TIPS FOR BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER
THE INTERVIEW
Here are top tips from our staff to help you before, during and after a job interview:
- If you suspect that you are the first to interview for a job, try to reschedule.
- The last person interviewed has a better chance of being hired than the first.
- If offered a choice of days, pick a Thursday.
- The worst day to interview is Monday and the worst time to interview is late afternoon.
- When given the choice, schedule interviews from 9:30-11 am or 1:30-3:30 pm
- During these times, you won't have to share the spotlight with distractions such as lunch or the end of the business day.
- Be prepared and study hard. Learn as much as you can about the job, the employer and the company ahead of time.
- Know what your skills are and have examples of how you can prove them.
- Make sure to arrive for an interview at least 10 minutes early and bring an extra copy of your resume.
- Be respectful of everyone you meet, including the receptionist.
- Offer a firm handshake and maintain good eye contact during the interview.
- If you want the job, let the interviewer know that you are interested in it.
- A common mistake in interviewing is talking too much.
- If you are unsure how to answer a question, reflect on it before you answer. Or, ask for clarification if needed.
- Answer questions briefly and show how your skills can meet their needs.
- Come prepared with questions that you can ask the employer.
- Do not be the first one to start a discussion about wages; let the interviewer bring that topic up.
- At the end of the interview, ask for the job again if you want it.
- Thank the interviewer for his or her time.
- Ask what the next steps will be.
- Send a thank you note right away.
