Qualified Search’s Best Interviewing Guidelines
A.K.A. The Obvious Advice — Better Said List
- Review the company Website, and seek additional information online.
- Review the position description if one is available.
- Prepare talking points that tie your capabilities to the position.
- Learn who you will be interviewing with if possible before the day of the interview.
- Google the company’s executives to learn more about them than just what is listed in a Bio.
- Use LinkedIn and other social media sites to obtain background information and possible connections.
- Do your best to obtain business cards from everyone you meet.
- Promote yourself. It is never a negative to express your interest in a job.
- Remember, true enthusiasm may overcome any perceived lacking skill.
- Study up on the location of the interview prior to departing. Don’t completely rely on a navigation system. Allow for traffic, challenging parking, and unexpected delays.
- Know who to call if you are running late and have that number readily accessable.
- Think about the best time of day for you to interview (if you have that option) to reduce the need to reschedule with unexpected emergencies.
- Research the dress code. Dark, formal suits are not always appropriate.
- Have good questions prepared and always bring a portfolio to jot notes.
- Direct benefit questions to human resources, and job questions to the hiring manager.
- Have some interesting stories ready that demonstrate your ability to navigate challenging situations.
- Let the interviewer drive the interview. Follow the 50/50 rule. They talk 50% of the time and you talk 50% of the time.
- At the end of the interview it’s helpful to ask the interviewer if they have any concerns.
- Thank each interviewer for their time.
- Send a prompt email thank you and include any additional information relevant to your abilities. Send a written follow-up if desired.