Dependence to Independence

The Interview Process A job interview can be defined as a formal meeting in which one or more persons question, consult, or evaluate another person for the purposes of employment. The key word noted above is FORMAL. A job interview is not a casual, familiar, friendly type of encounter. It is a formal event, meaning that the purpose of getting together is to conduct business and to see if there might be a match between you and the employer. The employer sets the pace in the interview. They are in charge. They will lead the meeting, not you. You are there under their guidelines. They have a specific need they are trying to address. You are being screened to see if you fit the bill. Many times, you will be in competition with other qualified applicants. It will be important that you set yourself apart from the other persons being interviewed. It is critical that you arrive at your interview earlier than your scheduled appointment. Punctuality is one very important part of employment performance. You should never be late for an interview. You need to come prepared for the interview with a copy of your resume, a pen, a notepad, and glasses if necessary. You should be appropriately dressed in conservative, clean and pressed attire. Shoes should match your clothing. Don’t wear too much decorative jewelry or heavy perfume/cologne. Do not over apply make-up. Hair should be clean and styled. Your personal grooming will be an important part of their first impression of you. Be attentive and try to act yourself. Remember, everyone goes through the same process as you. Try not to get nervous or anxious. Think about what the interviewer is asking of you and answer the questions in a clear and thoughtful manner, paying close attention to the questions. Don’t get off the track and talk endlessly about something irrelevant to the question being asked. Do not interrupt the interviewer. Try to stay within a reasonable time frame when answering questions. And don’t forget to maintain direct eye contact with your interviewer. When the interview has been completed, be sure to thank the prospective employer/interviewer for taking the time to meet with you and be sure to express your availability and eagerness to accept the position. Ask them if they would like you to follow up with them in a few days. If not, ask them how you can learn whether you have been selected for the position.