Interview Tips
Business casual clothing is always acceptable for an interview. True or false?
False. You could offend the interviewer by being under-dressed. It is always safer to be over-dressed and a suit is always acceptable interview attire.
What is the first thing you should do when you enter the interview room?
Shake hands firmly.
Introduce yourself using your first and last name.
Make appropriate eye contact.
Is it acceptable to ask the interviewer what the company/organization does?
No! Candidates must research the organization and should be aware of industry trends prior to the interview.
Name an action which makes an interview candidate “stand out” from other candidates that takes place AFTER the interview.
Writing a thank-you letter
What should you do if your cell phone rings during your interview?
You need to ensure that this DOES NOT happen. Mute your phone, silence your ringer, or better yet, leave your phone in your car.
Is it illegal for employers to check applicant's social media?
No. It's a good idea to remove all offensive or inappropriate content and have the highest privacy settings available before your job search.
A person should do this to practice answering questions, to develop questions for the interviewer, and to increase confidence.
Research the company.
Conduct a mock interview with Career Services staff.
It is okay to discuss salary and benefits during the interview. True or false?
False! Salary and benefits shouldn't be discussed until a job offer is made.
When should a thank you letter be sent?
Ideally, within 24 hours of the interview.
Which is more important, what you say or your body language?
They are both equally important.
List 2 ways candidates can research the company they are interviewing with.
Website, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Glassdoor.com, wetfeet.com, Centerstateceo.com
If your interview is scheduled for 11 a.m., what time should you arrive?
10:45-10:50 a.m. or 10-15 minutes early.
What should you do if you are asked a question that stumps you?
Tell the interviewer that you are going to take a few minutes to consider the question before responding. You are more likely to stumble if you try "winging it".
Name 2 items you should include in a thank-you letter.
Thank the interviewer, acknowledge confidence in your skills, and re-state your interest in the position and organization.
Employers don't care if candidates have questions during an interview. True or false?
False. Lack of questions can give the impression that the candidate did not prepare and isn't invested.
How should you answer this question, "Tell me about one of your weaknesses"?
Think about a weakness or challenge in advance of your interview and put a positive spin on it. For example, you might talk about the steps you've taken to improve in this area.
The most important thing to do before an interview is...
Practice answering interview questions.
Research the company or organization.
Do a practice run so you know what your travel time is.
If you are asked, "Tell me about a conflict and how you handled it", and you can't think of one, what should you do?
Tell the interviewer that you can't think of a specific example, but explain how you would handle this type of situation.
How should a formal thank you letter be formatted?
It should be typed, in business format (block or modified block), and specifics from the interview should be included.
Thank-you letters may be sent through the mail or emailed.
Consider asking for business cards so that you have contact information.
Who should speak the most; the interviewer or the candidate?
The candidate should do the majority of the talking.
Name one thing you should always bring to an interview.
Several printed copies of your resume.
A reference sheet including the name and contact information for 3-4 professional references.
What is a behavior-based interview.
You are asked to describe experiences you've had that demonstrate behaviors the company finds important for their position.
Give an appropriate answer to the following interview question. "Tell me a little about yourself."
A good answer will include a brief description of yourself (education, experience, skills, etc.), your career goals, and will close with why you are qualified and interested in the position.
What should each candidate have ready when the interviewer has finished asking their questions?
Questions regarding the position or company/organization.
Don't ask questions about anything that can be easily found online.
Give 2 examples of how to display confidence during an interview.
greet your interviewer with a firm handshake and smile, maintain good eye contact, sit up straight, avoid rambling, think before answering questions