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

 Preparation:

• Learn about the organization. - Have a specific job or jobs in mind.

• 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?".

• Practice an interview with a friend or relative.

  Personal appearance:

• Be well groomed.

• Dress appropriately.

• Do not chew gum or smoke.

  The interview:

• Be early.

• Learn the name of your interviewer and greet him or her with a firm handshake.

• Use good manners with 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.

• Also avoid asking questions about salary and benefits unless a job offer is made.

• Thank the interviewer when you leave and shake hands.

• 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.

• References: Employers typically require three references. Get permission before using anyone as a reference. Make sure that they will give you a good reference. Try to avoid using relatives as references.

• Transcripts: Employers may require an official copy of transcripts to verify grades, coursework, dates of attendance, and highest grade completed or degree awarded.