Tips for Interviewing

Know your Audience

Given the widespread availability of the Internet, there is no excuse for not having thorough knowledge of a potential employer. Not only can you check out their own web site, but search engines like Google enable you to find the latest news about that employer. Employers want to see that candidates took the time to research a company.

If you have the time and research skills, take it a step further and research the industry. Who is the competition? What new products are being launched in the near future? Impress your interviewers by asking informed questions about their business.

Interview Preparation

Now that you know everything is there to know about your potential employer, make a list of questions you want to ask during your interview. By preparing questions, you indicate to the employer that you’ve spent time doing research, you’ve given thought to the position, and you aren’t afraid to seek out answers. If you get this job, you’ll be spending the majority of your day in this environment. There must be something you’d want to know first!

Interview Practice
Maybe this is your first job out of college, or you’re interviewing skills are a little rusty. It never hurts to practice. Go online and search the most popular interview questions. Then, prepare answers to those potential questions. Most colleges have career centers that will provide you with assistance on interviewing, but if you’ve been out of school for a while, you can ask a friend to help out or videotape yourself. There is no better way to see your facial expressions and gestures. Do you fidget in your chair? Do you wave your hands around? Some interviewers may find this distracting and it may prevent them from realizing the value you can bring to their company.

Your Second First Impression

By now, you’re all set to meet face-to-face with the potential employers who are beating down your door. Remember, you should always arrive at least 20 minutes early to an interview. 

You should also look the part—wearing a suit shows a potential employer you are ready for business. A suit may be costly, but it’s an investment in your future. Always look your best during an interview. At News America Marketing, we expect our candidates to show up wearing a suit. More casual companies may have different requirements and in that case, you may want to inquire about their expectations. Additionally, jewelry should be kept to a minimum and facial hair should be trimmed and neatly groomed.

Interview Follow-up

At the conclusion of your interview, always remember to ask for a business card so you can send a thank you note. These days, email is an acceptable format, but a hand written note shows that you gave the occasion special attention.