Interviewing Tips

Prepare – Find out what type of interview you will be having – behavioral, telephone, etc.  Anticipate some of those types of questions and plan your answers.  Sample Interview Questions:   http://www.jobinterviewquestions.org/  

Show, Don’t Tell – You should always go into an interview with specific scenarios that demonstrate your leadership and analytical skills.  After you have come up with great answers to showcase your accomplishments, practice your responses aloud to make sure they flow well.  While this is definitely your time to shine, don’t be arrogant.

Grooming – Dress well and carry a nice portfolio or attaché.  Women, keep the jewelry to a minimum.  Skip the cologne and perfume – you don’t want to offend anyone…or trigger bad memories.  Take a breath mint just before your interview.

It goes without saying…or does it?  Be on time, but don’t show up too early.  Be friendly; show your future employers that you are a good fit for the organization.  Always take extra copies of your resume and a pen for note-taking.  Relax, otherwise your stress or nervousness can be perceived as uncertainty.

Listen – Don’t begin to formulate a response before the interviewer has finished asking his/her question.  Respond in a calm voice and provide answers that are tailored to the needs of the company.

Know Your Weaknesses – But don’t divulge the worst about yourself.  An interview is not the time to give away tons of personal information or lament what could have been.  When you speak to your opportunities, always give an example of what you are doing to correct it.  For example, you may have joined Toastmasters to bolster your confidence and make you a better public speaker.

Do Your Homework – Be ready to speak about the company.  Know sales figures, recent news about the company, pronounce names correctly.  You should be able to speak about what they do and why they are your employer of choice.

Ask Thoughtful Questions – it will impress your future employer and let them know that you truly understand the scope of the position for which you are applying.