Interview Tips in Sioux Falls, SD

Interview Tips

Interview Do's

Arrive on time or 10 minutes early.
Dress appropriately.
No strong cologne or perfume.
Be polite.
Smile.
Have material ready in case you are asked to complete an application.
If asked to fill out an application, complete it to entirety and do it neatly. Do not attached a resume' unless asked to do so.
Greet the interviewer by their last name " Mr. Jones" if your are sure how to pronounce it, or asked them to repeat for you.
Firm hand shake.
Be enthusiastic and project an energetic and ambitious demeanor.
Ask the interviewer to decribe the job and the duties for the position so you can focust your responses on your skills, experience and accomplishments that relate to the position.
Act confident.
Do not sit down until offered a seat, then sit up straight, be alert and show interest at all times.
Look the hiring manager in the eyes while speaking to him/her.
Listen carefully and answer/respond as briefly and distinctly as possible.
Be sincere and truthful.
Be yourself.

Interview Don'ts.

Don't rely on your resume' or application to get the job for you. Sell yourself.
Don't make negative or derrogatory remarks about your present or former employers. When asked to explain your reasons for leaving - convey your rationale professionally.
Don't answer questions with a simple "yes" or "no". Explain whenever possible.
Never pretend to know someone or something when you don't.
If you don't understand a question or need a time to think about it - say so.
Keep your responses short, don't over answer questions.
Refrain from inquiring about salary, bonuses, retirement, vacations, etc. on the first/initial interview. If the interviewer asks about what salary you want, answere by giving a range based on your research of the job market, then advise the interviewer that you are more interested in the opportunity the position offers.

Questions to Expect

What do you know about our company and the position you are applying for? (An opportunity for you to tell what you know from the research you did ahead of time.
Why did you leave your last job? (Respond to this question in a positive manner).
Tell me about yourself. (Even though this question is often used to break the ice, keep your answer job, experience and skills related.
What are your strengths? (Sell yourself, talk about your education, skills, experience with the intension of explaining why you would be a good employee for their company).
What are your weaknesses? (Be truthful and answer in a positive manner. For example: "I am a poor speller, but I use spell check to make up for it").
Do you have references? (make sure to contact your references ahead of time to get approval to use them and include: their name, address and telephone numbers).
Why haven't you been employed for such a long time? (Be honest. Explain your intent or situation with honesty. Be sincere about your abilities and commitment).
Why should we offer you a position? (answer this in a positive manner, emphasis your attributes ie. quick learner, good worker, good attitude, excellent work ethic, etc.)

Questions to Ask

Interview Closing

Be positive and proactive.
Show you are interested in the job. Be enthusiastic about the job and the company.
Should you get the impression the interview is not going well - remain poised, don't let your discouragement show, be upbeat and professional because there may be other positions or opportunities within the company that would work better for you.
Reiterate your interest in the job and the company by asking about the next step in the selection process.
Thank the interviewer for their time and the opportunity to interview for the position.
Request a business card.
Shake hands.
Approximately two (2) days after the interview send a thank you note to all of the interviewers.