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November 2008 Newsletter

Be Prepared for an Interview
Kathy A. DeWitt

Remember even the first contact is important. So if you drop off an application at a reception desk, speak courteously to the receptionist. Even when you are called to set up an interview date and time, it can be part of the overall hiring process.

Expect applicant to dress appropriately. Expectations for dress code on the job will be given once you are hired.

Be prepared to shake hands with the interview team when introduced.

Take a copy of your resume with you in case the interviewer(s) refers to it - also helps if you are a bit nervous and have forgotten what you had written - something to refer to if needed.

Speak clearly and concisely and look at the interviewer directly when asked a question.

Be prepared to answer safety related questions relative to the position.

Be prepared to show your valid driver’s license, if required.

Be prepared when asked if you are willing to be tested, to respond immediately.

Be prepared to answer questions on experience with computers.

Be prepared to give names of references if you are asked. Telephone numbers of references are important. You may have included them on your resume or application form. If so, confirm this with the interviewer again and if you have any others you think might be relevant, it is okay to pass along new names at the interview. Please ask permission before you give names as references.

Be prepared to answer 20 - 30 questions - General/Technical/Safety.

Be prepared to talk about yourself and skills acquired - do not continue talking unnecessarily. Stick to the topic.

Body language is very important - sit up straight in your chair. You will be nervous, the interviewer expects that, sitting up straight helps you breathe easier and shows your interest in being there. It will give you confidence.

It is okay to ask the interviewer to repeat a question, if you don't understand or didn't quite hear it.

Be confident - you know more about yourself than anyone else in the room. It is your time to shine. Be sincere and be yourself.

Good behavior and a good attitude are judged highly and are very important to any corporation. Be professional.

Remember if you don't get the first job you are interviewed at, it is not personal, use this opportunity as experience and keep applying as that is how you get hired. You may want to do this many times over the course of your career.

Maintain and acquire new skills, be willing to accept changing environments and be adaptable. Always keep your resume updated. Your resume should be your personal motivator as you move along in your careers. It is a copy of your education, experience and work record. It is something you want to be proud of.