Job interview tips

You got the call. You ironed a shirt. Now what?

The most important thing that you can do before an interview is to prepare for it. Well that, and getting a decent night's sleep. You have your foot in the door with an employer, and now it's time to shine in person.

To prepare for the interview, you should:

• Research the company
  Get a feel for who they are and how they operate.
  
• Anticipate your interviewer’s questions
  Have your answers prepared for common interview questions by practicing them beforehand.
  
• Prepare your own questions for the interviewer
  Write down questions you might have about the company or position, and ask them when the interviewer gives you the go ahead.
  
• Clarify your own interests and career goals
  Know why you are right for this position and be ready to convince the interviewer that you are.
  
• Have all needed materials prepared to take with you
  Bring copies of your resume (if you need one) and references.
  

Day of the interview

Do not be a “no-show” to an interview. If you are unable to make an interview or if you are no longer interested in the position, make sure you give advanced notice to the interviewer so that he/she has time to changes plans.

Here is a checklist of things to remember on the day of your interview:

• Dress to impress....but don't try too hard. (Leave the powder blue tuxedo in the closet unless you're applying to be a wedding singer.)
• Use common sense: Do not smoke, apply strong perfume/cologne, or start chewing gum before the interview...or during the interview. That would be weird.
• Arrive at least 15 minutes early to the interview location.
• Mentally rehearse possible interview questions while you wait for the interview to begin.
  

The interview

There are numerous things to remember during your interview, and nerves can get the best of all of us. However, remain calm and confident, and follow these tips to make the best impression in your interview:

• Give a firm handshake
  When entering and when leaving the interview, give the interviewer a firm, professional handshake. Save the fist bump for your friends.
  
• Maintain eye contact
  Look at the interviewer when talking or listening. This shows that you are interested in the conversation and have respect for the other person. (But don't give creepy eye contact. You know what we mean.)
  
• Take your time answering questions
  If you are unsure of how to answer a question, take a minute to think about it and formulate the best response. It is better to wait before answering and then answer intelligently rather than immediately jumping at the question with a poor answer.
  
• Remain professional
  Sit with an upright posture, speak and answer questions clearly, listen when the interviewer is speaking, and stay professional regardless of how you feel the interview is going.
  
• Thank the interviewer
  Do not forget to thank the interviewer(s) for their time when it's all over.
  

The paycheck

Negotiating hourly wages can be quite stressful; however as with all areas of the job search process, you can reduce your stress and improve your negotiating power by being prepared. Keep in mind that many hourly jobs offer a preset hourly rate. However, you should still be comfortable with the compensation offered, or be ready to negotiate, if necessary. Here are some tips to help you prepare.

• Leave the wage negotiations until later in the interview process. Wait until you are offered the job, or the employer raises the wage issue, before discussing how much the job pays. it could be awkward if you bust out with, "How much am I gonna get?" before you've even introduced yourself.
  
• Consider your level of experience in the job that you are applying for. Do you have years of solid experience or is this your first job? If you are experienced, be prepared to show examples or your job history to demonstrate your expertise. Is this your first job? If so, review the minimum wage laws for your state.
  
• If asked what your previous pay was, remember to include bonuses, tips and other perks. And be sure to consider the total compensation package when deciding if the pay rate is reasonable to you. Does it include healthcare, tips and bonuses? What about a flexible work schedule? How close is it to home?
  
• Does the job offer you an opportunity to gain valuable experience or to get your foot in the door? If so, you may be willing to take a lower pay rate because in the long run, you could make more money.
  
• Be willing to walk away. If you are not offered a rate that you can be comfortable with, you will be miserable working in the job. It may be better to continue your search or reassess your expectations.
  

Following up

Regardless of whether you thought the interview went well or not, be sure to send a thank you note or email to the interviewer expressing your gratitude for the opportunity as quickly as you can. Within a day is preferable. If it has been over a week since the interview and you have not received word yet from the company, call the person with whom you interviewed. Remember to speak only with that person, since he/she is the one who knows the particulars of your situation. On the phone, keep the same professional attitude that you had in the interview.

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