How to succeed at an interview

The purpose of an interview is to allow the employer to see and talk with the prospective
employee. Oftentimes people do not get the jobs they want because they make mistakes during their interview. In this article you will find out what steps are needed in order to succeed at your interview.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Extra copies of your resume
• A list of references

1. Prior to the interview take the time to learn as much as you can about your potential employer such as product(s), how long as the company existed, number of employees, subsidiaries (if any), competitors.

2. Know the location of your interview, before the day of the interview. Drive to this location the day before. Arrive 15-20 minutes before the interview. By allowing yourself extra time reduces the stress of interviewing.

3. Know the position: Most companies have the job posted on their website for review. Remember, you cannot ask smart questions without knowing what you need to ask

4. Dress appropriately. The first impression may be the last. Dark colors such as navy blue, black or gray should be worn for men and women. Women should never wear pants, and should always wear hosiery. Suits are preferred for most corporations.

5. When you arrive at the interview site, turn off your cell phone/pager before entering the building. Greet the the person at the front desk with a smile. State you name and purpose for your visit. Speak clearly.
   
   Example: Hello my name is (your name) and I have a 9:00 appointment with Mrs. Williams.

6. If you are offered beverages do not accept as it is difficult to handle a drink and interview at the same time.
   
   Do not chew gum and eat candy while waiting or during the interview.
   
   When the interviewer arrives, stand and introduce yourself, and do not sit until he or she motions for you to sit. Posture is very important so sit up high, with feet on the floor.

7. Think before you speak. Repeat questions before you answer them, to allow you time to gather your thoughts.
   
   Share only information that is relevant to the question
   
   ALWAYS keep eye contact
   Avoid using slang or short phrases such as Awww. You know. Hmmm. Well.... I don't know.
   
   Do not speak negative of past employers
   Try not to gesture a lot while speaking or fidget
   Do not take notes during the interview

8. After the interview thank the interviewer for their time and consideration.
   Follow-up with a thank you email/note restating you interest in the position.
   Do contact the interviewer by phone if the interviewer does not contact you one week after the time which he or she stated you will be notified.

Tips & Warnings

• Interviewing can be stressful. Relax, be confident about what you know.
• Many positions are filled based on who you know. Try to embark on as many networking opportunities available.
• Many reasons for rejection are lack of confidence, or overconfidence, sloppy resume, lack of courtesy maturity or tact, lack of interest in the position, personal appearance inarticulate, poor grammar, vocabulary, diction. Too aggressive. Lacking knowledge of work field. Gum chewing. Poor academic record.

[femwriter]

on 6/23/2009 Good tips, thanks. 5*

[Kelli71]

on 6/4/2008 Points to keep in mind, and to put into action.