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The night before the interview get yourself organized!
Check the date, time and address of your interview. Be sure that you have directions to the location. It’s best to print a map of directions, always allow yourself extra time for traffic. Nothing will set a worse impression than showing up late especially without a phone call
Bring a Notebook! You may need to take notes and write down the names and titles of everyone you meet with. This will be necessary for follow-up emails after the interview. Also bring a few resumes in case someone you are meeting with does not have it.
Make sure you know who you should ask for upon your arrival
First Impression
Dress professional even if the company has a casual work environment. It is human nature is to evaluate attire, hygiene and style. Greet the interviewer by name with eye contact and offer a firm handshake. A smile and eye contact is important when making a positive impression and will help the employer remember you. Remember, you don’t get another chance to make that first impression.
Supporting Documentation
Employers appreciate it when you can supply them with documentation and/or non- confidential work samples. This is conformation of your ability.
Interview Process
Make sure to give the employer your full attention and listen closely to what is being said and asked. Give direct answers and be honest if you don’t have the exact experience. Give an example of similar experience and willingness to learn. Don’t ramble and pay close attention to the details as this can inform you of what their true needs are and help you land the job. This is your chance to sell yourself and might be the deciding factor between you and someone else getting the job.
When appropriate give specific examples of your past work. Employers are looking for the assurance that you will be able and can do the job. Every Employer is looking for the individual that has a positive and “can do” attitude. Another characteristic that makes a good impression is someone that is flexible and a team player. Before your interview it is best to think of a few ways you will be able to express and add this into your conversation.
You may be asked to share a little about yourself. Being prepared for this will make another good impression. Keep it short and not too personal. This is a good time to casually talk about:
What your job strengths are
How you are qualified for this job
Your ability to succeed and what you can contribute to this position
Why you want this job
A tough question that is often asked during the interview process is:
Why did you leave your last job, or want to leave your current job?
Don’t ever talk badly about your last employer as it could always backfire and can give the impression that you might be a difficult employee.
Answering with an explanation of how you are looking to advance in your career or find growth opportunities are always acceptable. Also letting your interviewer know about company reorganizations, layoffs or downsizing are also acceptable answers.
Remember to continually convey your interest and excitement about the position and the opportunity. Also, continue to express your willingness to learn and contribute.
Go ahead and ask questions.
An interview is meant to be a time for both parties to ask questions about the responsibilities of the job and projects. This is another opportunity to share your skills and knowledge.
Don’t discuss salary or benefits unless asked by the interviewer, Employer’s are not looking for an employee that is only interested in “what’s in it for me”.
Ending of Interview
Don’t forget to thank them for their time with eye contact and a hand shake. This is a good time to express your interest in the position one more time.
You must demonstrate good people skills, a strong work ethic and a personality that is compatible with the corporation during the interview.
Thank you letters/emails;
This is why you should make note of the individuals you have met with. This is also the perfect time to address, clarify or add to any question or answer given during the interview.
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