Wednesday, December 02, 2009
By Courtney Pike, Director of Operations, JobBound
You passed the resume test, and you landed the big interview! The interview is just one step away from the job offer, so you need to make sure you ace it.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Be prepared. Do research on the company, and do “You” Prep. Go through your resume and familiarize yourself with all of your experiences and accomplishments. Review the standard interview questions, so you have fitting answers and anecdotes top-of-mind.
2. Make a great first impression. First of all, that means be on time, and on time actually means about 5-10 minutes early. Wear a suit and look well-groomed. Have a firm handshake, and smile as you greet your interviewer.
3. Think of the interview as a conversation. The interviewer isn’t trying to trick or out-smart you. Treat the interview more like a conversation with a friend rather than a police interrogation.
4. Be yourself. Relax! I know it’s easier said than done, but there are seldom any inherently “right” or “wrong” answers. Simply tell your story, and why you would be a great fit for the job.
5. Stay engaged and positive. Smile, nod your head, sit up straight, and make eye contact. This shows the interviewer you are interested and connected.
6. Ask a few questions at the end. You always want to have two or three (not fifteen) questions at the end of every interview to show your interest and curiosity. Questions often fall into three camps: business-related, job-related, or personal.
7. Send a thank you note via e-mail. Only 25% of job seekers send a thank-you note, and this small gesture can seal the deal. Since hiring decisions are made quickly, e-mail the thank-you note within 24 hours, and reference something specific from your interview.
