EC-EXECS recommendations for Interview Techniques
You always need to "take temperatures" because people have minds and they're changing them constantly. You need to listen to what they don't say. Being prepared for an interview is vital; the following preparation is very unique and effective in conducting a positive interview.

Things to remember:

• People have to buy you before they buy from you.
• People hire and accept emotionally first and justify logically later.
• People are most sold by your conviction rather than by your persuasion.
• Know your technology, but think PEOPLE.
• The decision to hire is made in the first 5 to 10 minutes of the interview, with the remaining time spent justifying that decision.
• The first 2/3 of your front resume page decides if there will be additional conversation with you as a potential candidate for employment with the client.
• Always dress the absolute best you can.  First impressions are EVERYTHING! You cannot overdress. No excess jewelry, no piercings, no tattoos showing, very light cologne or perfume, new haircut, cell phones OFF .  Do not make a fashion statement.  Conservative is always safe in making initial waredrobe choices.
• Be at minimum 15 mintes early for your appointment.  Never be late!  First impression is everything.

The Candidate Preparation:
Please take these notes to the interview and practice the anticipated questions that may be asked and your answers to those questions. Be sure to practice these steps out loud to yourself before the interview.  Either telephone screening interviews or face-to-face interviews should be handled the same way,

• What are the duties and responsibilities of the position I'm applying for? This is an excellent icebreaker question for the hiring authority and a great start to a successful interview. What percentage of my job is dedicated to administration, supervisory, and technical? (This should = 100%.)
• What is my number one priority that has to be done before I leave each day? Why? (Priorities are personal.)  What does yourcurrent top performer in this positoin do to bring best results for you?
• What are the production or sales goals? What obstacles would prevent me from reaching my goals?
• What are the short and long term goals set for the person in this position?
• Have questions for the hiring authority. Questions must be written out before the interview.
• Salary - this is a trap question. If the question is brought up, a very good response is, "I am currently earning $_____.  with $____ realized bonuses and other key benefits (company car, 401 matching of __%, etc..  I presently don't know enough about your opportunity to answer your question fairly." Be very careful that you don't short yourself. Be sure to keep in mind your current base salary, bonus program, stock options, gain sharing programs, performance bonuses, benefits, etc and why you are at the interview..
• Ask for the job! "I haven't interviewed in a while, what is the next step? Can we conclude our business today if all goes well?" AND summarize why you feel you are qualified for their new position and ask, "Do you feel I have the qualifications this position requiresr?" Then remain silent for an answer. If the hiring authority says, "I'm looking at other people," you say, "How do my qualifications match the people you're considering."   Business executives are looking for you to develop supplemental revenue sources, so SELL YOURSELF!

(Your #1 priority is to receive an offer, if this is a position that you desire, your #2 priority is to know the next step.)

ALWAYS SEND A FOLLOW-UP LETTER.  Short and to the point asking for the position. After you leave the interview, it is very important that you call us immediately (within the first hour).  We must discuss your interview, your continued interest, and then we speak to our client.  Your honesty is essential to working with us!