Preparation is the key to being successful. Interviewing is a skill and as with skills, preparation and practice enhance the quality of that skill. Your resume gets you in the door, but your interviewing skills get you the job.
Presentation:
Attire for an interview is important. Dress for the job and dress conservatively. You will never be penalized for overdressing. A proper and neat appearance as well as being well groomed for an interview is essential.
A firm handshake and good eye contact are important. Many people's impression of others is grounded on that first initial handshake.
Resume:
Be prepared to talk about everything that is on your resume.
Be prepared to talk about why you are looking to leave your current position.
How has your college degree and experience prepared you for this job?
Discuss special projects related to the position you are interviewing for including accomplishments.
Do not have your resume in front of you.
Be prepared to discuss any gaps between jobs.
Be prepared to answer these questions during the interview:
Tell me about yourself. (Keep your answer professional. Review your past positions, education and other strengths.)
What are you looking for in a job?
Why are you looking to leave?
What specific goals have you established for your career?
Where do you see yourself in two and five years?
Tell me what you know about our company. ( Be positive)
Can you work under pressure, deadlines, etc.?
What are some of your most rewarding accomplishments?
What did you like least about your last position? (Keep your answer professional)
Describe a few situations in which your work was criticized.
What was the last book you read? Sporting event you attended?
Are you a leader? A good manager? Analytical? A team player? Give an example.
How would you describe your own personality?
Why should we hire you?
How long do you think it would take for you to make a contribution at our company?
What personal weakness has caused you the greatest difficulty in your career?
Suggested questions to ask during the interview:
Before you walk into the interview, you should know as much about the company and the position as soon as you possibly can. The internet and your recruiter are your best tools for this. Be prepared with questions to ask.
How would you describe the responsibilities of the position?
What are the prospects for growth and advancement?
How would you describe your company's culture?
What do you find to be the most challenging aspects of the job?
Where do you see yourself in two and five years?
How long have you been with the company?
What do you like most about working here?
Interview DOs and DON'Ts:
DO
Arrive early.
Clarify questions. Be sure you answer the questions the employer is really asking.
Get the interviewer to describe the position and responsibilities early in the conversation so you can relate your skills and background to the position throughout the interview.
Give your qualifications. Stress the accomplishments that are most pertinent to the job.
Conduct yourself professionally. Be aware of what your body language is saying.
Anticipate tough questions. Prepare in advance so you can turn apparent weaknesses into strengths.
Dress appropriately. Make your first impression a professional one.
Turn your cell phone off.
Ask questions throughout the interview. An interview should be a mutual exchange of information, not a one-sided conversation.
Listen. By concentrating not only on the employer's words, but also on the tone of voice and body language. You will be able to pick up on the employer's style.
Dress appropriately. Make your first impression a professional one.
Once you understand how a hiring authority thinks, pattern your answers accordingly and you will be able to interact better with him or her.
DON'Ts :
Never interrupt the interviewer. If you don't have time to listen neither does the employer.
Don't chew gum or place anything on the employer's desk.
Don't wear heavy perfume or cologne.
Don't ramble. On the other hand don't answer questions with a simple yes or no; explain whenever possible.
Do not lie. Answer questions as truthfully as possible.
Do not make derogatory remarks about your present employer or former employers.
Dress appropriately. Make your first impression a professional one.
Closing the Interview:
If you feel that the interview went well and you would be interested in taking the next step, express your interest by asking these questions:
"Can I expand on any part of my background?"
"Based on our meeting today, I know that I am both qualified and interested in your company. In your opinion, does my background meet the requirements that you have for this position?" This is a good time to clarify any misunderstandings.
Be sure to thank the interviewer for his or her time.
