Interview Resources
Job Interview Search Tips and Resources
Once you get past the resume portion of the application process, the employer will contact you for an interview. This is an opportunity for you to present yourself as a professional, motivated, and productive applicant that will be an asset to the company.
For an interview, Do
- make sure you do your homework; research the company you are interviewing for. Learn about the company's history, mission statement, vision, and the nature/purpose of your position. Interviewers will ask you questions based on this information and educating yourself about these topics will supply you with an excellent knowledge base from which you can craft memorable responses.
- arrive early. Punctuality is a highly prized quality in the working world and communicates to the employer how serious you are about pursuing the position as well as your respect for the interviewer's time.
- dress for success. What you wear tells the interviewer volumes about your personal qualities, so choose clothing that broadcasts your dedication, orderliness, and assertiveness. Menswear includes suit (button-down shirt, tie, jacket, slacks, belt, and dress shoes. Women should wear trousers or a knee-length skirt with matching blouse, jacket, and dress shoes.
- maintain good posture and eye contact. This communicates a strong sense of confidence, a very attractive trait to an interviewer.
- answer questions thoughtfully and fully but speak slowly and clearly. Assuming a calm demeanor and taking the time to answer the interviewer's question well will give you the opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge of the company and how your professional background will benefit the company.
- compose a thank-you note and send it to the interviewer. An email is easiest but it is ideal to send the interviewer an actual card with a brief expression of gratitude. This gesture is rarely practiced today and will help you stand out among the candidate pool.
