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How to Interview for a Job

Tips on interviewing for a job

A job interview is a time to show your potential employer that what you listed on your resume is just the tip of the exciting iceberg that you can offer their company. It is a time when you can either set yourself apart from the other candidates who will be interviewing, or immediately be crossed off the candidate list.

While a portion of successful interviewing involves your personality that comes naturally, much of the process can be taught and learned. Even if you are preparing to go on your first job interview, you can act like you’re a seasoned interview pro.

Knowing some of these successful interviewing tips can help you nail your job interview:

Review your resume before you interview – It may seem pointless for you to review your own resume, but an interviewer is going to expect you to know it like the back of your hand. Also look for potential questions that an interviewer might ask about your previous work experience or education. Examples: What was your most enjoyable job, and why? What was your most challenging, and why?

Do your research about the company – Go online and research the company where you are interviewing. If you know someone who works there, ask them questions about the company and what they enjoy about working there. The more you know about the company, the more impressed your interviewer will be.

Know what to expect from the interview process – The first interview is more of a screening interview to make sure that what you have listed on your resume is indeed what you have to offer. These interviews are sometimes even done over the phone. The second interview will last longer and will often involve testing, tours of the facility, lunch and meeting several employees within the organization.

Don’t discuss salary unless it is brought up – Probably the biggest question you have about a potential job is “How much money will I make?” You don’t want to seem desperate and broke, so don’t approach the financial aspect of the job unless it is brought up by your interviewer. There will be a time and a place to ask that question if you make it to the second or third interview.

Follow up with a thank-you letter – Make sure you get a business card from your interviewer before you leave the interview. That way you will have their name and title so you can immediately send a thank-you letter. Don’t wait to send the letter, either; get it in the mail the day you interview. This shows your potential employer that you are interested in the position.