Interviewing Tips: What you should do?
Responses to Questions about Weaknesses
Select only one response when asked about your weaknesses. Your reply should be one that can be deemed as both positive and negative. Employers want to know that you understand your weakness and you are making advances in improving.
Other Interviewing Suggestions:
Practice interviewing by mock interviewing, or practice digital or video interviewing software tools, like Interview Stream (www.interviewstream.com) and Active Interview (www.activeinterview.com). Another fun option is Interactly (www.interactly.com) that allows recorded video interview practice that can be shared with a group for feedback. Some companies are using modern interviewing methods by incorporating technology. The pre-set questions require candidates to record responses, voice or webcam usually. Companies may use popular tools, like Spark Hire or HireVue. Preparation is never under rated.
You do not have to convince the employer that you do not have a lot of or no experience at all. In some cases that can work in you favor if you are trainable, but not always if they need someone to hit the ground running immediately. Show confidence and focus on what you have and can do. Focus on your strengths.
When you are applying for a position and interviewing, your cause is totally for or about the company, not your career in their eyes. They need flexibility and someone who can do the assigned work, whatever that may be and even during changes or challenges.
Also, understand if your goals match their goals, company vision, and culture. Indicating that you want a PhD may not be relevant to them, but may not reduce the value in your interest in earning one for personal reasons. Continuing education is a plus for all companies, but they also want you to focus on completing the work, be committed, and work there long term. Most employers desire candidates to apply who have one or two degrees, sometimes certifications and licensing, depending upon the type of career and job level.
Personal Data and Story Telling
We use an easy-to-remember technique called, SAC Technique , the Career Wit technique to answering interview questions serves as a reminder for responses to indicate a short story, with action that has consequences of positive impact. Hence, the acronym, "SAC," stands for "story, action, and consequences." Use short stories or examples in behaviorial and situational style interviews. Interviews that require a response to how you have or would perform under certain situations.
Avoid over sharing your personal background, interests, and values. Use your time wisely providing professional examples and stories should tell a beginning, middle, and end. They should leave the meeting understanding who was involved, how you contributed, the project or task completed, and your success with it.