Interview like a pro!

Be on time means being early– at least by 10 minutes

This gives you time to check in at the front, go to the restroom, and have 5 or more minutes to spare.

Always dress appropriately-business professional or business casual depending on the job. For an office job you should be business professional, even if the dress-code there is business casual. Be safe and take that jacket.

Some HR folks and hiring managers are sticklers for that.

For men who may work in a uniformed job, information technology or engineering you still want to present your best according to the company you are interviewing with. So do your research. At minimum wear slacks, shirt, and tie. If it’s for a warehouse, dry-cleaned and ironed  khakis, appropriate shoes, and business casual shirt.

Don’t assume anything-have a copy of your resume

Do not assume the recruiter provided your resume or that the hiring manager printed your resume. Always have a copy with you.

Know your resume

The worst is when someone asks a question and you respond by saying it’s on my resume or lead your statement by saying that.

HR people and managers are thinking So what! Tell me what you were responsible for at your last employer.

Don’t disclose too much

Sure you are looking because you hate your pay and your manager. Don’t tell them that. Don’t bash your current or previous employer. Don’t even take the bait if probed about that.

But tell them you are interested in better challenges, to take on more responsibilities, and to utilize your skills. You can even speak about the location being ideal for you and your family etc. When a hiring manger thinks you are running from a problem they are cautious that maybe one day you will feel that way about them or the job and leave too.

Prepare questions and ask them

Research the organization, ask questions about the job, even if you think you don’t have any

• How is success measured for this job?
• What are the expectations in the first 60-90 days of the job?
  • you will really find out what they want you to do.
• Why is the position open?
  • Are there any internal candidates (you want to know if you are walking on to a team that had someone apply for your job.)
• What are the next steps?/ is there a timeline that you will reach out to candidates?

Don’t ask about pay unless it comes up

Before the interview you should know the salary range from the recruiter or at least if you don’t know it, you have provided your desired salary range and if they didn’t question it then you are within the range. Don’t ask in the interview.  It’s a stupid formality because let’s be real everybody is about their money but it’s really not important until the offer stage. Knowing the market for your job is important.

Be confident

Make eye contact, try not to fumble, and don’t ramble

Job searching is hard enough, interviewing can be a nervous situation so be prepared as best as possible.

-Risa