Career FAQs > Successful Interviewing

Ten Reasons for Refusing a Job Counter Offer
Commonly asked interview questions

Overview

Successfully managing the interview is a critical step in getting any job. The interview provides employers with an opportunity to get to know you. Although interviews are naturally anxiety-producing, there are many strategies that will help you manage it effectively. There is no set formula for predicting the format of an interview since the organization's priorities and interviewer styles vary. The key is preparation. The best preparation is to know well enough that you are able to concretely describe yourself in the interview context.


Do's

Read and learn about the company before the interview

Arrive 15 minutes early. Late attendance is never excusable.

Clarify questions. Be sure you answered the questions the employer really asked.

Get the interviewer to describe the position and responsibilities early in the conversation so you can relate your skills and background to the position throughout the interview.

Give your qualifications. Stress the accomplishments that are most pertinent to the job.

Conduct yourself professionally. Be aware of what your body language is saying. Smile, make eye contact, don't slouch and maintain composure.

Anticipate tough questions. Prepare in advance so you can turn apparent weaknesses into strengths.

Dress appropriately. Make your first impression a professional one.

Ask insightful questions. An interview should be a mutual exchange of information, not a one-sided conversation.

Listen. This is probably the most important ability of all. By concentrating not only on the employer's words, but also on the tone of voice and body language, you will be able to pick up on the employer's style. Once you understand how a hiring authority thinks, pattern your answers accordingly and you will be able to better relate to him or her.

Don't

Never interrupt the employer. If you don't have time to listen, neither does the employer.

Don't smoke, chew gum or place anything on the employer's desk.

Don't wear heavy perfume or cologne.

Don't ramble. Long answers often make the speaker sound apologetic or indecisive.

On the other hand, don't answer questions with a simple "yes" or "no." Explain whenever possible. *Do not lie. Answer questions as truthfully as possible.

Do not make derogatory remarks about your present or former employers or companies.

 

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