Do's
- Arrive 10 minutes early. Being late to an interview is never
excusable.
- Clarify questions. Answer the interviewer's questions as
specifically as possible. Relate your skills and background
to the position requirements throughout the interview.
- Give your qualifications. Focus on accomplishments that are
most pertinent to the job.
- Anticipate tough questions. Prepare to turn perceived weaknesses
into strengths.
- Ask questions. An interview should be a mutual exchange of
information, not a one-sided conversation.
- Listen. Concentrate not only on the interviewer's words,
but also on the tone of voice and body language. Once you understand
how the interviewer thinks, pattern your answers accordingly
and you will be able to establish a better rapport.
- Dress appropriately. Make your first impression a professional
one.
- Be professional. Smile, make eye contact and maintain good
posture. These are simple but important things that are easy
to forget to do during an interview.
Don'ts
- Don't answer vague questions. Ask the interviewer to clarify
fuzzy questions.
- Don't interrupt the interviewer. If you don't listen, the
interviewer won't either.
- Don't be overly familiar, even if the interviewer is.
- Don't ramble. Overlong answers may make you sound apologetic
or indecisive.
- Don't lie. Answer questions truthfully.
- Don't express resentment. Avoid derogatory remarks about
present or former employers.
- Don't wear heavy perfume or cologne. The interviewer may
not share your tastes.
Closing the Interview
Job candidates often second-guess themselves after
interviews. By asking good questions and closing strongly, you can
reduce post-interview doubts. If you feel that the interview went
well and you want to take the next step, express your interest to
the interviewer. Try an approach like the following: "After
learning more about your company, the position and responsibilities,
I believe that I have the qualities you are looking for. Are there
any issues or concerns that would lead you to believe otherwise?"
This is an effective closing question because
it opens the door for the hiring manager to be honest with you about
his or her feelings. If concerns do exist, you may be able to create
an opportunity to overcome them, and have one final chance to dispel
the concerns, sell your strengths and end the interview on a positive
note.
A few things to remember during the closing process:
- Make sure that you have thoroughly answered these questions
during the interview: "Why are you interested in our company?"
and "What can you offer?"
- Express appreciation for the interviewer's time and consideration.
- Don't expect an offer to be made or a specific salary to
be discussed during your first interview.
Follow-up
After your interview, follow-up is critical. When
you get in your car, immediately write down key issues uncovered
in the interview. Think of the qualifications the employer is looking
for and match your strengths to them. A "thank you" email
should be written no later than 24 hours after the interview. Be
sure to call your recruiter to discuss your interview and your next
steps.
