Interview Checklist
Before the Interview
Research:
Employers are interested in candidates who ask intelligent questions and are able to engage in conversation based on what they know about the organization. Learn as much as you can beforehand - know the company's products and services, profit margin, management, culture, dress code, and anything else you can think of. Good sources are your career services center, the library and the Internet.
Practice:
Do practice interviews with a career counselor, friends, and family members - or by yourself in front of a mirror. Employers prize communication skills in job candidates, and the interview is your opportunity to showcase your verbal skills, so be prepared.
Be prompt and prepared:
Arrive 10 minutes early. Bring extra copies of your resume, your list of references, a pen and paper, your list of questions for the interviewer, and samples of your work, if applicable.
If for any reason, you cannot make the interview, notify the employer as far in advance as possible. Don't be a no-show. The recruitment industry is smaller than you think, especially in specialized fields.
During the Interview
Act professionally:
Dress appropriately - make sure your clothing is pressed, your shoes are polished, and you are well groomed. Give a firm handshake. First impressions count.
Converse:
Don't have the interview turn into an interrogation. Answer the interview's questions thoroughly but ask questions throughout the process. Remember, the purpose of the interview is for each of you to learn about the other.
Be enthusiastic:
A positive attitude goes a long way. Let the interviewer know you are a go-getter and are excited about the possibility of working for the company.
After the Interview
Follow-up:
Ask the interviewer for a business card and promptly send a thank-you note after the interview. Keep the note brief, but reiterate your interest in the position if you are, in fact, interested in it.
Review the interview process and your performance: Immediately following the interview jot down key components about it . Record the name and title of the person whom you interviewed, as well as anyone else you met. Write down what the next agreed-upon step will be. Also, list important details you want to remember about the job/company. Finally, assess your own performance and ways to improve it if necessary.
Evaluate:
Determine if the job is right for you. Did the job description match your interests and abilities? Did the employees seem enthusiastic about their work? Did you like the management style? Did this seem like a good place to work? Did the organization's culture and values match your own? A good fit will lead to a more successful, fulfilling career for you.
