Interview Etiquette and Preparation

Interview Attire Checklist (Men) Do’s Don'ts Conservative 2 piece suit (navy or black preferably) Or Dress slacks Long-sleeved white or light colored tailored shirt Tie Polished dress shoes Dark sock (dress socks preferably) Belt (that matches your shoes) Minimal jewelry (watch & ring) Well-groomed, clean fingernails Deodorant/light cologne Don’t wear white athletic socks, ankle socks, or no socks Don’t wear too many mixed prints Don’t overdo it with color Don’t wear too much cologne Don’t wear sunglasses in the interview Don’t chew gum Less is more

Interview Attire Checklist (Women) Do’s Don’ts Suit (pant or skirt): black, navy, gray, or taupe White or light colored blouse A nice sweater/cardigan if you aren’t wearing a suit jacket Neutral hosiery Close-toed pump with a low-heel Minimal jewelry: studs, watch, and simple necklace Well-groomed, natural looking makeup, light nail polish. Deodorant/light perfume Don’t wear too much makeup Don’t wear too much perfume Don’t wear heels over 3 inches Don’t wear jeans Don’t wear form-fitting skirts/dresses Don’t wear short skirts/dresses (an inch or 2 above the knee) Don’t wear anything low-cut or cleavage bearing Don’t wear crazy hairstyles

How to Ace the Interview

Interview Checklist Proper attire Confidence and posture Extra copies of your resume and cover letter A list of references (not on resume) Addresses and information from prior employers 3 to 4 prepared questions to ask in the interview Notepad and pen Water Mints (no gum!!!!) Portfolio for your documents

First Impressions!

So, tell me a little bit about yourself…

Questions You Might Ask in an Interview What skills and experience would make an ideal candidate? What is the single largest problem facing your staff and would I be in a position to help you solve this problem? What have you enjoyed most about working here? What constitutes success at this position and in this organization/firm/nonprofit/company? Do you have an hesitations about my qualifications? Do you offer continuing education or professional development opportunities? Can you tell me about the team I will be working with? What have past employees done to succeed in this position? What is the next step in the process? What do you look for in a qualified candidate?