An interview gives you the opportunity to showcase your qualifications to an employer, so it pays to be well prepared. The following information provides some helpful hints.
Preparation:
* Learn about the organization.
* Have a specific job or jobs in mind.
* Review your qualifications for the job.
* Be ready to briefly describe your experience, showing how it relates it the job.
* Be ready to answer broad questions, such as “Why should I hire you?” “Why do you want this job?” “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
* Practice an interview with a friend or relative.
Personal appearance:
* Be well groomed.
* Dress appropriately.
* Do not chew gum or smoke.
The interview:
* Be early.
* Learn the name of your interviewer and greet him or her with a firm handshake.
* Use good manners with everyone you meet.
* Relax and answer each question concisely.
* Use proper English—avoid slang.
* Be cooperative and enthusiastic.
* Use body language to show interest—use eye contact and don’t slouch.
* Ask questions about the position and the organization, but avoid questions whose answers can easily be found on the company Web site.
* Also avoid asking questions about salary and benefits unless a job offer is made.
* Thank the interviewer when you leave and shake hands.
* Send a short thank you note.
Information to bring to an interview:
* Social Security card.
* Government-issued identification (driver’s license).
* Resume or application. Although not all employers require a resume, you should be able to furnish the interviewer information about your education, training, and previous employment.
* References. Employers typically require three references. Get permission before using anyone as a reference. Make sure that they will give you a good reference. Try to avoid using relatives as references.
* Transcripts. Employers may require an official copy of transcripts to verify grades, coursework, dates of attendance, and highest grade completed or degree awarded.
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