Congratulations! You finally secured that interview you've been trying for weeks to get! Now what? Do you sit idle and just "wing it" when the time comes? Or do you plan, prepare, study, and practice for that big day when you only have one opportunity to land your ideal career?
Assuming you would wisely choose the latter, here is our Lindsay Group, Inc. checklist of the tasks involved for doing your absolute best pre-interview, interview, and post interview.  

 

1. Research the company- It is imperative that you go into the interview with a clear understanding of what the company does and how you would be a benefit to them if hired.

 

2. If you are at all uncertain of the location of the company, go there prior so you won't get lost or run into something unforeseen- With internet mapping sites and GPS/ SATNAV technology, getting lost is never an excuse.
 
3. Retrieve your favorite suite from the dry cleaner; stopping along the way for that much needed haircut- Proper hygiene is important and can't be stressed enough. If you look and feel professional, you will perform better during the interview. 
 
4. Have 3 to 5 copies of your resume printed up ahead of time and place them in a folder or briefcase- Be prepared by having the proper documentation in hand.  More often than not, you may interview with more than one decision maker.
 
5. Arrive 15 minutes prior to the designated time- Don't arrive 30 minutes prior or "just in the nick of time". A true professional is considerate of others schedules.  

 

 

1. Greet the receptionist with a smile while announcing yourself and the nature of your visit- Your smile will show how happy you are to be there and are thrilled about this exciting opportunity to interview.

2. Greet your interviewer with a strong handshake and a smile- Never hand the person a "limp fish"! A solid handshake marks the beginning of a lasting professional relationship.

3. During the interview, sit with both feet on the floor, shoulders back, head up, arms to your sides, smile often, make eye contact, and slightly lean in toward the interviewer- Any other posture can be perceived as being too relaxed. Leaning in shows the interviewer that you are eager to listen and learn more. 

4. Have your "30 second elevator pitch" ready- When asked "tell me a little about yourself", you must have something prepared. This is your chance to shine and show the interviewer you are the right person for the job.

5. Listen carefully, be conversational but don't interrupt- When the interviewer speaks, stop whatever you are saying and listen. Don't talk over the interviewer no matter how badly you want to get out the point you are trying to make.

 

7. When asked if you have any questions, "say yes"-  Always have questions prepared. It shows you are interested in the company and what it is they do.  Never ask questions about promotions, salary, and benefits on your first interview. Now is not the time. 

 

Post Interview 

 

1. Send a follow up hand-written thank you note or email thanking them for their time and for giving you the opportunity to interview- This shows your interest, sincerity and follow up skills.

2. Give your interviewer a follow up phone call a few days after the email thanking them again- Being tenacious could help you get the position if the hiring manager is "on the fence" about extending an offer.