Interview Tips 101

"Title: Job Interview: What to Do to Prepare and Have a Successful Experience

Dress For and Interview

How a potential employer perceives you is very important in the interview process. Many times people say, "First impression is a lasting impression."

Men and women interviewing for jobs, should contact the firm's HR representative to find out the proper interview attire. Never assume what is appropriate.

Be on Time

Being late for a scheduled interview does not reflect well on any applicant. Make certain you leave your house early, so that any unanticipated delays with traffic or parking are mitigated.

Research the Company You're Interviewing For

One of the most frequent mistakes a job seeker makes is not knowing enough about their future potential employer. By performing due diligence, an applicant is demonstrating that they are serious about the position, and that they cared enough to understand how a company makes money.

Find out Who Your Interviewing With

This is very important for any applicant. One will want to ask specific questions to the staff members one meets during an interview. For instance, all benefit, medical and dental, 401K, vacation, flexible work hours etc. should be addressed to the human resources representative.

Questions about the type of work you'd perform, the technical skills needed for the position, whether or not there is significant travel should be addressed with the hiring manager.

Find Out What Type of Interview You'll Be Having

This question is often overlooked by applicants. Not all interviews are the same. Some firms have panel interviews, where you'll meet multiple people at one time. Other interviews contain aptitude tests, such as math and reasoning skills. Still other firms may give behavorial tests, psychological tests, to see if the candidates has the correct mental make up for the position they are applying for.

Applicants should be prepared for anything the potential employer should ask. Contacting the HR representative before hand will give the applicant a better sense for what the company may be looking for.

Be Aware of Your Posture and Countenance

When meeting any potential interviewer it is always important to keep yourself straight and erect, make solid eye contact, and try to commuincate your points in an easy conversational manner.

All Applicants Should Bring a Copy of their Resume

Never assume that everyone interviewing you will have a copy of your resume. Bring extra copies in case someone does not have it. This will give the impression that you're prepared for the unexpected.

All Applicants Sould Bring a Tablet and Pen to the Interview

All job applicants should bring paper and something to write with during an interview. Taking notes about who you interviewed with, will help you remember conversations after you have left the interview. These can be hlepful in writing thank you notes, as well as understanding questions you may of had about the position you were interviewing for.

Applicants Should Send Thank You Notes After the Interview is Completed

Thank you notes may be the finishing touch needed that will differentiate you from other applicants. Wite a concise thank you note to all of the staff you interviewed with that day or night.

If one follows the above tips, interviewing for your next job may land you your next dream position."