The Interview - An interview is a personal encounter between two people. To
communicate what you have to offer, you must establish good rapport. The way
you conduct yourself during the interview is critical. Some pointers:
Be confident, not cocky
Be assertive and clear in your communication
Be relaxed. They need you as much as you need them
Communicate your interest in the position and your enthusiasm
Have good voice quality. Don't shout, but let yourself be heard
Be a good listener. It will help you determine the company's needs and how
you might fill them.
Make a good impression at your interview by doing a little homework
beforehand.
Research the Company and the Position. The more you know about the company
and the job you are applying for, the better you will appear in the
interview. An interviewer will be impressed by your interest and motivation,
and you will be able to explain what you can do for the company.
Find out as much key information as you can about the company, its products
and its customers. If possible, talk to people who work at the company. There
may be other sources of information on the Web, especially if the company is
publicly traded.
Prepare for the Actual Interview
Practice your answers to Common Questions. Likewise, prepare a list of
questions to ask the employer. Most interviews follow this pattern: First,
you answer questions about your experience and qualifications, then you ask
questions about the job.
Rehearse your interview with a friend. You should be able to convey all
pertinent information about yourself in 15 minutes. Tape yourself to check
your diction, speed, and body language.
Prepare your interview materials before you leave. Bring several copies of
your resume, a list of references, and, if appropriate, any work samples.
Make sure they are all up to date.
Dress professionally and comfortably. You will be judged in some respects by
what you wear. When in doubt, dress conservatively.
You never get a second chance to make a good first impression.