Interview Tips

• Whenever possible, research the company so that you can ask questions and make comments about their firm. The easiest way to do this is simply call reception a few days prior and ask if they have a website. Then, take a few moments and explore the site. If you do not have access to the internet, public libraries, Kinko’s, and other similar places offer inexpensive access to the web.

• Make a ‘dry-run’ of your trip to the interview site so that the route is familiar and the travel time is known.

• Always plan to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled interview time.

• Obtain the full name and proper spelling of your contact person for when you check in with reception upon arrival.

• Do not chew gum, candy, etc.

• Regardless of the Employer’s dress code policy, always dress professionally (unless specifically instructed otherwise).

• Handshakes are customary at introduction to any personnel and also upon departure.

• Bring with you an extra copy of your resume, business and professional references.

• Answer employer’s questions as clearly and concisely as possible. Keep from using words like ‘um,’ ‘you know,’ etc.

• Keep eye contact as much as possible. Don’t ‘search’ for answers by looking up at the ceiling / down at the floor. Do not ‘fidget.’

• Have answers for what you can bring to the organization, your strengths, weaknesses, etc.

• Have questions ready to ask about their organization (see tip #1).

• Topics such as salary, benefits, holidays and vacations are best left to secondary interviews unless brought up by the employer.

• When speaking of current or previous employers, never speak negatively about them. While it is important to be as honest as possible, remember that there are always two sides to every story. Speaking negatively will send up a red flag to the interviewer.

• Be prepared for the possibility of taking pre-employment tests (industry skills, math & grammar, personality profile, drug tests, etc.).

• As the interview winds down, find out what the next step and timetable is in the interview process.

• Thank them for their time, and be sure to get a business card from the interviewer so that you have proper contact information. If no card is available, get a general company card on your way out (which is normally available at reception).

• As soon as possible after the interview, compose and send a thank you note to the interviewer.  In today's business environment, an email is the fastest, and most accepted form.  You may still send a typed or hand-written note, however those take significantly longer to reach the employer.