Interview Tips
Below is a list of important interview tips. Paying attention to simple guidelines like these can reap significant rewards.
- Learn as much as you can about the company beforehand - know its products and services, its profit margin, its management, its culture, its dress code, and anything else you can think of. Good sources are your Career Services office, a college or public libary, and the company web site.
- Practice interviews with a career counselor, friends, and family members - or by yourself, in front of a mirror. Many career services centers offer workshops, mock interviews, or one-on-one coaching. Some even make videotapes of mock interviews.
- Think about how your experience in work, classes, and activities can relate to the job you're seeking.
- Allow plenty of time to get to the interview and, if possible, visit the site in advance and time how long it takes to get there.
- Plan your interview attire in advance and make sure your clothing is pressed, your shoes are shined, and your hair and nails are well groomed.
- Bring extra copies of your resume and a list of references.
- Speak slowly and clearly and don't be afraid to pause for a moment to collect your thoughts.
- Be honest. Do not try to cover up mistakes. Instead, focus on how you learned from them.
- Be assertive. Remember that the interview is a way for you to learn if the job is right for you.
- Ask the interviewer for a business card and send a thank-you note or e-mail as soon as possible.
10 Steps to a Successful Interview
- Arrive on time.
- Introduce yourself in a courteous manner.
- Read company materials while you wait.
- Have a firm handshake.
- Be a good listener.
- Use body language to show interest.
- Smile, nod, and give other nonverbal feedback to the interviewer.
- Ask about the next step in the process.
- Thank the interviewer.
- Write a thank you letter to anyone you have spoken to.