Career Tip: Interviewing

Interviews can be very stressful and should be taken very seriously.  Here are a few tips to help you nail your interview:

1. DO YOUR HOMEWORK! - This past year, we had 14 employers on campus to interview our students.  The #1 piece of advice all the interviewers gave was for students to know more about the company’s operation.  Researching the age of company, its services or products, competitors within the industry, growth pattern, divisions and subsidiaries, locations/length of time there, sales/assets/earnings, and new products or projects will give you a great knowledge base with which to wow the interviewer.  Most of this information can be found on-line. 
2. BE READY FOR ANYTHING! – No matter what industry, most interviewers ask the same questions.  The best way to prepare for your interview is to anticipate questions that employers may ask and have a game plan.  Some of the more commonly asked questions are:

o        Tell me a little bit about yourself. – This question sounds easy enough, but can be difficult to answer skillfully.  The employer doesn’t want your life story, just a brief introduction.  Some things to include:  your geographical origins, your educational background, how you became interested in the field, 2 or 3 strengths related to the job, and how you like to relax.  Keep it short…60-90 seconds. 

o        What are your strengths? – Before you can answer this question, spend some time thinking about what you do well.  Ask a former supervisor, teacher, or co-worker for suggestions.  Once you have identified your strengths, don’t be bashful!  This is your time to shine.  Don’t just tell them that you are good at something…provide an example as to when you demonstrated these strengths. 

o        In what areas do you need improvement? – Ahhh! The “weakness” question.  Don’t panic.  The best way to answer this question is to identify an area of the industry/company that you don’t have as much experience in and express your interest and excitement on learning more.  For example: “I don’t have a lot of experience in tax based accounting, but I am interested in learning more.”  Concentrating on your lack of expertise as opposed to personal character flaws is the best way to go.

o        Do you have any questions for me? – This is an easy one…YES!  You should always have questions to ask the interviewer.  Here are just a few to consider:  1.  What will be my responsibilities? 2.  Where will I fit into the overall organizational structure?  3.  Who will I report to?  4.  Where is the company going? Upwards? Expansion plans?  5.  What are the chances of advancements? Promotions?  6.  Will traveling be involved and required in this position?  7.  Will relocation be required in this position now or in the future?  8. What training do you provide?  9. What is the timeline for the hiring process?

3. DRESS TO IMPRESS! – No where is the old adage “you never get a 2^nd chance to make a 1^st impression” more true than in the interview process.  You should always look your best.  In my opinion, a well-fitted suit is the way to go.  Think conservative!  Suits in grays, blacks, or browns are your best bet.  Make sure that your hair is well kept and trim/clean your fingernails.  For guys, no jewelry (other than a watch and wedding/class ring).  For the ladies, with jewelry, less is more.  Apply the rule of one (one ring per hand, one watch/bracelet per arm, one necklace, one pair of earrings, and one pin or broach).  Your interview is a time for you to demonstrate your creativity in your work, not your dress.  Save the tube top and mini skirt for the weekend. 
4. EARLY IS ON TIME…ON TIME IS LATE!  - Never, never, never, never, never, never, never be late for an interview!!!  Plan your day so that you can arrive at least 15 minutes early.  Allow extra time for wrong directions and bad weather.   Once you arrive, let the receptionist know you are there and excuse yourself to the restroom.  Check your hair, makeup, tie, blouse, shoes, etc.  Take a few deep breaths to relax, and walk out the door ready to knock their socks off! 
5. THANK YOU! – At one time only the most thoughtful candidates wrote thank you notes after the interview.  Now…the secret is out!  Everyone writes them, so you should too.  Though situations may vary by industry, a handwritten thank you note on personalized stationary sent within 24 hours of last contact is still the best way to go.  Thank them for their time, reiterated your interest in the position, and state when you hope to hear from them again.  Be sure to proofread and write legibly.  Collecting business cards throughout the day keeps you from scrambling for an address later. 

These tips and more sample interview questions can be found by clicking here.  Feel free to call to set up an appointment for more info.  Best wishes to you for a successful job search.  Let us know how we can help.

Source: Jason Umfress, 2006