Interviewing skills

Abstract

Services (DCS) offers career assistance and information on employment issues to chemistry professionals. This booklet contains the most up-to-date information available on interviewing, based on observations of employment interviews, and can be used by the chemist at any career stage. of Professional Services, reviewed the manuscript for completeness and accuracy. The Department is grateful to the current and former writers, contributors, and reviewers for their time and effort to develop this handbook. Preface You probably already know that your résumé is a tool to obtain an interview with a potential employer, and the interview determines whether you receive an offer of employment. Many candidates mistakenly believe their work ends once they secure an interview, but those who are unprepared for the interview are rarely successful. You'll want to invest the time and energy in a positive interview outcome. An interview gives you and the interviewer an opportunity to exchange information about the open position. The interviewer's task is to determine whether you have the skills and motivation to do the job and whether you'll fit into the organization. Your goal is to present yourself in the best possible light, so you stand out as the ideal candidate. To reach this goal, you must seriously prepare for every interview, realizing your level of preparation probably will be the deciding factor in whether you receive a job offer. You can refine your interview skills—and your first step is knowing what the process entails; consider these elements: • Understanding yourself—your skills and accomplishments, your values and needs • Learning about the employer's organization • Planning and preparing for interview logistics • Going through the meeting itself • Determining reasonable compensation • Negotiating an offer • Maintaining your marketability after you get the job. This handbook will help you learn about each part of this process, different kinds of interviews, and how to face the interview. DISCLAIMER This handbook is meant to serve as a basic information resource in areas of concern to chemists. Information was compiled from published sources that we deemed reliable (see Appendix lists). Readers should consult the appropriate authorities for additional information or assistance beyond the scope of this handbook. The American Chemical Society (ACS) does not guarantee employment to any reader of this document or accept responsibility for setting standards in any topic discussed within. ACS and the authors, contributors, and reviewers also are not responsible for the accuracy …