The Do’s and Don’ts of interviewing – everything from what to wear, how early to show up, how to ask thoughtful questions and more!

        Research the organization and job ahead of time Determine the goals of the organization and department Talk to someone doing the job Have Questions Prepared • Make a list of questions that you would like to have answered at the interview.

Remember that the interview is as much a chance for you to evaluate the employer and position as it is for the interviewer to evaluate you.

Know Yourself Prepare Answers to Common Questions • Think of Examples Demonstrating Your Skills To supplement your answers describe a skill you have. For each skill be ready to describe a situation from your past work (or academic) experience where you used it effectively.

Rehearse

        First impressions matter Clean, pressed and conservative Wear low-key colors (navy, black, grey) Be comfortable Leather portfolio and extra resumes are good “accessories” Avoid smoking in your interview outfit Jewelry & Make-up: less is better Shoes polished

MEN

    Ask yourself questions and respond aloud Have a friend, roommate or parent “interview” you in advance • Interviews usually begin with, “Tell me about yourself” Prepare a brief response to this and give special attention to experience, education and skills related to the job Do not memorize answers; you want to sound spontaneous



The First 10 Seconds

• Your professionalism, social class, morals, and intelligence are all being prejudged in the first 10 seconds of an interview. While it may be unfair, first impressions are crucial! 

1.

What You Can Do: Be together

This includes being on time, looking your best, and bringing the necessities, and shows the interviewer that you are confident, respectful, and interested in the job.

2. Monitor your body language

Be sure to maintain good eye contact as it can reveal that you are alert, dependable, confident, and responsible. Also, stand straight (do not slouch), and walk naturally, with confidence.

Finally, remember to smile - it makes you seem more sociable and conveys your interest.

3. Monitor your speech

Your goal is to impart confidence and credibility in what you are saying. Be sure to use proper grammar. Also, open and close your conversation on a positive note. Small talk is a key way of making people comfortable, especially in business settings. Ask questions. Be the initiator

1) 2) 3) 4) 5) Why are you here •

Why this company and not another?

What can you do for us •

Will you be part of the solution or problem? What are your skills?

What kind of person are you •

Are you easy to work with? Do you share our company values?

What distinguishes you from others applying for the job • Do you have a better education? Show up earlier? Stay later? Work faster? Go the extra mile? Can we afford you • If we decide we want you here, how much will it take to get you?

 Asking questions demonstrates your interest in the job  Questions are another way to convey your capabilities and knowledge  Enables you to establish an easy flow and build rapport  Gives you a way to control the conversation  By asking questions, you’ll learn more about the position and the company.  Asking “What does it take to be successful at this job?” gives you an idea of what they are looking for in the person they will hire

 Firm, confident handshake  Smile  Make eye contact  Sit up straight, both feet on floor, speak clearly  Emphasize your strengths  Come across as problem solver  Tell the interviewer exactly why you are the best candidate for the job  Show that you know something about the job/department.

 Establish when the hiring decision will be made  End on a positive note and thank the person for seeing you (even if you don’t want the job)

         Don’t be late – leave extra time for parking, traffic, written application, etc Don’t let one person monopolize the conversation mix speaking with listening 50/50 Don’s get flustered, remain calm Do not bad mouth previous employer, coworkers No chewing gum No hands in pockets Don’t be rude to receptionist, security, etc Don’t forget to thank the interviewer and send a thank you note (email is ok) Don’t forget to get a business card

 Is there any additional information you’d like to know about me?

 Do you think I have the qualifications you’re looking for?

 What is the next step?

 When may I expect to hear from you?

• May I contact you after that date, if for any reason you have not gotten back to me?

 Send a thank you note immediately • • • • • • Thank the interviewer for his or her time Make reference to positive impression Offer reasons why they should be interested in you Let employer know you expect to hear from them Only about 5% of applicants ever send a thank you letter.

Most employers will be shocked and impressed to receive any letter at all.

 Get into a group of 3 or 4 people. Choose among yourselves a particular position. One person will be the interviewer and interviewee. The other wills be the observer/note taker. Interviewer and observers will be able to ask the interviewee questions . Interviewee must be asked at least 3 questions. Take turns until everyone has been interviewed.