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Job Seekers' Guide

Suggestions and strategies to get the most out of your job search

Managing your Interview

Interviewing is about impressing an employer and an opportunity for the employer to impress you. The interview is an opportunity for both parties to determine whether or not you are the right fit for the position and/or the company. The information you gather before and during the interview will help you make an informed decision.

General Suggestions

  • Research the company, industry, and key staff. Use our databases or an internet search to find recent news about the company. See the Research Careers tab for more suggestions. 
  • If you know the names of your potential colleagues look them up on LinkedIn.
  • Develop a list of questions to ask about the culture and other aspects of the job that cannot be readily answered by your search.
  • Practice answering common questions with a friend or career professional. Know what questions interviewers cannot ask you because it is illegal.
  • Plan your trip. If you are taking an unfamiliar route, you may even want to practice the drive or public transit trip.
  • Determine your interview look. However you choose to present yourself, make sure your clothes, hair, and makeup are finished and neat.
  • Use a folio or nice folder to keep extra copies of your resume and paper for notes. You can also keep a copy of the position description and a list of questions your prepared. 
  • Bring a spare pen in case your pen or your interviewer's pen runs out. 

Skype or Phone Interview

  • Choose a quiet and clean place ahead of time for your background and adjust the lighting so you are not backlit. Natural sunlight is best. Choose a space most likely to be free from noise and visual distractions.
  • If your interview is over video, make sure all related software is up-to-date, that you know how to use the video software, and that you have a reliable internet connection
  • Wear a professional outfit. Even if the interviewer does not see you, dressing well will make you will feel more professional
  • Prepare notes and questions just like you would for an in-person interview.  
  • Practice with a friend. Speaking on a phone or through Skype can feel clumsy. Practicing can alleviate some stress.

Resources to Dig Deeper

When You Arrive

  • Arrive 10-15 minutes early to give yourself time to check in
  • Go to the restroom and check your hair, clothes, and make up, if applicable
  • Turn off or silence your cell phone and other mobile devices
  • Be friendly to the security and administrative staff
  • Use the time you have available to review any notes you have made

During Your Interview

  • Take detailed notes especially about the culture, and about your interviewers especially if they will be your colleagues if you are hired.
  • Take business cards/emails of the people you interview with if you haven't received that information already. This makes it easier to follow up and send an individualized thank you note.
  • Don't be afraid to ask questions. Remember that you are also interviewing them, trying to find potential opportunities or challenges that you will face either on the job or with your prospective coworkers.
  • Make eye contact and maintain good posture.
  • Ask about the hiring timeline if it hasn't been outlined already. This will give you clues as to when to follow up and also where the company is in the hiring process. It will also reaffirm your interest.
  • Thank everyone for taking their time to discuss the position and remember to shake hands.

Phone/Skype Interview

  • Test your connection or signal if you have a Skype or phone interview.
  • Make sure your devices are fully charged or if there are outlets available.
  • Ask for or verify the interviewer's alternate contact information at the beginning of your interview in case you are disconnected.

Suggestions for Saying Thank You

  • Send a thank you email as soon as your are able to. At the very latest, you should send a note by the end of the day your interview was scheduled.
  • Write a thank you email to each person you interview with.
  • Reaffirm your interest in the company and/or position.
  • Be brief
  • Remember a thank you note is a sample of your writing, so be clear and concise.
  • Proofread!

Suggestions for Following Up

  • If you asked about the hiring timeline, you should have date for when the company is intending to contact the candidates.
  • Wait about two days after that date to check in with the hiring manager either by phone or email if you still haven't heard anything.
  • Keep your message polite and brief.
  • Remember to sound positive and to reaffirm your interest in the position and/or the company.
  • If you don't hear from the company wait about another three days before following up again. 
  • If you haven't heard anything after two or three attempts, it's safe to say the company was not interested in you.