What to do Once You Get an Interview Hernando MS

You have been searching online, networking with friends and family, utilizing your alma mater’s alumni association, and plain old working like a dog to generate an interview. Well, it’s finally happened; you got the call. They want to see you; and you are scheduled for the following week. You’ve got some time on your side. Here’s what you should do to ensure that you are prepared, polished, and ready to roll:

1. Construct, develop, or purchase your job search binder. This 8.5×11 leather binder with rings and a pocket will be the locus of your entire search process.

2. Make sure your resume is in good condition. I mean make sure that you have it printed on good paper in an off-white color. Have extra copies just in case you are asked to see more than one person. The copies should be tucked in your job search binder so the paper remains pristine.

3. Conduct additional research about the position and the company. Do you have a job description? Review it – thoroughly. Make sure you understand what will be required of you. Write down some questions you might want to ask in your leather binder so you don’t forget them the day of your interview.

4. Do competitive research. This will involve evaluating similar positions in similar companies to see how closely related the roles are. You should also be doing some salary research so you understand what the market is doing with regard to this position from a pay perspective. Your understanding of these things will give you the upper hand and allow you to negotiate effectively and eloquently handle ‘the salary question’ during the interview process.

5. Practice your interviewing skills. Have a friend, business colleague, or engage professional coach if need be to ensure your interviewing skills are up to snuff. Using filler words like “umm,” “like,” and “uhhh” will not win you any Brownie points with your audience. Your preparation and calm, professional demeanor will send the positive signals you want. Interview preparation will also pay-off tenfold in your own self-esteem.

The Day / Night Before:

6. Send a follow-up email or make a phone call to confirm that you will be there at the agreed upon time. I say this, because as strange as you may think it is, I have had clients tell me that they showed up to a scheduled interview and the interviewer either forgot or something happened and the candidate was rescheduled! How’s that for an aggravating and utter waste of time?

7. Get a good night’s sleep. Don’t say up until 1am thinking about the interview. You want to feel refreshed and relaxed.

8. Choose the outfit you are going to wear. Make sure that your suit is clean and pressed and the tie / dress / shoes / accessories are ready. You should not be frantically searching around for things in the morning.

The Day Of:

9. Leave your house / apartment 30 minutes early. You cannot account for traffic, subway issues, or naturally occurring disasters. Better that you are early tha...