Most Important Job Interview Tips

The best way to keep interview nerves at bay is to be well prepared. Here are some job interview tips that can help you interview effectively. Proper preparation will help alleviate some of the stress involved in job interviews and position you for a positive and successful interviewing experience.

BEFORE THE INTERVIEW

Do some research about the company

Demonstrate your interest by finding out everything you can about the company and the position before the actual interview. The kinds of things you should know about the company include:

• How long has the company existed

• What services does the company provide or what products does it make?

• Who are their major competitors?

• How many people are employed by the company?

Good Grooming

Check your hair, fingernails, and makeup application. Clothing should be neatly pressed and shoes should be in good condition. The emphasis should be on appropriate dress; there is no rule that fits all people. For male and female professionals, a conservative and properly fitting business suit is recommended. Jewelry should be limited. Beards and mustaches are generally accepted when nicely grown.

DURING THE INTERVIEW

Manners and Etiquette

1. Be on time and be sure to use a firm handshake and eye contact when greeting the interviewer.

2. Wait until you are asked to be seated before doing so.

3. Maintain a comfortable amount of eye contact during the interview, without staring. If you are interviewed by a panel, answer the person who asked the question directly, while still making it a point to make eye contact with others on the panel.

4. Express yourself clearly -- use complete sentences, don't use slang and don't ramble.

5. Be aware of body language. Your tone of voice, posture, gestures, etc., all give clues about your feelings and attitudes. Face the interviewer in an open, relaxed manner. Nod at appropriate times to show that you are listening.

6. Bring extra copies of your resume and reference list.

7. DO NOT bring up the issue of salary. Wait for the interviewer to introduce the topic; it may not come up until a job offer is made.

ENDING THE INTERVIEW

At the close of the interview, you'll want to make certain that you will be remembered.

1. State your interest in the position, and summarize how you would be a "good match" for this position. Do this by summarizing your top three skills, based on the skills the interviewer seems to place in high value.

2. Be certain that you ask what the next steps are in the interview process. Find out what stage they are currently in, and when you could expect some kind of a response.

3. Be certain that you use a firm handshake, a confident smile, and maintain eye contact.

4. Get the interviewer's business card so you can send a thank you letter.

AFTER THE INTERVIEW

After the interview, take a few moments to assess your performance. This will not only help you to put everything in perspective, it will also serve as a learning situation for future interviews.

Evaluating your interviewing skills

• Did I do enough research for this position?

• Was I dressed appropriately?

• Should I have brought additional materials?

• How well did I maintain eye contact?

• Did I listen carefully and attentively?

• Was my voice loud enough?

• Were there any questions that were difficult to answer? What were they? This is also the time to determine if you would like to work for this company, and how you would respond to an offer.

Evaluating the company and the position

• What skills and qualities is this employer looking for? Do I possess all of them? How could I better sell those skills in my next interview?

• What information about the job or company do I still need in order to determine whether I would accept an offer?

• What do I like and/or dislike about the job or company?