Prepping for your interview

The interview process itself may be fairly streamlined—one or two conversations with a single interviewer—or a more involved, staged procedure with multiple interviewers and as many as four sit-down sessions. If you can, clarify up front the process you’re getting into so you know how to prepare and what to expect

There are several ways you can prepare to put your best foot forward if you’ve been invited to interview for a position.

1. Review the job description
   Take it apart piece by piece and map your work experience onto each element of the job description.
   • Remind yourself of concrete examples and when, exactly, you performed specific functions.
   • Think about and note anything for which you were specifically recognized in your past employment.
   • Write down your thoughts, then go back and revise the wording to make it as active and active and achievement-oriented as possible. When you eventually get to talk about these things, you want to be impressive.
   
   
2. Do your homework
   Take some time to familiarize yourself with the company and the specific job.
   • Check out the company website. Ask around if you know people who have had dealings with the firm.
   • Online or by talking to others, learn more about the job if it’s one you’ve never done before. What does it involve, what skills will the role draw on, why are you well suited to it?
   • Think about the money. What would you like to be offered? What’s reasonable? If you’re not sure, ask friends, family, former co-workers. Have a realistic benchmark so that when the question comes up later on, you’ll know where you stand.
   
   
3. Plan for the interview
   Get everything ready well in advance so that on the day all you have to do is arrive.
   • Know where the appointment is and how you’re going to get there. If you take public transportation, map the route and budget your time. If you’re taking a cab, call in advance. And if you’re driving, know ahead of time where you’re going to park so you don’t end up driving in circles. (If you park, pay for enough time to allow the interview to start or end later than you expected. Leaving the interview to put money in a parking meter will not reflect well on your preparedness.)
   • Call ahead to ask about the format of the interview. Will it be one on one or will you be interviewed by a panel? Will testing be part of the process?
   • Check the weather. Will you need an umbrella? Boots? As a failsafe in winter, always bring extra dry and presentable shoes with you. Most candidates arriving for an interview in inclement weather change their footwear, so don’t be shy to do so.
   • Gather up what you need to bring: copies of your resume; lists of references; work samples (if appropriate to the type of position—such as graphic design, writing, meeting planning, etc.)
   
   
4. Use the power of positive thinking
   Visualize the interview situation. Project yourself into it and you’ll feel more comfortable when the time comes.
   • Envision your posture, the way you plan to carry yourself and sit
   • Imagine some of the questions you may be asked. Rehearse your responses; picture yourself answering confidently.
   • Picture yourself making eye contact, smiling, giving a firm handshake and sitting calmly.
   
   
5. What to wear, and not to wear
   Most organizations have their own dress code. As a rule of thumb, it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed. The employer can then coach you on what the norm is for the organization.

   THE SAFEST CHOICE

   Generally, business attire is your best choice. A business jacket with business pants and dress shoes is a safe bet. At your first interview, you can examine the attire of other employees and ask the Interviewer about usual dress code.

   WHAT TO AVOID

   In general, don't wear too much perfume or cologne. Many offices have become scent-free due to allergies. If possible, jewelry should be kept simple.

   Women: For office and professional positions, avoid evening or bar wear and anything provocative. Choose classic footwear over the latest trend. You can demonstrate your personal style later.

   Men: For office and professional roles, avoid denim and low-rise pants. Again, be aware of the difference between evening clothes and business styles. Strive for a look that’s crisp and tidy. Be clean-shaven.