By E.W. 2-12-13
One of the most exciting parts about job hunting is hearing you landed an interview. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most terrifying. For most, interviewing is the chance to show an employer how great you really are. However, unlike a resume and cover letter, an interview cannot be reworded or edited. Nevertheless, there is no reason to panic. By keeping a few simple tips in mind, you will hopefully make it through your interview without many major setbacks.
- When setting up an interview, ask for the names of the people who will be interviewing you. With this information, you can do a little research on who these people are. What do they do in the company? Do you know people they know? Knowing things like this can help you better prepare for the interview.
- And while you are researching the interviewers, why don’t you research the company while you are at it? What exactly does the company do? Do they have branches elsewhere? What is the mission statement and how is the company living up to that statement? If you can answer these and similar questions, you’re on the right track.
- Bring a nice clean copy of your resume for all of the interviewers. While it will be more expensive, make sure that the resume is printed on high quality resume paper. Avoid just regular white paper.
- Before entering the interview, make sure you know exactly how your previous experience is applicable to this new job. Don’t just describe what your old job was; demonstrate how your knowledge can be put to use in a new setting.
- Chances are you will be asked if you have any questions at the end of the interview. Have at least two. While this might seem difficult to ask a question that hasn’t already been answered by the interviewer or during your research, asking a question that is outside the box will set you apart for the other applicants.
- Your concluding statement should be your sales pitch. Think of your final sentence as your last opportunity to prove to the interviewer that you are the perfect candidate for the job.
- After the interview, send a thank you note. While some might argue an email will suffice, a hand written note (in your best hand-writing and error free) still holds a surprising amount of value in the business world.
If you have any other questions on interviewing, stop by the CSL for help. You can also take advantage of InterviewStream on the Career Development page of the Gustavus website.