General Tips
Maintain a high confidence level. As market conditions change there are always periods of time which prompt some job seekers to adapt an “I will take anything” outlook. In the end, this does not serve anyone’s best interest. Always remember that it is better to wait for the right opportunity than to accept the wrong one.
Do your research. There are many tools available now for job seekers. Google prospective companies and read not only what they say about themselves on their website but also what others are saying about them. Use LinkedIn to locate potential resources in your network. If at all possible, speak to a current or former employee at the perspective company and get their opinion.
Take the time to evaluate what you are really looking for in your next opportunity. What is most important to you? Commute? Responsibilities? Money? Do you really want a permanent, long-term role or are your skills and personality better suited for contract work?
Phone Screens
If at all possible, schedule phone interviews at a time when you can take the call from a land line. The reception is generally much better. If this is not possible make sure you fully charge your cell phone and that you are taking the call in a quiet area.
Stand up during a phone interview. Pretend you are directly in front of the person you are speaking with. This will allow you to convey energy and your voice will sound stronger.
Have you resume in front of you along with notes that will assist you in quickly answering common questions. These questions could revolve around your past experiences and expertise. They could also focus on your accomplishments, strengths, and weaknesses.
Make sure you have a pen and paper with you so you can take notes.
It is important to make sure you do not eat, drink, smoke, chew gum or do anything else that you wouldn’t do if you were meeting this person face to face!
At the end of the phone interview it is important to say thank you and ask the interviewer for a face to face meeting to continue along in the process.
Face to Face Interviews
Dress professionally. A good rule of thumb is to dress one step above the standard dress code of the office. It is still common to wear a dark suit to an interview.
Stay away from wearing heavy perfume or cologne. It is also important to stay away from casual or provocative clothing.
Arrive early but do not enter the office until 5 minutes before the scheduled interview time. Getting to the building early will eliminate unnecessary stress but you do not want to ask for the person too early.
Bring several copies of your resume printed on good quality paper. Make sure you have a professional notebook and a pen- you will want to take notes.
Have a list of good questions prepared. These questions should not be about pay, benefits, vacation etc. Topics such as these should be saved until later. The purpose of the first interview is to gather information about the role and the company.
Do your research- you should spend time looking into both the company and the person conducting the interview.
At the end of the interview ASK FOR THE JOB! You can say, “I am very interested in this opportunity, do you have any concerns about my ability to fulfill this role?” Immediately after leaving send a thank you note to each person you have interviewed with.