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Seven habits for a highly effective interview

M. RAO and D. DIERMEIER. Frito-Lay, Frito-Lay, 7701 Legacy Dr., Plano, TX 75024

Numerous food scientists and engineers have interviewed for potential employment at Frito-Lay and Pepsico. This talk will cover strategies for a successful interview. Key areas to be discussed include the following:

Soft side attributes -- Consider subjective criteria like attire, eye contact, enthusiasm, and a hand shake. Leadership -- If you do nothing else in the interview, let your interviewer know that you make things happen. Teamwork -- Share examples describing how you work with others, as teamwork is paramount in turning raw skills into results. Integrity -- Demonstrate honesty and candor, two key facets of business success. Technical Aptitude -- Be prepared to excel in technical discussion, one of the most important (and most feared) parts of the interview. Homework -- Take the time to research the company and industry before the interview. Your Goal -- Don't try to "get an offer." Instead, target accurately representing yourself and precisely assessing the company.

Additional topics to be addressed will include the key differences between a phone interview and an in-person interview, and some great questions to ask your interviewer.