INTERVIEWSInterviewing can be stressful,
exciting, and overwhelming. However, preparing ahead of time will
make all the difference when the moment comes that an employer calls
you for that interview. Interviewing is a skill, and therefore,
takes practice. There is no such thing as winging it!
Employers will be able to tell the difference. Research shows that
within the first four to nine minutes of an interview, recruiters
decide whether or not they will seriously consider you for the
position. Below are a few pointers to help you create a positive
first impression.
Interview Preparation
- Dress for your Industry: Your appearance is
an important factor in creating a first impression. You need to
research the company and industry to know what attire is
appropriate. Many work environments are still business
professional, which means suit attire, for both men and women.
Dark suits are preferred. However, it can be confusing to decide
what to wear with many industries adopting a casual environment.
If in doubt contact the Office of Career & Life Education for
advice.
- Word of Caution: Should you
be invited to dress in business casual attire, keep in mind that
first impressions last a lifetime, and subconsciously, you are
often judged by them. Therefore, be sure to maintain a neat
appearance at all times including attention to your nails, hair,
facial hair, use of strong perfume/cologne. Casual dress style
depends largely on the industry, so if in doubt, ask about the
dress policy before the interview.
- What to Bring: A briefcase or leather
portfolio is a recommended accessory that will communicate a
professional image. Women should only bring a small handbag along
with their portfolio. Stay away from big bulky bags or
backpacks. Less is more. You do not want to have to fidget
through bags to retrieve your resumes, pens, etc...
Resume: Bring multiple copies of your
resume and familiarize yourself with everything on it. Remember
that the interviewer can ask you about anything on your resume, so
be sure to provide honest information about yourself at all times.
Portfolio: If you are interviewing for
a design or teaching opportunity you may need to bring your
portfolio and be ready to talk about it.
References: It is wise to have a
reference page with you with three professional references listed
with their name, relationship to you, title, and contact
information. Always be sure to get permission from your references
before using them.
- Punctuality: Be sure to arrive at least 10
minutes early. Sometimes you are required to fill out forms
before the interview, so arriving early can be to your benefit.
Additionally, this gives the interviewer an indication of your
possible future behavior. In the event of an emergency, notify
the employer within 24 hours of the scheduled interview, if you
need to cancel the appointment. It is always wise to bring the
phone number of the interviewer with you in the event of traffic
or delays.
- Research: Preparation cuts down on your
amount of uncertainty and will boost your confidence. Therefore,
before the interview, make sure that you have researched the
company using the company's web site, the career library,
newspapers and research tools. Another way to obtain information
on the company is through its annual reports or other company
booklets. Use this information to formulate questions that will
show the recruiter that you are up-to-date and interested in the
organization.
- Body Language: Be confident, and show
enthusiasm and interest for the position. Give a firm handshake
at the beginning and end of the interview. Be sure to maintain
eye contact with all the interviewers, not just the person who
asks the question. Sit up straight, but be relaxed with your arms
and hands above the table. If you are not seated at a table,
place your hands on your portfolio in front of you. Do not place
anything on the interviewer's desk unless given permission to do
so. Try not to fidget, and keep your hands away form your face
and hair. Do not chew gum or smoke!
- Communication: Most importantly, the
interviewer wants to know that you can do the job. Therefore,
being able to market yourself is the key to a successful
interview. Present organized answers with specific examples to
support them. Be clear and concise and always concentrate on your
qualifications. Focus on the positive at all times and avoid
using slang or jargon. Be sure to listen carefully and answer the
question that is being asked. Do not be afraid to pause and ask
for time to better reflect on the question. If you are not sure
of what the interviewer is asking, it is perfectly acceptable to
ask for clarification. Finally, be honest and assertive - let the
interviewer know you are the right person for the job!
