asks an expert what else one should consider to make sure you’re not holding your head in disbelief after a poor job interview.
Being able to sell yourself at a job interview may be the difference between entry into the US and the end of your emigration dream. "As with any interview it is important to plan ahead," says Steve McLean, Vice-President of US immigration, visa and employment agency H1 Base. "Do your homework; research the company, the position and, if possible, the people you will meet at the interview."
It is also a good idea to research the general state of your profession in America, and make sure you understand the differences between the way the US and UK systems operate. It will be taken for granted US nationals understand their industries, but it will be glaringly obvious if you do not. "Review your work experiences," McLean adds. "Be ready to support past career accomplishments with specific information targeted toward the companies' needs, and have your facts ready." You need to be an exceptional candidate to ensure less experienced US candidates do not get the job just because they are more convenient to employ.
As your interview is such an important event do not underestimate the importance of rehearsing. "Once you have finished studying, begin role-playing," McLean enthuses. "Run through likely general questions that may come up. Write down answers if it helps to make your presentation more concise, and try to keep your answers to the information your new employer will want to know. "Try to relate your answers to the interviewer and his or her company and focus on achievements relevant to the position on offer." Of equal benefit to being able to competently answer questions at interview, will be your ability to ask insightful and intelligent questions. "Remember to always demonstrate your interest," Mclean says. "And sound positive and enthusiastic at all times."
There is another string you can add to your bow that should help prepare you for interviewing for an American job position. This is to do with the logistics of the interview experience. It may not be possible for you to fly to the US for an interview or for an employer to come to meet you face-to-face. Therefore, a lot of people will find their interviews take place over the phone, and not being able to show your enthusiasm for the post with eye contact and hand gestures will be a stumbling block for many interviewees. "You must be able to rely on auditory feedback and be disciplined enough to keep focus," says McLean. "In order to be prepared for an unexpected phone call make sure you always keep proper materials near your phone during your entire job search duration. Keep a file of 'employer research' near your desk as company research can help you quickly come up with a few questions for your interviewer. "Also keep a fresh copy of your resumé to hand. Your resumé will allow you to answer questions about your past experiences more easily, and have a notepad and two pens (just in case one runs out) for note-taking."
A less stressful, and maybe more likely scenario, is an pre-arranged phone interview. This will allow valuable additional time you should use to make obvious, but important, preparatory steps. "Make sure you have a space set aside that is free of distractions," says McLean. "Also keep a glass of water nearby in case you need to clear your throat, and of course, make sure to use the restroom before the call. "Remember, phone interviews are just as much of an interview as a traditional meeting. Always make sure you are professional in your approach. Interviewers are a daunting species at the best of times, but there are measures you can take to make talking to a faceless employer less stressful. "Know your comfort zone," McLean advises. "Some people perform best in a quiet room. If you prefer to sit, find a room free from distractions. "If you are the type of person that likes to walk-and-talk, consider determining a pre-defined route. This will help ensure that there are no outside noises, but make sure it is a leisurely walk so you can maintain calm breathing patterns."
Even if conducting an interview sitting down, breathing properly cannot be underestimated and heavy panting is always unpleasant "Stand up," McLean says. "Stretching your torso will give you the full strength of your lungs. You will be able to speak more clearly and powerfully." Neither should you forget to smile. "It comes through in the tone of your voice" McLean says. "Negativity or an uneasy attitude can easily show itself over a phone call. Before the interview, consider spending a few minutes listening to your favourite song or watching a funny video. Make sure you are in a good mood." However, equally don't get too comfortable and forget who you and talking to. To help prevent this McLean advises you enforce a dress code. "Believe it or not, properly dressing in at least business-casual attire will make a difference in your ability to focus on the interview. Wearing the right clothes and taking a serious approach to the call will help you maintain a professional attitude regardless of your surroundings."
There are other common mistakes likely to distract your focus and disrupt the flow of your speech, but they are easily avoided, while you must always make sure to do certain things. "Definitely no speaker phone," warns McLean. "Disable 'call waiting' and if you are not able to, absolutely ignore other calls. Also make sure to ask for and write down your interviewers name, title and company and follow up the interview by sending a thank you note. Ultimately, McLean's advise is to remember the old adage – practice makes perfect.
Likely job interview questions
Q: Why do you want to work for us?
Q: How committed are you to relocating to the US?
Q: What salary do you expect this job to pay?
Q: What can you do for us that someone else can't?
Q: How long would it take for you to make a
meaningful contribution?
Q: What position do you expect to have in 2–5 years?
Q: Do you have any questions for me?
Note: This article is most relevant to interviews with companies that have – or are able to obtain – H1Bs. Those applying for jobs requiring an EB-3 visa will have to prepare an answer for the following question: Why should we employ you when we can employ a similarly qualified American and have them working for us much sooner?
For further information:
H1Base
Related article:
America's most wanted professions
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