<p>PREPARING FOR AN INTERVIEW </p><p>BEFORE THE INTERVIEW . Research the company using the website, company research websites, the career center and current employees of the organization. . Ask for the job description, so that you can communicate your transferable skills. . Assess your skills and abilities and be prepared to give specific examples that are relevant to the job and organization. . Create a portfolio with samples of your work, reference letters, awards and other materials that demonstrate your abilities. . Get travel information and make arrangements well in advance. . Bring at least two extra copies of your resume and a list of references with contact information on a separate sheet of paper. . Visit the CDO for a mock interview and more information on preparing for an interview. . Practice answering anticipated interview questions with someone who can give you feedback. . Prepare relevant questions for the interviewer that focus on the company’s mission and goals. . Ask for the names of the people who will be interviewing you.</p><p>DAY OF THE INTERVIEW . Dress for success. It is appropriate to dress a bit more formally for the interview even if the environment is casual. For more in formation on proper interview attire log on to www.syms-dress.com . Arrive at least fifteen minutes early and be sure to bring money for parking . Bring a professional looking folder or briefcase with extra copies of your resume, pen, calendar and notepad . Demonstrate enthusiasm and interest by making eye contact, smiling and a firm handshake . Be courteous to everyone you meet; others not directly in the interview process may be asked to express an opinion about you</p><p>DURING THE INTERVIEW . Identify accomplishments that are relevant to the job . Avoid negativity about past supervisors or co-workers . Clearly articulate your career goals and how they relate to the position . Give well organized and focused answers to questions . Answer questions clearly and concisely and be able to give specific examples of your abilities from past experiences. . Avoid asking about salary and benefits during the first interview . Ask at least two well thought out questions about the job or organization</p><p>AFTER THE INTERVIEW . Send a handwritten thank you letter within two days to the people who interviewed you. Reiterate your interest and some key points that were discussed during the interview . Follow up with a phone call within a week if you have not heard back . Be sure to send requested material such as transcripts, applications or references in a timely manner </p><p>CDO LIBRARY AND WEB RESOURCES . www.goucher.edu/cdo . www.placementmanual.com/interviewing/index.html . www.collegegrad.com/intv/index.shtml . Interview Power (CDO Library) . Interviewing for Dummies (CDO Library) See back for more information  COMMON TYPES OF INTERVIEWS . Screening Interviews - preliminary interview to determine if the candidate should be referred to the next step in the process . Behavioral Interviews - consists of questions about past actions to determine how the candidate may behave in the future . Group Interview - takes place with other candidates seeking the same job, to predict how well the candidates interact with others . Panel Interview – two or more people will interview you to get different opinions. . Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner Interviews - takes place over a meal to test the candidates ability to make conversation and use proper etiquette . Situation Interviews - several situations will be described and the candidate will be asked to respond to them to determine decision making skills and judgment . Job Fair Interviews – gives you a brief opportunity to meet with the prospective employer and get information about the company</p><p>QUESTIONS TO ASK DURING THE INTERVIEW  What are the challenges facing this company?  What type of growth do you see for the organization in the next five years?  What do you look for in people that you promote?  Who would I report to?  What are the biggest challenges of the job?  How does the company promote professional growth?  How would you describe the organizations culture?</p><p>COMMON INTERVIEW QUESTIONS  Tell me about yourself.  Why did you choose the career for which you're preparing?  What are your long-range career objectives?  What do you consider your greatest strengths and weaknesses?  How would a friend or professor describe you?  What motivates you to put forth your greatest effort?  How has your college experience prepared you for a business career?  In what ways do you think you'll contribute to our company?  What 2 or 3 accomplishments have given you the most satisfaction? Why?  Describe your most rewarding college experience  Why did you select your college or university?  What led you to choose your field or major study?  What do you know about our company?</p>