How to Do Well in a Job Interview

       Ask people for a list of their least favorite activities, and with “getting my teeth drilled” there is likely to be “going to a job interview.” The job interview is often regarded as a painful experience. The job-interview “game” may not be much fun, but it is a game you can win if you play it right. Here are guidelines to help you play the interview game well:

       Present yourself as a winner. The way you dress, speak, and move gives the interviewer more information about you than you would think possible. The thumbs-down decision was often made in less than forty-five seconds—even before the applicant thought the interview had begun. How can you keep yourself from becoming a victim of an instant “no” decision?

       Dress appropriately. This means business clothing: usually a suit and tie or a conservative dress or skirt suit. Don’t wear casual student clothing. On the other hand, don’t overdress: you’re going to a job interview, not a party.

       Look alert, poised, and friendly. When that interviewer looks into the waiting room and calls your name, he or she is getting a first impression of your behavior. Smiling and looking directly at that person, extend your hand to shake his or hers, saying, “I’m Lesley Brown. Thank you for seeing me today.”

       Be ready for the interviewer’s questions. The same questions come up again and again in many job interviews. You should plan ahead for all these questions! Think carefully about each question, outline your answer, and memorize each outline. Then practice reciting the answers to yourself. Only in this way are you going to be prepared. Here are the common questions for an interview:

Tell me about yourself. Be prepared to give a brief summary of your life and work experience—where you grew up, where you went to school, what jobs you’ve had, and how you happen to be here.

What are your strengths and weaknesses? Be ready to say something specific. How did the strengths serve you in the past? Don’t make the mistake of saying, “I don’t have any real weaknesses.” No one will believe that. Admit a weakness—but make it one that an employer might like. For instance, admit that you often seek perfection.

Why should we hire you? Don’t be afraid to sell yourself. Tell the interviewer that from your research you have learned that this company is one you would like to work for, and that you believe the company’s needs and your skills are a great match.

Why did you leave your last job? Never badmouth anyone. Say that you left in order to seek greater responsibilities and challenges.

Do you have any questions? Ask a question or two about specific aspects of the job, pointing out again how well your talents and the company’s needs are matched. Even if you’re dying to know how much the job pays, don’t ask. There will be time for this later.

       Send a thank-you note. Once you’ve passed the interview, there is one more chance for you to make a fine impression. As soon as you can—certainly no more than one or two days after the interview—write a note of thanks to your interviewer. Make the note polite, businesslike, and brief—just a paragraph or two.

       No amount of preparation is going to make interviewing for a job your favorite activity. But if you go well prepared, your potential employer can’t help thinking highly of you. And you will be the one who wins the job.