By: Rebecca Cosper and Elizabeth Moczygemba

The Job Interview To prepare for the interview: Do your homework. Get organized. Plan to make a good first impression. Anticipate questions and plan appropriate responses. Think positively.

Standard Interview Questions Some examples are: “Tell me about yourself.” “What do you know about this company?” “Why does this job opening interest you?” “Do you prefer working alone or with others?” “How well do you work under pressure?” “What do you want to be doing in five years?” “Why should I hire you?” “What are your goals for the future?” “What were your favorite and least favorite subjects in school?” “How dependable are you?”

Good Questions to Ask Employers Some examples are: “How would you describe the responsibilities of the position?” “How would you describe a typical week/day for this position?” “Whom does this position report to? If I am offered the position, can I meet him or her?” “If I am extended a job offer, how soon would you like me to start?” “What are the work hours?” “What are the job duties?” “What training does the company provide for employers?”

What Is Said Without Words An upright, confident posture reflects your sense of self- worth. Eye contact shows you are listening and are interested in what the interviewer has to say. A smile shows that are you relaxed and confident. Keep your facial expressions friendly, calm, relaxed, and positive. A firm handshake conveys that you are professional and enthusiastic. Avoid a weak or overly aggressive handshake. Look at the interviewer. Don’t stare at the wall, ceiling, or your lap. Making eye contact with the interviewer says you are interested in the job and the company. Keep a pleasant smile. Speak clearly and loud enough to be heard. Let the interviewer lead the discussion.

Interview Pictures

What Is Said Without Words (Continued) Leaning slightly forward toward the interviewer conveys that you are interested. Leaning back can give the opposite impression. Be aware of the interviewer’s body language to help you sense when you are losing the person’s attention or when you are going into too much detail. Talk freely. Give more than just yes and no answers. The interviewer needs information to make a hiring decision. Be polite and have a positive attitude. “Sell” yourself. Tell the interviewer why you are interested in the company and the job. Talk about your skills and why you’re the best person for the job. Look at the interviewer. Don’t stare at the wall, ceiling, or your lap. Making eye contact with the interviewer says you are interested in the job and the company.

Common Errors Avoid these interview errors: Poor eye contact. Discussing personal problems. Poor appearance. No prepared questions. Being late. Not having a resume. Acting like a know-it-all. Lack of enthusiasm. Asking about the salary and benefits too soon. Not asking for the job. Chewing gum or smoking. Answering questions with lies.

Big Uh-Oh’s in an Interview Bad eye contact!

Dress and Grooming This picture was chosen because it shows the proper attire for men heading to an interview. They should wear a tie, nice shirt, khaki or black pants, and nice shoes.

Dress and Grooming This picture was chosen because it shows the proper attire for women heading to an interview. Women should wear a nice suit (for women) or a dress, nice shoes (no tennis shoes!), have their hair combed and looking presentable.

Dress and Grooming Mess Ups

After the Interview Write a follow-up letter. Write a short thank-you for the interview. Include a statement about your interest in the job additional points that are important but were not discussed.

“Food for Thought” Assume that you applied for a job but were not selected for the position. Should you abandon your efforts to obtain a job with that particular employer? Why or why not? Do your skills need improvement? Would you have hired yourself for the job? What can you gain from seeking an evaluation of your interview performance from an interviewer who rejected you? In what ways is each interview a learning experience? ?