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Steps for a Successful Interview

  1. Plan Ahead Interview
    • Plan what you will wear. Appearance and grooming rank high in the interview process.
    • Dress neatly and appropriately for the job environment.
    • Determine how much time it will take to drive to the interview site.
    • Check parking availability.
    • Have exact directions to the business office, which floor, which elevator to take, and the office number.
    • Be prepared with a pen and an executive notebook for note taking. Bring extra copies of your resume to the interview.
  2. Know the interviewer's full name and title. Find out how to pronounce his/her name. Arrive 10 minutes early. This will give you time to compose yourself.
  3. Introduce your self in a courteous manner. "Hello, my name is ____________. I have a 9:00 appointment with Mr. Smith."
  4. SMILE, greet the interviewer with a firm handshake, and establish eye contact.
  5. Wait until the interviewer sits down and offers you a seat.
  6. Position yourself comfortably; avoid awkward, nervous movements, and excessive mannerisms. Look alert, maintain eye contact, show interest, and SMILE naturally.
  7. Answer each question in a truthful manner.
  8. Take notes.
  9. Try not to answer questions with "yes" or "no" answers. Fashion your responses in a way that demonstrates to the employer how you can best fit into the company or organization.
  10. SMILE, nod, and give non-verbal feedback to the interviewer.
  11. Ask questions
    • What would my responsibilities and duties be?
    • Will I be trained for this position? How long will the training process be?
    • How would my performance be evaluated?
    • Is there a lot of teamwork/project work?
    • What opportunities for advancement exist?
    • What characteristics do the achievers in this company seem to share?
    • How much travel is required?

      *Do not raise the subject of salary or benefits in the initial interview. It is best to wait until the employer raises the topic; in most cases, the employer will address these issues in the second interview.
  12. Know the interviewing process. Watch for clues that the interview is ending.
  13. Thank the interviewer.
  14. That evening, write a thank-you letter to anyone you have spoken to thanking him or her for their time and expressing your interest in the position.