Job interview tips, interview questions  and interview advice.

Objective of the Job Interview 

An interviewer has just one objective: to decide whether or not to make you a job offer. While the interviewer will examine your work history and educational background, your strengths and accomplishments will also be an important criterion. He or she is also interested in evaluating your level of motivation, values, attitude and personality. In other words, to find out if you're the right person for the job, what your potential is for promotion and whether or not you will fit into the company environment.

Overview: Preparation 

1.  Know Yourself 

Can you honestly visualize resigning from your current position? (See "Dealing With Counteroffers")

What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses?

What are your short and long-term goals?

Evaluate yourself in terms of the position you seek?

Formulate responses by asking the question: "Why should they hire me?"

Remember that you're there to sell yourself and secure a job offer. 

2.  Research the Company 

Utilize the library to review annual reports, trade magazines and newspaper articles.

The Internet offers a wealth of company information and industry statistics.

Know the company's products and services.

Be prepared to tell the interviewer why their company is attractive to you. 

Items to Bring to the Interview 

1.  References

 Use three former supervisors who are familiar with your work.

Include their name and company as well as home and work phone numbers.

Always consult with references for their approval and to ensure that their remarks are positive.

 2.  Resume 

Review your resume thoroughly and be prepared to discuss all points.

Always bring a resume copy identical to the one supplied to the interviewer.

Bring along samples of your work, if possible. Never discuss or show proprietary information.

 3.  Other Items 

Bring a folder and pen to the interview to jot down notes.

Prepare and review your questions as well as specific responses.

Bring directions to the interview location as well as the interviewer's phone number in case you're running late.

Bring along your recruiter's phone number to give immediate feedback after the interview.

Arrival at the Interview 

Arrive no earlier than fifteen minutes before the interview (but no later than five minutes prior to the interview).

Allow adequate time for traffic, parking lot and a last minute appearance check. If possible, scout out the location the day before the interview to avoid last minute problems.

Review your notes and go in with confidence

If asked, complete an application. Complete the application in full and leave no blanks. Do not write "see resume" as a response to any application question. Respond to "expected salary" questions as "open" and "current salary" questions truthfully. List references if requested. Your recruiter's name should be your response to any "referred by" questions.

Appearance

Male Candidates

Fingernails should be short and clean; manicured if possible.

Hair should be clean, well groomed and freshly trimmed. Use a dandruff shampoo, if necessary, and always comb hair with your jacket off.

A navy blue or dark gray suit is appropriate for most positions. Be sure it's cleaned and pressed. Men with stout builds should avoid three-piece suits.

Shirts should be white, freshly laundered and well pressed.

A quiet tie with a subtle design and a hint of red is suitable for a first interview. Avoid loud colors and busy designs.

Jewelry should be kept minimal. A watch and wedding or class ring are acceptable. Don't wear jewelry or pins that indicate membership in religious or service organizations. Use deodorant and avoid colognes or fragrances completely.

Shoes that are black and freshly polished (including the heels) are a safe choice for an interview. Socks should be black or blue and worn over the calf.

For good posture cross legs at the ankles, not at the knees.

Maintain good eye contact.

Do not take portable phones or beepers into an interview.

Female Candidates

Fingernails should be clean; manicured if possible. Choose subtle low-key colors over bright fashion colors for nail polishes.

Wear a suit or tailored dress in basic navy or gray. Blouses should also be tailored and color coordinated. Don't wear big bows or ties.

Avoid exotic hairstyles and excessive makeup. Hair should be neat, clean and brushed with your jacket off. Makeup should be light and natural looking.

Use deodorant and avoid cologne or fragrances.

Jewelry should be limited and subtle. Don't wear jewelry or pins that indicate membership in religious or service organizations.

A closed toe pump that is color coordinated with your outfit is appropriate for an interview. Avoid open-toed shoes or sling-backs.

For good posture cross legs at the ankles, not at the knees.

Maintain good eye contact.

Do not take portable phones or beepers into an interview

The Interview Itself

A typical sequence of events are:

Interview with personnel (general questions, review of the company and their benefits).

Interview with the immediate supervisor and peers.

Interview with the hiring authority (manager, etc.).

Shake hands firmly and maintain eye contact with the interviewer.

Maintain a high energy level. Sit up with back straight. No coffee (to spill) and no smoking. 

It is to your advantage if a subject of mutual interest arises, but do not fake knowledge. Be yourself. Poise, confidence, and self-respect are of great importance.

 If there is interest on both parties: 

Testing (physical drug test, written test, and proof of employment eligibility).

Offer.

Personnel will usually provide company information and available benefits. Thorough review and questions concerning benefits should be addressed after the interview. Remember, the interviewers are trying to see how you can contribute to the company.

Conduct yourself with confidence and determination to get the job. You have other options, of course, and your interviewer knows this, but wants to think that you want a job with this company. Don't play coy. Sell yourself. This is your first meeting and the position, as well as future promotions, may depend on your presentation. Are you going to sell them on the idea of hiring you, or will they sell you on the idea that this job is not for you? You must present a positive attitude to the prospective employer. You must NOT seem disinterested or appear to be job shopping. 

The interview should be a two-way conversation. Ask questions of the interviewers. This shows your interest in the company and the position, and enables you to gather the right information to make an intelligent decision afterwards. The questions you have prepared can be asked of the different people you see. 

Remember, the objective of the interview is to obtain an offer. During the interview, you must gather enough information concerning the position to make a decision