Interview Tips

Interview Tips

Looking for a few pointers to help you prepare for your big interview?  Whether it's your first or your fifteenth, the following tips will help you out.

Do Your Homework

• Research the company and the position
• Rehearse Q & A's with a peer
• Get plenty of rest

Appearance

• Professional dress
• Well groomed

What to Bring

• Notebook/day planner with paper copies of r ésumé and list of references
• Any work samples, if appropriate

When to Arrive

• At least 15 minutes before the interview
• Allow plenty of time for traffic congestion, parking (conduct a test run)

During the Interview

• Maintain eye contact
• Relax/smile/show enthusiasm
• Be positive about yourself and previous employers
• Keep your response within two minutes
• Control your tone of voice, speed of delivery, and volume
• Show self-confidence
• Remember to listen
• Don't use co-workers/supervisors/team members names when answering questions

Asking Questions

• Prepare five good questions
• Don't ask questions that raise warning flags
• Don't ask questions about only one topic

After the Interview

• End the interview with a firm handshake and thank the interviewer for his or her time
• Show your interest in the position
• Follow up by sending a thank you note to each interviewer immediately after the interview