Job Interview Process
Haley Powers
Before the Interview
- Practice the route you're going to take so you're not late when you go to the interview
- Practice what you're going to say
- Have some questions prepared
During the Interview
- Keep eye contact and don't look around the room all the time
- You should arrive about 15 minutes prior to the interview
- Bring a copy of your resume and references
- Ask what a normal day on the job would look like
5 Common Interview Questions
What's your greatest strength?
- Don't sound boastful
- Think about what they'd find interesting/what would be important to the job
- There's no right or wrong answer
- They want to know if you know yourself
Why do you want to work here?
- Present yourself as a job seeker who knows the job and the employer
- Take time to analyze and research the job
- That will demonstrate your interest in the job
Why do you want to change jobs?
- Employers want to see whether or not you're a problem employee
- Be sure your answer reassures them maturity, competence, and quality
- Stay positive, confident, truthful, and forward-looking in your response
When can you start?
- Doesn't mean employer is offering you the job
- A good response would be to ask them something like "When would you like me to start?"
- Know your answer before they ask you
- Be careful when answering
Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?
- Answer just right, otherwise you seem too ambitious or that you lack initiative
- Tell the truth on where you think you might be
- Don't sound too "rehearsed"
After the Interview
- Firm handshake
- Send/email a thank you note
- Check in a few days later to see if they've made a decision if they haven't already contacted you
Dress for the Interview
- Dress for the job
Men:
- Don't wear too much cologne
- Comb your hair
- Button up shirts, ties
- Slacks
- Nice shoes
Women:
- Don't wear too much makeup or perfume
- Comb your hair
- Business-length skirt
- Nice dress
- Heels or flats
Interview Dos and Don'ts
- Dress appropriately for the industry
- Know the exact time and location of the interview
- Arrive early
- Offer a firm handshake, make eye contact, and have a friendly expression
- Sit still during the interview
Don't:
- Make excuses
- Make negative comments about previous employers or professors
- Act like you're desperate and make it seem like you would take any job
- Go to extremes with your posture
- Chew gum or smell like smoke