- Research the company or organization before the interview.
- Dress for Success! (see blog post “Quick Tips for Dressing for Interview Success”)
- Bring 3 copies of your resume/list of references and your portfolio (if you have one). **Do not leave your portfolio behind after the interview, especially if it contains original documents!
- Arrive at least ten minutes early—NEVER EVER BE LATE! Do a “dry run” before the day of the interview to ensure that you know where you are going on the day of the interview.
- Make sure you know how to pronounce the interviewer’s name before addressing him or her by name. Always address the interviewer by Mr., Ms., or Dr. and their last name unless otherwise told you may call him/her by a first name.
- Greet the interviewer in a friendly, open manner. Be friendly to any employee who greets you. Remember the receptionist’s opinion of you matters—assume that how you treat everyone you encounter will get back to the individual(s) responsible for hiring you.
- Give the interviewer a firm (but not crushing!) handshake.
- Don’t sit down until you are asked to do so.
- Look attentive in your posture (but not anxious or stiff)—if you lean back in your chair you may look too relaxed.
- Look directly at the interviewer when speaking and listening.
- You probably feel nervous, but sound enthusiastic, friendly and confident—speak loudly enough to be heard without difficulty.
- Keep any nervous habits in check—for example, playing with your hair, tapping your foot, etc.
- Share your qualifications and experiences readily.
- Answer questions in detail rather than “yes” or “no”. Use examples from previous experiences and successes.
- Never say anything negative about a past employer or co-workers.
- Show interest in the job by asking relevant questions.
- Do not be the first to mention salary. If asked what salary you are looking for, give a salary range instead of one figure or inform the interviewer you are flexible with salary. You may also wish to research the national/local salary range for the position for which you are applying and indicate to the interviewer that you are aware of that information.
- Express appreciation for the interview at its conclusion.
- After the interview, write notes about how it went (positives and negatives) in case you are asked to return for a second (or third!) interview.
- Send a thank-you note to the interviewer – It can be typed or (neatly) handwritten. Thank-you notes are a great way to make a favorable impression and to reiterate your strengths and interest in the position.