Candidates

Preparation

Face to Face Interview Tips
Employers are continually amazed at the lack of a candidate's preparation regarding the company and the position for which they are interviewing. Remember, the amount of preparation that you have done is the first indicator to showing a sincere interest in the position.

Preparation gains the competitive edge in the first interview so you can increase the probability of getting the opportunity and offer you want. The following are ingredients for a successful interview:

Physical Preparation:
It’s important to plan the image you wish to portray to your prospective employer. Dress according to conservative codes, regardless of what attire may be appropriate for the position you seek. Dress in a professional, conservative manner. Your personal taste may not be the best guide.

Attitude Preparation:
The objective of the interview is to leave a favorable impression. Always conduct yourself as if you are determined to get the opportunity you are discussing so that all possibilities remain open to you. Your goal on an interview is to learn all you can about the company and the opportunity as well as to present yourself in the best possible manner. If your decision at the end of the discussion is to join that organization, that positive attitude needs to have been conveyed throughout the interview, not just at the end.

What You Should Know About an Employer:
In a matter of a few hours of interviewing, you will be making one of the more important decisions of your life. It is essential that you prepare yourself for that decision.

Do your "homework". By doing so, you demonstrate a genuine interest in their company and the opportunity. Be prepared to know the answers to the following questions prior to meeting the potential employer:

1. What products or services does the company offer?
2. When was the company established?
3. What is the approximate sales volume?
4. What has been their growth in volume and market share?
5. What is their marketplace? Who is their competition? Who are their customers?
6. Is the company a centralized or decentralized organization?

If it’s a small company, call the Recruiter, Controller or Sales Manager and ask for their assistance to prepare you for your interview. Then ask them the list of questions. Use the list of questions above, as well as product bulletins, annually reports, marketing brochures, etc. to familiarize yourself with the company.