Interview Do’s & Don’ts

We all know the importance of making a positive impression – and that’s never more important than during a job interview! A little preparation and homework in advance can help reduce the stress of an interview and give you a game plan for success. Here are some helpful tips to get you prepared for an interview.

Interview Do’s

How to Prepare

Know yourself – your goals, your skills and your plans.
Know your resumé and be prepared to discuss your past experiences in detail. Spend some time before the interview recalling your past accomplishments and contributions.
Take some time to recall relevant work experiences so you’re prepared to talk about them.
Come prepared with a list of any questions you have about the position and our company.
Dress professionally but keep in mind our office attire is business casual. Suits are not required!
Practice, practice, practice! Review the information on your resumé and recall as many professional experiences as you can – projects you’ve led or been a part of, contributions you’ve made, successes and achievements of which you’re especially proud. Be prepared to discuss specific work situations, including actions you took and the end results of those actions. Think of the interview as your chance to tell us stories about your work experiences.
Arrive on time for your interview. Make sure that if you don’t know the way you call ahead and get directions ahead of time.

How to Interview

Relax! We consider you to be a guest with us, and you’re not the only one who wants to make a good impression – we do too!
Show enthusiasm and interest.
Use good eye contact.
Be specific when answering your questions. Provide specific, not vague or hypothetical information.
Show confidence in your abilities.
Listen attentively.
Be honest and straightforward – if you can’t think of a good example or answer it’s better to say that than to provide a vague, rambling response.

Interview Don’ts

How Not to Prepare

Don’t apply for a job without first considering your experiences as they relate to the qualifications for the job.
Don’t wait until the last minute to think about what you’ll want to say.

How Not to Interview

Don’t ramble on aimlessly. Unnecessary details can take up a lot of valuable interview time and make you appear unfocused.
Don’t come across as unprepared or lacking in ambition. Don’t rush your answers just to avoid awkward silences.
Don’t be negative – about yourself, our company, or any past employers.

If you are selected for an interview, you’ll want to know more about what interviewing with the company is like – do some research so you can be as prepared as possible!