The Resume
The interview is the reason you put together a resume and a customized cover letter. Treat it with the proper importance. Start by being prepared. You should already know a lot about the job, company, their size, current financial strength, some of the things they are currently doing, and something about the industry they compete in. There are a lot of sources for this information in public libraries, the internet, or the company's annual report. If you have trouble finding this reference material call the company itself and they will usually be able to send you some information.
As you learn about a prospective employer there will be questions that come to mind about the company, the position you seek, the responsibilities, objectives, reporting relationships, and management style. Be prepared to ask these questions at the appropriate time. A prospective employer wants to know that you have interest in them. To that end, show that you have interest during the interview, even if you aren't certain that you would accept an offer if made. You won't have a choice if you don't get the offer, and you want to be the one who is ultimately in the driver's seat.
There are other questions that should be put off until long after you have created interest in yourself by the employer. Topics such as compensation, benefits, and vacation should be avoided until the interviewer brings them up or toward the end of the interview when you sense there is definite interest. It is possible that the subject will not be discussed at all on a first interview.
But let's back up. Be on time for you interview. If you're not sure where the place is, take a dry run before the actual appointment. Get there early on the appointed day but don't go into the office until a couple of minutes before the designated time. Dress well for the occasion. Even if the company has a casual dress code, wear a business suit for the interview unless told not to. Be well groomed. Most interviewers notice hair and shoes, so don't forget about them.
Anticipate questions that will be asked of you and be ready to answer them. In addition to specific questions about your background, be prepared to answer questions about your management style, long term objectives, reading habits, hobbies, pet peeves, and weaknesses. Don't be negative about your current or past employers. Listen well and don't ramble on with your answers.
Be confident. If you're prepared, look sharp, and know your business, you have nothing to worry about. Shake hands firmly, look the person in the eye when talking to them and you'll do well. Preparing for an interview is like preparing for an exam. If you've done your homework you have nothing to worry about. When the interview is completed thank the interviewer for their time. Follow up with a brief thank you letter the next day. Express your continuing interest, assuming you have some, and your confidence that you would be an asset to the company. Close with an appreciation of their consideration and an indication that you look forward to hearing from them. Good Luck!
The Insfile Administrator