Job Interview Tips

Time for a new job? A job interview may be the most difficult part of a job search. It's you putting yourself out there to be evaluated by a person or a group of people, that you've never met before, that decide if they think you have what they want. If that's not hard enough on an individual, one must keep in mind that the interviewer(s) maybe interviewing a hundred people for one job opening. So how can make the best of your interviewing experience?


Before the Interview
Its best to research the company your applying to and find out everything about it. You may want to research the history of the company, the company's size, and branch locations. Try to better educate yourself on the company by finding information in national newspapers, such as Wall Street Journal, local newspapers, and the company's website.

Prepare a list of questions you have to the interview. It's not a one-way communication. It offers you a chance to ask questions of your potential employer and show your interest and knowledge of the position and the company. Feel free to bring paper and pen to jot down notes.

Try to anticipate any questions you may be asked, and prepare yourself in advanced. Make you your answers sound natural, and not rehearsed. They may be difficult questions, but give them careful thought. Some questions that you may be asked are:

What are your occupational goals?
Where do you see yourself in years from now?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Do you work well in groups?
What do you do in your spare time?
What are some of your accomplishments?
Why are you interested in this current job and company?
Why should I hire you?




Make sure you arrive early to your scheduled time. You may be asked to fill out paperwork and applications, so allow enough time to fill time out properly.

During the Interview
The interview actually begins before you're even seated. What you wear and how you make that first impression are very important. Dress nice, simple, and conservatively. Make sure you are well groomed. Avoid dangling jewelry and strong fragrances.

Always thank the interviewer for their time. Express your pleasure in meeting them and wait for them to be seated before yourself. Sit with good posture and look directly at them. Keep your answers direct and don't ramble or stray off from the subject. Appear confident and don't fidget. At the end of the interview, make sure to thank the interviewer for their time, give a friendly and firm handshake, and express your in the job. Ask when you should expect to hear back, but do not press too hard.