Job Interview TipsAn interview gives you the opportunity to showcase your qualifications to an employer, so it pays to be well prepared. The following information provides some helpful hints.

Preparation:

• Learn about the facility and what the job will require of you.
• If you are interviewing for a position that would require you to relocate, be sure to research the community so that you appear knowledgeable and interested.
• Review your qualifications for the job.
• Be ready to briefly describe your experience, showing how it relates to the job.
• Be ready to answer broad questions, such as "Why should I hire you?" "Why do you want this job?" "What are your strengths and weaknesses?"
• Remember you are interviewing your potential employer just as they are interviewing you. Be prepared with any questions that you may have. Questions show interest and preparation on your part.
• Practice an interview with a friend or relative.

Personal Appearance:

• Be well groomed.
• Dress appropriately. When in doubt, always assume that business professional is the appropriate choice.

The Interview:

• Be early.
• Learn the name of your interviewer and greet him or her with a firm handshake.
• Use good manners and show genuine interest in everyone you meet.
• Relax and answer each question concisely.
• Use proper English—avoid slang.
• Be cooperative and enthusiastic.
• Use body language to show interest—use eye contact and don’t slouch.
• Ask questions about the position and the organization, but avoid questions whose answers can easily be found on the company Web site. Thank the interviewer when you leave and reiterate your interest if you think the position is one you would accept.
• Send a short thank you note.

Information to bring to an interview:

• Social Security card.
• Government-issued identification (driver’s license).
• 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.
• Three professional references. Get permission before using anyone as a reference. Make sure that they will give you a good reference.
• While not required, it never hurts to have copies of diplomas, certifications, licensure, etc. on hand.