Enhance Your Interviewing Skills

Tips for a Successful Interview

Purpose of an Interview Preparing for an interview Dressing to IMPRESS During the Interview After the Interview Helpful Hints

What is the Purpose of an Interview?

The interview is likely your first face-to-face contact with a potential employer

Good first impressions are crucial Opportunity for employer to meet and see how

well spoken you are and to learn about you.

Preparing for an Interview

DO YOUR HOMEWORK– Because of its importance, interviewing requires advance

preparation Research the company with whom you are interviewing

– History– Services and products– Competitors– Locations– New products

Practice basic interview questions

Dress the part

What you wear creates an impression on the interviewer

Conservative dress is always appropriate, no matter what the dress code of the organization

If you look professional, you will feel professional – this adds to your professional presence

See handout for specifics

During the Interview

1. Arrive 10 minutes early to the interview2. Strut your stuff

– Your entrance and the way you carry yourself can influence the image you project

– Hold your head up, do not slump– “The person who has confidence indicates this by a

strong stride, a friendly smile, good posture, and a genuine sense of energy.”

– Believe – and project – that you have a reason to be there

During an Interview

Be Professional- remember your soft skills Listen to the entire question before answering

– Respond appropriately and concisely Be prepared but not rehearsed It’s okay to pause- be comfortable with silence Focus on what you can bring to the company BE SPECIFIC and make yourself standout Be aware of your nonverbal language!!!

Interview Do’s and Don’ts

Interviewing 101 Handout

Practice makes perfect

Students study for tests, runners train for marathons, actors rehearse lines – interviewing is no different

By practicing for your interviews, you will be better prepared and appear more confident and in control, thus increasing your professional presence

After the Interview

Thank the interviewer Get a business card Ask what the next step is WRITE A THANK YOU NOTE

Practice

Common Interview Questions Worksheet Mock Interview

How to write a thank-you note and address an envelope.

Explanation and Practice