Successful Job Interviews: Ten Steps

Just like dressing to get hired, the interview itself it6. Be prepared to ask several questions. These should
fraught with opportunities to fail. But there are "rules".be based on research you have done about the
While following these rules will not insure that you getcompany, business or organization. They should be
the job, they will enable hiring manager to see you asspecific and not "fluff ball" questions.
more than just another candidate for their vacancy7. Do ask for the selection process time line. This is the
whether just out of school or a veteran to the workingkey for following up your thank you note (see below)
world.with a phone call.
1. Bring several copies of your resume in a leather8. Stand when the interviewer stands at the end. Make
follow with notepaper in it to take notes if necessary.eye contact, shake hands and thank them by name.
Do not forget to bring a pen. As long as it's notAsk for their business card. If they do not have a
chewed or juvenile, any kind of pen is fine. If you use abusiness card ask for their business phone number
luxury pen to an interview you may be suspect.and business e-mail address.
2. No matter what the person hosting you says or9. Do not loiter. Leave immediately after the interview
asks, do not eat or drink anything offered. Just politelyis completed. Thank the receptionist or administrative
say "no thank you". Remain standing until yourassistant for their help before you leave.
interviewer joins you.10. Write and send an e-mail note to each of the
3. When the interviewer finally does join you, makeinterviewers within twenty-four hours of the interview
eye contact and shake hands firmly. Greet theto thank them. Some people recommended a "snail
interviewer by name. Sit only after they sit down.mail" note. I believe this can be a nice touch but is
4. Offer a copy of your resume. Do not assume theyoptional.
remembered to bring it with them.Surprisingly, many job candidates do not follow these
5. Answer questions precisely. Do not ramble on. Makekey "rules". By following them, plus a stellar resume
eye contact. If you need clarification, ask for it. It thereand by making your appearance neat and professional,
are multiple interviewers at one time, make eyeyou will be seriously considered for that ideal job.
contact with the one who asked the question.