Interviewing Tips

Congratulations, you’ve generated enough interest from an employer to warrant an interview!  Now the old adage applies: You only have one chance to make a good first impression.  Here are some tips to help you.

Do’s:

• Research the company. Oftentimes employers will ask you why you have an interest in their company. Be prepared to answer. 
• If you have a job description from the company, be prepared to tell the interviewer why you feel you are a good “fit” for the job based on your experience.
• If possible, take a ride to the company on a day prior to the interview if you’ve never been there. That way you’ll be familiar with how long it takes, and you won’t run the risk of getting lost or being late for your interview. And in case the worst happens, have the name of the interviewer and their phone number so you can call them.
• Dress professionally. Even if the company has a casual dress code, you’ll make a better impression.
• Bring copies of your resume to the interview.
• Arrive a few minutes earlier than the time scheduled for the interview. This gives you time to compose yourself, and it sends the message that if you are hired, you will report to work on time.
• Shake the interviewer’s hand.  Have a firm grip and accompany it with a smile and eye contact.
• Be enthusiastic, alert, and self confident. Sit up straight and think positively.
• Answer all questions honestly. If you do not know an answer, say so.
• Be prepared to focus on your job performances and skills.  
• End the interview in a positive way. Thank the interviewer for the opportunity to interview and express your desire to work for the company. Ask for the timeline regarding the selection of a candidate. 
• Send a thank you note within twenty four hours.  A hand written, mailed one is best. Make sure it is neatly written, and tell specifically what you found interesting about the job and company, and how you see yourself contributing. Get business cards from whomever you interviewed with so that you spell the names correctly.

Don’ts:

• Don’t chew gum during the interview.
• Don’t tell jokes.
• Don’t use poor language, slang, or “fill in”  words, such as “um”, “uh”, and “like”.
• Don’t bring up personal problems or family issues.
• Don’t rely on your resume alone. You will have to sell yourself during the interview.
• Don’t ask about salary, bonuses, vacation time, or benefits until you’ve received an offer from the company.