Interview Tips for Candidates

Prepare and Practice

  • Research the company, the industry and the position.

  • Develop good questions to help identify and evaluate the potential fit between the objectives of the position and your experience and capabilities (to be addressed later), and to demonstrate insight and strong analytical skills. You are very much judged by the questions you ask.

  • Prepare for tough questions that may be asked.

  • Be able to show potential value by specifically applying your knowledge, experiences, and accomplishments to the company's needs, and demonstrating the potential benefits of those applications.

  • Compile a list of things needed to know about the role, the future, the company, it's direction, the hiring manager, etc., that will enable you to accept the job when offered.

 

Goal: To move to the next step in the process

  • Build rapport.

  • Understand job functions, objectives, and challenges.

  • Ensure that interviewer understands that you can do the job and accomplish the stated objectives.

  • Ensure that interviewer knows that you want the job.

  • Determine/agree on next step.

GENERAL TIPS

Remember to:

  • Match the image of the company      

  • Enjoy yourself

  • Arrive early 

  • Proactively listen

  • Give a firm handshake         

  • Show interest

  • Maintain good eye contact   

  • Be concise and confident

  • Maintain good posture         

  • Never assume anything

  • Be positive/enthusiastic       

  • Avoid talking $$

  • Be friendly, smile    

  • Send a follow-up letter

Avoid:

  • Smoking or chewing gum

  • Disparaging remarks about other companies, previous employers or bosses, etc.

  • Talking too much or too little

Pay Special Attention to Appearance Details

  • Shoes polished

  • Hair neatly trimmed

  • High quality, professional attire

Overview: 

The persons ultimately offered positions are those who:

  • Establish a healthy chemistry and potential for a long term cultural fit.

  • Portray a logical, successful, and proactive career history, with a clear vision of his/her career objectives.

  • Demonstrate strong analytical and interpersonal skills - conducts the meeting(s) in a professional and proactive manner.

  • Possess a high energy level.

  • Are able to gain an accurate understanding of the position functions, challenges, and objectives, as well as those of the company.

  • Build the employer's confidence in his/her ability to accomplish stated objectives.

  • Demonstrate a sincere enthusiasm for the opportunity.

  • Demonstrate willingness to create a win/win financial arrangement.

 

  

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