Preparation Checklist for Interviews

When you do get an interview, it is vitally important that you spend an appropriate amount of time in preperation. You will only have a very short period of time to make an amazing and profound impact on the interviewer, so you need to make sure that at a minimum your are doing the following:

COME PREPARED
Know yourself — your strengths, weaknesses and accomplishments. An interview Is not the time to wing it? Prepare as much as you would for a presentation to the Board of Directors at your company.

RESEARCH THE COMPANY
Find out as much as you can about the company through annual reports, Newspapers, Value Line," S&P, etc. Your effort will show in the interview, and you’ll be seen as proactive, hardworking and astute.

DRESS APPROPRIATELY TO MATCH THE COMPANY CULTURE
Many companies have gone to corporate casual. Check with your contact to see what they require. When in doubt, always err on the side of formal business attire. Learn what NOT to wear to an interview.

ARRIVE 15 TO 30 MINUTES EARLY
Punctuality is a subtle clue about attitude and behavior. Tardiness, no matter the excuse, is a major blunder. Research in advance what your parking options are and allow plenty of time.

EXHIBIT ENTHUSIASM
First impressions, positive or negative, dramatically affect the ultimate evaluation. You can make or break an interview within the first five minutes.

APPEAR FRIENDLY AND OUTGOING
Smile and say hello to everyone. A positive reaction from the support staff is an important factor in the evaluation. Many hires have been heavily influenced by an Administrative assistant.

BE SELF-CONFIDENT
High self-esteem and self-confidence are the hallmarks of the successful individual. With confidence, be able to demonstrate how you have overcome obstacles. There’s nothing wrong with feeling good about yourself.