Step 9: 3 Steps to a Successful Interview

First Step: Make a Positive First Impression
You never have a second chance to make a first impression"

Employers will determine their initial impression of you in a few seconds. You want to do as much as you can to ensure their first thoughts are favourable.

• Arrive 15 minutes ahead of your scheduled appointment time. This will give you a few extra minutes to get settled, let the receptionist know you are there, review your résumé and research one last time, and give you an opportunity to have a quick look around the office. Are there any promotional materials you can read while you are waiting?
• Dress appropriately - according to the style of dress of the job you are going for, be careful not to overdress or under-dress. Either one could hurt your chances of securing the job.
• Don't wear flashy jewelry.
• Be cautious of overpowering colognes and perfumes.
• Don't have any gum or mints in your mouth when you go into the interview.
• Avoid the last minute cigarette or cup of coffee to calm your nerves.
• Introduce yourself to the employer and anyone else present during the interview.
• Try to remember the names of people introduced to you.
• Offer a firm but not bone-crushing handshake.
• Wait to be seated until asked.
• Be aware of your voice tone and body language during the interview.
• Keep the "we" philosophy in mind. Focus on the needs of the company and not your own.

Second Step: Answering Questions Effectively
When answering an employer's questions, keep the following tips in mind:

• Be cautious of not talking too much. One or two minutes per answer should be sufficient.
• Use specific examples and the P-A-R method when answering behavioural questions. Identify the Problem, the Action you took, and the Result)
  Maintain eye contact with the employer.
• Utilize active listening skills.
• Ensure your answers are job related (i.e. when asked "tell me about yourself," don't launch into a 20 minute discussion about your personal life).
• Make sure your answers address the question asked. Don't stray off topic.
• Be wary of questions with a negative overtone, such as, "What was your worst job and why?" Or, "What is your greatest weakness?" An employer will take as much from what you say as how you say it. Turn negative questions into positives - how did you turn the situation around and make it work for you?
• If you are not sure what an employer means by a particular question, ask for clarification.

Third Step: Asking Questions of the Employer
As your interview draws to a close, you can count on an employer wrapping things up by asking you if you have any questions.

Asking a few, well thought out questions demonstrates to the employer that you have done your homework before the interview and allows you an opportunity to clear up any issues that are still in question.

An interview should be a two way street, with both you and the employer asking questions to determine if there is a suitable match between you and the company.

Prepare a list of five questions to ask and be prepared to ask three. You have two extra in case some topics are covered during the interview.

Ask general questions about the company, not self-serving questions about benefits and vacations.

Sample questions to ask during an interview:

• What is a typical day like in this position?
• What do you see as being the most difficult part of this job?
• What office policies and procedures should I be familiar with?
• Is there a training or probationary period for this position?
• What are your typical hours of operation?
• Is this a new position or an established position that you are filling?
• When do you expect to be making your decision?
• Will you let me know whether or not I was successful?
• When and how may I follow up with you?
• May I have your business card?