How to Prepare for & Conduct an Effective Interview

I. INFORMATION TO BE RESEARCHED

• Position (title, responsibilities, qualifications needed)
• Company Culture (atmosphere, style, types of people hired)
• Company History
• Products & Services
• Competitors
• People Interviewing You (names & titles)
• Phone Numbers
• Directions

• Position Qualifications vs. Yours
• Benefits of your skill set
• Areas of Accomplishment (Be specific)
  1. Monetary amount
  2. Cost savings
  3. Income generating
  4. Increase efficiency
• Brief synopsis of work history (3 to 5 minutes)
• Bring examples 

• Conservative business attire
• Limit the accessories/jewelry
• Minimal perfume/cologne
• Refrain from smoking before interview
• No gum
• Hair, nails, teeth - well maintained 

• Why are you looking for a new opportunity?
• What are your strengths?
• What are your weaknesses?
• Where could you improve?
• What are your career goals?
• Why might you be interested in this opportunity?
• Tell me about yourself?

• Marketplace strategy/vision of future.
• What personality fits best with culture
• Skill set needed to succeed
• Role of position in relation to company's future
• New boss and his/her future goals
• Management style
• Authority vs. Responsibility 

• Don't volunteer or stress in first interview.
• If asked, give present package with expectation of a fair offer.
• Deflect attention to more important issue: Whether the fit is right.
• Look at the entire package, not just the salary during the interview process.

• Does the hiring executive have reservations about your abilities?
• Summarize skills and interest
• Don't let the employer assume you're interested: Tell them!
• Set-up the next interview - compare schedules at conclusion of discussion.

• Via letter
• Summarize skills, ability and interest
• Two paragraphs in length

• Be 15 minutes early
• Smile
• Eye Contact
• Firm Handshake
• Sit up straight
• Listen; don't interrupt
• Take notes