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An
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:
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Learn
about the organization.
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Have
a specific job or jobs in mind.
-
Review
your qualifications for the job.
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Prepare
answers to broad questions about yourself.
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Review
your résumé.
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Practice
an interview with a friend or relative.
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Arrive
before the scheduled time of your interview.
Personal
appearance:
The
interview:
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Relax
and answer each question concisely.
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Respond
promptly.
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Use
good manners.
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Learn
the name of your interviewer and greet him or her with a
firm handshake.
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Use
proper English—avoid slang.
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Be
cooperative and enthusiastic.
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Use
body language to show interest.
-
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, as a follow-up, in writing.
Test
(if employer gives one):
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Listen
closely to instructions.
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Read
each question carefully.
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Write
legibly and clearly.
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Budget
your time wisely and don’t dwell on one question.
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Transcripts.
Employers may require an official copy of transcripts to verify
grades, coursework, dates of attendance, and highest
grade completed or degree awarded.
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