Interviewing
Purpose
An interview is an opportunity for you to verbally convey to the employer that you are the right person for the job, through your personality, qualifications and skills. The interview is also an opportunity for you to see if you are interested in the position, the agency and the mission.
Does going on a job interview make you nervous? Are you nervous that you won't clearly articulate what you do or that you won't have the right answer? Being prepared for your job interview will certainly improve your chances of being successful at the interview and will decrease your nervousness.
View our Resume & Interviewing Handout for more information on interviewing.
Preparation
- Research the agency and the specific position for which you are interviewing. Look at the agency's website to get an idea of its mission and goals.
- Review the job posting to understand what is expected of the position and how your qualifications and skills align with the position.
- Develop some questions to ask relevant to the job you are seeking, such as: how will my performance be evaluated; are there any opportunities for promotion or training; if hired, would I report directly to you or someone else?
- Know the time and location of the interview. Take a practice run to the location so you know how to get there, how much travel time you'll need and parking availability.
- Do a mock interview with a friend and have them ask you practice interview questions (samples below).
View our Resume & Interviewing Handout for more information on how to prepare for an interview.
Interviewing Questions
No one can predict the exact questions that an interviewer will ask, but you should prepare answers to common questions. Some of these questions may be difficult to answer which is why you will want to organize your thoughts, experience and what you can bring to the job before you go to the interview. Below are some sample interview questions, or you may view additional interview questions here.
- What are your strengths as an employee?
- Can you take constructive criticism without feeling upset? Give an example.
- How would you describe your organizational skills?
- How do you go about making important decisions?
- Do you prefer to work by yourself or with others?
View our Resume & Interviewing Handout for more information on interviewing.
Tips
- Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early.
- Dress and conduct yourself as a professional in your field. Don't bring in beverages, chew gum, smoke or wear heavy perfume.
- Smile! Be courteous and respectful to everyone including office staff.
- Turn off your cell phone and put it away.
- Keep your nervous habits in check (tapping your foot, bouncing your leg, etc.).
- Listen to the questions asked and be sure to answer thoroughly.
- Do not lie. Answer questions truthfully.
- Do not make negative comments about your current or previous employer.
- Express thanks for the interviewer's time and consideration.
View our Resume & Interviewing Handout for more information on interviewing tips.
Thank You Note
You should send a thank you note to the interviewers after the interview is complete. E-mail is fine, but keep it professional. State your appreciation for the opportunity to interview and reference something the excites you about the position. In addition, mention any additional relevant information you may have forgotten to mention at the interview. View a sample thank you note or view our Resume & Interviewing Handout for more information on thank you notes.Workshop
Visit our Resume and Interview Preparation Training page to learn more about our available training, including a recorded webinar.
If you would like more information on preparing for an interview, please call or e-mail CMO. You may also view our Resume & Interviewing Handout for more information on interview preparation.