INTERVIEW FOR SUCCESS

TIP 1: PREPARE

Prepare for the Interview by planning ahead - Research the company online if possible.  Review your work experiences. Be ready to support past career accomplishments with specific information targeted toward the position which you are applying. Have your facts ready!  Preparation builds confidence.

Tip 2: CONFIRM

Confirm time, date, location and name of person you will interview with.  Plan to get there 15 – 30 minutes before the designated interview time, keeping in mind traffic and other unforeseen incidences.  If for some reason you are running late, be sure to call! 

Tip 3: EYE CONTACT

Eye Contact - Maintain eye contact with your interviewer. This demonstrates your interest. Good posture is a must so don’t slouch or lean on the desk.  A friendly handshake and a smile is always a very important gesture before and after an interview.

 Tip 4: BE POSITIVE

Be Positive - The person interviewing you wants to see your passion for the job.  Demonstrating a “can do” attitude in a genuine manner is very important.  Avoid negative comments about past employers or your personal problems.

                     Tip 5: LISTEN
 
Listen - Focus on the interview and listen carefully, don’t interrupt.  Jot down notes to refer to for questions or answers you want to remember.  They are giving you information that can assist you on how to behave during the interview so observe their style.   Let them be the first to discuss salary, benefits, raises, vacation time etc.

                    Tip 6: DRESS APPROPRIATE

Dress Appropriate –  “Dress For Success” which means conservative attire for an interview is always best. Business Casual is acceptable in most office environments once you start working which means slacks and conservative shirt/top, ( low-cut tops, short skirts and sandals are not appropriate for an interview).  Make sure your fingernails are clean or neatly polished, make-up not over-done and hair neat.

                  Tip 7: FOLLOW-UP

Ask for their business card to send a follow-up email or note of appreciation.

POSSIBLE QUESTIONS

• What are you looking for in a new position?
  
• Why did you leave your last employers?
  
• How does this position fill in your career plans?
  
• Why do you want to work for our company?
   
• What are your strengths and weaknesses? 
  
• Tell me about yourself?
  
• What do you know about our company?
  
• Why should we hire you?
  
• How long would it take for you to make a meaningful contribution?
   
• Why are you looking for a new position?