JOB INTERVIEW TIPS

Once you receive a job interview then you must start to prepare. It may be difficult to predict what specific questions you will be asked at the job interview but here are some tips and hints on how you can be better prepared to react to the questions with confidence.

WINNING INTERVIEW TIPS AND HINTS:

Before the Interview

• Prepare for the interview by researching the company.  Read the mission statement and familiarize yourself with the company's products.  Know why you want to work for this particular company.
• If possible, get some background information about the people you will be meeting during the interview.
• Research the position.  Know what is expected of a person in the particular role (i.e. understand the general responsibilities of an administrative assistant).  Also prepare questions related to the position that you can ask the interviewer.
• Review your work experience.  You have to be able to support past accomplishments with specific information.  Also focus on those skills that are transferable and relevant to the new position.
• Make copies of your resume, reference letters and certificates/diplomas.
• Layout the clothes you are planning to wear to the interview.  Ensure that the clothes are freshly washed and pressed.  Also check the hems and all buttons.             
       (Tip: Always opt for something a little more professional and conservative if
        you are unsure of what to wear to the interview.)

Day of the Interview

• Get up early so you do not have to rush before the interview.  You want to be relaxed and in control of the situation.
• Leave your home in time and arrive at the interview location about 10-15 minutes before your scheduled time.
• Introduce yourself in a courteous manner.  Be sure to be polite and friendly to everyone you meet.
• Read company material while you wait.  Do not fidget and do not pace in the waiting area.  You do not want to create the impression that you are impatient.

The Interview

• Offer a firm handshake and maintain eye contact when you are introduced to the interviewers.
• Do not chew gum or smell like smoke.  If you carry a cell phone, be sure to turn it off before you go in to the interview.  Even better, turn it off before entering the building.  Do not, under any circumstances, answer your phone during an interview.
• Be conscious of your body language.  Sit straight, smile as often as you can and maintain eye contact, but do not stare. Also be aware of the interviewer's body language and try to be sensitive to the mood of the interview.
• Listen very carefully to the questions.  Do not interrupt the interviewer.  Ask for clarification if you do not understand the question.  Give honest, thoughtful and to-the-point answers.  Never make negtive comments about previous employers or co-workers.  Always be positive even if it was a negative situation.
• Be ready to ask relative questions when you are given the opportunity.
• Always be sure to ask about the next step in the hiring process.
• Offer a firm handshake and thank the interviewer at the conclusion of the interview.

After the Interview

• Make notes immediately after the interview.  It is important to remember all the critical details of the interview.  Also write down any questions that may have come to mind since the interview.  You might get an opportunity to ask these questions at a second interview.  Even if you do not get called back for a second interview, you can use the information to evaluate and learn from the interview.
• If you are working with a recruiter or agency, remember to give them a call and let them know what you thought about the interview.  It shows that you appreciate the help and support from the agency.  It also helps your recruiter to refine the job search strategies for you.
• Always send a thank you letter to everyone you have met during the interview process.  Keep it short, but remember to reiterate your interest in the position.
• If the company informs you that another candidate has been selected for the position, you may send a follow-up letter.  Thank the interviewer again for the opportunity to interview for the position.  Also express your interest in similar future positions.
• Prepare for the next interview!