Interview Cheat Sheet

Interview Cheat Sheet
In the Days Before the Interview

• Draw a line down the center of a piece of paper. On the left side, make a bulleted list of what the employer is looking for based on the job posting. On the right side, make a bulleted list of the qualities you possess that fit those requirements.
• Research the company, the industry and the competition.
• Prepare your 60-second personal statement -- your answer to the "Tell me about yourself" question.
• Write at least five success stories to answer behavioral interview questions ("Tell me about a time when..." or "Give me an example of a time...").
• List five questions to ask the interviewer about the job, the company and the industry.

Before You Go to the Interview

• Do you look professional? Check yourself in the mirror; part of your confidence will come from looking good.
• Carry these items to the interview: Several copies of your resume on quality paper. A copy of your references. A pad of paper on which to take notes. (Notes are optional.) Directions to the interview site.

Prepare answers to common interview questions:

• Upon Arrival
1. Arrive early -- enter the building 10 minutes before your appointment.
2. Review your prepared stories and answers.
3. Go to the restroom and check your appearance one last time.
4. Announce yourself to the receptionist in a professional manner.
5. Stand and greet your interviewer with a hearty -- not bone-crushing -- handshake.
6. Smile and look into the interviewer's eyes.

• During the Interview

1. Try to focus on the points you have prepared without sounding rehearsed or stiff.

2. Relax and enjoy the conversation. Learn what you can about the company.

3. Ask questions and listen; read between the lines.

4. At the conclusion, thank the interviewer, and determine the next steps.

5. Ask for the interviewer's business card so you can send a follow-up letter.

• After the Interview
1. As soon as possible, write down what you are thinking and feeling.
2. Later in the day, review what you wrote, and assess how you did.
3. Write a follow-up thank-you letter, reminding the interviewer of your qualities, decisions.

Closing Points

• Leave your interviewer with the right picture of you. Think of at least five skills or traits you want remembered after the interview.
• Ask if there is anything else you can provide, such as references, background information or work samples.
• State your interest in the position. Don't be overly anxious, but act interested. Remember to mention the added value you can bring to the job.
• Ask about the next step in the process. It's Important for you to know the next step so you can follow up. Ask for the decision date.
• Find out how to contact them. If you don't hear back, you will need to know who to contact and whether they will accept calls to check the status.

Ask Questions
In many situations, the questions you ask in an interview can be more revealing than the answers you give Questions are also a sign of enthusiasm, something most recruiters and hiring managers desperately want to see. The way to show interest is by asking follow-up questions, really taking interest in what they're doing and showing that you've done some research as well.