- The week before the interview, start doing Internet research about the company. Learn funny anecdotes and their start up story. Read articles that have been published about them and find out how long they have been around, awards they've won, changes in management. Anything that will impress the people interviewing you. Let them know that you care and know how to do your homework. Knowledge is power.
- Make up every question you can possibly think of that they might ask you. There are the very general questions, like: "What are your greatest strengths/ weaknesses?" "Why do you want to work here?" Then they will ask you about previous positions/ how they prepared you for this job.
- Give your questions to a friend and do several mock interviews. Let the person mix the questions up, rephrase them, add questions etc. By the end your answers should be memorized and sound natural. Doing this will lower your anxiety during the interview significantly.
- You want your answers to be concise and to project confidence and enthusiasm for the job.
- Look them in the eye when you speak.
- Don't ramble. Give your answer, then clearly stop so they know to ask the next question. Don't insinuate that you are just looking for a 9-5 clock watching job. Don't talk about your family.
- Where do you want to be in 5 years? Have an answer (even if you have no idea). Reassure them that you won't just benefit from their training and experience and leave but ambition is respected. Tell them you are very interested in advancing with the company and that you have a strong sense of loyalty. If you do have a specific job you are aiming for you should tell them that. "I would like to gain the necessary experience so eventually I can be the...."
- Be genuine. You're not trying to trick them, you really are fabulous. Be yourself, be relaxed, be prepared, and explain to them why you are the best fit for the job. Sell them on your unique set of skills and personality that make you uniquely qualified over anyone else.
- First impressions matter!
- Questions: Ask questions about the company (size, philosophy, history) or your interviewers (what they like about working there, how long etc) try to make them things you could not easily find out but rather expand on your research. "I read that...... I was wonder why this office was opened" Don't ask about pay, benefits, when the decision will be made etc. (It's presumptuous)
- Wear a suit. You'll feel more professional and they will know that you respect the interview, their time and their company. Nordstroms has a great return policy. ;-)
- Bring copies of your resume and cover letter. They will have it copied but it looks really good to be over prepared. Bring a notebook to take notes. (Useful for thank you notes)
- Be polite to everyone you meet. If the receptionist offers you water say yes and thank you and leave him or her with the best impression possible. You never know how much influence he or she may have with her/his superiors. Personally, I would never hire someone that was rude or condescending to any employee.
- Send a thank you to everyone you met with, including the receptionist. Clarify name spellings online or with business cards, recalling some specific exchange with that person. "I thought it was especially interesting when you said......" "Thank you for your hospitality when you....."
