Job Interview Tips

• Know the names and titles of the people you will be meeting.

  Know their names and be able to say upon meeting,"Mrs. Jones, it's a pleasure to meet you."

• The interviewer will determine right away whether you have a good chance or a slim chance.

  First impressions are lasting impressions, the first interview is where they are confirming or altering their initial opinion. So, don't leave it to chance.

• If offered water or something to eat, decline.

  Thank them, "That's very nice of you to offer, but I'm fine, Thank you." Possibly let them know that they can eat or drink anyway.

• A first interview is a popularity contest.

  You need to fit in, so be as neutral as possible in your personal statements and opinions. Everything is interesting and everyone is a positive well intentioned person. Stay in the middle. This is a first interview, not a strategy meeting.

• Prepare for the bulk of the interview questions.

  You know the first interview will be all about your history; your responsibilities, your successes, your challenges, what you could improve upon, what you don't like about your current job, what you do like, etc. Know these answers cold, but take a second to think about the answer when you are asked and then nail it. Again, neutral - you loved your last job, but felt that you're ready for the next level. If you can, leave it at that. Don't say you want more responsibility, that opens you up to being asked why you weren't able to get it in your present position. But have an answer for that as well. Don't lie, just try to keep yourself positive and in the middle.

• Video tape your responses at home.

  Seeing yourself answer interview questions can be very enlightening. Look for body language, darting eyes, or looking up or down and not at the person asking the question. Note where you keep your hands, what you do with your hands. Don't touch your face, if you can help it. Watch people like Michael Bloomberg or Donald Trump answer questions. Listen to their answers and how strategic the answer can be.

• Practice the handshake and sitting down.

  If you mess up the handshake in the interview, you can come off awkward and not professional. Make eye contact and thank them for taking the time to meet with you.

• Bring enough paper copies of your resume.

  Ask the interviewer if they need a copy of your resume.

• Don't mention salary or vacation.

  These are strong negotiating points, leave them for when they realize they can't live without you. You should know prior to the interview what the salary range is.

• Keep the jokes to a minimum.

  Again, be professional and focused.

• When discussing experiences, focus on how you solved problems. Not tasks.

  Every company needs help, yes to perform tasks, but mostly to solve problems.

• Prepare some generic relevant questions when asked if you have any questions.

  Ask about the benefits, how many people are in your group, who would you be reporting to?

• When the interview is finished, ask for a card and again thank them for their time.

  The card will allow you to send thank you emails.

• After the interview, as soon as you are able send a "Thank You" email.

  Send an email to everyone you met with - HR as well. Thank them for the opportunity to meet with them and learn about the exciting position and how you might be part of the team at Vandelay Industries!

Warnings

1. Use the bathroom before you leave the house and cut back on the caffeine.
2. Don't lie in an interview. It will come back to bite you.