Interviews- Revisited

PRE-INTERVIEW

Your first interview can be so frightening! To be honest, every interview I have ever had has been pretty nerve-wracking. It may not ever get easy, but with practice and preparation, it can definitely get easier! In the next few weeks, I will highlight different things to remember before a big interview. Check back often for updates!

#1 Pre-Interview Research:

It is so important to know the company you are interviewing with.
Some important questions to find out and think about before the interview are:

1) Who are the prospective employers and what do they do?
2) How old is the organization?
3) What is the organizations mission or goals?
4) Where is the organization headed?
5) Have you noticed any thing special about the organization that sets it apart from others?
6) How can the job you are pursuing contribute to the organization’s success?
7) What is the organization’s public image?

It also is important to know a lot about the position you are interviewing for. The more you know about the position, the better you can prepare for possible questions asked by the prospective employer. You will also have better questions to ask them.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT

The series, "Stepping Out" is dedicated to preparation for a job interview. I know that job interviews will never be a breeze, but if you take the time to prepare, it will definitely go a lot smoother.

The most important thing I think you can do before an interview is practice. You've always heard that practice makes perfect, and the same goes for interviews. The more comfortable you can get answering tough questions, the better you will do when you are put to the test.

Most likely you will ask a friend or loved one to help out. Although, they can definitely be a great asset, it might be worth going a different route. Career Centers at colleges have people on staff that would be happy to put you through a mock interview. Because you may not know your mock interviewer as well as your friend, this will be much closer to a real interview.

This role-playing will definitely put you more at ease when you are faced with the big interview day!

DRESSING FOR SUCCESS

When preparing for an interview, what you wear can say a lot about your level of professionalism. When choosing your interview outfit make sure to dress for the position you are interviewing for.

Tips for Women:

Suits are the most professional choice for an interview. A black "power" suit is a must for any business professional and is a great basic to get now for future interviews and employment.

I have to admit ladies, I didn't have a suit to my name until 7 months ago. It has been hard (and costly) to start building my professional wardrobe. The best advice I can give is START EARLY! When you see suit sales, check them out. You can find some really cute ones, I promise!

Shoes should be closed-toed with heels from 1 to 2 inches. They should also be cleaned and polished.

I know that I really don't need to mention this, but make sure your hair and nails look nice, that you don't go overboard with makeup and jewelry, and you smell nice:) I always make sure that my perfume is a very light one, that is hardly noticeable.

Tips for Men

A nice suit in black, gray, or navy is a great choice.

The absolute best choice for an interview shirt, is a plain white straight collar shirt. Pinstripes are acceptable, but white is more traditional. An round neck undershirt is a must.

Choose a tie that compliments your suit and shows your personality(within limits). Do not wear ties with animals/sporting symbols.

Shoes should be either black or brown, depending on suit choice. Make sure they are clean and polished. Socks should compliment your suit.


Just remember to err on the side of conservative when dressing for an interview. You never know what your interviewer is looking for in an employee. Remember also, when you are hired, you can observe what people in your field are wearing and change your dress accordingly.

Good luck!

REPOST FROM December 2, 2008, December 18, 2008, January 5, 2009,