Job Interview Process
By Sharilyn Tuttle
Before the Interview
- make a resume
- look into the place you're applying to
- think of answers for possible questions
- have questions that you can ask the interviewer
- review your application so you know what's on it
During the Interview
- don't be too early, don't be late, be right on time
- use a firm hand shake to greet them
- introduce yourself
- thank them for meeting with you
- don't sit until you are asked to
- don't bring your phone
- make eye contact
- look involved and interested
- take time to listen
5 Common Interview Questions
1.) What are your weaknesses? - minimize your weakness and emphasis your strengths, avoid personal qualities, go more towards professional traits
2.) Why should we hire you? - talk about your experience, make sure you stand out because they could hire anyone else
3.) Why do you want to work here? - give this question thought before going to the interview, do some research on the company
4.) What are your goals? - talk about short-term goals rather than just focusing on the distant future
5.) Why did you leave (or why are you leaving) you job? - if you're unemployed, positively tell them about what happened, don't be negative, if you are employed, focus more on what you want in the next job
After the Interview
- make eye contact
- firmly shake their hand
- thank them for taking the time to interview you
- make sure you leave the door open for them to call you back
- be polite the entire time through
Dress for the Interview
Dress like you're applying for one position higher than you are!
- longer skirt or nice dress pants, no jeans
- darker colors are usually more formal
- avoid patterned suits
- avoid tight-fitting suits
- no gigantic purse, make sure it matches
- don't wear distracting makeup or nail color
Dressing for Men
- suits are always a great option
- go with darker colors
- white under shirt is good for interviews
- neat-patterned tie, not too distracting
- clean nails, freshly combed hair
Interview Don'ts
- don't make excuses
- don't make negative comments
- don't use false information
- don't treat the interview like it's nothing
- don't be unprepared
- don't chew gum
- don't have your phone powered on or in sight
- don't take anyone in with you
Job Interviews (Part 1): Do's and Don'ts of Mock Interviews