Preparation

Before interviewing, it is essential to prepare an "interview kit'.  This kit should contain the company profile.  Extra copies of  both your resume and cover letter, paper and a pen, reference letters, company contact information, directions to the interview, and a list of pre-prepared questions.

Always:

• Be on time
• Look sharp and professional
• Be interactive during the interview
• Ask for a business card
• Send thank you notes to everyone you met with during the interview

Never:

• Wear excessive or flashy jewelry
• Wear heavy make-up
• Wear cologne or perfume
• Chew gum
• Appear bored (look at your watch)

Questions to be Prepared to Answer

Tell me about your greatest strengths.
Tell me about your weaknesses.
What did you enjoy most about your last job?
What did you like least about your last job?
Where would you like your career to be in five years?
Why do you think you would be an asset to our company?
What was your last salary? What is your minimum salary at this time?

Sample Questions to Ask the Employer

Why is this position open?
What are some of the objectives that you would like accomplished in this job?
What are some of the longer-term objectives that you would like completed?
What are the most important traits you look for in a subordinate?

Dos and don’ts for job interviews

Can you rate your skills on a scale of 1 to 10?
Don't:  Give yourself a specific number, especially not a 10; you'll come across as cocky. And a seven or eight might make you seem less than confident. 

Do:  Talk about how you strive for a 10 rating in both your professional and personal life, stressing how important it is for you always to do your best. 

What are your greatest strengths?

Don't:  Limit your explanation to short answers like "I'm very hard working" or "I am a team player." 
Do:  Convince the interviewer. Tell her or him a personality trait, then immediately provide a one- or two-minute real-world example to demonstrate. Have two or three prepared. 

Common Job Interview Mistakes

Want to know what not to do at the job interview?

• Arrive late for the interview.
• Indicate you are late because the directions you were given were not good.
• Look disheveled and inappropriately dressed.
• Slouch in your seat.
• Don't maintain good eye-contact with the interviewer.
• Respond in an unfocused, disorganized, and rambling manner.
• Remain low-key and display no enthusiasm for the job.
• Answer most questions with simple "yes" and "no" answers.

After the Interview

End the interview with a handshake and thank the interviewer for his or her time. Reiterate your interest in the position and your qualifications. After the interview, send a brief thank-you note.  Try to time it so it arrives before the hiring decision will be made. Follow up with a phone call if you are not contacted within a week of the interview.