FAQ
You should arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time. Use the extra time to browse through your notes one last time and observe the atmosphere. Keep in mind the interview begins as soon as you walk through the door, so don’t talk on your cell phone or underestimate the receptionist! If you arrive more than 15 minutes before your interview, sit in your car or in the building lobby. You don’t want to show up too early and make the interviewer feel rushed.
Bring several copies of your resume, company research, questions to ask, portfolio, references or recommendation letters, business cards, paper, pen and anything else they told you to bring. It is better to have it and not need it, then to need it and not have it. Make sure all of this information is in a folder or binder – no loose papers.
Try to find out as much as you can about what will take place so you will be prepared. Will you have to fill out an application? Will there be multiple interviews during your appointment? Will you be given a tour of the facility? Will you have to take an assessment test?
Simply call before your interview and ask the receptionist or administrative assistant. This is a situation that can be avoided very easily.
If you will be late, call the interviewer and give them an estimated time of arrival and the reason for your tardiness. If something has come up and you can’t make it at all, be honest and get in touch with the interviewer as soon as possible. Ask if it is possible for you to reschedule, however please realize that the employer will likely forfeit your interview altogether.
You should first start with the company website and look up their values, mission statement, future plans, products, services, honors, awards, current news, training and development opportunities and job openings. You should jot these things down and familiarize yourself with them. Your notes will come in handy when asked “What do you know about our company?” or “Why do you want to work here?” You can also check out the Better Business Bureau, LinkedIn, Google, Twitter and Facebook for additional information. Don’t forget to look up the actual interviewer and know 2 – 3 things about him/her as well.
You should have at least 3 questions to ask the interviewer. Just like the interviewer is trying to see if you are a good fit, you should be trying to see if the company is a good fit for you as well. Having no questions indicates that you are not really interested in the job.
You should definitely within 24 hours. You want to do it right away so you don’t forget and so they don’t forget who you are. You should thank them for taking the time to interview you and giving you the opportunity to learn more about the company. This can be done through an e-mail or handwritten note (e-mail is usually preferred). Mention something specific that you talked about in the interview to make them remember you. Remember, each interviewer needs to be thanked individually.