Interviewing Tips

Interviewin g Tips Types of lnterviews

1. Traditional one-on-one 2. Phone 3. With several interviewers

To obtain the interview: l. Fill out application completely and neatly (take on line questionnaires seriously) 2. Add/Upload your resume to application 3. Clean up your social network sites

Before the interview:

I. Note the name of the person who will be interviewing you 2. Follow all other instructions (time, place, what to bring, etc.) 3. Research the company 4. Plan what to wear ahead of time a. Business professional – know the standard for the job you are interviewing for! b. Clean and pressed 5. Have some prepared q u e s t i o n s f o r t h e e m p l o ye r 6. Prepare and practice answers to possible questions 7. For certain jobs- prepare a portfolio representative of your best work a. make a list of accomplishments and projects you are proud of 8. Be prepared t o answer the question "Tell me about yourself" a. Skills b. Experience c. Good worker traits d. Interest in this field or this particular company e. Availability

Day of interview

1 . Plan to arrive early 2. Turn off cell phone 3. While in reception area: a. Be polite b. Take note of company displays - company's products, services, awards, etc. 4. Bring paper and pen to take notes

First contact with interviewer:

1. Address interviewer(s) by name a. Write down their names to help remember 2. Have a firm handshake, eye contact and smile During Interview:

1. Answering Questions: a. Answer the question that was asked – it’s OK to ask them to repeat the question b. Be honest and sincere c. Give more than one word answers but don’t blabber on d. Give examples to support answers e. Use specifics and technical language (to show you can "talk the talk') f. Don't "bad mouth" former supervisors or employers g. All work experience is relevant and m e a n i n g f u l -even if "unpaid" or for a relative

2. Asking Questions: a. Refer to your prepared list b. If salary hasn’t been brought up, it is OK to ask how much the position is paid

3. Ending the Interview: a. Ask when a decision is expected to be made b. Listen to any follow up instructions (example: "you can call back in a week") c. Let them know how to contact you d. End with a firm hand shake and thank you

Follow Up

1. Follow instructions ( For restaurant /retail jobs- Stop back in person during "slow hours") 2. Write a short thank you note a. Handwritten or email communication b. Add anything you forgot to mention in interview 2. If you don’t get the job: a. It’s OK to be disappointed, but don't "beat yourself up" b. Look at it as good practice for next interview c. Reflect on what went well and what you need to improve upon