Quick Tips: Interviewing
- Do your homework, research the company well
- Know your skills as they relate to the job you are applying for
- Back-up what you say with examples
- Understand the different types of interviews; review the STAR method
Before the Interview
Research the job and company. The more you know about the company and the position you are interviewing for, the better prepared you are. Be sure you are familiar with the company’s mission and vision statement.
Know your facts. It doesn’t look good if you aren’t sure where you worked and when. Know your work history, the dates, and the important details. If you get nervous, bring an extra copy of your resume for reference.
Choose your outfit. First impressions are important. Dress for the role you want. Make sure you pick out your outfit prior to the interview. Your clothing should be cleaned, pressed, and a good fit.
Know where you’re going. If you aren’t familiar with the area, make sure to give yourself plenty of travel time. Plan to arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of the interview.
Practice makes perfect. Have family or friends prepare you for the interview by conducting a mock interview. Have them ask different questions and ask for their feedback. Make sure to include practicing situation and behavior type questions.
Arrive early. It is always better to be early than late to your interview. Plan to arrive 15 minutes prior to your interview. This helps to avoid feeling flustered and rushed, allowing you to be calm before the interview starts.
Take your time. Don’t rush to answer your interviewer’s questions. Take a few moments to put your thoughts together before you respond.
Give examples. The more specific you are in the examples, the more you demonstrate to the hiring manager you possess the skills necessary to complete the job.
Keep it professional. Your responses should be tailored around your professional skills and abilities. Your interviewer(s) don’t need to know about your personal life, interests, hobbies, and family. Definitely do NOT bring up work-related challenges such as child care arrangements.
Have questions prepared. The last question they will probably ask during the interview is if you have any questions for them. Have a list of questions ready to ask your interviewer(s).
Share your accomplishments. Don’t be shy about your accomplishments. Share those related to the job you are interviewing for to reinforce you are the qualified candidate.
Take a deep breath before you go in, and remember, stay calm!
Send thank-you’s. After the interview is complete, follow up by sending thank-you cards to the interviewer(s).