Interviewing for the Job: Making a Good Impression

Many employers want to interview people in person before they hire them. Making a good impression at a job interview can do a lot toward helping you get the job.

Job Interview Tips
Before the interview:

Research the company and the available position.

Have a practice interview, either with a friend, MTSTCIL staff, or by yourself. Anticipate what kinds of questions you would be asked and how you would answer them.

Know with whom, where, and when your interview is held and how to get there.

Be prepared:

Ask the company or person interviewing you if you need to bring anything special to the interview.

Bring extra copies of your resume, identification, references with addresses and phone numbers.

Bring a written list of questions for the person interviewing you about the job and the company.

Day of the interview:

Show up for your interview on time.

Dress professionally and be well groomed. While not every company requires people to wear business suits, you should dress and look professional for your interview (even if it means you are overdressed for the occasion!) Again, it's fine to ask the interviewer before your interview how you should dress.

Introduce yourself to your interviewer and shake hands. Be sure to thank the interviewer for seeing you.

Use good posture, be polite, and keep eye contact throughout the interview.

Use good listening and communication skills. Listen carefully to the interviewer and answer their questions as best as you can. Be cheerful and enthusiastic when talking.