Interview

Always keep in mind that the purpose of almost every interview you will have
throughout your career is not to get you a job. The purpose is to get invited back.
Your objective is to get the next interview inside the company; the interviewer's
objective is to find a qualified candidate to introduce to more people in the
company.
Tips:

1. Be Prepared: Know the company: research its history, products, and

reputation. Know yourself: have ready a 5-minute presentation pointing out the
highlights of your career. Prepare answers to likely questions. Bring extra copies
of your resume: you may interview with several people.
2. Look Good: A first impression is a lasting impression. It is better to be
over-dressed than under-dressed. Your appearance will demonstrate that you are
taking the initiative. Even if you never wear a suit to work, the interviewer will
be pleased by your effort to impress.
3. Be Early: You cannot recover from being late, so play it safe and be early.
Remember that it takes time to sign in and to complete any other paperwork. Make
sure you know exactly where you have to be for the interview. If you are in
unfamiliar territory, take a practice drive to the company the day before the
interview.
4. Be Attentive: Interviewers rely a lot on body language to determine your
level of interest. Sit straight, make eye contact, and avoid crossing your arms or
legs. Listen carefully to what the interviewer says. They don't have time to waste:
assume that what they are saying really is important.
5. Show Interest: Be enthusiastic. People love to hire individuals excited about
their company. Present a positive attitude: companies seek pleasant people. Don't
overdo the cool routine; we all appreciate humble people. Don't make the
interviewer guess if you really do want the job.
6. Sell Yourself: That interviewer doesn't know the real you: it is up to you to
get that across. Don't be afraid to brag a little about your experience and
talents, and how they will benefit the company. Substitute strengths for
weaknesses; transition the negative into a positive (this takes a little practice
but is doable). Be honest.
7. Be Cool: Be calm. Most people get nervous during a job interview. Practice
with a friend, or interview often enough to defuse the fear. No matter what
happens, don't overreact to obstacles such as salary, location, or other issues. It
is always possible to solve these things later if you leave the issue open.
8. Relax about the Money: Do not talk about money in an initial interview or at
the beginning of any interview. Those who focus too much on money turn off most
people. Convince the company you can do the job and that you want the job before
discussing money and benefits. Ideally, only talk about it after the company has
made you an offer.

Blunders:

1. Negativity: "That job was awful. I was so glad to leave that company. Nothing
but idiots." Interviewers will wonder about your self-control.
2. Repetition: "As I stated earlier, I have more than 5 years of experience
in ..." The interviewer will be bored and will wonder why you have so little to say
about yourself.
3. Rambling: Let me tell you..." Keep it brief. Otherwise, the interviewer may
not get to ask you all the necessary questions.
4. Presupposing: You wouldn't have invited me here if you didn't think I was a
suitable candidate." Don't think aloud for the interviewer. They hate that.