Need help interviewing? Let the Career Linkages office assist you with mock interviews to get you prepared for your “real” interview!

For many people, interviews can bring about anxiety and nervousness from the fear of the unknown. However, if you identify what’s to be expected during the interview, it can reduce apprehension and can result in a successful interview.

What are some basic interviewing guidelines?

KNOW…
 

• The purpose of the interview: You are assessing the employer to determine whether the company is a good fit for you; the employer is looking at your talents, work experience, enthusiasm and motivation.

• To wear appropriate attire: Maintaining a neat, well-groomed appearance is an interviewing “must.” Look like a competitive candidate. Investigate the company’s dress code.  It’s better to be too dressed up for an interview than underdressed.

• Yourself: What are your strengths?  Weaknesses?  Achievements?  What can you offer the employer?  How might you fit into the position or the company? 

• Your resume: Anything included on your resume can be used as a point of conversation or question topic during the interview. 

• Common interview questions: Practice your answers.  Friends and relatives can be helpful with this task.

• The company: Employers often indicate that candidates do not know enough information about their company. Informational interviewing is another way to research the company, as well as the profession you are interested in.

• Questions to ask the employer: Most interviewers will close with “do you have any questions?”  Not only do you want to ask questions, you want to ask the right questions!

• To write an appropriate thank you letter: DO NOT underestimate the positive impact of the thank you letter!  Many job seekers fail to take this extra step, an action that if done well, can position them above the competition.  Given the importance of thank you letters in making hiring decisions, it is imperative to follow up the interview with a written thank you letter to each person with whom you interviewed.

Remember to have a firm handshake, good eye contact and arrive 10 to 15 minutes early!

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