INTERVIEWING FOR THE JOB: TIPS TO REMEMBER TRAPS TO AVOID By Suzanne Chester Women in the Profession Committee

Preparing for the interview Be familiar with what the job involves Bring a pen and a clean copy of your application/resume Prepare a question to ask at the end of the interview

Arrive on time! Arrange reliable transportation in advance Check out the location in advance so you don’t get lost

Arrive on Time! Always allow thirty extra minutes for the unexpected.

Who should you bring to an interview? No children No boyfriends No pets Just yourself! (If you are depending on a ride, have the driver wait in the car)

Present yourself appropriately for the job e.g. Interviewing to be a waitress, cashier, day-care worker: Clean fingernails No nail-biting Hair neatly tied back Don’t over dress Dress casually, neatly and appropriately

The interview itself.... Shake hands firmly and smile when you introduce yourself to the interviewer Maintain friendly eye-contact Look like you are interested in the job Don’t talk over the interviewer

Be careful... Be honest when answering the difficult questions Make the most of what you have to offer but don’t over exaggerate

Maintain a professional attitude throughout the interview

Making a good impression... Talk confidently about your ability to handle the responsibilities of the job Talk about similar job experiences you’ve had in the past Ask a question to get the employer talking

Avoid distracting mannerisms No pen-tapping No face-touching, rubbing eyes etc. No fidgeting Avoid flipping your hair Don’t let your cell phone ring

After the Interview... Always call back/write the next day Make the call at a convenient time for the employer

After the interview.... Contact your references so they can expect a call Make sure the contact information you have given is reliable

After the interview.... If you give a telephone number with an answering machine, be sure to erase annoying greetings

Best of luck in nailing that interview!!!