Job Interview Tips

By Christina Johnson

The interview is the single most important step in getting a job. It is a common misunderstanding that the role of the person being interviewed is to be passive and to simply react to the interviewer. In fact, successful candidates are usually just as active as and often better prepared than their interviewers. The interview is your opportunity to market and sell yourself by demonstrating what your skills, experience, and qualifications can do for the company. It is also your opportunity to get the information you need to decide whether or not this is the right position and organization for you.  The following are some simple tips on how to conduct a successful interview:

Preparing for the Interview:

-  Be aware of the types of interviews to expect.  In addition to an arranged, face-to-face interview with a hiring manager, there are other types of interviews you might encounter such as a screening interview, a behavior-based interview, a case interview, a group (or panel) interview, or a telephone interview.

-  Conduct additional research on the company so that you are thoroughly aware of its reputation, size, products, history, philosophy, and culture. Make sure to visit the company’s website.

-  Prepare your own questions about the company to ask during the interview.

-  Have multiple accomplishment stories (these stories should include a description of the situation, the obstacles you faced, the actions you rook and the results you helped obtain and benefits to your employer) ready to talk about and practice answering commonly asked questions such as “tell me about yourself.”

-  Determine exactly who will be conducting the interview including their title, division, and line of authority, either before the interview or during the first few moments of the meeting.

-  Take your research notes on the company, previous correspondence, your list of questions and several copies of your resume to the meeting. Bring a copy of your reference list as well, in case you are asked for them.

Conducting the interview:

-  Arrive a little early to get a sense of the company culture and to review any company materials that might be in the reception area.

- When meeting the interviewer offer a firm handshake, establish rapport as quickly as possible, and show interest, optimism and enthusiasm

-  Uncover as much information as possible about the position before going into detail about your background so that you know what and what not to highlight from your work history

-  Listen carefully to the questions and make sure you understand what is being asked. Ask for clarification if the question is not clear. Admit if there is something you do not know.

-  Always respond to questions with positive answers and by matching your specific accomplishments and qualifications to the job.

-  Never be critical of a past employer or the performance of any employee there, especially past supervisors.

-  Avoid apologizing or being defensive over things you cannot change and for which you are not responsible, such as your age, education, or work history.

-  If possible postpone salary discussions until an offer has been made.  If pressed to give your salary try to avoid naming a figure.

- Don’t dominate the interview or let the interviewer dominate it.  Also, remain cool and collected during periods of silence.  Interviewers will sometimes use this silent tactic to see how you react.

Concluding the Interview:

- Before concluding the interview make sure all of your questions have been answered

- Summarize the meeting by highlighting your interest in and value to the position and the organization

- Arrange a specific date and time for your next contact rather than leaving it entirely in their hands. If you do this you will be in a strong position to follow up and it will also help you manage the rest of your search. If it is not clear what the next step will be, ask the interviewer.

-  Immediately after the interview make notes about information you gathered, especially the organization’s needs and expectations.

- Send follow-up letters within 24 hours of the interview.