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4.4 PREPARE FOR INTERVIEWS |
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GUIDELINES FOR INTERVIEWS |
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Be Prepared |
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- Anticipate possible questions and practice answers to each of them.
- Research the company before the interview.
- Prepare questions to ask in the interview.
- Do a dry run going to the interview location before the day of your interview.
- Get a good night’s sleep before the interview. Review your research.
- Get up in time to shower and dress carefully.
- Know the name(s) of the interviewer(s) and how to pronounce them correctly.
- Leave for the interview with plenty of time to spare. Make sure you know how to get there, where to park, and how much time to allow for traffic.
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Look Good |
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- Go to the interview neat and clean.
- Dress conservatively and comfortably.
- Avoid heavy makeup and trendy or flashy clothes or jewelry.
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Be Punctual |
- Arrive 15 minutes ahead of schedule.
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Be Aware of Body Language |
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- Turn off electronic devices (cell phone, pager, etc.).
- Stand or sit erect but comfortably.
- Sit down only after offered a chair.
- Lean forward in your chair and relax.
- Use eye contact, but don’t stare.
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Carry A Portfolio |
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- Show the interviewer that you planned ahead.
- Bring all necessary information:
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pad and pen |
a calendar |
the completed Master Application Worksheet |
several copies of your resume |
a copy of the application form |
letters of recommendation |
samples of work (if appropriate) |
your notes on the company |
your questions to ask the interviewer |
any correspondence from the company |
reference list/letters of reference |
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Be Enthusiastic |
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- Have a positive attitude in the interview.
- Be friendly, but not casual.
- Be professional and courteous to everyone.
- Don’t be negative about anything!
- Sell yourself – the difference between bragging and self-confidence is enthusiasm.
- Use eye contact and voice expression to your benefit.
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Say Thank You |
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- At the end of the interview, thank the interviewer for the time.
- Follow-up with a brief thank you note that:
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reviews points brought up in the interview, and |
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adds ideas you forgot to mention. |
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Smile |
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- Do not grin, but smile as you would in any conversation.
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