How to Be Prepared for a Job Interview

A job hunt is challenging. However, most of it takes place on your time, in the privacy of your own home and at your own pace. When you get that call to come in for an interview, everything changes. Now you have to present yourself to strangers, convince them that you are the best candidate for the position and all without having any idea of what personalities are involved or what questions are going to be asked. Yikes! Take a few deep breaths and relax. With the right preparation, you will do just fine.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. While you are looking for a job, take care in the way you answer the phone. Every call could be a potential employer. When you get a call asking you to come in for an interview, be gracious and professional. This is really their first exposure to you and your chance to make them glad they have called you.
   
   Keep your schedule as fluid as possible so you will be able to arrange a day and time with minimum difficulty. Few things are more frustrating to a recruiter than having a candidate act as though it is an effort to even get in to see them. That sends a powerful message about your commitment level right from the start.
2. Learn as much as you can about the company. Thanks to the Internet, this is an easy task these days. Be familiar with executives’ names and certainly with what the company does! Note locations. Check the latest news items. Have there been recent changes or upheavals in either the organization or the industry? Be prepared to be able to discuss these details.
   
   Know why you want to work there. Is the organization renowned for something in particular? Is it an established company or an exciting start-up? If you are asked why you want to join their team, be ready with a response that indicates how you want to aid in their success. You need to know what their accomplishments have been in order to adequately address that.
3. Have a quick and concise response to the question “Tell me about yourself”. They do not want to hear the story of your life, not matter how fascinating it may be! This is your opportunity to provide an organized description of how you got into your field, what your achievements are and why you are looking for a change.
4. Know how you will answer some of the most common interview questions such as:
   
   · What are your best qualities?
   · What is your greatest weakness?
   · Can you describe a situation where you had to explain an error you made?
   · Tell me about a problem you solved.
   · Describe your work/management style.
   · How would your last boss/co-workers describe you?
   
   If you know you get very nervous in interviews, practice questions and answers with a friend.
5. Dress for success is a cliché, but it is true. Male or female, always wear a suit. Make sure it is clean, pressed and all buttons are sewn on securely. Shine your shoes.
   
   Women, wear simple jewelry and make up and don’t wear perfume. Stockings are a must. Manicures should be simple, hands and nails immaculate.
   
   Bring extra copies of your resume and references, even if they already have a copy. You never know if they are going to have extra people meet you who need a copy. It demonstrates your professionalism and preparedness.
   
   A briefcase is nice, but can be awkward and bulky. You can be better off with a hand held portfolio.
6. On the interview day, get there as early as possible. You can always go get a cup of coffee if you are too early. But being late is almost a guaranteed a black mark you will not be able to move past.
   
   Be friendly and polite to EVERYONE you encounter, from security guards to receptionists to administrative assistants. These are the people who are the backbone of an organization. Savvy companies value their impressions and opinions.
7. Knock ‘em dead! Your preparation will enhance the knowledge and experience you are already bringing to the table.
8. IMMEDIATELY write a thank you note when you get home. You want to express your gratitude for the time and attention each interviewer gave you, so make sure you get a business card from everyone you meet with.
   
   Not only is it common courtesy, but a prompt thank you can tip the scales in your favor in a tight contest with another candidate.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are unfamiliar with the area you are going to, you might want to do a trial run a few days before.
• Make sure you bring with you the name and number of the person you are meeting. Also check that your cell phone is with you and charged. If the worst happens and you run into a problem, at least you can call and let them know you are delayed.
• Do not be thrown off by a question you didn’t expect. Take a deep breath to give yourself a chance to respond. Do the best you can. Remember you have a wealth of expertise and value for them and you will impress them with your skill and professionalism.