Best Interview Tips
Dress Appropriately
You do not get a second chance to make a first impression. A traditional suit is always recommended for a professional interview. Your hair and make-up should be clean and simple, your fingernails clean, and your jewelry minimal. Don’t go overboard with cologne or perfume. We recommend taking a pass altogether because many people have allergies, some companies even have policies banning perfume/cologne in the office.
Plan Ahead
Know the location of the interview. If you are going to a part of town that you are not familiar with drive the route a day ahead of time to ensure you know exactly where you are going. Always plan to arrive 5-10 minutes prior to your scheduled interview time. Be sure to have a contact name and phone number on you in case of emergency. Always take at least 3 clean, updated copies of your resume, at least 2 writing utensils (in case 1 fails), and a notebook.
Know the Company
Use the Internet to learn more about the company you will be interviewing with, their mission, values, and core business. Brush up on any recent business-related articles about the company. Find out if they have received any recent recognition for their services or products. There is a wealth of information available at your fingertips, use it to your advantage and show the employer your interest!
Know Yourself
Think about what you have accomplished in your career. Specifically in positions similar to the type of opportunity for which you are interviewing. Identify what skills you possess that make you a good match for the company. Think of specific examples you can share during the interview that showcase your past successes.
Prepare Questions
Think about some questions you may have about the company, the position, the working environment, and other key interests prior to the interview. Do not ask questions about salary, commission/bonuses, hours, lunch breaks, and benefits. These are questions that can be addressed at a later date once both parties have established an interest in one another. The purpose of an interview is to allow the prospective employer to evaluate you as a prospective employee; your skills, accomplishments, and potential fit for their environment. Additionally, it is a time for you to learn about the company and its core values to decide if it is a place you would like to work.
Relax!
Just be yourself. Being relaxed, confident, and prepared is sometimes the best way to impress your interviewer.
Good Luck