Stage One:
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Breaking the Ice or Establishing Rapport: The first impression and initial social exchanges. |
Stage Two:
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General Sharing of Information: The interviewer’s review of the available position and the “tell us a little bit about yourself” question. This is a request for your opening statement. |
Stage Three:
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Sharpening the Focus: Behavior-based or general interviewing questions. |
Stage Four:
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Closure: Opportunity to ask questions and make a closing statement. |
Each of these stages is discussed in greater detail in the section of this booklet called “During the Interview.” Before the Interview, however, you can begin to prepare (rehearse) by Developing Your Opening Statement. This is essentially a 1-3 minute commercial about you that highlights your ability to fit within this organization – something you’ve already got a good handle on – and it falls within the interview stage identified as “General Sharing of Information.”
Take some time to identify your unique strengths and abilities. Consider how you want to “stand out” as the best person for the job.
Then practice out loud, to gain accuracy as to your statement’s duration, and you will begin to feel more comfortable saying it. Next outline your opening statement on the back page of your Confident Interviewing Worksheet. It is critical that you articulate your unique capabilities or experience that makes you stand out! The following are some additional guidelines to consider:
Breaking the Ice
This is the time to shake hands, say hello, and get acquainted. But it’s also much more. First impressions will be developing so be aware of your:
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Posture |
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Eye Contact |
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Energy Level |
If you’ve been rehearsing (or better yet if you’ve been videotaped), these nonverbal cues will project your confidence and sincere interest in the position.
