Interview Preparation
Adapted from: Reile DM and Nickols JL. Survival
Strategies for Your New Career. 2006; 32–33.
One key to successful interviewing is preparation.
When you receive a call inviting you for an interview,
ask what the interview will be like (format, length, etc.). This way, you
will know what to expect. Knowing the title or role
of the interviewer might also provide some clue as
to the tone and formality level to expect.
Here are some fundamental areas that may guide you
in your preparation:
- Personal background. Read and
re-read your CV so you can talk comfortably
about your experience,
education, and training without looking at
your notes.
- Needed materials. Find out in advance what
materials you will need to bring to the interview.
In addition
to extra copies of your CV, you may need transcripts;
training certificates; letters of reference
or names, addresses, and phone numbers of references;
and writing
samples.
- Organizational and field knowledge. Be
familiar with major developments and trends
in pharmacy and
in your field of interest, as well as the mission
and direction of the organization interviewing
you.
- Logistical preparation. Know in advance where
you are going and how to get there. Make certain
that you have detailed directions, especially
if you are going to a city you’ve never been
to before. Allow plenty of time to get to the
interview. There is nothing more stressful to an applicant than missing a bus, trying to find parking, or getting lost on the way to an interview.
- Clothing
and appearance. Many qualified applicants
have lost job offers because of poor grooming
or inappropriate clothing. Dress to fit the organization;
tend toward the conservative. It is probably
always
better to dress up than to dress too casually.
Jewelry and make-up should complement, not distract
from, the overall look. Facial hair on men should
be neat and trimmed. You want to be remembered for
your professionalism and ability, not what you look
like. Cologne or perfume should be applied moderately
as some people are allergic and may react negatively
to certain scents
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