1. Jobs for Montana's Graduates C14L1PP1

2. A job interview is the one opportunity to make a good first impression. How a person conducts themselves on an interview creates an impression on a potential employer. Students who are aware of proper attire and etiquette have a greater chance of a successful interview. Jobs for Montana's Graduates C14L1PP1

3. How a person dresses for an interview depends upon the job for which they are interviewing. A general rule is to be one step above the required attire for the company. If most of the men are wearing slacks and a sportcoat, wear slacks with a coat and tie. If the women are wearing slacks, wear a suit. Jobs for Montana's Graduates C14L1PP1

6. Men and women should be in a dark colored suit, (black, navy blue, dark brown or charcoal) with a solid colored, white, cream or light blue shirt. If women choose to wear a skirt suit, the skirt should be no more than two inches above the knee. All clothing should be clean and well pressed. Jobs for Montana's Graduates C14L1PP1

7. Women should wear hose that match their shoes, and men should wear dress socks, matching their slacks and shoes Shoes finish the outfit. They should be clean and well polished. Women should be in dress shoes with heels no more than 2 inches, with closed toes and heels. Jobs for Montana's Graduates C14L1PP1

8. Personal hygiene and cleanliness are necessary parts of good grooming and are one of the first things noticed about a persons appearance. Good grooming includes just about everything that doesnt involve your wardrobe. Even in jobs where the work gets you dirty, you are not supposed to show up already dirty at the start of the work day. Jobs for Montana's Graduates C14L1PP1

9. Jewelry should be conservative and simple, no more than eight pieces. Go light or not at all with cologne and perfume. Jobs for Montana's Graduates C14L1PP1

10. Hair should be well groomed and conservative. No unusual colors - keep the style conservative. Keep your hair away from the face. Jobs for Montana's Graduates C14L1PP1

11. Interviewees should carry a notebook containing copies of his/her resume, cover letter, job application, references, and a pen and paper for notes. Jobs for Montana's Graduates C14L1PP1

12. Scout out the location of the interview. Know how to get there and how long it takes. See how the people in the office dress. Ask questions about the company. Pick up literature with information about the company. To increase confidence, practice possible interview questions before the interview. The interview begins in the waiting room, the receptionist will likely notice unprofessional behavior. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Jobs for Montana's Graduates C14L1PP1

13. Greet the interviewer by name and with a firm handshake. Do not smoke or chew gum. Use good posture. Do not fidget. Maintain good eye contact with everyone in the room. Have some well researched questions ready to ask about the company. Keep your personal life private. Do not answer illegal questions such as marital status or age. Jobs for Montana's Graduates C14L1PP1

14. Write a thoughtful and courteous thank you note immediately after the interview thanking the interviewer for his/her time and interest. Let the potential employer know of your enthusiasm for the position. Let the interviewer know you are confident that your skills will match well with the position. Jobs for Montana's Graduates C14L1PP1