Interview Tips

BEFORE THE INTERVIEW:

• Be Prepared!

• Check out the website of the company you're interviewing with and conduct research (size, services, products, etc.).

• Prepare a 1-minute response to the “Tell me about yourself” question.

• Know what kind of interview to expect – behavioral, technical, etc. (Feel free to ask when scheduling the interview).

• Write 5 success stories to answer behavioral interview questions ("Tell me about a time when…" or "Give me an example of a time…").

• Prepare answers to the most common interview questions which will present your skills, talents, and accomplishments:
    - Why did you leave or are you leaving your last position?
    - What do you know about our organization?
    - What are your goals/Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
    - What are your strengths and weaknesses?
    - Why would you like to work for this company?
    - What is your most significant achievement?
    - How would your last boss and colleagues describe you?
    - Why should we hire you?
    - What are your salary expectations?

• And remember that nothing will make you look worse than not knowing what you put on your own resume.

• Have 10 questions prepared for the interviewer but only ask the ones which were not addressed during your discussion.

• Practice in front of a mirror or with a friend for feedback.

• Have your references’ permission. These might be former managers, professors, friends of your family who know you well (but not family members), or people who know you through community service. You want them to be prepared to praise you. It would be beneficial to provide your references with the following information: the job on which you are applying, the name of the company, and a copy of your resume.
   

THE INTERVIEW:

• Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early for your interview.

• Carry these items to the interview:
    - A copy of your references (which you already have their permission).
    - Paper on which to take notes.
    - Directions to the interview site

• Watch your body language and eye contact.  Stand and greet your interviewer with a firm handshake. Crossed-arms appear to be defensive, fidgeting may be construed as nervous, and lack of eye contact may be interpreted as an untrustworthy person. Instead, nod while listening to show you are attentive and alert and most importantly, do not slouch.

• Think before you answer and have a clear understanding of the question…if not, ask for clarification.

• Express yourself clearly and with confidence, however, without conceit. Keep your answers 2 to 3 minutes long.

• Show a sincere interest in the company and position. (You already know about the organization as you previously conducted your research).

• Focus on what you can contribute to the organization rather than what the employer can do for you. Don't ask about salary or benefits until the employer brings up this topic.

• Do not place blame on or be negative about past employers.

• End the interview on an assumptive note indicating how you feel you are a good fit for the position at hand and how you can make a contribution to the organization. Ask about the next step, as most offers are not extended on the spot.

• Thank the interviewer and ask for a business card (this will provide you with the necessary contact information).
   

AFTER THE INTERVIEW:

• Thank you letters should be written graciously, promptly, and carefully.  Think about the best form for your thank you. If the interviewer tells you he/she plans to make a decision that night then you should e-mail promptly. At the same time, if you are applying to a company that prides itself on doing personalized work for clients, you may want to send a handwritten message on a nice card. Either way, remind the interviewer of the valuable traits you bring to the job and do not miss that last chance to market yourself.