EIGHT GUIDELINES FOR PREPARING FOR THE INTERVIEW                 Print Out (PDF, Word)

 1.       BE PREPARED

      ·         Anticipate possible questions and practice answers to each of them.
·         Research- know something about the company before the interview.
·         Prepare  (3) questions to ask in the interview.
·         Get a good night’s sleep before the interview.  Review your research.
·         Get up in time to shower, dress carefully, and get your papers together.
·         Leave for the interview with plenty of time to get there. 
          Know where you are going and how to get there.

 2.       LOOK GOOD

      ·         Go to the interview neat and clean.
·         Dress conservatively and comfortably.
·         Avoid heavy makeup and trendy or flashy clothes or jewelry.

 3.       BE PUNCUTUAL

      ·         Arrive 15 minutes ahead of schedule.

 4.       BE AWARE OF BODY LANGUAGE

      ·         Offer a firm handshake.
·         Stand or sit erect but comfortably.
·         Sit down only after offered a chair.
·         Lean forward in your chair and relax.
·         Don’t fidget.
·         Use eye contact, but don’t stare.

 5.       CARRY A PORTFOLIO

      ·         Show the interviewer that you plan ahead.
·         Bring all necessary information:

   -     pad of paper and a pen                            -  your resume and references
   -     a copy of the application form                   -  letters of recommendation
   -     samples of work (if appropriate)                -  your notes on the company
   -     your questions to ask the interviewer,       -  identification card with photo
   -     any correspondence from the company

 6.       BE ENTHUSIASTIC

      ·         Have an absolutely positive attitude in the interview.
·         Be friendly, not casual.
·         Don’t be negative about anything.
·         Sell yourself- the difference between bragging and self-confidence is
          enthusiasm.
·         Use eye contact and voice expression to your benefit.

 7.       SAY THANK YOU

      ·         At the end of the interview
·         Follow-up with a brief thank you note that reviews points brought up in the
          interview and adds ideas you forgot to mention.

 8.       SMILE

            ·         Don’t grin, but smile as you would in any conversation.