1. Successful Job Interviewing
Techniques
BEFORE THE INTERVIEW
▪ Research the organization -- history, products/services,
reputation, location, organizational structure, prospects
for growth, standing in the industry, business methods
and key personnel.
▪ Gather key materials to take to the interview -- extra
résumés, work samples, a list of your references, letters
of recommendation, notepad, pen, copy of ad, company
information, correspondence from interviewer, your list
of questions and a briefcase.
▪ Do a drive-by – Drive from your home or where you will be
before the interview to the interview location during the
same time of day that your interview is scheduled. This
is helpful in knowing how long it takes to get there and
eliminates the issue of getting lost on the day of the
interview.
▪ Dress for success -- neatly, conservatively, think about
employer, dress for the position you want, not the one
you have
▪ Be 10-15 minutes early -- Call if you will be unavoidably
late.
▪ Prep for Behavioral Based Interviews (See additional
handout, “Prep to be a Star”.)
Adapted from: FOR THE COLLEGE GRADUATE by Maureen J. Chemsak from NACPED website
2. DURING THE INTERVIEW
▪ Greet the interviewer by name, smile and give a firm
handshake.
▪ Be aware of your body language, including eye contact,
posture, facial expressions, nodding and crossed legs,
for example. Make sure it contributes to a positive
impression.
▪ Relax, be honest, show interest and enthusiasm. Take
notes, listen carefully, stress your best. Be positive and
tell them you are interested in the position. Do not
exaggerate, cover up your past record, or complain
about previous employers.
▪ EXPRESS YOURSELF CONFIDENTLY! Be yourself genuine, sincere and capable. Above all, be a good
listener. Avoid personal issues.
▪ In the last 5-10 minutes:
ASK questions about the job specifics (not salary
or benefits during the first interview.)
ASK when you can expect to hear from them.
ASK for a business card.
ASK if you can check back periodically.
THANK the interviewer.
SHAKE HANDS goodbye.
AFTER THE INTERVIEW
▪ Do a mental self-assessment/critique of what went well or
what you could improve in the next interview.
▪ Write a short, personal thank-you note stressing your
outstanding points again. Restate your interest in the
position, and mention those pertinent qualities you
might have forgotten in the interview.
▪ Do your homework on your salary ranges in the library,
Adapted from: FOR THE COLLEGE GRADUATE by Maureen J. Chemsak from NACPED website
3. Career Services or "friends in the know". Learn and
apply negotiating techniques.
▪ Keep looking for work! Check back with the employer
periodically. If you do not get the job, review your job
plan, and look for ways to improve during a future
interview.
Adapted from: FOR THE COLLEGE GRADUATE by Maureen J. Chemsak from NACPED website
