Olc before duringafter interview[1]
- 1. Before the Interview • Attend an interview workshop. • Contact a career service office for scheduled dates.
- 2. Before the Interview • Review potential questions. • Decide what points you will use to answer commonly asked interview questions. • Practice aloud to be able to communicate your qualifications concisely and provide examples, which reinforce these points. • Do as much research about the company as possible – it gives confidence – intelligence proves you are motivated and have a strong work ethic.
- 3. Before the Interview • Confirm the time location. Be sure you have clear directions to the interview. • Arrive to the interview early, but not too early. About 15 minutes is appropriate.
- 4. During the Interview • Greet your interviewer by name, with a firm handshake and a smile. • Be self-confident, alert and interested. • Do not smoke or chew gum. • Maintain good eye contact. • Sit up straight in the chair; if women choose to cross their legs do so at the ankle. Look relaxed.
- 5. During the Interview • Listen closely to what the interviewer is saying. • Be articulate; do not use slang. • Avoid rambling; think before answering. • Give examples by stating situation, action, and result when answering questions. • Concentrate on your positive attributes. • Determine needed follow-up action.
- 6. During the Interview • Remember your manners – please and thank you! • Answer each question completely, but also use that tie to let the potential employer know what your strengths are and how you could benefit their business. • Have a few questions about the business ready – they should be well researched and demonstrate your knowledge of the company or organization.
- 7. During the Interview • Expect unusual questions. These are to see how you handle stress and reaction under pressure. Give natural responses. • Do NOT lie about anything. • Do not answer illegal questions, but tactfully diffuse the question. • Know the ballpark salary offered and what you fell comfortable asking for.
- 8. After the Interview • Evaluate the interview. • Consider where you did well and where you had difficulty. • Practice those areas in which you need improvement.
- 9. After the Interview • Send a thank you letter immediately!!! • Type it on business paper. • Be sure to use the correct name and title of the person who interviewed you. • Emphasize your interest in the position. • Mention any facts you may have omitted in the interview.
- 10. After the interview • Follow-up. If you do not get a response soon after the date, as the interviewer indicated, it is a good idea to telephone and inquire about the position. • Continue to job search. Job- hunting is an ongoing process. • Begin preparing for your next interview.