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Topic Name: Second Interview with HR
Message Name: This may be moot
Date Posted: 04/09/2002
In Reply To: I have a second interview with HR and need some advice. The first interview was with 2 hiring managers in research and development and went well. They want to expand their international projects, and I think I'm the only international candidate (American in Germany). They said they had 2 other candidates and apparently couldn't decide between us, so now HR is supposed to help "give an opinion". (I actually don't know if all 3 of us got 2nd interviews.) So here are my questions for any HR reps: 1) If the department couldn't make a decision based on our research backgrounds, what is HR looking for? 2) How technical can I be when I describe my research? Can I expect HR to know something about the projects in the department or should I describe my scientific research in very general terms? 3) I desperately want this job. How can I best sell myself to HR folks? Thanks!
Message: You may have already had your interview so what is said here may already be moot. HR will look at your "soft skills" and compare them with the other candidates. Sure, you may have the tech knowledge, but can you apply them effectively as a member of a team or in a leadership position? As you display your technical knowledge, do you come across as a "know-it-all" or as someone who can work well with others? Don't assume HR is clueless about the department. Otherwise, you'll come across as condescending and patronizing when you explain what it is you can do for them. Remember, you're being considered not just for your technical and research backgrounds. They are also looking to see how well you'll fit in. Good luck.

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