Now that you are in the door, make sure you make a great impression to keep it open. Here are some things to consider when going on an interview.
Know the dress code of your employer before arriving. If you are unsure, a quick call to the HR department will help.
Punctuality shows them that you are serious about the job and that you respect their time.
Much like your resume, your interview is about helping the company fill a need. Approach the interview as a consultant and problem solver, showing them that you can help them solve their challenges and improve their department/company by hiring you.
Remember to get all of the information you need to make a decision. Not only is the company interviewing you, you are interviewing them to see if they are a good fit for what you want.
Learn all you can about the job and the company you can during the interview. Ask smart questions that show them that you have done your homework. If you get lost in talking too much about yourself, you won’t learn as much as you can about the job and company.
Once they have answered your questions about challenges they face, reply to them with specific skills or experience that you can bring to them that will help fill their needs.
Be professional and focused, but not overly formal. Be attentive, make good eye contact and be interested in learning about the job and company.
Thank the interviewer, and always ask what the next steps are. Be sure to write a thank-you letter to anyone you have spoken to.