Job Interview Process
Dalton Elliott
Before The Interview
A few steps to take in preparing for an interview...
- Bring copies of resumes and references.
- Practice tailoring answers to questions that would relate to the job.
- Get a good night of sleep.
- Lay out an outfit.
10 Things to Do Right Before a Job Interview
During The Interview
The day of the interview you should arrive at the interview 10 minutes early. Any earlier than 15 minutes may feel awkward.
A few things to bring are...
- Identification & contact information
- Notepad & pen
- Resume
- References
- Portfolio
- Questions
A few respectable questions to ask are...
- Can you explain to me what my typical day in this position would be like?
- What are the skills and experiences you’re looking for in an ideal candidate?
- What attributes does someone need to have in order to be really successful in this position?
- What types of skills is the team missing that you’re looking to fill with a new hire?
5 Common Interview Questions With Tips
Why did you leave your last job?
- Stay positive
- Don't talk about poor treatment
- Looking for new opportunities and challenges
- Be honest but careful
- Give interests towards the position
- Provide an answer with what the company is looking for
- If someone suggested you, mention them
- Give characteristics the company is looking for
- Provide some skill assets
- Give answers that relate to the company
- Give some negatives that doesn't relate to what the company does
- Provide any explanation as to what you say
- Use key words the company is looking for
- Nothing outrageous
- Back up your statements
'How to answer the job interview question "What is your biggest weakness?"' - Q11 - Academic Jobs
After The Interview
When the interview is over you should stand to say goodbye to and thank the interviewer for his/her time and firmly shake their hand.
Make sure to write a thank-you note to the interviewer. It's best to follow up by sending an e-mail within 24 hours of the interview. Restate why you’re the best choice for the job. It is also best to thank the interviewer for their time, express your interest in landing the position, and mention anything else that led to a personal connection during the interview.
Dress For The Interview
Always try to dress a step above what the job requires, but dress for what is appropriate for the job.
Avoid wearing perfume or cologne as you will never know when you've used too much.
Too much of a scent can leave a negative impact on the interviewer.
Wash, iron and press your clothes the day before the interview for a fresher, cleaner look. It will show the interviewer that you care enough to put forth an effort on behalf of clothing choice.
Wear makeup and jewelry that is appropriate to the position but minimal at best. Any accessories should not be annoying or obnoxious as to not draw the interviewers attention away from you.
Interview Don'ts
- Don't make excuses. You should always take responsibility for your decisions and actions you have made.
- Don't make negative comments about people, especially not about previous employers or professors, as it will show the interviewer you will do the same about the company in which you are applying.
- Don't lie on your application materials or answers to interview questions. It is always best to tell the truth and if the company catches you in a lie they will not hire you.
- Don't treat the interview casually, show the interviewer that you have a serious ambition about the position in which you are applying.
- Don't let your interviewer think that you are only interested in salary; don't ask about salary and benefits issues until the subject is brought up by your interviewer.