Before the interview

Prior to the interview, you should spend time preparing! This is your opportunity to match your strengths, talents and interests to the need of the employer. The following are some tips on what you can do to prepare yourself for an interview.

- Research the company/ organization: What do you know about the employer and the industry? Lack of knowledge is one of the most common interview pitfalls. Go on the company website, or search for the industry using search engines such as google and yahoo. Find out if any alumnus works with the organization check with relatives and friends, newspapers or go to the library.

- Do some self-searching: Are you able to listen effectively, verbalize your thoughts and express yourself confidently? Think about situations in which you have been successful and some challenges you may have overcome. Come up with some stories that describe these moments. It could be a situation; a task you had to tackle and an action that helped you succeed. What are your goals? What motivates you? Why did you pick this company?

- Learn what to ask: Put together a list of questions to ask the interviewer.

- Prepare to answer questions: Interviewers will ask questions about your educational background, job experience, general personality and suitability for the job.

- Dress appropriately:
Women:

• Suit or tailored dress in solid or subtle color, no extreme slits.
• Polished and closed toe shoes, basic dark pumps with medium or low heels.
• Nails subtle if polished, clean and not chipped.
• Make-up should be minimal.
• Small shoulder bag or an attaché case.
• Simple and basic jewelry, one ring per hand with the exception of wedding sets. No dangling earrings.
• Always wear hosiery and keep color neutral.
• Light perfume.

Men:

• Navy, charcoal gray or pin-stripe suit.
• Shined shoes, Tassel loafers, wing tip or lace-up shoes preferred. (No tennis shoes or boots)
• Clean nails.
• Hair cut short and neat
• Conservative red or navy striped solid tie, simple and neat.
• Solid colored shirt
• Avoid flashy cuff links, rings or neck chains. NO EAR RINGS.
• No strong fragrance.

** General guidelines :

Remove facial and body piercing other than single ear jewelry (for women).
Visible tattoos should be covered to avoid distraction.
Clothes should not be too tight or too loose. Should remain in place while sitting or walking.
Keep your look simple.

- Have your documents handy: It is a good idea to bring with you copies of your resume, letters of reference and a pen. You can also bring notes that you have made while researching the company to glance over while you are waiting to be called.

- Arrive early: Arrive at the interview location at least 15-20 minutes, just in case the employer has an application form for you to fill out before the interview. Also getting to an interview on time sends a message that you are serious about your job search.

During the interview

Through out the interview the employer is looking for an answer to
Why should I hire you? Here is your opportunity to convince the interviewer that you are the most qualified applicant for this position. This is your one chance to make a good first impression.

After the interview

It is strongly advised that you send the interviewer a thank you letter as soon as possible after the interview. You can check with your career-planning center for samples of thank you letters.