Successful Interviewing Techniques

Before the Interview Research the organization. Researching potential employers helps you make a good impression on an interviewer and helps you to better decide your fit with a company. Get the scoop through your networking contacts and by reading articles in trade journals, newspapers and business directories. Be able to answer the following questions: How long has the company been in business? What is its reputation? Is the company financially sound and profitable? What is the company's greatest accomplishment? Its biggest failure? Where does your potential job fit in the larger organizational picture? "Employers want to know that you take enough interest in them to do your research prior to an interview," Yana Parke says in her book, "Damn Good Resume Guide" (1996, Ten Speed Press).

Before the Interview Review your resume. The interviewer will base some questions on your résumé's content. You should review your document before the interview so you can address any item on it fully and confidently.

Before the Interview Practice answering potential interview questions. Most job-search books provide you with a list of potential interview questions. Review them. Here are a few basic ones to consider: Tell me about yourself. Tell me about a time you failed miserably in your career. What is your greatest strength? What are your salary expectations for this position? "You don't want to find yourself caught off-guard when questions are asked during the interview”

Before the Interview Prepare a list of questions for the employer. Remember that you're also interviewing the employer. Create a short list of questions based on your earlier research and any concerns you have. Here are some examples: Describe a typical day on the job at this company. Is there room for advancement? Describe the ideal candidate for this job. Where do you see this company in five years? Ten years? “Less than 5% of job candidates ask questions,” make yourself stand out! ---”Interview Preparation book”

The Day of the Interview Project a professional, self-confident image Your clothes and your attitude should reflect the level of the position for which you're interviewing. Give yourself a second "once-over" before you arrive at the interview. First impressions count, and you won't have a second chance to make a first impression.

Day of the Interview Manage your time effectively. If you aren't sure where the company is located, get directions in advance for your interview. Plan your trip so you arrive at the interview approximately 10 minutes early. Realize that your interview starts the minute you arrive, even if you must wait in the lobby for 20 minutes before the meeting.

During the Interview Use good communication skills When you are being interviewed it is very important that you give out the right signals. You should always look attentive - so do not slouch in your chair or chew gum. Never lie to anyone in an interview, your body language and tone of voice or the words you use will probably give you away - classic body language giveaways include scratching your nose and not looking directly at the other person when you are speaking to them.

During the Interview Determine the next step. Don't leave the interview without inquiring about the next step. You'll only feel frustrated if you don't know what to expect in the future. Ask the employer when a hiring decision will be made. Will you be contacted or should you call back on a certain day? If you feel you would be a perfect fit for the job, say so before you leave the interview. If you want the job, ask for it. This isn't the time to let your shy inner-child dominate.

After the interview Analyze the interview. Now is the time to breathe a sigh of relief and think positive thoughts. You also should analyze your interview performance objectively. What's your gut feeling? Consider how interested the employer seemed in you and whether you made particular points which really stood out. Were your questions answered? If you realize you made mistakes, don't dwell on them. Either contact the employer and try to resuscitate your candidacy, or simply consider it a valuable lesson and concentrate on your next interview.

After the Interview Follow up. Following up with a letter is essential to the success of any job-search endeavor. In addition to being a courtesy, sending a thank-you letter keeps your name fresh in the employer's mind. It's also a way to remind the employer how well your qualifications fit the position's requirements. If you haven't heard from the employer in two weeks, make a telephone call to ask if you can provide other information to help the decision-making process. Remind the employer that you're still very interested in the opportunity. The interview often is the beginning of the hiring process, not the end. Many employers won't even consider extending an offer until they've seen how a candidate follows up.