BEFORE THE INTERVIEW

• Research the company.

• Know the job description so you can speak to the skills you have that are related to the position you're interviewing for.

• Practice answering the most common questions (listed below).

• Dress the part: business casual is the norm, but you can find out what employees typically wear and go with that.  Avoid baggy pants, t-shirts, shirts with graphics or logos, shorts, & ripped jeans.  HERE is a great resource for knowing what to wear to an interview.

• Bring something to write with and a notebook with questions, notes, and copies of your resume. 

• Arrive 15 minutes before the interview is scheduled. 

DURING THE INTERVIEW

• Turn off your phone before entering the building and keep your phone out of sight from this point on.

• The interview begins the minute you walk through the door.  

• Nail the first five minutes:

  • • • • Introduce yourself politely: "Hello. I'm ___. It's good to meet you."  Shake hands firmly but briefly.

        • Make eye contact.

        • Be positive and enthusiastic. 

• Listen carefully.  Be alert and interested.

• Don't be overly casual.

• Be prepared to ask questions when they ask if you have any at the very end.  Here are some questions you might ask:

• • • • Would you describe a typical work day?

      • Can this job lead to other positions with the company?

      • What skills are most important for this position?

      • If hired, would I report directly to you, or to someone else?

      • How is this job important to the company or agency?

      • How would I be trained or introduced to this job?

      • When can I expect to hear from you?

      • May I contact you by phone or e-mail?

• Thank the interviewer for their time.

AFTER THE INTERVIEW

• Follow-up:  Write a thank you letter within 24 hours of the interview. Email is fine for this, but a written letter is even better.  Older employers will appreciate it.

• It's okay to call about three days after to follow up. "I'm following up on a position I interviewed for to see if there's any more information I could provide that would be helpful."