Interviews

Preparing for an interview

Research the employer.

Become familiar with an organization’s mission, services, clients, structure, leadership, lingo, and current projects or initiatives. Look at the organization’s website or talk to anyone you know who works there.

Prepare questions to ask.

You will typically have the opportunity to ask questions, so prepare questions in advance, and bring them to the interview.

Inventory the job description versus your qualifications.

Compare the job duties and qualifications with your background and then determine how you match them. Think of past job experiences or what you are currently doing, and rehearse how you would answer questions about your qualifications to fit aspects of the job description.

At the interview

Treat everyone with courtesy and respect.

Greet everyone with a smile. Give a firm handshake to those you meet. Often those who interact with you, even in inconsequential ways, may be asked for their impressions of you.

After the interview

Say “Thank You.”

Send a thank you note or letter to those who interviewed you within two business days of your interview. This can help you stand out in a positive way, particularly if you are the only candidate who does so.