Here's a few tips & tricks you can always follow for more leverage:
Tips for a Successful Interview:
Be on time.
This often means 10-15 minutes early. Interviewers often are ready before the appointment.
Know the interviewer’s name, its spelling, and pronunciation.
Use it during the interview. If you don’t know the name, call beforehand and ask the secretary. Also, note the secretary’s name in case you have to call back. Secretaries can influence the hiring decision!
Greet the interviewer with a handshake and a smile.
Remember to maintain eye contact (which does not mean a stare down).
Have some questions of your own prepared in advance.
There is nothing wrong with having a short list of questions and thoughts- it shows you have done your research and want to know more about the organization and the position.
Have a reliable pen and a small note pad with you.
But do not take notes during the interview. However, immediately afterward, write down as much as you can remember, including your impression of how well you did.
Expect to spend some time developing rapport.
Don’t jump right in and get down to business. Follow the interviewer’s lead.
Don’t be embarrassed if you are nervous.
As you gain experience you’ll become more at ease with the interviewing process.
Focus.
On your attributes, your transferable skills, and your willingness to learn; don’t apologize for a lack of experience; describe your strengths in terms of what you can do for the organization.
Tell the truth.
Lies and exaggeration will come back to haunt you.
Listen carefully to the interviewer.
Be sure you understand the question; if not, ask for clarification, or restate it in your own words. Answer completely and concisely. Stick to the subject at hand.
Never slight a teacher, friend, employer, or your university.
Loyalty ranks high on the employer’s list.
Be prepared for personal questions.
Some interviewers may not know what they can and cannot ask legally. Anticipate how you will handle such questions without losing your composure.
Wait for the interviewer to mention salary and benefits.
To research pay scales, refer to salary surveys and information on the Career Services website on in the career library.
Don’t expect a job offer at the first interview.
Often you will be invited to a second or even third interview before an offer is made several weeks later.
Close on a positive, enthusiastic note.
Ask what the next step will be. Thank the interviewer for his/her time and express your interest in the job. Leave quickly and courteously with a handshake and a smile.
No interview is complete until you follow up with a thank-you note.
Express your appreciation for the interview and, if true, reaffirm your interest. This last step can make a difference. Don’t forget it.
Be You: There is nothing better than authenticity! Here in Ficosota we like transparency, so show us your creativity, ideas, motivation, and interests moving forward.
Prepare Yourself: Your CV is our first impression of you. Don't be shy and let us know of your achievements. Give yourself a few minutes before the interview, to be calm, hydrated, and ready to talk!
Learn About Us: There is nothing more satisfying than a curious candidate! Show us why you think Ficosota is the place for you, by researching us and asking direct questions. We would love to answer!
Be Proactive: Read the job description carefully.
