If preparation is an essential part of your job, why isn't part of your job search?
Research
Always research the company before your interview. Web sites and annual reports are great resources. Working with a recruiting company that knows the corporate culture of their client companies is also an excellent way to obtain meaningful information. By knowing about the company in advance, you’ll stand out from other applicants and be able to ask knowledgeable questions. Before your interview prepare questions to ask the interviewer that are relevant to the specific company.
Prepare
Make sure your resume is current and bring extra copies in a clean folder to the interview. Prepare a list of three to five references; at least two of them should be from previous employers or close business associates. Include day and evening phone numbers and addresses. Do not list family members as references. Do have your list of references ready to give the interviewer when he/she asks for it. Worth repeating, make a list of potential questions for the company your interviewing with. It is important to ask questions.
Dress to Impress
Dress professionally and appropriately. Appropriate attire most often means a suit for men and a pants/skirt suit for women. Hair should be clean and well groomed, suits should be neat and pressed, and women should avoid excessive jewelry or perfume. Never drink or smoke before an interview.
Plan Ahead
Always research the company before your interview. Web sites and annual reports are great resources. Working with a recruiting company that knows the corporate culture of their client companies is also an excellent way to obtain meaningful information. By knowing about the company in advance, you’ll stand out from other applicants and be able to ask knowledgeable questions. Before your interview prepare questions to ask the interviewer that are relevant to the specific company.
Keep focused during the interview, you got this!
Questions asked during interviews
Curious what questions might be asked during your interview? Check out our common questions asked section along with sample questions to ask during an interview.
Interview Psychology
More information on getting in the proper frame of mind for your big day!
Keep Focused
Your doing great!
Be Confident
Greet your interviewer with a firm handshake, and maintain eye contact throughout the interview. Remember that you are selling yourself—so don’t sell yourself short! Prepare to discuss the special talents, abilities, and qualifications that make you the best candidate for the position.
Be Enthusiastic
Smile! Look for opportunities to break the ice with casual, friendly conversation. Let the interviewer know that you have visited the company’s Web site or read their annual report, brochures, etc.
Be Responsive
Body language is extremely important. Stand when the interviewer enters the room, and remain standing until he/she sits. Respond to the interviewer’s jokes and comments by smiling, nodding, and commenting when appropriate. Maintain good posture and avoid fidgeting.
Be Attentive
Listen carefully and attentively to the interviewer, and seek opportunities to ask questions about the company and/or the position. If you wish to take notes, ask the interviewer for permission to do so. Never let your eyes (or your thoughts) wander—it shows disinterest and poor communication skills.
Be Brief
Don’t give long-winded answers to their questions. Answer succinctly and clearly—however, if a yes or no question is posed, you should elaborate. You shouldn’t decline to answer a question unless it’s illegal (i.e., regarding your race, age, religion, etc.). If you’re unsure of how to answer a question, ask to have it restated or clarified further. Remember—it’s okay to pause and think before you respond!
Relate and Refer
In formulating your answers, make sure they relate to the position for which you’re applying, and refer somehow to your qualifications and abilities. The question behind every question is “Why should we hire you?”
Be Professional
Never swear, chew gum, smoke, or make inappropriate jokes. Even if your interviewer displays this behavior, it is neither appropriate nor professional for you to do so.
Be Positive
Never speak negatively about past employers, co-workers, or job experiences.
Be Yourself
Your unique personality will distinguish you from other applicants who are equally or more qualified for the position—so don’t be afraid to be yourself! If you have a sense of humor, let it show. Try to relax, and recognize that you are also there to see if the position is right for you.
You nailed it, now its time to celebrate!
Ending the Interview
- Thank the interviewer for his/her time, and state your interest in the position.
- Ask about the next step in the process. They may tell you to call them, or to wait for their call.
- Remember to ask for a business card.
Post Interview
- Try to send a personalized email before 48 hours post interview.
- Email addresses are readily available on business cards, DON'T FORGET THE BUSINESS CARD!