working with the posting will help you to plan your interview
script and be prepared for whatever comes your way during
the interview.
During the interview, whenever you are describing your suc-
cesses and achievements, you will want to use up-to-date
terms to describe your experiences and accomplishments.
Words,like everything else in our lives have a “shelf life” and
become old or dated. An example of using outdated words is
to address a cover letter using the phrase: “To whom it may
concern.” While this is proper as far as grammar and protocol
go, it is also very dated. This is true of industry-specific jargon
as well.
Exercise
One way to prepare is to start looking at online postings, even
if you aren’t ready to apply for a position. Begin by visiting one
of the major job boards and do an online job search. Enter the
title of the job you are interested in pursuing, but at this point
leave the geographical preference open. By leaving the loca-
tion open, you will get a broader look at the industry and the
common words and phrases that are used nationwide.
When you find job postings that are of interest to you,
print them out and put them aside. After you have seven or eight,
read through the postings noticing the words and phrases
used. Read through the posting the first time for content. Then,
read it again and begin to catch the key words used. Read the
posting through one more time, but this time read between the
Getting Ready for the Interview