What we do to help:
We pass on any information about the position and the company we think will benefit you, so you can tailor your interview answers to the specific needs of the company. Because of our history and experience with these companies, we can help you walk into your interview with an inside edge and the confidence you need to succeed.
For example, we might give you an idea of:
- the 'vibe' of the company,
- past applicant's experiences,
- the personality of the hiring manager,
- the type of personality that the manager has indicated he/she is looking to hire.
What you should do:
The night before your interview, do the following:
- Print out and review the driving directions from your location to the interview location.
- Learn a little about the company where you are about to interview: products or services, growth and potential
- Prepare to talk about yourself. If an interviewer asks, this is not open invitation to talk aimlessly. They're usually looking for signs that you're constantly working to improve yourself, so share about your out of work interests and hobbies, books you're reading, and the like.
- Prepare answers to the following typical interview questions:
- What do you know about our organization?
- Why do you want to work for us?
- What important trends do you see in our industry?
- Why are you contemplating a change, and/or Why did you leave previous positions?
- What do you enjoy/dislike about your current job (or last job)?
- Why are you considering leaving your current job?
- Tell me about your greatest failure at work. What did you learn?
- How will you be able to contribute to our organization?
- How long would it take you to become a meaningful contributor to our organization?
- Rehearse answers using action words (planned, created, initiated, developed, implemented) result words (led to, resulted in, contributed, demonstrated, achieved) leadership words (organized, directed, led, supervised, was responsible for, coordinated)
- Create interview questions for the interviewer, such as:
- What are the short- and long-term objectives of your department?
- What makes a successful employee in your organization?
Wow the interviewer with your snazzy appearance. First impressions are extremely important. Choose a standard professional outfit, such as a suit. Iron your clothes and make sure that your shoes are clean and shined. Organize the papers that you plan to bring with you to the interview.
Arrive early to the building, and plan on entering the office somewhere between 5-10 minutes early. Whatever you do, don't be late. Shake hands firmly with everyone you meet. Be sure to smile and look everyone in the eye with confidence and a friendly attitude.
Have the right attitude. Be flexible and open minded. Demonstrate that you have high drive and lots of energy. Don't be a know-it-all, and don't be apathetic. Be enthusiastic and energized about the position. Throughout the interview, you should be interacting in such a way as to answer the implicit question "What's in it for me?"
Close the deal. When you think that the interview is coming to a close be sure to hit the following points:
- Compliment the interviewer on an aspect of their professionalism.
- Make a positive comment about the company based on what you learned in the interview.
- Make a positive statement about your ability to handle the position.
- Before leaving, be sure to tell the interviewer that you want the job.
After the interview, do two quick things:
- Call your recruiter immediately to give your honest impressions.
- Send a thank you note to the interviewer via email even if that wasn't your dream job or your best interview. Here's a sample email:
Dear Mr./Ms. _____ :
Thank you for inviting me into (Name of company) for an interview for the (name of position) position.
I am confident that (Name of Company) is the kind of company I would like join. Furthermore, I am confident that, with my background and experience, I can make a significant contribution to your organization.
Once again, thank you for the hospitality you extended to me. I hope to hear from you soon.
Warm Regards,
(Your name)