Atrium Staffing - Associate Resources: Successful Interviews

Preparation

When scheduling the interview with your counselor, be sure you obtain all the necessary information, such as location, cross streets, easiest subway/bus directions, floor, name of contact and any additional information.
Research the company. Know what they do and be prepared to discuss how your skills and background can contribute to the needs of the company.

Day of Interview

Wear simple, conservative business attire. A dark skirt suit for women is recommended, worn with stockings and dark colored, low-heeled shoes.
Your makeup and jewelry should be minimal and your nail polish should be clear or neutral colored.
Wear your hair in a conservative, neat style.
Do not wear any perfume.
Do not smoke a cigarette before the interview.
Chew a breath mint while you wait for the interviewer.
Allow yourself plenty of time to arrive promptly for your interview.
Do not enter the offices more than 15 minutes before your appointment.
Review your accomplishments and any recent projects that you have successfully taken from start to finish and be prepared to discuss them.

During the Interview

Stand when approached and extend hand for handshake. Introduce yourself confidently, looking the person directly in the eye.
Appear confident, relaxed and in control; do not look over eager, desperate or nervous.
Sit up straight. Do not lean on furniture and do not slouch.
Maintain eye contact throughout the interview.
Always allow the interviewer to lead the interview. Listen to the questions carefully before responding. Your responses should be brief and to the point. Focus your answers only on the questions asked.
Always remain positive. Don’t mention unhappy situations or your dislike for co-workers or your former employer.
Do not discuss salary or benefits. Ask your counselor to negotiate for you.
Do not chew gum.
Do not use slang or inappropriate language.
Always obtain business cards from each person you meet. This will help you to remember names and assist you in writing thank you notes.
Always demonstrate an interest in the interview. Do not burn bridges that may lead you to the position you want.
Always close the interview with a lasting impression. Thank the interviewer and let them know you are interested in the position and are looking forward to hearing from them.