There are several steps for preparing for a job interview. You do not want to go into a job interview without being as well prepared as possible.
First of all, have an interview portfolio ready that includes:
- Several copies of your updated resumes
- A copy of the job description or the job ad
- Several copies of your list of references, including names, addresses, phone numbers and email addresses
- Copies of any reference letters from former employers
- Copies of any relevant awards you have been awarded
- Any information that you have on the company
- A page showing the local appropriate salary ranges for similar jobs
- Directions and phone numbers to the interview, along with the name and title of who you will be meeting for the interview
- Examples of previous work, if possible. This can include annual report, documents you have worked on, photos you have taken or reports you wrote.
It is important that you have read through all of your materials and that you have them sorted for easy reference. For instance, if you need a copy of your resume during the interview you do not want to have to fumble through a file looking for it. Keep everything organized.
Know how you can be an asset for a company, and how you will be the best fit for the job you are interviewing for. An employer wants to know just what you have to offer, so make sure you do not have to keep referring to your resume for information on your skills and accomplishments.
Be comfortable with the ten different types of job interviews and be ready for any of them. The best way to do this is to practice doing interviews ahead of time so that you are well prepared. You can have practice interviews with a friend, or even in front of a mirror. Practice will make you more comfortable with the interview process.
Try to prepare for any odd questions that an interviewer may ask you. Also, know what questions are illegal for an employer to ask during the job interview and know how to handle them tactfully and gracefully.
To be ready for your interview, the day before your appointment, review your interview portfolio, eat properly and try to relax. Make sure to get plenty of rest the night before the interview. Have a clean, professional outfit that is pressed and ready for the interview.
Before leaving for the interview, check on traffic so that you are not late for the interview. If possible, it is a good idea to do a practice run to your interview location the day before just to make sure you know exactly how to get there and approximately how long it should take.
When you are preparing for a job interview, try to relax and be at ease. And, do not forget to take your interview portfolio with you for the interview.
