Job Interview Preparation Checklist
__________ Research company – size, number of employees, type of
business, what is the product(s) or service(s), new innovations,
growth potential, reputation as an employer, professional development
opportunities and benefits. Learn as much as possible by reading
material from brochures, catalogs, annual reports, website, etc. Do
you know anyone or can you question a “friend of a friend or relative”
who works for the company?
__________ Research the position (read and analyze the job
description).
__________ Find out as much information as you can about the
department in which you will be interviewing.
__________ If you are an internal candidate, interview co-workers who
are employed in a similar position.
__________ Determine possible weak areas – take a class or workshop,
read a book – you may find relationships to your educational
background or work experience that you had not considered.
__________ Secure written references and ask permission to use
reference names.
__________ Brainstorm possible interview questions – ask mentors or
supportive co-workers for assistance.
__________ Have a 20-second commercial about your strengths should you
get a question that you don’t know the answer to.
__________ Review a few interview books and practice answering sample
questions – remember: you don’t need to memorize sentences, but you do
need to know info about yourself (transferable skills, abilities,
goals, etc.)
__________ How does your attitude rate – are you generally a positive
or negative individual?
__________ What is your current working reputation? This could be
especially important for an internal candidate. Are you proud of your
work ethic?
__________ Evaluate your current health practices. Do you exercise
regularly to help reduce stress related to job search and
interviewing? Are you maintaining a healthy diet? Don’t go to an
interview on a caffeine/sugar high.
__________ Ahead of time, select an appropriate interview outfit and
get hair cut.
__________ Get a good night’s sleep before the interview day.
__________ Avoid stressful situations prior to the interview.
__________ Allow enough time to reach the interview site without
rushing. Go ahead of time to see where it is (room, building, street)
and time the travel distance allowing for trains, accidents, etc.
__________ Listen to the interview questions, take a moment to
organize your answer, and then do your best. Thank them for their
time.
__________ Follow-up on the interview. Send thank you note. |
|
|
