Important Tips

• Find out about the company before the interview
• Dress appropriately. Wear clothes that relate to the job you seek
• Take along a copy of your resume, references, letters of recommendation and training or other certificates
• Arrive 10–15 minutes ahead of time. Find out beforehand how long the trip will take
• Greet the employer or interviewer cheerfully and politely. Extend a handshake if you feel comfortable
• Be natural. Answer questions with confidence, logic and accuracy
• Provide specific facts and examples. Merely replying with a “yes” to the question “Do you have experience in this field?” will not get you the job. The employer should not have to probe for appropriate facts, figures and dates
• Have a clear idea of what you think you have to offer an employer
• Ask about a specific job or jobs. Applicants who appear eager to do “anything” may do nothing well
• Accentuate the positive; consider these two examples of an answer to the question, “What is your word processing speed?”
  A. “My word processing speed is 45 words per minute and I’m afraid I’m rather rusty right now”
  B. “My word processing speed is 45 words per minute and I’m looking forward to getting it even higher. I really enjoy word processing and take pride in doing quality work.”
• Agree to requests for filling out application forms, providing references, or taking a medical examination or other tests
• If you feel nervous or short of breath, breathe slowly and deeply, speak clearly and loudly enough to be easily heard
• Be alert for signs that the interview should end. Thank the interviewer for the time spent with you
• Once the interview is over, leave promptly with a good-natured, courteous farewell
• Send the employer a thank-you letter
• Follow-up.....call back
• Discuss wages, hours and benefits only after the job is offered to you
• Use good body language!
• Smile when you first meet the employer
• Do not stare at the other person: allow eyes to travel instead of remaining fixed
• Shake hands firmly: this indicates confidence on your part
• Pronounce the person’s name properly
• Walk with a self-assured stride, but not too cocky or swaggering
• Try to engage in small talk with ease: don’t be too formal or reserved
• Nervousness is natural-channel this energy into practice interviews before the actual date
• Watch your answers: make them more than one or two words but not lengthy stories
• Work on active listening skills - really HEAR what the employer is saying
• Never control/monopolize the interview yourself

Remember The First Few Minutes Of The Interview Are Crucial!