Be Prepared
Research the employer.
Go online and learn about the company's mission, products, services,
customer service, etc. You don't need to memorize their web site
but learn the basics:
- What product(s) or service(s) does the organization produce
or provide?
- Do they have multiple locations?
If you're interviewing for a customer service (or technical support
/ help desk) position, check out the customer servicee area of the
web site.
Know where you're going.
Drive to the company's office to get familiar with the area. Find
the entrance and any nearby parking or public transit stop. I once
interviewed a guy the day after originally scheduled because
he didn't walk down the street far enough, didn't ask anyone where
the really large insurance company that had two buildings and a
really big sign was located. Yes, it was against my better judgement
to re-schedule the appointment but we were desperate (no, he didn't
get the job).
Expect technical questions about your area of expertise.
If you are a database administrator, expect some technical questions
about typical database problems or concepts. A Java programmer should
know the key concepts behind object-oriented programming (encasulation,
inheritence, etc).
Expect situation or other touchie-feelie questions.
While these questions are harder to anticipate you can prepare yourself
for them mentally. For example, "Tell me about a situation where
your design failed. What did you learn from the experience?"
First, it's ok to think a few moments but do not get stumped by
any question. Second, your answer should be direct and to the point.
Leave out extraneous details or names that are not important to
the answer.
Think through some "best" and "worst" questions
and have notes to help you recall them during the interview. It's
ok to glance at your notes.
Think through your weaknesses.
Be prepared to candidly discuss areas where you need to improve.
Why did you leave your last employer? Or, why are you planning
to leave your current employer?
Briefly describe the reason. Do not go into details; the interviewer
doesn't need to know more than the basic reason. Prepare
your answer to this question because the interviewer will be listening
to the answer. Typical answers include:
- I was laid off
- I'm looking for new challenges
- My spouse transferred to this area
Have a second level answer ready in case the interviewer asks you
to elaborate. Stick to the facts. Don't go into a long drawn out
blow-by-blow. Don't give more than you are asked. Leave out the
drama, it will only hurt your chances.
Try to work in (positive) things you learned at your last employer
that you will bring to this new position.
Have your references ready.
Two business and one personal reference can be important to some
organizations. Critical to others. Let your references know you
are interviewing and 1) ask permission to use their names and 2)
ask them the best time for the interviewer to contact them. Put
that on your References sheet.
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