Job or internship interviews can be a nerve-wracking experience for the applicant and a time-consuming exercise for the hiring company. The interview process is not an exact science, but being prepared can help you ace your dream job!
In order to impress prospective employers during an interview, you must first know what they are looking for in candidates. Learning more about the company itself and what they value can help you do this. Here are some suggestions:
- Read the job advertisement carefully
- Research the corporate website, read and try to understand their mission statement
- Call "insiders" (people that work with the company)
- Refer to your university's career center if you are at college
Below is a picture with explanations of what clothes a man should wear for an interview:
Below is a picture with explanations of what clothes a women should wear for an interview:
Tips for a Successful Interview
Always bring a resume!
It is always professional to have a resume with you. You will still be asked to complete applications, but having a resume tells an employer that you know how to present yourself effectively.
Ask for the job!
If you are truly interested in the job , ask for it. As you are preparing to leave, offer the interviewer your hand to shake, look directly into his or her eyes, and say how much you would enjoy working there. Tell the interviewer that you believe your skills and background are a perfect match to the company's goals and function, that you believe you have a lot to offer the company, and that such a great company has a lot to offer your continued career development as well.
Thank you
Always send a thank you note! This is important, not just for the sake of good manners, but to get the job. If time constraints make it difficult to send a hand written note, at least send an email, written fax, or make a phone call and tell the interviewer "Thank You". Visit the following link for an example of a follow-up thank you note.
Follow-Up Phone Calls
Before leaving an interview, as the employer to give you some idea when they will be making a hiring decision. If you haven't heard anything after one week, phone the interviewer and inquire whether the position has been filled. If a decision has not been made, now is a good time to let the prospective employer know that you are interested in the job. Many employers hire the most enthusiastic applicant out of a group of qualified candidates.
It is always professional to have a resume with you. You will still be asked to complete applications, but having a resume tells an employer that you know how to present yourself effectively.
Ask for the job!
If you are truly interested in the job , ask for it. As you are preparing to leave, offer the interviewer your hand to shake, look directly into his or her eyes, and say how much you would enjoy working there. Tell the interviewer that you believe your skills and background are a perfect match to the company's goals and function, that you believe you have a lot to offer the company, and that such a great company has a lot to offer your continued career development as well.
Thank you
Always send a thank you note! This is important, not just for the sake of good manners, but to get the job. If time constraints make it difficult to send a hand written note, at least send an email, written fax, or make a phone call and tell the interviewer "Thank You". Visit the following link for an example of a follow-up thank you note.
Follow-Up Phone Calls
Before leaving an interview, as the employer to give you some idea when they will be making a hiring decision. If you haven't heard anything after one week, phone the interviewer and inquire whether the position has been filled. If a decision has not been made, now is a good time to let the prospective employer know that you are interested in the job. Many employers hire the most enthusiastic applicant out of a group of qualified candidates.
Different employers ask different types of questions. Familiarize yourself with all interview styles so that you are prepared and comfortable with each!