Let's face it, meeting with a prospective employer in the current job market can cause even the driest of palms to sweat a little.
Take the edge off and make a great impression by following these simple tips:
1. Prepare through research. Interviewers appreciate prepared job seekers, so walk into the interview knowledgeable about the position and company. Study the job description and read about the company on its Web site and through an Internet search. Jot down any questions you have and refer to them during your interview once you have the floor or when the conversation naturally leads to them.
2. Make an entrance. Don't arrive late, but don't arrive too early either. Keep it safe by arriving 10 to 15 minutes prior to the interview. Bring extra copies of your resume. As odd as it may seem, your interviewer may not have one. Carry a notebook to take notes and a portfolio that highlights your work, if applicable. When you sit down for the interview, place your belongings anywhere except on the interviewer's desk because some interviewers are big on etiquette. Instead, use your lap, the floor or a nearby chair.
3. Put on your game face. Try to relax during the interview or at least fake it as best as you can. Think of it as a casual conversation rather than an interrogation. Allow pauses between questions and answers to gather your thoughts. It's OK to fumble if you can recover with grace. For example, you can redo a response by saying, “I'd like to start over with my answer to that last question.”
4. Wrap it up with a bow. You've conveyed your interest in the position by attending the interview, but take a moment at the end to recap what you'll bring to the table. Speak to key points you've picked up on during the conversation. Before you leave, don't forget to ask about next steps, thank the interviewer and pick up a business card for follow-up.
5. Follow through, post-interview. While a thank you note won't necessarily land you the job, not sending one may cost you. E-mail is a fast and acceptable choice, but try sending a card through snail mail. It's rare for professionals to connect through traditional mail, so it adds a more personal touch. Use the card as another opportunity to remind the interviewer of what you could do for the company if given the chance.
For more information, call The Eastridge Group of Staffing Companies at (760) 438-1809 or visit
www.eastridge.com.
Take the edge off and make a great impression by following these simple tips:
1. Prepare through research. Interviewers appreciate prepared job seekers, so walk into the interview knowledgeable about the position and company. Study the job description and read about the company on its Web site and through an Internet search. Jot down any questions you have and refer to them during your interview once you have the floor or when the conversation naturally leads to them.
2. Make an entrance. Don't arrive late, but don't arrive too early either. Keep it safe by arriving 10 to 15 minutes prior to the interview. Bring extra copies of your resume. As odd as it may seem, your interviewer may not have one. Carry a notebook to take notes and a portfolio that highlights your work, if applicable. When you sit down for the interview, place your belongings anywhere except on the interviewer's desk because some interviewers are big on etiquette. Instead, use your lap, the floor or a nearby chair.
3. Put on your game face. Try to relax during the interview or at least fake it as best as you can. Think of it as a casual conversation rather than an interrogation. Allow pauses between questions and answers to gather your thoughts. It's OK to fumble if you can recover with grace. For example, you can redo a response by saying, “I'd like to start over with my answer to that last question.”
4. Wrap it up with a bow. You've conveyed your interest in the position by attending the interview, but take a moment at the end to recap what you'll bring to the table. Speak to key points you've picked up on during the conversation. Before you leave, don't forget to ask about next steps, thank the interviewer and pick up a business card for follow-up.
5. Follow through, post-interview. While a thank you note won't necessarily land you the job, not sending one may cost you. E-mail is a fast and acceptable choice, but try sending a card through snail mail. It's rare for professionals to connect through traditional mail, so it adds a more personal touch. Use the card as another opportunity to remind the interviewer of what you could do for the company if given the chance.
For more information, call The Eastridge Group of Staffing Companies at (760) 438-1809 or visit
www.eastridge.com.