Interview Tips

Seal the Deal

First of all, congratulations! But now comes the hard part. Time to show ’em that you can back up what’s on that resume. Here are some tips for your interview:

• Be on time, which is 15 minutes prior to your interview time.
• Turn the cell phone off. It’s the polite thing to do.
• Do your research. Know everything there is to know about the company you are applying to as well as, the position you are applying for.
• First impressions are key, dress professionally and flash those pearly whites.
• Being well prepared will help calm your nerves.
• There are a few generic questions that will probably pop up in any given interview. Prepare answers beforehand, and you will feel much more confident.
• Ask intelligent, relevant questions to the interviewer. Show that you’re interested, excited, and serious about working there.
• Bring a notepad and take notes during the interview.
• Have that resume memorized, and be ready to discuss anything on it.
• Be a good listener, engage with the interviewer. Everyone likes being heard!
• There is something to be said for posture. Be aware of your body language and non-verbal communication.
• Note the name of the receptionist on the way in, thank them on your way out.
• Collect a business card from the interviewer and always send a thank you note.

Sample Interview Questions:

• Why do you think you would be a good fit for our company?
• What do you consider to be your strengths and weaknesses?
• Give me an example of a difficult situation and how you handled it effectively.
• Please describe to me, in your own words, the position which you are applying for.
• Would you attribute your career success to hardwork or talent? Why?
• Describe your current job, what is your average day like?
• What interests you about our company, why would you like to work here?
• Have you ever been on a team where you felt someone wasn’t pulling their weight? How did you handle that?
• What are you passionate about? What do you like to do in your spare time?
• What is your greatest achievement outside of work?
• Who would you say your hero is and why?
• Where do you see yourself in 3 years? 5 years? 10 years?
• Why did you decide to leave your previous job?
• The inevitable…. “Tell me about yourself.”