Job Interview Process
By: Sydney Simmons
Before the Interview
- Research the company for background knowledge
- Find out where you are going
- Make a list of questions to ask
- Practice and prepare for the questions you'll be asked
How to Ace an Interview: 5 Tips from a Harvard Career Advisor
During the Interview
- Confidently introduce yourself
- Give a firm handshake
- Arrive 5-15 minutes before the interview starts
- Bring an extra copy of your resume
- Bring a paper and a pen
- Ask questions about the company and its common work day
5 Common Interview Questions and Tips on how to answer them
- Tell me about yourself; focus on three or four areas within your resume, be concise, show enthusiasm, and don't get personal
- What do you know about the company; research about the company and your job position
- What are your strengths and weaknesses; be straightforward and key is to demonstrate your willingness to work on improving them for the job
- Why do you want to leave your current position; be positive and focus on the benefits
- Where do you see yourself in five years; looking for an indication of long-term commitment
Answers To The 3 Most Common Interview Questions
After the Interview
- Make sure they're done asking you questions
- Ask any questions you have for them
- Shake their hand and thank them for their time
- Send a thank you letter or email
Writing a Thank You Letter after the Interview
Dress for the Interview
- Dress one or two levels up
- Use your judgement
- Limit perfume/cologne
- Avoid casual clothing
Men: suit and tie, nice dress pants, black dress shoes
Interview Don'ts
- Don't smoke
- Don't chew gum
- Don't say anything negative about anyone
- Don't lie
- Don't answer questions with "yes" or "no", explain your answer
- Don't bring up personal or family issues
Interview Dos and Don'ts