Interviewing Tips

1. Learn about the company - Interviewers like applicants who have made an effort to research the company. You will be in a better position to show your interviewer how you can contribute to the company's growth if you know something about their operations.

2. Be Positive - Smile, a smile makes you looks 100% better. Shake hands firmly with your interviewer. A bone crushing or limp handshake is a turnoff for interviewers.

3. Listen Closely, don't just hear - Listening is active , hearing is passive. To be a better active listener, maintain eye contact with your interviewer. Be aware of your body language. Sit upright using the your best posture and lean slightly toward your interviewer.

4. Dress Appropriately - A good rule of thumb is to dress one level above the expected attire of the position for which you are applying. Make sure your clothes are cleaned and pressed. Women should not wear suggestive clothing, or large jewelry.

5. Be well groomed - Avoid outrageous hairstyles. Hair should be clean and styled in an appropriate business manner. Avoid strong smelling fragrances. Make sure fingernails are kept short. Women may want to add a neutral or moderate color.

6. Don't Talk Yourself Out of a Job - Answer all of your interviewer's questions honestly. Do not boast, but answer with confidence in your abilities. When you sense an interview is over don't hang out. Thank your interviewer and shake hands. Be sure to ask about when the hiring decision will be made.

7. Stress your potential - Show that your previous training and experiences, whether paid or volunteer, will allow you to excel in the position. Interviewers like people who can "grow " in the job.

8. Be Prompt - Never make an interviewer wait on you. Try to arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your interview. One minute late is inexcusable. Your arrival time is an employers first test of your reliability. Do not bring anyone with you to an interview. This includes children and significant others. They are a distraction to you and to the interviewer.

9. No Whiners - Don't cry about money problems, hard luck, or personal problems. Do not criticize your past employers or co- workers.

10. Relax - Above all relax and be the best self you can be. If you are too stiff or too phony an interviewer will sense it and your chances of getting the job become slim and none.