Interview Preparation

You’ve gotten your foot in the door with your resume. The next step is to make a great impression. Here are some things to keep in mind before, during and after the interview.

BEFORE

• Learn about our company and the position. Be as informed as you can before the interview starts so that you know what kinds of questions to ask and what type of position you’re interviewing for. Review the job description, research our company, learn about our business.
• Get yourself ready. Gather your resume (make sure it’s up to date and you’re familiar with what’s on it), a list of questions you’ve prepared, your list of references (make sure you ask their permission beforehand), transcripts, letters of recommendation and anything else you might need before you go so you’re ready when you arrive.
• Be prepared. Think of good examples to demonstrate your capabilities.
• Be professional. Get rid of corny outgoing voicemail announcements and email addresses, and dress professionally and conservatively.
• Make a strong impression. Arrive early. Introduce yourself to each person you meet. Consider the moment you step out of your car in the parking lot the beginning of your interview and be professional from that moment on.
• Turn off electronics before you leave your car.
• Confirmthe date, time and specific location of your interview.
• Get plenty of rest.

DURING

• Sit up straight and make eye contact. Ask for the interviewer’s name and call them by it during the interview. It shows you’re paying attention. Smile, be pleasant.
• Speak clearly and confidently.
• Talk about your strengths, but avoid being arrogant. Don’t be afraid to ask to give a different answer or example if you think you answered a question badly.
• Pause before answering so you can provide a concise and appropriate example. Ask for clarification before answering if you need to.
• Never use slang or curse.
• Be positive and enthusiastic, but not hyper.
• Listen to what your interviewer is telling and asking you. In addition to enabling you to best represent yourself, you’ll also learn more about our organization and its people and find out if this is the place for you.
• Be relaxed. Don’t focus on your notes, focus on the conversation you’re having.
• Let the interviewer know you’re interested and discuss next steps. Sell yourself! Ask for the job. Ask for a timeline about when the decision will be made.

AFTER

• Write thank you notes to the people you met. Not only is it polite, it will keep you top of mind as they make their decisions. Highlight at least one thing you learned about the job from the interviewer. Regular mail is preferred – email appears too convenient and not as sincere.
• Reflect upon your experience. Write down things that went well and what needs to be improved on your part, as well as your impressions of our company and the people you met.
• Write down the questions you were asked. It will help you prepare for future interviews.
• Advise the prospective employer if any of your contact information changes.
• Consider next steps and prepare for a follow up interview or offer negotiation.