Interview Do's and Don't's

DO:

• Come prepared.  Do research about the industry, company and the position, and be prepared to ask questions which show your knowledge.  Good questions to ask include:
  

• In addition to ___ (mention what you've researched here), what are the company's short-and long-term goals?  Challenges? How do this position and department fit in with those?
• I know this industry is facing challenges from ___ (your research here).  What is this department's strategy for addressing those?
• Do you foresee any significant changes in XYZ Company?
  

• Practice answering common interview questions with a friend or relative before the interview, including:
  

• Why are you interested in this position?
• Why did you leave (do you want to leave) your current position?
• What are your strengths/weaknesses?
• Questions which ask you to provide specific examples of situations where you've handled problems and difficult situations, come up with new and successful ideas, management and leadership abilities, customer service skills.
• Questions about what motivates you to work hard and be successful, and what your short- and long-term goals are.
  

• Arrive 10 minutes early to give yourself extra time, just in case!
  

• Be polite and enthusiastic.  Dress professionally, even for "business casual" work environments.
  

• Bring extra copies of your resume, reference lists and/or letters, and any relevant work samples.
  

• Give specific examples to support your answers to interview questions.

DON'T:

• Chew gum, drink anything, eat, or talk on your cell phone.
  

• Ask questions about salary or benefits until the second or third interview.
  

• Bring anyone else with you: your ride, friend, sister, child or pet.  This interview is for you only and  not for anyone else.