Pre-Interview Tips

Prepare questions in advance for the interviewer. Ideally, practice the interview with a friend or colleague. Every question you ask should demonstrate your interest and confirm you knowledge of the position and department. It's a good idea to arrive at the interview 10 to 15 minutes early so you have time to relax. If you are commuting to the interview, plan for unexpected traffic delays. It is critical to be on time.

Dress for Success

When it comes to dressing for the interview, you want your experience and qualifications to shine. Your appearance should enhance your presentation, not overwhelm it. Conservative dress is highly recommended. Solid colors and tighter woven fabrics are safer than bold prints or patterns. Men should wear a suit or pants and a shirt and simple tie. No missing buttons, crooked ties or lint. Shoes should he polished and socks should be high enough so skin is not visible when you sit down and cross your Legs. Women should wear a suit or a tailored blouse with a skirt or pants. Skirts should be knee length and hoisery should not have runs. Excessive jewelry should be avoided and makeup should be used conservatively. Cologne, if used, should be lightly applied. No gum or mints during the interview.

The Interview Process

The typical interview will last approximately 30 minutes. The structure varies, but will likely consist of four basic steps. They are: (1) Informal Conversation; (2) Discussion of Background arid Credentials; (3) Opportunity for you to question interviewer; and (4) Interview Conclusion.

Informal Conversation

This generally lasts for five minutes. It's an opportunity to "break the ice" and may include discussion about traffic, the weather, or sports. Remember that the interviewer begins to evaluate you upon meeting. Good posture, eye contact, and a smile is critical. Your body language should exemplify self-confidence. You should shake the interviewer's hand upon being introduced. Don't hesitate to extend your hand first.

Background and Credentials

The interviewer may begin this part of the interview by asking you what you know about the position or describing the position and the job requirements. One of the crucial parts of the interview is "listening" carefully to the question to ensure that you understand what is being asked. Be prepared to explain why you are applying for the position and outline your specific qualifications. Give as many work related examples of your experience as possible and include any internal arid external training which relates to your qualifications for the position. Be prepared to respond to questions about how you would handle certain work situations such as customer escalations and stress. Also be prepared to discuss your interpersonal skills, team and community involvement, arid special hobbies or interests.

Questions for the Interviewer

It's important to have questions prepared to ask the interviewer. Questions should bring out your interest in the position and knowledge of the organization. Some questions could include the following: What are you looking for in a candidate? What has been the greatest challenge for persons in this position? How much decision-making authority is provided? What are the key performance measures? How much contact and exposure to management is there? Where do you see this line of business in the future?

Closing the Interview

When the interviewer indicates that the interview is concluding, you should wait for the interviewer to stand then follow accordingly. If the interviewer does not advise you when to expect final decision regarding candidate selection, it is appropriate to make this inquiry. Before leaving, you should thank the interviewer for meeting with you and advise the interviewer that you will be anxiously awaiting a decision. The interview should end as it began, with a handshake and a smile. Within 24 hours of the interview, you should send a letter, thanking the interviewer for meeting with you to discuss your background and qualifications. Stress your interest in the position and excitement about the prospect of joining the team.

By Soror Marion J. Williams
MJW Consulting - Recruitment