Interviewing

First impressions are important, so look professional. If you're unsure what to wear, it is better to play it safe and dress more professionally.

Arrive about 15 minutes early.

Nonverbal communication makes up a significant part of all communication. How you dress, stand, sit, use your hands, move your head and eyes, and how you listen all work together to provide your interviewer with information about you.

Maintain good posture, have a firm handshake, use eye contact, show enthusiasm, and control any nervous mannerisms. Smile, be friendly, and maintain your composure throughout the interview. Be polite and respectful to everyone you come in contact with.

The interview is an exchange of information, so always ask questions at the end of the interview. Prepare more than you think you will need as some may be answered during the interview. Ask the interviewer about their hiring timeline.

Don't simply give yes and no answers. Use specific examples whenever possible to illustrate your skills and accomplishments. Show your enthusiasm about the position and the organization.

What did you learn? How would you handle the next interview differently? What was your impression of the organization? Will employment with this organization meet your professional and personal needs? If not, what are your concerns?

Thank the individuals involved, and reaffirm your interest in the position by sending a separate thank you note to each individual you met. Notes may be emailed or handwritten, but be cognizant of the timeline and the time it takes to receive an email or handwritten note.

If the employer does not contact you by the date they stated, call the organization and ask about the current status of your candidacy.

This is often the first round of a hiring process and serves as an initial screening.

Speak with a self-confident and enthusiastic tone of voice. People can hear you 'smile over the phone'.

Find a private and quiet place to conduct the interview. Speak directly into the phone, and do not use speakerphone.

Take notes to reference at the end of the interview or after the interview.

Treat this as if this is an in-person interview in terms of attire, posture, and preparation. If you look and feel the part, the employer will be able to sense your confidence over the phone.

Virtual interviews are real-time conversations with an employer through a computer, phone, or other device, whereas video interviews are recorded but not done in real time. An employer watches video interviews at a later date and time. Video interviews are gaining in popularity, and some organizations use them in place of a phone screen.

Look at the camera - not at your face on the screen.

Dress the part, and think about your surroundings.

Be aware of your body language and posture. Smile!

Confirm logistics - more than one office location, potential challenges in getting to the location (construction, traffic, etc.).

The entire visit is part of the interview, so be professional at all times including lunch or dinner with representatives or time spent in a waiting area prior to an interview.