InterviewsHow to Prepare

On-campus v. Off-campus

Time/length of the interview.

Serious candidate?

Clothing.

Things to Remember Allow plenty of time for travel. Arrive

on time. Wear professional clothing in which

you feel comfortable. Clean your shoes.

Wear little or no perfume/cologne. Style your clean hair neatly.

Elicit information from the candidate Share information about the job Make positive impression about company

The Interviewer's Goal: To find the right person for the job

Successful Interviewers

3 Objectives of the Interviewer:

Good general impression Outgoing personality Demonstrates communications skills Knowledge, maturity & insight Presents a professional résumé & portfolio

The Interviewer's "Scorecard"

Research the company & position Plan how to market yourself Prepare your list of questions Anticipate questions you will be asked

Practice, but don't memorize Prepare success stories

Major accomplishments Turning bad situation into good one

Decide your limits on a salary range

Preparing for Interviews

Dress appropriately & groom impeccably

Use anxiety-reduction techniquesRe-check items to take to the interviewAllow time for directions, traffic, parkingStop in rest room to check appearanceArrive 5 minutes early, not more

The day of the interview . . .

Rapport

Questions & Answers

The “Sell”

Closing

4 Parts to Successful Interviews

Introduce self with smile & eye contact Use a firm handshake Establish a relationship

Comment on family pictures, decor, view, etc.

Act confident, relaxed and natural Be prepared to start talking first!

During the Interview

Give concise, honest answers (1-2 minutes)

Be ready to handle inappropriate questions

Avoid negative comments & criticism

During the Interview

Wait for interviewer to indicate the interview is about over, then sell yourself:

The reason I am so interested in your company is . . . The reason I think I would be good at this job is . . . The reason I would like to work for this company is . . . . . . and finish in 25 words or less!

As appropriate, offer to supply references

End with handshake & positive comment

During the Interview

Successful Interviews

Take brief notesFocus on your strengthsDon't ask about salaryGet all of your questions answered

Remember, this process is as much for you as it is for them!

Final Tips:

Reflect on the process & evaluate performance

Write a thank-you letterWeigh pros & cons - talk with friendsList your follow up questions If they don't call - CALL THEM!

Successful Interviews

After the interview . . .

It’s a Two-way Street

It is as important for you to decide if this is somewhere you would want to work as it is for them to decide if they want to hire you.

Prepare questions you need answered. Make a list.

Be yourself.

Other thoughts

What do you order if you go out to eat during the interview?

Don’t chew gum or mints. Watch the toothpick. Don’t overdo the makeup.