Interview Advice

So you have an interview?

Congratulations, your resume did a fabulous job!

Now, no matter where you went to school, no matter what your GPA is, no matter how much experience you have, no matter who you know, – if you aren’t able to interview successfully, you won’t get the job !

This section contains free interview advice, including interview techniques, interview questions that interviewers may ask you, questions you may want to ask the interviewer, panel interview and group interview tests.
We will teach you how to handle interviews and hopefully improve your interview technique to improve your chances of being the successful candidate and lands that all-important second interview.

Also, an interview gives you the opportunity to showcase your qualifications to an employer, so it pays to be well prepared. The following information provides some helpful hints:

Preparation

Learn about the organization.

Review your resume.

Have a specific job or jobs in mind.

Review your qualifications for the job.

Prepare answers to frequently asked questions about yourself.

Arrive before the scheduled time of your interview.

Practice an interview with a friend or relative.

Personal appearance

Be well groomed.

Dress appropriately.

Do not chew gum or smoke.

The interview Process

Relax and answer each question concisely.

Use good manners.

Respond promptly.

Learn the name of your interviewer and greet him or her with a firm handshake.

Use proper English – avoid slang.

Use body language to show interest.

Be cooperative and enthusiastic.

Ask questions about the position and the organization, but avoid questions whose answers can easily be found on the company Web site. Also, avoid asking questions about salary and benefits unless a job offer is made.

Thank the interviewer when you leave.

Test (if employer gives one):

Listen closely to instructions.

Write legibly and clearly.

Read each question carefully.

Budget your time wisely and don’t dwell on one question.

Information to bring to an interview

Government-issued identification (e.g. driver’s license).

Resume> Although not all employers require applicants to bring a résumé, you should be able to furnish the interviewer information about your education, training, and previous employment.

References: Employers typically require three references. Get permission before using anyone as a reference. Make sure that they will give you a good reference. Try to avoid using relatives as references.

Transcripts; Employers may require an official copy of transcripts to verify grades, coursework, dates of attendance, and highest grade completed or degree awarded.