The Interview

Your resume and cover letter has gotten the interest of the prospective employer. They have requested an interview with you. Here are some Interview Tips that will help to be successful through this process.


Preparation Checklist

Have a summary of your background prepared and rehearsed.
Have your resume with you. If you have updated it recently be sure the interviewer has the updated version.
Have notes about the opportunity that you are being interviewed for.
Visit the company website.
Bring a calendar with you so you can to make any necessary appointments.
Have a note pad and 2 working pens.
Have any certifications, references or reference letters ready in case you are asked.


DO…
If English is your 2nd language, remember to speak up, speak slowly and pause briefly after each sentence.
Know what the company does (products, services, market).
Know what position they are calling about.
Use formal names until told otherwise.
Be positive and enthusiastic.
Have a note pad on the seat of your car and take a minute after the interview to write down any questions that you may have or any points you forgot to make.

DON’T…
Don’t ramble on or give life history.
Don’t ask questions about money, benefits, holidays, etc.; avoid the “What’s in it for me?” on the first interview unless the interviewer brings it up.
Don’t be negative about past employers, experiences, and the economy of your current situation. If you smoke, use a breath mint before the interview.
Don’t chew gum during the interview.
Don’t leave conversations open-ended.


If it is a PHONE Interview


If possible, avoid (static) cell phones.
If you are being called by the interviewer, rework your answering machine tape to avoid cutesy, humorous or offensive messages.
Disengage total phone before the call.
Avoid distractions – find a quiet location to take the call (no Radio, TV, children or pets in background).
Don't use a speaker phone

Arrange for a face-to-face interview! Ask for a date and time! Ask for a contact person.
Remember no one gets hired over the phone!

GOOD QUESTIONS…
Tell me about a typical day.
Tell me about your department.
How many people in the department? Who do they interface with? How long has the average employee been there?
What is your background?
How long have you been there?
How does my background compare to what you are looking for?
What aspects of my background are most interesting to you?
What kind of career path is there?
What’s our next step in the process?


REMEMBER: If you are interested TELL THEM!