Interview Tips

Review common interview questions

Practice answering them with someone else or in front of a mirror. Come prepared with examples or short stories that relate to the skills that the employer wants, while emphasizing your:  

• Strengths
• Flexibility
• Leadership skills
• Ability and interest to learn new things
• Additions to the organizations in which you have worked or volunteered
• Creativity in solving problems and working with people

Before the interview, know how well you qualify for the job. For each requirement listed in the job advertisement, write down your qualifications. This can show you if you don’t have a particular skill. Plan how you will talk about that in the interview to persuade the interviewer that you can learn the skill. 

Make a list of questions that you would like to ask during the interview

Pick questions that will demonstrate your interest in the job and the company. This might include commenting on the news you learned from the company website, and then asking a question related to it. Also ask questions about the job you will be expected to perform, like:

• What are the day-to-day responsibilities of this job?
• How will my responsibilities and performance be measured? By whom?
• Could you explain your company structure?
• What computer equipment and software do you use?
• What is the organization's plan for the next five years?

Remember to bring important items to the interview

• Notebook and pens to take notes
• Extra copies of your resume and a list of references
• Copies of letter(s) of recommendation, licenses, transcripts, etc.
• Portfolio of work samples

On the day of the interview, remember to:

• Plan your schedule so you arrive 10 to 15 minutes early.
• Go alone.
• Look professional. Dress in a manner appropriate to the job.
• Leave your MP3 player, coffee, soda, or backpack at home or in your car.
• Turn off your cell phone.
• Bring your sense of humor and SMILE!

Display confidence during the interview

• Send a positive message with your body language.  
• Shake hands firmly, but only if a hand is offered to you first.
• Maintain eye contact.
• Listen carefully. Welcome all questions, even the difficult ones, with a smile.
• Give honest, direct answers.

Develop answers in your head before you respond. If you don't understand a question, ask for it to be repeated or clarified. You don't have to rush, but you don't want to appear indecisive.

End the interview with a good impression. 

• Be courteous and allow the interview to end on time.
• Restate any strengths and experiences that you might not have emphasized earlier.
• Mention a particular accomplishment or activity that fits the job.
• If you want the job, say so!
• Find out if there will be additional interviews.
• Ask when the employer plans to make a decision.

Ask for a business card or contact information of the interviewer(s).  Don't forget to send a thank-you note or letter after the interview.

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CareerOneStop.  (2014). Interview Tips. Retrieved from 

http://www.careeronestop.org/workerreemployment/jobsearch/interview/interview-tips.aspx