The saying “You never get a second chance to make a first impression” applies here.  Go to the interview prepared.  Do some research on the company ahead of time so that you have some understanding of the business, their products, their customers, their size, their financial position, their philosophy.  This will allow you to converse intelligently with the interviewer and to show your interest in the position.

Following are some potential questions that you should be prepared to answer:

• Tell me about yourself.

• How does your education/experience relate to this job?

• Why did you leave your last job?

• What were your responsibilities in your previous job?

• What skill can you bring?

• Why have you been out of work for so long?

• What are your greatest strengths?  Weaknesses?

• What 3 words would you use to describe yourself?

• What are your goals?

• Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

• What was your salary in your last job?

• Why do you want to work for us?

Underneath all of these questions the employer is considering:

• Can we get along?

• Do you have the skills which we need?

• What sets you apart from the other candidates?

• Can we afford to hire you?

Lately situational interviewing has gained in popularity.  The employer may question how you would handle certain situations such as angry customers, travel assignments, difficult co-workers, etc.  You may also be asked to perform tasks which would be related to the job, such as producing a writing sample, or treating a hypothetical patient.  Be prepared for questions such as:

• "Describe a time when you were faced with problems or stresses at work that tested your coping skills.  What did you do?"

• Give an example of an important goal you had set and tell about your progress in reaching that goal.

Interview Tips

1. Don’t smoke or chew gum.

2. Be friendly to everyone you meet.  They may have input into the hiring decision.

3. Arrive in plenty of time.

4. Be positive and never make negative remarks regarding your previous workplace.

5. Bring any licenses or documents which may relate to the job.

6. Come with a list of references.  Be sure to get permission from your references to use them.

7. Always send a thank you note to the interviewer.