Top Tips for Interview Success

Search the Internet for "interview tips" and you will get more than 58 million results. Finding the most important tips from such an extensive list would be like finding a needle in a haystack! So, to save you college students some time, I have compiled a list of top tips taken from a survey.....of those who hire!

• Be prompt, on time; better yet, be 4 minutes early! Allow time for traffic, parking, finding the office, etc. Arrive unhurried allowing you to appear composed, relaxed, and self-assured (even if you are nervous!).
• Research the company you are interviewing with by visiting their website or talking to current employees. Knowing what they do will give you something in common to talk to the interviewer about, not just the position for which you are applying.
• Dress appropriately - don't wear revealing clothing or look like you just got up. Be well groomed - shower, shave and have clean hair. Wear professional attire and this does not mean school clothes! Get an outfit for interviews and be neat from the shoes up. Oh, and do not wear perfume. You want them to remember you, not the scent you left behind.
• Be cheerful, optimistic, enthusiastic, and have good energy but be business-like and professional in your manner. Be polite, courteous, and attentive.
• Be yourself and don't apologize for anything. Watch your language and drop the college lingo (cool, my bad, etc.).
• Respect the interviewers time. Be prepared for short, spur of the moment interviews as well as those that are more in-depth. If they are interested in you from the beginning, you may be interviewed by more than one person.
• Answer questions asked and ask good questions but don't monopolize all the time talking about you. Be prepared for unusual questions and be honest, forthright in you replies.
• Do not oversell you abilities. Act positive but know that you are still learning. Show you are a "sponge" and willing to learn instead of coming across as a know-it-all.
• When appropriate, bring examples of your work. Check the condition of your portfolio for signs of wear and show only your best work. Be prepared to show your portfolio in a short period of time so rehearse your presentation so it will be organized. Also, have several copies of your resume with you.
• Remember to smile!! This will not only relax the muscles in your face and help relieve your nervousness, it will also start the interview on a positive note when the interviewer smiles back!

At the end of the interview, be sure to ask when the employer expects to make the hiring decision and find out about their follow-up procedure. Be sure to follow this and check back at the appropriate time.