 | Bring extra copies of your resume to the interview.
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| Remember to be well rested.
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| Make sure you have phone numbers to contact the company in case you have traveling problems.
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| Arrive 10-15 minutes early for the interview. The employer may have you fill out an application during this time. It also gives you time to relax before starting the interview.
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| When filling out an application, do not put "See Resume". Make sure applications are filled out completely and neatly. Remember to write "Open" in the space for salary desired. Do fill in your current base salary and bonuses.
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| Be Prepared!! Learn as much as you can about the company before interviewing. Use your recruiter, trade magazines, websites, and any other information you may have.
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| Dress appropriately for an interview. First impressions are crucial!!
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| Men:
 | Wear a suit (navy, black, gray) with a white shirt neatly pressed. |
| Keep ties conservative. |
| Dark socks that match the suit. |
| Black leather shoes that are polished, no boots. |
| Minimal jewelry - keeping it to a watch and wedding ring would be the best. |
| Conservative haircut - collar length, above the ears, neatly combed. |
| Either clean shaven or neatly trimmed facial hair. |
| Clean nails. |
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| Women:
| Wear a solid color, conservative, business attire. |
| Pants or skirts would be appropriate, keep skirts to knee length. |
| Be conservative with your jewelry. |
| Hair should be neat and not hanging in the face. |
| Keep make up light and natural. |
| Do not over do perfume. |
| Clean nails.
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| Your body language and facial expressions will be noticed. Keep good eye contact, sit up straight, firm hand shake, and smile often. Remember to speak confidently with an uplifting and enthusiastic tone of voice. The first 10-15 seconds of the interview are the most crucial. Show positive energy and ambition.
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| Be factual about your job responsibilities and what you have accomplished during your career.
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| Remember, meals are very strong interviewing opportunities. Never order alcohol with a meal.
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| You are judged on the detail and depth of your answers, but also on the quality of your questions. The deeper you probe, the better you look.
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| Do not volunteer information. Only provide the information for which the interviewer is asking.
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| Keep a positive attitude throughout the whole interview, especially when talking about past employers. Being sour on past employers or supervisors is poor interviewing.
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| Remember to keep your enthusiasm during the whole interview process, even if you are asked the same question several times. Give examples of how and where you made a difference, give dollar and cents results.
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| Have a day planner and prepare a list of questions ahead of time to ask the interviewer(s). You can find a list of example questions on this site. Asking questions communicates your interest to the company. Also, if you are to make a rational decision about the job opportunity, then you must obtain the information you need to make a good career decision. Ask questions about making an impact and how to get results at this company.
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| When asked questions about salary, let the employer know your current base salary plus any bonuses you have received. However, if the interviewer asks you what you are looking for, let them know that you are flexible. Tell them you are looking for a strong company and career opportunity. You do not want to throw a number out on an interview when you could potentially short change yourself or throw yourself out of the process. Leave the negotiating up to your agent / recruiter.
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| Remember to ask the interviewers for a business card so you have a record of their names and titles. This also gives you accurate information to send your thank you notes.
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| Closing question: "Do you have any reservations regarding my ability to do this job?"
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| Showing enthusiasm for the work, a level of excitement about the situation, and reasons why the opportunity fits you and your family are good closing techniques.
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| At the end of the interview, reiterate your interest in the position and the company. An interview is a time for you to sell your skills and the potential employer to sell the opportunity. If you want to be considered for an offer then tell them of your interest. Ask them what the next step is and what timeframe you can expect. |
