🖊 Be on time.
This often means 10-15 minutes early. Interviewers often are ready before the appointment.
🖊 Listen carefully to the interviewer.
Be sure you understand the question; if not, ask for clarification, or restate it in your own words. Answer completely and concisely. Stick to the subject at hand.
🖊 Greet the interviewer.
Remember to maintain eye contact (which does not mean a stare-down).
🖊 Have a reliable pen and a small notepad with you.
Do not take notes during the interview. However, immediately afterward write down as much as you can remember including your impression of how well you did.
🖊 Watch your grammar.
Employers are interested in candidates who can express themselves properly. Even if you have to go slowly and correct yourself, accuracy is preferred over ungrammatical fluency.
🖊 Be prepared for personal questions.
Some interviewers may not know what they can and cannot ask legally. Anticipate how you will handle such questions without losing your composure.
🖊 Focus.
On your attributes, your transferable skills, and your willingness to learn.
Don’t apologize for a lack of experience. Describe your strengths in terms of what you can do for the organization.
🖊 Don’t be embarrassed if you are nervous.
As you gain experience you’ll become more at ease with the interviewing process.
🖊 Close on a positive, enthusiastic note.
Ask what the next step will be. Thank the interviewer for his/her time and express your interest in the job. Leave quickly and courteously.
🖊 No interview is complete until you follow up with a thank-you note.
Express your appreciation for the interview and, if true, reaffirm your interest. This last step can make a difference. Don’t forget it.
