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» Snap Decisions
Survey Finds Employers Form Opinions of Job Interviewees
Within 12 Minutes
Hiring managers often know whether they might
hire someone soon after the opening handshake and small talk,
a new survey suggests. Executives polled said it takes them
just 12 minutes to form an opinion of job seekers, despite
meeting with staff-level applicants for an hour and management-level
candidates for 103 minutes, on average. The survey was developed
by Robert Half Finance & Accounting, the world's first
and largest specialized financial recruitment service. It was
conducted by an independent research firm and includes responses
from 100 senior Canadian executives.
Canadian executives were
asked, "How long does it typically
take you to form either a positive or negative opinion of
a job candidate during an initial interview?" The mean
response was 12 minutes.
In addition, executives were asked, "How many minutes,
on average, do you spend meeting with a staff-level candidate
during a job interview?" The mean response was 60 minutes.
Respondents
were also asked, "How many minutes, on
average, do you spend meeting with a management-level candidate
during a job interview?" The mean response was 103 minutes.
" The interview begins the moment job seekers arrive,
so applicants need to project enthusiasm and confidence from
the start," said Max Messmer, chairman and CEO of Robert
Half International and author of Job Hunting For Dummies(R),
2nd Edition (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.). "The opening
minutes of the conversation often set the tone for the rest
of the discussion, making it wise to prepare especially well
for the first few interview questions."
Following are
five questions frequently asked at the beginning of an interview
and tips for responding:
1. Can you tell me a little about yourself? Concisely discuss
your professional goals and interests as they relate to the
job opportunity. Your answer should provide insight into
why you are the right fit for the position and the company.
2.
What do you know about our firm? Research the business beforehand
and be prepared to describe how your skill set
and experience will help you contribute to its success.
3.
Why do you want to work here? Whether it's the company's
values, history of success or reputation in the industry
that attracted you, respond in a way that shows you understand
the organization's priorities and business objectives.
4.
Why are you looking to leave your current position? Keep
your answer focused on the opportunity - for example, a chance
to advance your career. Remain positive and avoid disparaging
other employers.
5. What is your most significant professional
accomplishment? Cite an achievement that demonstrates your
abilities and
shows you value results. |
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