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Step 1
Do your homework first. Visit their website and learn what you can about the company and its products and services. You may find you're not interested in working for the company and then you won't have wasted their time and yours. If you do decide you don't want the job, call them and cancel. Don't just not show up because you never know when your situation might change.
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Step 2
Get prepared for possible questions. There are interview questions that are standard regardless of the type of job you are looking for. You can expect to be asked why you are leaving your current position. You may let them know you are relocating, looking for a position that doesn't require travel, or looking for a shorter commute. If you were laid-off you could say your “position was eliminated due to corporate restructuring.” You may note that your circumstances have changed and you are seeking full/part-time employment. Note, when an employer asks you to tell them a little about yourself don't launch into an explanation of your personal life. Focus on your career and accomplishments. (A quick search on the internet can help you find sample interview questions and answers.) Be prepared to explain lapses in employment. If you took a year off work after your first baby you can attribute it to “family management.” Also let your interviewer know if you spent any of that time pursuing education or other activities that might pertain to the job you are hoping to get.
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Step 3
Dress your best. What you are wearing says a lot about you. You wouldn't think you would have to tell people this but you do. (I once interviewed a woman with her blouse almost completely unbuttoned, not to mention others who come in disheveled and wearing short skirts.) Dress for your boss's position. Dress conservatively because you don't know their dress code. If you have one, bring a briefcase so you can carry an unfolded copy of your resume. Even though the perspective employer may already have a soft copy, they will appreciate a hard copy.
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Step 4
Be on time. There is rarely an excuse that can justify being late to an interview. If you absolutely must be late, even by only a few minutes, call ahead and let the person you will be interviewing with aware of what time you will arrive. Being late because you couldn't find the place is not an acceptable excuse. Map your route (www.mapquest.com) and if necessary drive the route the night before the interview so you will know exactly where to go.
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Step 5
Come prepared with questions. This is important because it lets the perspective employer know you are interested in the position. The interview is NOT the time to ask about benefits. Even though health insurance is a priority for many people, you don't want them to think your focus is on what you have to gain. The interview IS the time to show them what YOU have to offer. Ask them to clarify any questions you may have from their website. This will really make you standout. (In all of the interviews I've conducted only a handful mentioned this and this was always a plus for them.)
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Step 6
Give notice of any days you will need off. If you are planning a trip or have a doctor appointment you need to let your new employer know right away. Contrary to what you may be inclined to think, this will not automatically preclude them from hiring you. In fact, it is better to let it be known that you need three days off to attend an out-of-town wedding than have you call in sick or spring it on them later.
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Step 7
Always thank them for their time. Make eye contact when you shake their hand and thank them for their time. You probably want to know when you will hear back from them but you want to be careful how you phrase the question. You could ask, “Will you be expecting to make your decision this week? Can I expect to hear from you in a few days?” Don't ask about other candidates or if they have any other interviews.
