Ten Free Job Interview Tips

 

Research the Company Ahead of Time

When you arrive at a job interview, you should be prepared to show that you've taken the time to research and learn about the company. With so much information readily available online, interviewers expect applicants to at least take enough initiative to read through the company's website prior to showing up for an interview appointment. Almost every hiring manager asks applicants why they're interested in working for the company. Be prepared to provide a knowledgeable answer to that question that includes information about what you know about the organization and reasons that you feel you will be a good fit there.

Practice Interview Questions

Before you go to an interview, be sure that you are prepared to answer common interview questions. While you can't be certain exactly what you'll be asked, there are certain types of questions that come up in almost every employment interview situation. You can find examples of typical questions and suggestions for responding to them in the Difficult Interview Questions and Behavioral Interview Questions articles. Consider recording your responses and asking knowledgeable friends to listen to them. That way you can benefit from feedback provided by other people.

Dress for Success

You've probably heard the old saying that you never get a second chance to make a first impression, and the sentiment is certainly true. The way that you dress when you go on a job interview plays an important role in how the interviewer perceives you. While dress codes vary from one company to another, it's a good idea to dress in conservative, professional attire, no matter what kind of job you are seeking. If you are interviewing for a professional position, it's advisable to wear a dark suit. Regardless of the type of job, you should wear clothes that are clean, neatly pressed, and in good repair. You should also make sure that your shoes are scuff-free and in good condition. Accessories should be kept to a minimum. It's also a good idea to avoid wearing heavy fragrance.

Bring Your Resume and Reference Sheet

Don't assume that the interviewer will have your resume just because you have already submitted it to the company. Bring a clean copy of your resume and reference sheet printed on quality paper so that you can provide them to the hiring manager immediately if he or she requests them. It's best to carry them in a small briefcase or portfolio that coordinates with your clothing.

Arrive on Time

Avoid being tardy for a job interview appointment. Make sure to arrive a few minutes before the time you are scheduled to speak with the hiring manager, even if that means leaving home much earlier than you feel might be necessary. After all, you never know what traffic will be like between your home and the location of the interview.

Turn Off Your Cell Phone

Before you go into the building, turn off your cell phone. Do not just turn it down or set it to vibrate. Make sure that it will not make any noise at all. Do not touch it or look at it at all during the time you are in the office, not even while you are waiting for the interviewer in the lobby.

Be Polite to All Employees

Keep in mind that the interview process begins the minute you arrive on the grounds. Employees may be observing you as enter the building. They may even be taking notice as you drive into the parking lot. Treat anyone you meet while at the company with the utmost respect. Supervisors frequently ask other employees for their impressions of people who are applying for jobs. Even if you have a terrific interview with the human resource manager, you are not likely to be hired if you make a bad impression on anyone else at the company.

Greet the Interviewer Warmly

When you are called back to speak with the hiring manager, greet him or her warmly. Extend your arm for a professional handshake and introduce yourself while smiling and making eye contact. Open the conversation by thanking the interviewer for taking the time to speak with you about the position.

Focus on the Questions

Listen closely to the questions that you are being asked, being sure to answer them thoroughly and accurately. Do not get off the subject or provide personal information about yourself beyond the scope of what the interview requests.

Send a Follow-Up Letter

One of the best ways to distinguish yourself from other job applicants is to send a follow up thank you letter or note to the person who interviewed you.

Best of Luck with Your Job Search

While it's not realistic to expect that you'll be offered every job for which you submit an application, learning and applying these free job interview tips can help prepare you to make the best possible impression on hiring managers. If you have other tips to share with readers, please leave them in the comments section below.

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