Candidate Interview Preparation

A job interview is an opportunity for you to learn more about a potential employer, as well as an opportunity for them to learn about you. What you learn from an interview may determine whether or not you want the job you are interviewing for.

Pre- Interview Set-up

Research the company and the position before going to the interview. Finding key information such as: products and services, customers, competitors, company history, recent news involving the company, and their financial information, including salary and stock. This shows interest and motivation. You will also be able to explain what you can do for the company if you know what they do.

Bring an extra copy of your resume and a list of references. Make sure they are up to date and the references know you have listed them.

Dress professionally yet comfortably. If you are unsure, it is better to be conservative to show you take the interview seriously. Cleanliness, well-groomed hair, a fresh shave for men, and polished shoes are a must. Avoid heavy cologne or perfume. Do not chew gum, and if you are a smoker, avoid smelling like smoke before interviewing.

Bring a pen and notepad to job down any information you may need to remember (but don’t take notes during the interview).

Prepare a list of questions to ask the employer. You may not have time to ask them all, but be prepared to ask some. See sample questions under job seeker resources

Actual Interview

Be on time, preferably early. This is a good indication to your interviewer of your commitment, dependability, and professionalism.

First impressions do matter. In the first few minutes of your interview, you make that important first impression, an imprint that is very hard to change.
Four nonverbal factors influence a first impression:
1. Vocal quality
2. Body posture
3. Eye contact
4. Facial expressions

Show self-confidence. Make eye contact with the interviewer and answer all questions directly and in a clear voice.

Remember to listen. Communication is a two-way street. If you talk too much, you will probably miss cues concerning what the interviewer feels is important.

Reflect before answering a difficult question. If you are unsure exactly what they meant, ask for clarification on the question.

Be honest and be yourself. Dishonesty gets discovered. You want a good match between yourself and your employer. If you get hired by acting like someone other than yourself, you and your employer will both be unhappy.

Conclusion

Thank the interviewer for spending the time with you and end with a handshake.

Reiterate your interest in the position and your qualifications. Ask if you can telephone in a few days to check on the status of your application.

Send a brief thank you note. Try to time is so it arrives before the hiring decision will be made. It will serve as a reminder to the interviewer concerning your appropriateness for the position, so feel free to mention any topics discussed during your interview.

Follow up with a phone call if you are not contacted within a week of when the interviewer indicated you would be.