Interviewing Guidelines

Your resume is the tool to get you the interview. Now that you have the interview, congratulate yourself, and then what? Here are some tips on what to do before, during, and after the interview:

1. Research the company. Looking at their website should be just the first step in your research process. Learn as much as you can about their products and services, their size, philosophy and history. Then take what you know and conduct a general search to find out about their reputation, anything about them in the press and any notable people that work there. Ideally, you will have someone you know who works or had worked there who can give you information and advice. Learn everything you can about the position you are applying for, including the general salary range for that job description in your market. If you can, discover the specific range for the job.

2. Arrive a little early.Give yourself plenty of time to sit down, review your notes, and observe as much as you can while you wait. Read any literature on the company that might be in the reception area. Make sure you are comfortable with your appearance and have all your papers neatly and efficiently arranged.

3. Always respond to questions with positive answers. Even if you are asked a question with no good answer, give a positive one and keep it brief. Never complain about your previous jobs or people who may come up.

4. Don’t bring up salary. If salary is brought up to you, remain vague until an offer is being discussed. Do not name a specific figure if asked about your current salary. You can simply say that it is within the range that is generally expected for your job title in this market, and name that range.

5. Note other people you are asked to meet. Pay close attention to anyone you are asked to meet during the interview. What is their relationship to the open position? Get their name and title. Ask for a business card. Ask a few polite questions when you are introduced to get this information if it is not offered to you.

6. Ask what to expect next. If it is not made clear, be sure to ask what the next step in the process is. Will you receive a phone call or other communication indicating if you have not been chosen to continue? How soon can you expect to hear something? This demonstrates real interest on your part and helps you to prepare for the next phase of the process.

7. Organize your notes immediately. As soon as possible after the interview, organize your notes, jot down names, expand on points you noted, while the conversation is still fresh in your mind. Immediately determine who it is appropriate to send thank you notes to and write them the same day. Send your thank you note within 24 hours.

Follow these guidelines and you can apply them to your second interview as well. Prepare well and your confidence will show, increasing your chances of being hired.

 

By: Becky Papp