Research the company you are interviewing for. Be familiar with their mission and be prepared to ask questions. Bringing a short list of questions to the interview shows you’ve done your homework
Make sure your resume and other materials are organized. If you’ve updated your resume since you applied, bring enough updated versions to the interview for the interviewers.
Dress appropriately. Interview panels notice how you are dressed and usually comment on it. Look like a professional. The better you look, the better the impression you will leave them with.
Make sure your cell phone is off prior to the interview. A candidate’s ringing cell phone is disruptive to the process.
BE ON TIME!! Interview panels also notice tardiness. Even if you share the same credentials and experience as another candidate, a panel will most likely choose the person who was on time.
During the interview
Be sure to greet the interviewer/panel with a firm hand shake and a smile. First impressions are very important in an interview. You may not get a second chance to impress them. Be polite, courteous and always respectful.
Make eye contact. This shows confidence and sincerity.
Pause before answering questions. It is okay to take your time when answering interview questions. Answer them directly and completely. It is also acceptable to ask the interviewer to repeat a question. Try not to get off track.
Be mindful of your body language. Sit up straight and don’t cross your arms as you may appear unapproachable and stern.
Let the interview panel see your sense of humor without being a “clown”. If you continuously joke during an interview, the panel may think you are not taking it seriously.
Do not chew gum, mints or candy during the interview.
Do not start the interview asking about money/wage. This is a red flag to most interviewers because it would appear as if it was the most important thing to you.
An interview is no place to complain about prior employers. Only speak highly of past employers, or don’t bring them up.
After the interview
Follow up with a thank you note. It can be anything from hand-written to an email. DO NOT share details of your interview on social media sites. Your potential employer may be checking the sites.
If you plan to follow up with a phone call, wait for about 10 days, giving the panel enough time to finish conducting all interviews.
