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.