Even in a field where demand outstrips supply, interviews can be a very stressful part of your job search. Of course, the more you prepare, the more comfortable you will be during the actual interview. You should also remember that an interview is a two-way street: It is just as important for you to learn about the organization as it is for the interviewer to learn about you.
As you prepare for an interview, here are a few tried-and-true tips to follow:
• Research the company: Find out as much as possible about your prospective employer before
the interview. If you ask thoughtful questions about your role and the organization itself, you will
make a positive impression.
• Prepare beforehand: Practice answering common interview questions.
• Dress for Success: Choose nice, clean business-casual clothes.
• Bring paperwork with you: Tuck extra copies of your resume and references, plus a pen and
paper for note-taking, in a professional, leather-bound binder.
• Be prompt: Plan on arriving at least 15 minutes before your interview begins. Don’t forget to
build in extra time for heavy traffic or getting lost.
• Demonstrate confidence: Speak with confidence and make eye contact as often as possible.
Show you are listening by reiterating important points the interviewer makes.
• Answer the question asked: Take the time to think about each question carefully before
answering it. If you don't understand a question, ask for clarification. Also, give specific examples
to back up your answer whenever possible.
• Ask questions: Ask questions to show that you have a genuine interest in the organization and
the position, that you researched them thoroughly beforehand and that you want to learn more
about them.
• Follow up: Write a thank you note in an email or on nice stationery as soon as you get home from
the interview — and be sure to restate your interest in the position.