A job interview is an opportunity for potential employers to get to know you. This will help them decide if they want to offer you a job. You apply for a job interview by submitting your resume and cover letter to potential employers with open job opportunities.
The interview process
Potential employers will look at your work experience and ask you questions. They will learn about your work experience from your resume and cover letter. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions about the job and workplace.
It's important to make a good impression at your job interview. Sometimes, you will go through several interviews with the same employer before you get a job offer. Not all interviews will lead to a job offer. For this reason, it is important to apply to lots of jobs. Learn from each interview to better prepare yourself for the next one.
Preparing for an interview
Before an interview, you should:
- Research the company.
- Be able to answer questions about the company such as who they are and what they do.
- Know the name of the person(s) who will be interviewing you.
- Know what the job entails.
- Make copies of your resume, cover letter, and letters of reference to bring with you.
- Bring samples of previous work that you have done, if necessary.
- Arrive at the interview location 10 to 15 minutes early.
- Dress for the job. Do not wear casual clothes (jeans, sandals, hats, T-shirts).
- Do not smell of food, smoke, liquor, unwashed clothing or strong perfume/cologne.
- Do not chew gum.
- Turn your cell phone off or to silent.
- Bring a list of questions to ask the interviewer, if you have any.
- Try doing a practice run or mock interview before the real interview.
During the interview
At your interview, be sure to:
- Smile and be positive.
- Shake the employer's hand (as long as no religious custom dictates that you shouldn't).
- Make eye contact with your interviewer.
- Do not give one-word answers like "yes" or "no." Elaborate where possible to display your knowledge of the job.
- Give thoughtful answers. You don't have to answer quickly.
- Do not argue or be impatient during the interview.
- Be sure to speak to your strengths and experience. Don't rely on your resume to do this for you.
- Thank the employer for their consideration after the interview.
Interview help
If you have questions about job interviews, contact:
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