A Successful Job Interview

Walking In…

Confidence

Good eye Contact

Firm Handshake

Well-groomed haircut

Facial hair neatly groomed

Hair away from face

Conservative makeup

Good oral hygiene

Dress for Success!

Proper style; right color of clothingProfessional dress = be one step ahead of the company!Women: be modest! Clean, pressed clothingNo excessive jewelryLimit or exclude perfume and other scentsMatch! (example: socks)Fingernails= clean, cut, conservativeNo open-toed shoes

What to Bring?

Folder/notebook with resume, cover letter, references, job application

Paper/pen to take notes

Planner or calendar

Knowledge of the company

Scout It Out

Pay a visit to the location before the interview.– You will know how long it takes– You will see how people in the office dress– Meet the receptionist and LEARN NAMES– Ask questions– Pick up literature; research company

Tips…

BE ON TIME! 5 minutes early is late! Plan to arrive 10 minutes early.

PRACTICE!!

Be hydrated

Do not eat a huge meal before

While You Wait…

The receptionist or greeter is your first impression on employers--and possibly your future co-worker!Do not bring someone with youNo smoking, eating, or chewing gumAsking to use phoneListening to ipod or mp3 playerReading book or magazine of poor tasteApplying make-up or brushing your hairPestering or distracting other employees

The Handshake

Firm but not crushing

Full handshake

Look other person in the eye

Say their name and yours

Smile (-:

During the Interview

Same procedures as waiting room (no gum, fixing hair, etc.)

Good posture (girls, sit at angle)

Listen closely to interviewer

Do not use slang

Answering Questions…

Positive responsesTake time. Pause and think before responding.Give examplesIf you do not know an answer, simply be honest and say you would be happy to get back to them.

Answering Questions…

Keep your personal life private. Do not answer illegal questions.

Practice tough questions before so you can have a strong answer.

If salary is discussed give a “ballpark” that you are comfortable with (be realistic)

Thank You Note

Send the day after the interview

Reaffirm your interest for the position

Business letter format

Make an individual stand out from the crowd!

Congratulations!

You just learned how to have a successful job interview!