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Job Interview Advice
Tips to make a good impression
The job interview is the last step in presenting yourself to a
potential employer and letting the employer get to know you.
Before the Interview:
Take the time to learn more about the employer. Write some questions in
advance that you will want to ask, plus think of some of the questions
you may be asked and how you would respond.
Your interviewer will want to learn more about your abilities,
experience, and accomplishments. In addition to learning the facts
about you and your skills, the interviewer will also be evaluating your
work ethic, enthusiasm, and interest in the field of work. In addition
to work related clues, the interviewer will consider such things as
personality, inter-personal skills, ability to communicate, appearance,
and values. Interviewers want to learn if you are not only a good fit
for the job, but a good fit with the company as well.
Preparing for the Interview:
What to wear for an interview depends on the kind of job you are
interviewing for. Office work requires different attire than
construction or factory work. If you're not sure, dress conservatively.
In addition to wearing the right clothes, make sure that you go into
the interview having neat hair, clean & trim fingernails, shined
shoes, and ironed clothes. Avoid cologne, perfumes, or heavy makeup.
Bring to the interview a notepad, pen or pencil, and extra copies of
your resume.
The Interview:
Always arrive 7-10 minutes early for the interview. Arriving late is
certain to make a bad first impression. By arriving on time or a little
early, you're demonstrating that you're reliable and trustworthy.
When you meet the interviewer, greet the interviewer by their name and
give a firm handshake. Wait until you're asked to have a seat, give the
interviewer your full attention, and answer questions with honestly and
conciseness.
During the course of the interview, be mindful of:
Body language. Act natural and show enthusiasm, have a firm handshake,
speak in a clear and confident voice, maintain eye contact, and sit
upright to convey that you are interested and listening.
Showing Confidence. Never make negative comments about yourself,
apologize for lack of experience (instead, point to examples that show
you're a quick learner), use weak words like "maybe" or "I
guess." Say positive things, smile, and convey a sincere
enthusiasm.
After the Interview:
Follow up with a letter or e-mail that expresses your
appreciation for the opportunity. plus briefly repeat your
skills, experience, and interest in the position. If the employer promised
to contact you by a certain date and did not, then follow up with a
phone call.
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