INTERVIEW ADVICE Preparation is key for a successful interview. Before The Interview Change your voicemail message to reflect a professional tone and wording. Set up an e-mail address in your name – not a nickname – that will be used specifically for job search purposes. Keep an updated resume near your phone to use as a reference for unexpected phone interviews. Write a brief 2-3 sentence professional introduction to use when calling for interviews or inquiring about employment opportunities. Research the company, its mission, product lines, and competitors. In addition, perform a basic internet search on the company to see what others have to say. The vault online career library is an excellent resource. Evaluate your knowledge, skills and abilities and how you qualify for the opportunity. Call to confirm your appointment – date, time and place – the day prior to the interview. Know the full name and job title of your interviewer. Take a “dry run” to your interview site to avoid unexpected travel delays. Arrive at least 15-20 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Turn off your cell phone. Make a quick stop in the restroom before entering the interview. Check yourself in a full-length mirror. Decline any food or beverage offers. Never chew gum or smoke. Be polite and friendly to EACH person you meet from the moment you arrive, particularly to the interviewer’s receptionist and administrative assistant. During the Interview Greet the interviewer – whether male or female – with a firm handshake. Smile and make eye contact. Project interest and enthusiasm. Do not seat yourself. Wait for the interviewer to ask you to be seated. Be aware of your posture and body language. Do not slouch. Avoid using the interviewer’s first name unless invited to do so. If you wish to take notes, as a form of courtesy, ask the interviewer first. Maintain eye contact throughout the interview. Do not allow your eyes to wander. Never look at your watch. Respond to questions using professional or academic references. If you are leaving your current job, explain why before the interviewer asks. Avoid using personal stories as examples. Answer questions carefully and non-controversially. Avoid political/religious references. Be positive in your responses – negativity will be noted. Phrase responses in a positive light. If an interview takes place over a meal, review dining etiquette prior to the meeting. When the interview is over, shake the interviewer’s hand and express your gratitude. Ask when a decision will be made, if it has not already been indicated. If you have multiple interviews, think of new things to present in each conversation. Pause briefly before answering to indicate that your response is not rehearsed. Answer questions in 2 or 3 sentences, not long rambling answers. After the Interview: Send a handwritten or typed thank you note to each interviewer if you had more than one. Keep an interview journal. Take the time to make notes immediately after the interview.