Job Search FAQ

Needless to mention, job interviews are very important. Therefore, it is critical that you prepare yourself for them. Follow these tips that can help you perform and look your best during an interview.

1. Prepare a question and answer session for practice. Before you go to the interview, think about potential questions that the interviewer may ask you. Prepare your answers. Always think of examples from your past jobs that you can use to promote your skills.
2. Research the company. Before you meet with the interviewer, make sure you know about the company. A popular interview question is “What do you know about this company?” During your interview, make sure you mention what you know about them throughout the process. It does not have to be while you answer a direct question. You can mention things indirectly.
3. Look your best. Make sure that you are dressed neatly and appropriately. Job interview attire ranges according to the company and industry. Therefore, there is no one set look.
4. Come equipped. Bring a neat portfolio with you with a pen, paper (for notes), and of course, with copies of your resume.
5. Mind the time. Be on time for this special occasion. You should arrive at the location about ten minutes early. Plan ahead and head out early so that you make it to there on time.
6. Keep your cool. A job interview is a stressful situation; therefore, you need to do your best to relax. You need to come across as a confident and capable person. Relax before the interview and take some time to gather your thoughts. This will make a big difference.
7. Make eye contact. An interviewer always appreciates someone who can make and maintain eye contact during the job interview. Do not let your nerves get the best of you. Look the interviewer straight in the eye as you talk.
8. Listen, listen, listen. You may be the one who has to do most of the talking and selling, but make sure you are ready to listen, as well. Listen to what the interviewer has to say (especially when he or she is asking you a question) and take notes when appropriate.
9. Take the chance to ask questions. Toward the end of the interview, the interviewer may give you the chance to ask questions. Grab the opportunity. Even if he or she skips the part, ask questions yourself. Asking questions shows your interest in the position. It also gives you the opportunity to show that you have done your research on the company and industry in question. You can ask questions about the skills they seek for the position. Do not ask about the vacation time, salary, 401(k), or other things that make the employer think your only interest is the compensation.
10. Send a thank you note after the interview. In the follow up note, repeat the fact that you are interested in the position. If you interview with more than one person, send each of them a thank you note. This may play a role in the decision making process. Employers always appreciate considerate employees.