Job Location and Development
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Interview Tips

An interview gives you the opportunity to showcase your qualifications to an employer, so it pays to be well prepared -- it is the stage where decisions are made. For many job seekers it can be a stressful time; but it doesn't have to be. It is important to remember an interview is a very focused "conversation."

TIP 1:  Do your homework.

• Spend some time researching the company and what the job entails.
  If there are days and/or hours listed make sure you are able to work during that timeframe.

• A little preparation goes a long way.  Researching the company and practicing answers to interview questions can give you that extra bit of confidence you need to ace the interview. 

TIP 2:  Arrive 10 – 15 minutes early.

• Give yourself ample driving time.  If possible, make a “dry run” the day before the interview to avoid getting lost.

• Be sure to take the telephone number of the person with whom you will be interviewed by, so that you can contact him/her in case you get stuck in traffic.

TIP 3:  Be prepared.

• Before you arrive, make sure you have all the information you will need to fill out an application, i.e., references, exact dates of previous employment
  (if applicable), telephone numbers of present and past employers, a working pen, white out and an extra copy or two of your resume.

TIP 4:  Offer a FIRM handshake when you meet your interviewer.

• Learn the name of your interviewer and greet him/her with a firm handshake and a smile.

• When you sit (upon invitation), sit erect, make eye contact and give the interviewer your undivided attention.

TIP 5:  Be upbeat and positive.

• Avoid negative comments about past employers. 

TIP 6:  Speak distinctly and clearly.

• Use proper English, saying yes and no.  No slang allowed.

• Speak clearly and loud enough for the interviewer to hear you. 

TIP 7:  Try to relax, be polite and SMILE.

TIP 8:  Do not accept offers of food or drink.

• Even if you are thirsty, refrain from taking their offer.  The atmosphere becomes too casual and may cause you to lose focus. 

TIP 9:  Listen carefully.

• Listen carefully - take time to reflect before answering questions. Don't be afraid to say you don't know; but don't do this too often.

TIP 10:  Ask questions.

• Always prepare questions to ask.  Having no questions prepared may send the message that you are not that interested in this job.
  
  Some of your questions may be answered during the course of the interview, before you are offered the opportunity to ask. If so, you can simply state something to the effect that you were interested in knowing more about a subject that was addressed during the interview.

TIP 11:  Let them know you are a team player.

• Let the company know that you are a team player and will do what it takes to get the job done.

• Make sure you are being honest about your skills and abilities.

• Show enthusiasm - let them know you are interested in what they do and have to offer.

• Stress your best qualities and what you could bring to the position in a positive manner.

TIP 12:  Bring a copy of your resume.

• Always bring an extra resume or two.  On occasion, the employer may not have your resume in front of them or you may be interviewed by a second person.  If so, an extra resume on hand will show how prepared you are.

• Make sure the resumes are on a nice grade of paper.  Bring the extra resumes in a folder or portfolio so they won’t wrinkle or tear. 

TIP 13:  Ask for a business card.

• Ask the interviewer for their business card so you have the proper spelling of their name and their title.

TIP 14:  Don’t leave yet.

• Don’t leave without expressing that you are interested in the position. 

• Ask what the next step in the process is and when you could expect to hear from them.

TIP 15:  Thank the interviewer.
 

• Thank the interviewer when you leave. Remember to shake hands with a firm handshake and thank him/her for their time and their consideration.

• Follow-up with a thank you note.

What to Wear to an Interview

FIRST IMPRESSIONS ARE CRITICAL!

As you sit in front of an interviewer, every part of you is being assessed.  Your interview attire should be appropriate to the job you are seeking.  But, whether the job is corporate and conservative or casual and more relaxed, you should look professional and put together.  Your skills and experience should stand out in an interview, NOT your outfit. 

Tips for what to Wear to an Interview

TIP 1:  Be Conservative.

• Conservative is best for the interview regardless of the dress code of the company.  If you’re unsure of the dress code call them and ask.  Ask the receptionist or the person who answers the phone.  If you are not comfortable doing this – then go for the conservative look.

TIP 2:  Make sure your clothes are clean and pressed.

TIP 3:  Brush or comb your hair

• Make sure your hair is neatly brushed or combed.  If it is long, make sure it is not in your face.

TIP 4:  Be well groomed

• A quick breath spray or breath mint a few minutes before the interview is a good idea.

• Make sure your hands are clean and that your nails are
  trimmed and neat.
• Perfume or cologne is OK, but keep it VERY light.  You don’t want your interviewer to be overwhelmed by the scent and some people are allergic to strong scents.
• A clean shave for men is best; however, if you do have facial hair, make sure it is neat and trim. 
• Wear a minimal amount of jewelry.
• Besides earrings, remove any visible body piercings.

TIP 5:  Dress for the Job

• Keep in mind the job you are applying for.  If you’re applying for an office position, men should wear a button down shirt with a tie (a jacket also if possible) and women should be wearing a nice skirt and top or suit with closed-toed shoes.  For a more casual job, (i.e. a warehouse position or a job where you will be working outdoors) your clothes can be sportier, less dressy. However, they still must be clean and neatly pressed. 
• No matter what type of position you are applying for, an overall look that conveys competency, maturity, and reliability should be your goal.

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