ACE THE FACE-TO-FACE

Do a little homework beforehand.

· Research the Company and the Position

· Find out as much key information as you can about the company, its products and its customers. If possible, talk to people who work at the company. There may be other sources of information on the Web, especially if the company is publicly traded.

· Obtain a list of job responsibilities and qualifications when possible. Prepare a summary of your experience as it relates to the position description.

Prepare for the Actual Interview

· Practice your answers to Common Questions. Likewise, prepare a list of questions to ask the employer. Most interviews follow this pattern: First, you answer questions about your experience and qualifications, and then you ask questions about the job.

· Rehearse your interview in front of a friend, family member, or videotape when possible. You should be able to convey all pertinent information about yourself in 15 minutes.

· Prepare your interview materials before you leave. Bring several copies of your resume, a list of references, and, if appropriate, any work samples. Make sure they are all up-to-date.

· Dress professionally and comfortably. You will be judged in some respects by what you wear. When in doubt, dress conservatively. (See "What to Wear to An Interview")

ESTABLISHING RAPPORT DURING A JOB INTERVIEW
By establishing a rapport with your interviewer, you build "common ground" between the both of you. It is important to listen and be sensitive to the interviewer's style. This can make communication easier and the whole interview more comfortable.

Listen closely to the interviewer for cues on how you should act. Is he being formal or informal? How loudly is he speaking? What sort of information is he trying to solicit: general, professional, or personal? Once you've determined where the interviewer is 'coming from,' you can follow his/her lead. Try to speak with the same rhythm and tone of voice. Make some friendly observations about your surroundings. If the interview is conversational, make small talk about your interests, hobbies, or what you did last weekend. Be positive and upbeat. All of these will help both of you relax and establish a connection. It's important to appear open and friendly as well. Give the interviewer a firm handshake if he/she offers it, and remember to smile. Make sure you look attentive, with good posture and consistent eye contact.

MAKING A GOOD IMPRESSION ON THE INTERVIEW

Before the Interview

· Review "Commonly Asked Interview Questions" and be prepared to answer them.

· Arrive 15 minutes early. Arriving on time (or early) is usually interpreted by the interviewer as evidence of your commitment, dependability, and professionalism.

· Relax. Think of the interview as a conversation, not an interrogation. And remember, the interviewer is just as nervous about making a good impression on you.

During the Interview

· Remember to listen. Communication is a two-way street. If you are talking too much, you will probably miss cues concerning what the interviewer feels is important.

· Reflect before answering a difficult question. If you are unsure how to answer a question, you might reply with another question. For example, if the interviewer asks you what salary you expect, try answering by saying "That is a good question. What are you planning to pay your best candidate?"

· When it is your turn, ask the questions you have prepared in advance. These should cover any information about the company and job position you could not find in your own research.

· Do not ask questions that raise red flags. Ask, "Is relocation a requirement?" The interviewer may assume that you do not want to relocate at all. Too many questions about vacation may cause the interviewer to think you are more interested in taking time off than helping the company. Make sure the interviewer understands why you are asking these questions.

· Show you want the job. Display your initiative by talking about what functions you could perform that would benefit the organization, and by giving specific details of how you have helped past employers. You might also ask about specific details of the job position, such as functions, responsibilities, who you would work with, and who you would report to.

· Avoid negative body language. An interviewer wants to see how well you react under pressure. Avoid these signs of nervousness and tension:

- Frequently touching your mouth
- Faking a cough to think about the answer to a question
- Gnawing on your lip
- Tight or forced smiles
- Swinging your foot or leg
- Folding or crossing your arms
- Slouching
- Avoiding eye contact

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