TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEW

• Learn as much as you can about your prospective employer. The company web site, the Internet, and your staffing agency can be good resources.
• Anticipate the questions that your interviewer is likely to ask and be prepared to answer them. Here are some common questions that you should be prepared to answer:

• Why should we hire you?
• Why do you want to work for us? (this is where your research can pay-off)
• Why did you leave your last job? (be positive)
• Describe a problem situation and how you solved it?
• What accomplishments are you most proud of?
• What are your salary expectations? (use a range)
• What would your current or past employer say your weaknesses are?

• Make sure you know the exact location of the interview. If you are unsure, ask directions, and drive to it the night before, just to be sure.
• Dress appropriately. It is much better to overdress than underdress. It is almost impossible to dress too professionally.
• Plan to be at least 20 minutes early for your interview. Take into consideration traffic jams, accidents, etc. If you do end-up arriving 20 minutes early for your interview, wait in your car (or somewhere else), and review questions that you will ask your interviewer. Ideally, you will walk into your interviewer’s office five minutes early. Two minutes late can disqualify you from consideration.
• Leave your cell phone in the car or at the very least, turn it off. This is common courtesy.
• Leave the gum and excess perfume, cologne, and jewelry at home.
• Bring a clean copy of your resume, even if you have already provided one.
• Use a firm handshake and make eye contact while shaking hands. Continue to make good eye contact throughout your interview. This projects confidence and honesty.
• Be enthusiastic!
• Smile. Nobody wants to work with a sourpuss.
• Be honest and positive. If you were let-go from a previous employer, just state that, but do not talk negatively about any past employer.
• Be a good listener. Never cut-off your interviewer.
• Ask good questions. Your research and personal curiosities will help lead you to ask several good questions. However, do not discuss money or benefits until the interviewer brings it up. This may be several interviews down the road.
• Do not discuss personal stuff unless you are asked directly about it.
• Take notes during the interview. This shows that you are serious and professional.
• If you are interested in the opportunity, express your interest upon leaving. You can do this several ways, and here are a few:

• “I look forward to hearing from you about the next step!
• “Is there any reason why you wouldn’t consider me for this opportunity?
• “Where do we go from here?

• Collect a business card from your interviewer, so that you can immediately send a hand written ‘thank-you’. You can also send a ‘thank-you’ e-mail, but a hand written note is a nicer touch.

Follow these tips and you will improve your chances of getting the job you want!