Preparing for an interview
One-on-one interviews require a great deal of preparation. After you’ve submitted your application and have been called to set a date and time for an interview, the real planning begins.
Here are a few tips to help you prepare for a great interview:
- Dress for success – Be clean and well-groomed. Dress appropriately for the position. Items to consider would be a solid-colored suit, matching shirt, conservative shoes and minimal jewelry. If you do not have a suit, wear something clean and conservative. Items to avoid include jeans, flip-flops, shorts, tank-tops, hats, etc.
- Research the organization and the job position – Do an online search of the company and learn as much as you can about it.
- Interview questions – Prepare for commonly asked questions. Practice describing yourself, your work performance and skills.
- During the interview – Arrive at least 10 minutes early, do not arrive 1 hour early. Make eye contact, smile and shake hands firmly with each person you meet.
- Closing the interview – Restate your interest in the position and thank the interviewer.
- Post interview – Follow up with the interviewer by sending a thank-you within a day.
Do’s and Dont's of Interviewing
Do:
- Be prepared
- Dress appropriately
- Bring a resume and references
- Remain calm
- State your interest in the position
- Thank the interviewer for their time
Don’t:
- Be late
- Chew gum or eat food
- Forget to turn off your phone
- Wear cologne or perfume
- Exaggerate or falsify prior employment or educational experience
- Criticize past or present employers
- Stray off the point
- Interrupt the interviewer