Interview Tips

Looking strong on paper is one thing, but showing you can adapt and work in a specific environment is something completely different. In addition to skill set, employers want to make sure their new hire is a good match. They look for good attitude, work ethic, and whether or not the individual gets along with other employees in the office. All of these factors matter in the decision making process.

Preparing for the Interview

It is vital that before you go into a job interview you do some research on the  company's background. Knowing how many employees are on staff, how much money they make a year, the biggest clients they cater too, and how they help or service people will make it easier to relate your past accomplishments with information targeted towards the companies needs.

Practice, practice, practice. Stand in front of the mirror and answer the following questions:

1.   Tell me about yourself?
2.   What are your weaknesses?
3.   Can you work well under pressure?
4.   What do you know about our company?
5.   What traits do you have that will benefit our company?
6.   Why are you looking at a new career?
7.   Why should we hire you?
8.   Where do you see yourself in five years?
9.   Why do you want to work for us?
10. What do you wish to accomplish?
11. What are your salary requirements?
12. Why did you leave your last job?

It is very important that you dress professionally for your interview. Appearance and confidence can make or break your chances. Look businesslike, professional, and confident, even if the company is a casual environment. Do not wear too much perfume, cologne, or smell like cigarettes. If you have tattoos, you should conceal them. Looking approachable and appropriate is a significant part of the interview.

Making a great first impression is key because much of the verbal content will be forgotten later on that day. Having the ability to be insightful, straightforward, and eloquent will stick in the interviewer’s mind.

Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time because you will most likely have some paperwork to fill out. If you are unsure of the location, make a practice run the day before. Be sure to take traffic and car issues into account as well.

Employers want to see that you are confident in your abilities. It can be a nerve-racking experience to enter a room with other applicants who are all applying for one position. That nerve often carries into the actual interview, and if the interviewer thinks you are not sure about what you are talking about; your chances are drastically reduced.