In my last post I gave networking and vita tips. In this and the next two posts, I will provide interview and negotiation tips.
Interview Tips
- Prepare by researching your employer prior to your interview. Never ask a question during the interview when it’s something you could have answered yourself with just a little digging. Ideas for things to research:
- Check their website: mission statement, etc.
- Find out the professional identity and clinical areas of experience of the staff so you will understand better how you might add value to the team.
- Look for a description of the position. If there isn’t one, be sure to ask for one during the interview.
- Be armed with knowledge of salaries for for comparable positions. Try glassdoor.com for specific information about open positions. This will put you in a better position to discuss salary should they make you a job offer.
- Practice answering interview questions. Ask one of your friends to role play with you, and practice answering questions such as:
- Why should we hire you?
- What are your short and long term goals?
- What strengths do you bring to our organization?
- What weaknesses do you have? How would you describe yourself?
- What 2-3 things are important to you in your job?
- Google “10 most common interview questions” for other ideas.
Make sure your answers are complete, but don’t ramble.
- Prepare a list of questions to ask. Suggestions:
- What is your vision for the agency/program, etc., for the next 5-10 years?
- What is the normal counseling load?
- What are the characteristics, in your opinion, of your best counselors?
- What is the typical longevity of counselors?
- Do you feel valued here?
- What do you enjoy most about coming to work? Least?
My next post will contain more interview tips.
Yours in the Joy of Knowledge,
Dr. Barb LoFrisco
