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Interviewing Tips

Interview preparation is key.

Scan position descriptions carefully. Make sure you are a 90% - 100% match. Employers are busy and appreciate when candidates make an effort to ensure they are truly matches for their positions.

Also consider the industry of the company. Do you have experience that is germane to their products/services? This will make a huge difference to them.

Be prepared to answer the age-old question: "Tell me about yourself." Include anecdotes that highlight the strengths you bring, such as successes at former workplaces.

Be armed with questions to ask the interviewer. Rehearse your questions so that they flow easily; you don't want to come across as an "interrogator" or a third-grader reciting a poem. Also have your professional references prepared to submit.

The night before the interview, reacquaint yourself with the company, their history, their products/services, etc. You may have breezed through their website when you first learned they were hiring, but it's best to be sure you're ready to intelligently discuss whatever may come up.

Arrive 10-15 minutes early. Often interviewers will appreciate the extra time. Toward that end, be certain you have correct directions to the company's offices, and a contact number in case you are delayed and need to let someone know.

First impressions are lasting. Your appearance will be your introduction to the company. Take the time to insure that your grooming and attire are professional. Don't trust that "business casual" is acceptable. Even the most laid-back company will be impressed with a candidate who arrives looking impeccable.

Upon meeting an interviewer, give him/her a firm handshake. Avoid both the "limp fish" and the over-caffeinated "steel-vice." A firm handshake indicates a position of strength.

Although interviewing is a serious matter, try to relax and have fun. Connecting with the interviewer on a personal level can go a long way toward sealing the deal. Lean in when talking, make eye contact, appear interested, share your anecdotes. Avoid being overly silly. Be aware of body language.

At the end of the interview, be sure to ask what the next step will be. Thank them for taking the time to meet with you. Collect business cards from those you meet; even if you don't end up working there, they may be good for future networking.

Another end-of-interview tip: ask your interviewer if there is anything about your skills/experience that causes concern or questions. This will draw out any objections they may have about your candidacy, and you'll be able to rebut them.

In the early stages of interviewing, avoid salary discussions. Be sure not to come across as "greedy" or "just about the money."

Within 24 hours, a nice thank-you email is a gracious reminder that you're interested in the position.

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