PREPARE FOR YOUR INTERVIEW

Preparation
Homework: It's not Only for School

The interview date is set and your resume is done. Now it is time to get ready with some preparation drills.

Understand the role
Never interview for a job you know nothing about. Do your homework on the opportunity—the experience, education and skills required, responsibilities and work environment.


Know the company
Carefully research the company to understand business direction, competitors, products/services and major news announcements.


Practice your story
Develop "PAR" stories to highlight your achievements:
Problem: situation or project
Action in response to situation/project
Results measured or company benefits.


Confirm can do/will do
Know your capabilities and limits in advance. Will you travel? How much? Do you mind long hours? Have a clear idea of what you want from a job before the interview.


Perform interview question drills
While you can’t predict all the questions you will be asked, you can guess quite a few. Formulate answers to typical interview questions and prepare creative, clever responses. Practice out loud to increase your poise and reduce anxiety.


Prepare for tough questions
Be ready to address reasons for job change (better opportunity, more challenge, etc.)


Bring extra resumes
Bring three to four copies in the event that you are asked to meet with additional company representatives.


Dress “one level above”
Based on company dress code, dress one level above company policy. Example – if company environment is “business casual”, wear dress slacks/skirt.