| Many people feel that the interview is the single most | | | | process related subjects that are unique to a given |
| stressful part of the job search process. Any number | | | | firm or organization. The interviewer may have |
| of things can go wrong, and a big part of being | | | | provided information you will need to answer the |
| successful is avoiding simple mistakes. The things you | | | | question earlier in the conversation. Employers will be |
| should avoid doing are as below: | | | | looking for your ability to assimilate new information, |
| 1. Trying to wing the interview: Practice! Get a list of | | | | retain it, and, most importantly, recognize that |
| general interview questions, a friend, a tape recorder, | | | | information as useful to you later in the interview. |
| and a mirror and conduct an interview rehearsal. | | | | 4. Not providing enough details: When answering case |
| Practice until your delivery feels comfortable but not | | | | questions, technical questions or solving technical |
| canned. | | | | problems, take the time to "talk through" your thought |
| 2. Not being yourself: Be yourself and be honest! Don't | | | | process. Recruiters are much more interested in |
| pretend to understand a question or train of thought if | | | | seeing how your mind works and how it attacks a |
| you don't. The interviewer will pick up on this. If you | | | | given type of problem, than the answer itself. Articulate |
| don't know an answer, say so. Relax and be yourself. | | | | your problem solving process and verbalize your |
| Remember you're interviewing the company as well | | | | thinking. |
| as vice versa. | | | | 5. Lack of enthusiasm: Maintain eye contact, greet the |
| 3. Not listening: Focus on the question that is being | | | | interviewer with a smile and a firm handshake (not too |
| asked and don't try to anticipate the next one. It's OK | | | | weak, not too strong), and show common courtesy. |
| to pause and collect your thoughts before answering a | | | | Don't be afraid to display your passion for the job |
| question. Pay special attention to technical or work | | | | industry and to show confidence. |