Ace Your Interview

You got the call! The interview is scheduled. Now what?

Sometimes when you fill out an application, the company could interview you on the spot. This article focuses on when you have a day or two before the interview.

Plan

If you have time before the interview, make a practice run to the location at the time that you would be going to work. This helps you with two things:

1. You can determine what route you need to use and how long it will take you.
2. You can see what everyone is wearing as they enter or leave work for the day.

Once you see what others wear, you can decide what to wear. No time to make a practice run? Ask the person that schedules your interview about the company dress code. The best bet is be neutral. Nothing too extreme. No jeans, shorts, bare midriffs, flip-flops, or sneakers. Nothing too low-cut or too short. Ask yourself, "Would my grandmother approve of this outfit?" 

Guys – black, blue, or khaki slacks, belt, polo shirt, or long-sleeve, button-up shirt with tie, and tucked in. Dress shoes.  Everything clean and pressed.

Girls – skirt or pants with a top, or a dress, and comfortable shoes. Remember: nothing too revealing. Easy on the jewelry, hair, and nails.

Prepare

Determine how you will walk, stand, or sit when you first meet the person who interviews you.

Learn the appropriate way to shake hands.

Practice answers to standard interview questions.

Research the company – size, locations, history, products, and competitors.

Let your references know you have an interview.

Have a notebook with extra copies of your resume, the information you gathered about the company, and questions that you want to ask the interviewer.

Do not ask on the first interview:

• Can I do this job from home?
  
• The job description would have mentioned this.
• What does your company do?
• You would know if you did any research.
• When can I take time off for vacation?
• This question is for after the job offer.
• Did I get the job?
• Instead, ask "are there multiple interviews for this position?"
• What is the salary for this position?
• This question is for after the job offer.
• Some job postings have a salary range listed.
• How many hours will I have to work each week? Is weekend work required?
• Instead, ask what a typical workday is like.
• How long before I can be promoted?
• Instead, ask "what are some the growth opportunities at this company?"
• What type of health insurance (benefits) does this company offer?
• This question is for after the job offer.
• Can I see the break room?
• Wait for someone to offer a facility tour.

• How late can I be to work without being fired?
• Sounds like you are planning to be late every day.
• How long is lunch?
• Sounds like you are not interested in working.
• Can I bring my dog to work?
• Some companies are pet friendly, but typically for customers.
• Will I have to take a drug test?
• Raises suspicions that you might not pass one.
• Does this company monitor Internet usage?
• Raises suspicions that you might need monitoring.
• How many warnings do you get before you are fired?
• Raises suspicions that you might be a troublemaker.​

Ace the Interview

Follow these tips and it will be like having an ace up your sleeve. Who knows, you may be offered a job on the spot! As a final step, remember to send a "thank you" letter to the interviewer.​