Job Application Process Preparing for an Interview

Dress and Grooming Clothes should be neat, clean, and wrinkle-free. Dress formally and conservatively. Hair should be clean, neat, and conservative. Avoid excessive jewelry. Avoid wearing too much makeup or perfume. Nails should be clean and neatly trimmed.

Preparing for the Interview Write down the date and time of the interview and the interviewer’s name. Make sure that you can pronounce and spell the interviewer’s name correctly. Review your resume and be prepared to answer questions about your education, experience and qualifications. Practice answering potential interview questions. Prepare questions to ask during the interview.

Potential Interview Questions Why do you want to work for this company? Why do you think you can do this job? What jobs have you had? Why did you leave? What do you want to be doing five years from now? Do you prefer to work alone or with others? What are your strengths and weaknesses? Why should I hire you? When can you start work?

Employment Law Employment decisions cannot be made on the basis of race or ethnicity, gender, religion, marital status, age, country of origin, sexual preference, and physical and/or mental status. Questions should address only factors related to an individual’s ability to perform job duties.

How to Handle Illegal Questions If asked questions that are illegal under federal law, you have three choices: Answer truthfully, if you feel that your answer will not affect whether you get the job. Tell the interviewer that the question is inappropriate because of anti-discrimination laws. (Keep in mind that this may prevent you from getting the job.) Base your answer on the requirements of the job and your ability to perform the duties required.

Appropriate Interview Conduct Go alone. Arrive 5 to 10 minutes early. Allow extra travel time in case you are delayed. Be courteous to the receptionist or others you may meet. Bring a pen with blue or black ink. Bring two copies of your resume in a zippered folder. Remain standing until you are asked to be seated. Relax! Do not place anything on the interviewer’s desk. Keep your hands in your lap and try to keep them still. Be confident!

What to Say in the Interview Answer each question honestly. Keep answers short and to the point. Salary and benefits are usually discussed toward the end of the interview. Wait for the interviewer to bring up the topic. If you are asked how much you expect to be paid, ask, “What do you usually pay for this type of work?” If you must answer, offer a pay range.

Questions You Might Ask Why is the position vacant? What are the typical responsibilities for the position? What type of training would I receive? To whom would I report? What is the dress code? What are the hours of work? Would I be expected to work weekends? Does the position require travel? When will you make a hiring decision?

Closing and Follow-up If you are interested in the position, let the employer know. If you are offered the job at the end of the interview, you may ask for time to think it over. Set a time when you can answer (usually 24 to 48 hours). At the end of the interview, stand, smile, and thank the interviewer for his or her time and consideration. Shake hands and leave. Thank the receptionist on your way out. Follow up the interview with a thank-you letter.

Reference Farese, L., Kimbrell, G., and Woloszyk, C. (2009). Marketing Essentials: Woodland Hills, CA: Glencoe.