You did your homework on the company you applied to, you sent a well thought out and organized resume and cover letter. Then, the phone rang, you have an interview! Landing an interview is a huge step, but you have your work cut out for you, it is now time to prepare to sell yourself. When you get the call, listen carefully; write down all of the pertinent information, date, time, location and interviewer. Make sure you are free, repeat the information so you know that it is correct, then write it down, put it on your Google calendar, or anywhere else that will help you remember.
Once you arrive at the interview, it is time to present yourself as the person for the job. Here are some tips:
- Be on time, actually, be 10 minutes early.
- Shut your cell phone off, or don’t even bring it with you.
- Dress appropriately. You should always dress one level nicer than the dress code. If they dress business casual, wear a tie, if they wear ties, wear a suit.
- Let the front desk person know you are there, reaffirm the name of your interviewer, thank him or her for their time.
- Make sure you are not chewing gum, or a mint.
- Be prepared with an informative statement about yourself, companies you have worked for, transferable skills, etc.
- Be positive and kind, talk about your successes in your career.
- Ask questions about the job position and the expectations.
- Follow up with your interviewer; send a thank you note as well as calling a few days later.
