The Interview – Helpful Tips
We have created a list of short helpful tips to be used as a checklist when you are preparing for an interview:
- Ensure you know where you are going for the interview, and a practice drive never hurts.
- Be polite.
- Dress to impress (understand the meaning of business professional and business casual).
- Be on time (if you are running late, call ahead to notify the company).
- Bring multiple copies of your resume and cover letter to the interview.
- Prepare questions to ask your interviewer.
- Make sure to bring a pen and paper to take notes (Business padfolios are a great investment).
- Research the company thoroughly (and the person you are interviewing).
- Begin and end the interview with a firm handshake.
- Always thank the interviewer for their time.
- Follow up any interview with a neat, handwritten thank you note to anyone with whom you interviewed.
- Remain professional throughout the entire interview, from the time you drive into the parking lot until you drive out.
- Remain calm; nerves are normal but use them as a motivator.
- Do not fidget.
- Keep your cell phone off or on SILENT (not vibrate).
- Do not babble.
- Do not talk negatively about past employment.
- Maintain eye contact.
- Be well rested.
- Come alone; do not bring children or friends.