The INTERVIEWING PROCESS
Congratulations on your interview! Now let’s get you prepared for the interview. The two main components to a successful interview are preparation and performance.
Preparation: Do your homework on the company.
- Are private or public?
- What they do?
- How long they have been in business?
- Who there competitors?
- What is their revenue size?
- How many employees in the company?
- How many different locations are there and in what states and/or countries?
- If public, know what their stock is currently trading at.
- Take a look at any recent press releases.
Ask your recruiter about the person you are meeting.
Get as much information on the person who will conduct the interview such as, how long they have been with the company, possibly where else have they worked, possibly their credentials, possibly there personal hot buttons and/or some of the challenges they are having in the department.
Take the job description and write up accomplishments.
Write as many accomplishments as possible that relate to the job description. You will probably not use them all but you will have them at the top of your head if needed.
Express qualities.
During the interview you want to express that you have a strong work ethic, you are flexible, dependable, capable and have a pleasant nature. Most important is enthusiasm. Generally, the candidate with the most enthusiasm about the position and the company gets the job.
Go over salary information with the recruiter.
Talk to the recruiter about how to handle a question regarding salary to make sure that both you and your recruiter are on the same page and to make sure you get the most without crossing a line that will put you out of the running.
Get directions and a map.
It is always a good idea to drive by the location if possible to eliminate the stress of having to find a new location. If you are unable to drive by the company, make sure you get directions and a map that is easy to read.
Be prepared with questions.
If there is time, you will certainly be asked if you have any questions. Here are a couple of suggested questions. Talk to your recruiter regarding the questions you choose.
- Why is the position open?
- What would you like done differently by the next person who fills the position?
- Are there any pressing items that need to get completed in the next month that need to be addressed immediately?
- Is there anything I should explain further that I may have been a little vague on?
- Do you think I am qualified for this position?
Day of the Interview:
Dress Professionally. You should always dress professionally even if the dress code is business casual or casual.
Bring fresh copies of your resume and references. The hiring manager should have a copy of your resume but you want to be prepared for everything so bring a couple of fresh copies of your resume and references with you. *Note: Make sure that the resume and reference list match what you
gave your recruiter.
Again, make sure you have the company directions, map and phone number with you.
Try to arrive 5 to 15 minutes early. You want to schedule some time in case there is traffic or you take a wrong turn. Arriving early will also boost your confidence.
Try to eat prior to interview. Just like when you take a test it is always good to make sure that you eat prior to an interview so you don’t have anything distracting you from having the best interview possible. Never chew gum during an interview.
The Interview:
Address the hiring manager with their first name, give a firm hand shake, make eye contact, smile, convey a positive attitude and remember to be yourself. Don’t for get to show enthusiasm and to express genuine interest. Let them know you want the job. Good Luck!
After the Interview:
Always ask the interviewer for his/her business card. Send a thank you note (via email) immediately following the interview. Reiterate your interest in the opportunity in the thank you note and briefly state how you think you could contribute to the team. If you are unable to get a business card, call your
recruiter to get the email address.
