Interviewing for a new job opportunity can make anyone a bit apprehensive, no matter what position level. Just as each applicant is looking for the best fit for their future, each employer is seeking an employee who fits their company’s values and can contribute to its overall goals.

It seems like a simple piece of advice, but the importance of preparing for an interview is essential.

At Primary Services, you will receive expert advice from our recruiters before you interview a client. Look at our tips for a successful job interview below.

Interview Preparation:

• Research and prepare questions about the company’s background, values, and goals. This helps
  you determine if the company culture is a good fit.
• Prepare a list of questions about the job. Make sure they show your interest in how you would contribute to the department and organization.
• Familiarize yourself with the interview location. Make a practice run a day or two in advance and be sure to take traffic and parking into account. Arrive at the location 10 to 15 minutes early.
• Prepare interview responses. If possible, ask a friend or family member to give you a practice interview. Prepare to describe how your experience fulfills the job’s requirements. Many hiring managers will assess your integrity through their questions. Try these 7 integrity-based interview questions and see how your answers reflect your level of integrity in the workplace. Also, consider how to respond to more general interview questions, including:
  1. Give us an introduction about yourself.
  2. What do you know about our company?
  3. Why do you feel like you would be a good fit for this position?
  4. Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult co-worker.
  5. How would you describe your work ethic?
  6. Give us an example of a stressful, work-related situation you had to overcome.
  7. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Dress for Success:

• Both men and women should wear a conservative navy or black suit. Avoid flashy ties or blouses that have bright colors or patterns.
• Wear matching, modest shoes with stockings or socks. Again, avoid bright colors. If you wear high heels, select lower heels (approximately 1”- 2”).
• Make sure your hair is neatly groomed. For longer hair, pull hair away from your face.
• Do not smoke on your way to the interview; your clothes will hold the smell.

Information to Bring to an Interview:

• Social Security card and government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license or state identification.
• Resume or application. Although not all employers require a resume, you should be able to furnish the interviewer information about your education, training, and previous employment.
• References. Employers typically require three references. Get permission before using anyone as a reference. Avoid using relatives as references.

During the Interview:

• Give a firm handshake and make direct eye contact.
• Project a positive attitude and smile.
• LISTEN! Be attentive and show interest in what’s being said.
• Speak clearly and keep answers between one to two minutes in length.
• Know what you want and what you can offer as an employee.
• Be positive about your current and previous employers.
• Do not initially discuss topics such as benefits or pay range but answer honestly if the interviewer brings them up. If asked about compensation expectations, indicate you are looking for a fair offer.

After the Interview:

• Be sure to thank the interviewer. If possible, send an email thanking them for their time.
• Always anticipate a follow-up interview.
• Call the recruiter immediately to give feedback.