Interview Tips

  1. Do your research.
    • Be sure to visit the company website prior to the interviewer, paying particular attention to the company's products and services.
    • Understand how your experience correlates with the job responsibilities.
    • Be prepared to give specific examples using your past work history.
  2. Learn who your interviewer(s) are.
    • If you are provided the names of those you will be interviewing with, consider typing their name into a main search engine to see if they have a professional social media profile that’s visible to the public. If so, review the profile and write questions to ask them during the interview that are related to their experience or position within the organization.
  3. Practice responding to behavioral-based interview questions.
    • Past behavior is viewed as the best predictor of future behavior. By understanding how you have handled a situation in the past provides visibility into how you would behave in the organization given similar circumstances.
    • When asked a question such as, "How do you handle conflict?" do not answer the question as what you would do; cite a specific instance of what you have done.
  4. Plan ahead.
    • Make sure you have directions to the interview site.
    • Determine how long it will take to travel to the interview location, making sure you allow enough time for heavy traffic, an accident on the road or other unforeseen issues that have the potential to make you late.
  5. Take extra care in personal hygiene.
    • Limit perfume or cologne.
    • Do not smoke before entering an interview.
    • Wear clothes that are comfortable and appropriate such as dress pants with a blouse or button-down shirt.
    • Avoid wearing flip flops, shorts or hats or very casual attire.
  1. Arrive early.
    • Plan to arrive 10 -15 minutes early to the interview.
    • If you realize you may be late, contact the site, Recruiter, or help line to alert the interviewer of the delay.
  2. Bring a copy of your resume or application.
    • Having a copy for the hiring manager shows you take pride in your work and demonstrates your interest in the role.
  3. Put your phone and all other electronic devices away when entering the interview.
  4. Be friendly and energetic.
    • Maintain a positive and outgoing attitude throughout the interview.
    • Make eye contact and be sure to smile.
  5. Provide information the interviewer does not already have.
    • When answering question such as "Tell me about your experience," try to provide information that is more insightful or detailed than what is already included on your resume or application.
  1. Be truthful.
    • Companies place a great deal of value on trust and integrity; it's important to be truthful in all responses to interview questions.
  2. Don't make controversial comments in the interview related to politics, religion or other personal opinions.
  3. Sell your skills.
    • The interview is an opportunity to expand on your skills and experience, demonstrate how you will add value to their organization. This is your chance to make an impression.
  4. Create a two-way conversation.
    • An interview allows the hiring manager to determine if you are a fit for the position but also allows you to determine whether they meet your expectations as an employer.
    • This is an opportunity to gather more information on the position, company, growth opportunities, benefits, and the next step in the interview process.
  5. Ask questions.
    • At the end of an interview, the Hiring Manager will typically ask you what questions you have. Bring 3 - 4 questions with you to ask of the interviewer. Asking questions at the end of an interview shows you were engaged in the conversation and interested in the position.
    • It's ok to ask at the end of the interview how you did; reinforce your interest in the position and encourage the interviewer to reach out to you should he or she have any additional questions.