Before The Interview:

• Change your voicemail message to reflect a professional tone and wording.
• Set up an e-mail address in your name – not a nickname – that will be used specifically for job search purposes.
• Keep an updated resume near your phone to use as a reference for unexpected phone interviews.
• Write a brief 2-3 sentence professional introduction to use when calling for interviews or inquiring about employment opportunities.
• Research the company, its mission, product lines, and competitors. In addition, perform a basic internet search on the company to see what others have to say.
• Call to confirm your appointment – date, time and place – the day prior to the interview.
• Take a “dry run” to your interview site to avoid unexpected travel delays.
• Arrive at least 15-20 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
• Make a quick stop in the restroom before entering the interview. Check yourself in a full-length mirror.
• Decline any food or beverage offers. Never chew gum or smoke.
• Be polite and friendly to EACH person you meet from the moment you arrive, particularly to the interviewer’s secretary/administrative assistant.
  

During the Interview:

• Greet the interviewer – whether male or female – with a firm handshake.
• Smile and make eye contact.
• Project interest and enthusiasm.
• Do not seat yourself. Wait for the interviewer to ask you to be seated.
• Be aware of your posture and body language. Do not slouch.
• Avoid using the interviewer’s first name unless invited to do so.
• If you wish to take notes, as a form of courtesy, ask the interviewer first.
• Maintain eye contact throughout the interview. Do not allow your eyes to wander.
• It is fine to take a pause while considering your response to a question.
• Respond to questions using professional or academic references.
• Avoid using personal stories as examples.
• Answer questions carefully and non-controversially.
• Avoid political/religious references.
• Be positive in your responses – negativity will be noted. Phrase responses in a positive light.
• If an interview takes place over a meal, review dining etiquette prior to the meeting.
• When the interview is over, shake the interviewer’s hand and express your gratitude.

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After the Interview:

• Send a handwritten or typed thank you note to each interviewer if you had more than one.
• Keep an interview journal. Take the time to make notes immediately after the interview.
  

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Common Interview Questions

Ice Breaker Questions:

• Did you have any difficulty finding our office?
• How did you learn about our organization?
• Questions Related to Your Work Experience

Tell me about yourself.

• What experiences have you had which you believe qualify you for this position?
• What have you done which shows initiative and willingness to work?
• What kind of leadership positions have you held?
• What aspect of this position appeals to you the most? The least?
• Why are you interested in this field?
• Where do you see yourself in three to five years?
• What are your strengths? Weaknesses?
• Why should I hire you?
  

Questions Related to Your Academic Experience

• Were you involved in extra-curricular activities? What were they? Did you have a leadership role?
• Do you have plans for graduate studies?
• Did you participate in any type of internship or cooperative education program at your college?
• Have you studied or traveled abroad?
• Did you study any foreign languages in college? If yes, what were they?
  

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Hypothetical/Behavioral Interview Questions

• Describe a time when you tried to persuade a person to do something he or she did not want to do.
• Give me an example of a time when you faced obstacles in achieving a goal.
• Describe a time when you had difficulty working with a colleague. How did you handle the situation?
• Give me an example of when you worked with a group or team to complete a project.
• What was your role on the team?

Concluding Questions

• Do you have any questions for us?
• Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?
  

Questions To Ask the Interviewer

• Interviewing is a two-way process. Prepare a short list of two to five questions you may want to ask.

Sample Questions

• Could you describe the ideal candidate for this position?
• Is this a new position or would I be replacing someone?
• What are the most important skills and attributes you are looking for in filling this position?
• How would you describe your company culture?
• What would a typical working day be in this position?
• What is your vision for your department over the next two to three years?
• Can you describe your management style?
• Is there a career path for this position?
• What has been your career path within the organization?
• What type of internal and external training do you provide?
• What will be the candidate’s first priorities in this position?
• What can I do to make the organization more successful?
• What will be the measurements of my success in this position?
• May I provide any additional information?
• Thank you for taking the time to meet with me. When may I follow up with you?
  

Questions NOT To Introduce During the First Interview

• What salary will I earn?
• What type of benefits package will you offer me?
• How much vacation/sick time can I expect?
• How quickly will I be promoted?
• Will the company pay for my graduate degree?
• Can I bring my children to work?