Top 7 Interview Preparation Tips

Vivian VanLier, CPRW, JCTC, CEIP, CCMC, CPRC
Certified Resume Writer, Career, Executive & Retirement Coach
www.CareerCoach4U.com
818-994-6655

1—Be Prepared.
Hiring managers like to hire people who desire to be part of their team. Demonstrate your knowledge of the company you are interviewing with by researching the specific company and their industry. You can find information on the Internet, from the business section of your local newspaper and by talking to people who work in that company. Come to the interview as if you are already an insider.

2—Look the Part.
Dress professionally. As a rule of thumb, you want to dress a notch above the daily appropriate working attire for the industry and specific company. Unwritten dress codes can say a lot about the company culture. If you have a chance, prior to your interview, drive to the company just before, or just after working hours. Note how the employees are dressed as they arrive at, or leave from work. Or, go to a local restaurant during the lunch hour. If everyone looks subdued, don't wear a loud print on your interview. Of course a professional suit is always appropriate. However, if you're interviewing for a retail position at the GAP, you probably don't want to show up in an Armani suit! Ladies should be conservative in their choice of jewelry and accessories. Since people occasionally have allergies to specific scents, don't wear perfume that day.

3—Be On Time.
Nothing leaves a worse impression than showing up late for an interview. Traffic is not an excuse; after all if you become an employee, you will have to deal with the traffic. Allow extra time for any traffic problems and plan on arriving at least 15 minutes early. This will give you time to navigate the parking and make a quick stop in the mens/ladies room to make sure that there's no spinach in your teeth, no smudged makeup, no crumbs on your collar, etc.

4—Everyone You Meet Counts!
Be friendly and polite to everyone you meet before, during and after your interview. Get the name of the receptionist and use the opportunity to have a friendly chat with her about how she enjoys working for the company, how long she's been there, etc. If you meet someone in the restroom, do the same; they could turn out to be your next co-worker or boss!

5—Be Prepared With Accomplishments.
Prepare several "CAR" or "PAR" stories prior to your interview to demonstrate the types of accomplishments that support your candidacy. Use these stories to provide examples of the skills the hiring manager is looking for. Use them in responding to questions.

• Challenge / Problem - what was the challenge or problem you dealt with.
• Action - what are the steps you took
• Result - how did the company benefit (did you increase revenues, decrease costs, increase productivity?)

6—Ask Appropriate Questions.
Prepare a list of questions that demonstrate your interest in the position and also allow you to demonstrate strengths. Examples of appropriate questions are: What type of results would you expect to see from me in the first 90 days? Can you describe the management style in the department I'd be working in? What are some of the major projects that are on the horizon?

7—Follow Up.
Within 24 hours of your interview, send a thank you note to everyone you met, including the receptionist. You never know who has power in the organization. When following up with the hiring manager, re-affirm your interest in the position and build upon your relevant qualifications.

If it's been a while since you've interviewed or you feel unsure about the interview process, we can help you with interview preparation / coaching.