Things to keep in mind when interviewing with a potential employer
- In order to have a successful interview, you must find out what people want and then show them how to get it. Uncover the employer’s wants, needs, desires, goals, and priorities.
- Listen well to the interviewer. Be attentive – show him/her that you understand the needs of the firm.
- Establish rapport. Switch the situation from “you against me” to “you and me against the problem.”
- Be yourself – let your natural strengths come through.
- Be truthful. If you don’t know how to answer a question, say so – ask for clarifications if necessary.
- Demonstrate integrity – never divulge confidential information about your previous employers.
- Never be negative about anything – including former bosses, companies, or employees.
- Never get into an argument with the interviewer.
- Always show loyalty to former employers.
- Be on your toes at all times and with every person you meet: secretary, company employees you pass in the hallway, etc. If invited to lunch or dinner, remember that’s part of the interview as well. Remember – job interview behavior is different from normal work behavior, just as interview dress is different from normal job dress.
- If you wish, take notes – but ask first.
- Finally, don’t ask the employer about salary until you’re offered the position. To get into a salary discussion too early will handicap your negotiating ability. Be sure the employer wants to hire you first, and then you will negotiate from strength.
To get more information about how to prepare for job interviews, follow up with hiring authorities, and how to handle job offers, please take a look at our Interview Prep Package.
